St. Cloud’s Munsinger and Clemens Gardens were ranked as the 8th Best Public Garden in the United States. They were the only gardens in Minnesota to make the prestigious top-ten list, recognized for their formal rose gardens and scenic riverfront views
While technical in nature, this national award for the Nutrient & Energy Recovery Project directly impacts tourism by protecting the water quality of the Mississippi River, which is the city’s primary natural tourism asset. St. Cloud was one of only five projects in the nation to receive this “Exceptional” rating.
The Ledge Amphitheater in Waite Park was honored for its innovative design—built between two former granite quarries—and its massive economic impact on regional tourism (estimated at $8–10 million annually).
Quarry Park was named one of the top ten swimming destinations in the country. The Travel Channel highlighted the park’s 1.8-billion-year-old red granite cliffs and its two distinct swimming quarries—Quarry 11 with its sandy beach and Quarry 2, which is 116 feet deep and popular for cliff jumping.
In a national ranking of the “best beach” in every landlocked state, the travel website Orbitz selected Quarry Park & Nature Preserve as the top spot for Minnesota, beating out the state’s many traditional lakes.
St. Cloud was named one of the 10 Best Places to Live in Minnesota, recognized for its incredible affordability, historic downtown, vibrant park system, and regional economic opportunities.
Recognized among the top college towns nationwide, highlighting the impact of St. Cloud State University and St. Cloud Technical & Community College on quality of life and local culture.
The Ledge Amphitheater in Waite Park was honored for its innovative design—built between two former granite quarries—and its massive economic impact on regional tourism (estimated at $8–10 million annually).
Former Mayor Dave Kleis was honored by the U.S. Conference of Mayors for the Citywide Energy Transformation project, which transitioned all municipal electricity needs to 100% renewable resources.
Presented by the U.S. Department of Justice to the St. Cloud Police Department for its collaborative community outreach at the “Cop House” program.
Recognized multiple times—including a national win—by water environment associations for innovation, public engagement, and partnerships in wastewater and stormwater treatment.
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Granite Capital of the World: St. Cloud and Waite Park are known for their deep roots in the granite industry—hence the nickname “The Granite City.” Quarry Park & Nature Preserve sits on a former granite mining site!
Over 100 Parks & Trails: Greater St. Cloud is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream with parks, hiking trails, and riverwalks—plus over 13 miles of paved paths at Quarry Park alone.
Live Entertainment Hub: Greater St. Cloud is Central Minnesota’s HOTSPOT for live music, entertainment, and all kinds of fun! With weekly festivals in the summer, amazing stages that host regional acts all year, and great one-time shows at unforgettable venues, this is the place to come if you’re hoping to be entertained.
The Mississippi Runs Through It: St. Cloud is one of the few cities where the Mississippi River flows through downtown—perfect for paddling, photography, and peaceful strolls.
Home to the Largest Free Concert Series in MN: Summertime by George, hosted in downtown St. Cloud, brings thousands together weekly with live music, food trucks, and family fun.
Indoor Fun for All Ages: From trampoline parks and escape rooms to blacklight adventures and a skating rink, Greater St. Cloud is a hotspot for family-friendly indoor attractions—perfect in any season.
Foodie-Friendly & Locally Loved: From international flavors to iconic Minnesota comfort food, Greater St. Cloud’s dining scene is thriving—with dozens of locally owned gems to discover.
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