St. Olaf Campus Map Travel Guide

Introduction

If you’re planning a visit to St. Olaf College, you’re in for a treat. Located in Northfield, Minnesota, this beautiful campus is known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant community. Whether you’re a student, a parent, or just a curious traveler, there’s plenty to see and do here. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make the most of your time on campus.

Top Attractions

St. Olaf College is home to many impressive attractions, but here are a few that you won’t want to miss:

1. Boe Memorial Chapel

Boe Memorial Chapel is one of the most iconic buildings on campus. Built in 1954, this beautiful chapel features stunning stained glass windows, intricate woodwork, and a massive pipe organ. It’s a must-see for anyone visiting St. Olaf.

2. Rolvaag Memorial Library

If you’re a book lover, you’ll enjoy visiting the Rolvaag Memorial Library. This impressive building houses over a million volumes, as well as rare manuscripts and other special collections. It’s a great place to relax and do some reading.

3. The Taylor Center for Equity and Inclusion

The Taylor Center for Equity and Inclusion is a newer addition to the St. Olaf campus, but it’s already become a hub of activity. This space is dedicated to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion on campus, and it hosts a variety of events and programs throughout the year.

Hidden Gems

While St. Olaf has many well-known attractions, there are also a few hidden gems that are worth seeking out:

1. The Natural Lands

The Natural Lands are a beautiful area of the St. Olaf campus that many visitors overlook. This 350-acre space includes woods, prairies, and wetlands, and it’s home to a variety of wildlife. It’s a great place to go for a hike or just enjoy nature.

2. The Flaten Art Museum

The Flaten Art Museum is a small but impressive museum located on the St. Olaf campus. It features a rotating collection of contemporary art, as well as works by local and regional artists. Admission is free, so it’s definitely worth a visit.

3. The Dittmann Center

The Dittmann Center is another hidden gem on the St. Olaf campus. This building houses a variety of art studios and performance spaces, as well as a gallery of student artwork. It’s a great place to see what the talented St. Olaf students are up to.

Food Scene

St. Olaf has a wide variety of dining options, whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a sit-down meal:

1. The Cage

The Cage is a popular spot on the St. Olaf campus for grabbing a quick bite to eat. They serve a variety of sandwiches, salads, and snacks, as well as coffee and other beverages. It’s a great place to grab a meal between classes.

2. The Pause

The Pause is a larger dining hall on the St. Olaf campus. They offer a variety of hot and cold entrees, as well as a salad bar and other options. It’s a great spot for a sit-down meal with friends.

3. The Lion’s Pause

The Lion’s Pause is another popular spot on the St. Olaf campus. This pub-style restaurant serves burgers, sandwiches, and other pub fare, as well as beer and other drinks. It’s a great spot for a casual meal or a night out with friends.

Budget-Friendly Tips

If you’re visiting St. Olaf on a budget, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy yourself without breaking the bank:

1. Check out the free events

St. Olaf hosts a variety of free events throughout the year, from student recitals to guest lectures. Be sure to check the calendar to see what’s happening during your visit.

2. Take advantage of the natural beauty

The Natural Lands and other outdoor spaces on the St. Olaf campus are completely free to explore. Pack a picnic lunch and spend the day enjoying the scenery.

3. Visit the Flaten Art Museum

As mentioned earlier, admission to the Flaten Art Museum is free. It’s a great way to spend an afternoon without spending any money.

Outdoor Adventures

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll find plenty to do on the St. Olaf campus:

1. Hiking in the Natural Lands

The Natural Lands are a great place to go for a hike. There are several trails to choose from, ranging from easy to challenging.

2. Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing

In the winter, the Natural Lands are a great place to go snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. There are several trails that are groomed for these activities.

3. Canoeing and kayaking

If you’re a water lover, you can rent a canoe or kayak and explore the Cannon River, which runs through the St. Olaf campus.

Historical Landmarks

St. Olaf College has a rich history, and there are several historical landmarks on campus that are worth visiting:

1. Old Main

Old Main is the oldest building on the St. Olaf campus, dating back to 1877. It’s a beautiful example of Gothic Revival architecture, and it’s still in use today.

2. Ytterboe Hall

Ytterboe Hall is another historic building on the St. Olaf campus. It was built in 1928 and originally served as a men’s dormitory. Today, it’s home to the St. Olaf music department.

3. The St. Olaf Christmas Festival

The St. Olaf Christmas Festival is an annual tradition that dates back to 1912. It’s a beautiful celebration of the holiday season, featuring choral music, readings, and other performances.

Family-Friendly Activities

If you’re visiting St. Olaf with kids, there are plenty of activities that the whole family will enjoy:

1. The Natural Lands

The Natural Lands are a great place for kids to explore. There are several kid-friendly trails, as well as a variety of wildlife to see.

2. The St. Olaf Christmas Festival

The St. Olaf Christmas Festival is a fun activity for the whole family. Kids will love the music and the festive atmosphere.

3. The Flaten Art Museum

The Flaten Art Museum has a variety of exhibits that will appeal to kids. They’ll love seeing the colorful artwork and learning about different artists.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

If you’re looking for something a little more unusual on your visit to St. Olaf, here are a few suggestions:

1. The St. Olaf College Boathouse

The St. Olaf College Boathouse is a beautiful building located on the banks of the Cannon River. It’s a great place to take a walk and enjoy the scenery.

2. The Lion’s Pause Speakeasy

The Lion’s Pause pub has a secret speakeasy hidden behind a bookshelf. It’s a fun and unique experience for anyone who loves a good speakeasy.

3. The Natural Lands at night

The Natural Lands take on a whole new atmosphere at night. Take a walk under the stars and enjoy the peace and quiet.

Natural Wonders

St. Olaf College is surrounded by beautiful natural wonders that are worth exploring:

1. The Cannon River

The Cannon River runs through the St. Olaf campus, and it’s a beautiful spot for fishing, canoeing, or just enjoying the scenery.

2. The Carleton Arboretum

The Carleton Arboretum is a beautiful natural area located just across the river from St. Olaf. It’s a great place for a hike or a picnic.

3. Nerstrand Big Woods State Park

Nerstrand Big Woods State Park is located just a few miles from the St. Olaf campus. It’s a beautiful park with hiking trails, waterfalls, and a variety of wildlife.