If you have ever visited, driven through or seen pictures of Red Wing, Minnesota, you know how beautiful it is. My hometown sits right on the Mississippi River and is a community like none other. I decided to pay homage to the place I was born and raised, and can give a list of 15 great things in Red Wing you definitely need to check out.

1. The Bluffs

Right when you roll into Red Wing, you can see the huge bluffs that surround the town. The bluffs are well known in Red Wing. The most popular one would be Barns Bluff. Sometimes an American flag is painted on it, or whatever class is graduating that year paints their year. On Barns Bluff, you can hike, rock climb and see the whole town and river at the top. It has to be one of the highlights from the views with the huge bluff behind the iconic blue bridge. Looking out from Barns Bluff, you can see Memorial Bluff across from it. You can drive the winding road to the top of Memorial. There's a disc golf course, mountain biking trails and a view that is particularly amazing at night.

2. The Mississippi River

Red Wing is well known for being a "pretty little river town." It sits right on the Mississippi river with boathouses and boat slips along the edge. There are so many exciting things to do on the river, and the view is beautiful! Boating has always been a thing my family does and is so fun to drive up the coast and look for Bald Eagles on top of the trees!

3. Hanisch Bakery

Hanisch is well known for winning all sorts of bakery awards. It has to be one of the best places to grab breakfast or baked goods in Red Wing. When I was younger, I always remember going into the bakery and grabbing a delicious, frosted cake donut with sprinkles. Hanisch has a great vibe for breakfast or lunch and better yet, you are supporting a local business!

4. Caribou Coffee

Yes, there may be Caribou Coffee's all over the Midwest. Personally, the Caribou Coffee in Red Wing is my favorite after working there for three years. It is also the biggest Caribou Coffee location in the country! Red Wing's Caribou is located in the old train station and makes for a very interesting coffee shop. It is two stories, and is perfect to get cozy with a good book and cup of joe!

5. The View From Baypoint Park

One of the most iconic pictures of Red Wing is the certain view from the edge of Baypoint Park. You can see the boathouses, the marina, the Eisenhower bridge and Barns Bluff. All four of these could classify Red Wing alone, and seeing them together while walking around the park is such a sight!

6. The Holiday Stroll

Coming home for the holidays is always special, but when downtown is decorated beautifully, it makes it more special. Red Wing downtown puts on an annual winter festival called The Holiday Stroll. Local businesses and vendors set up inside the buildings for local shopping. There's cookies, hot chocolate and even chestnuts roasting on an open fire. There's a winter parade, and the coolest part is penguins and reindeer rides!

7. Red Wing Brewery

A newer place that popped up in Red Wing is the Brewery, serving custom beers and homemade pizzas.The Brewery has a chill vibe with a local touch. Both the beers and pizza have rave reviews that you need to check out!

8. The Leaves In Fall

Red Wing is known for the amazing colors in the fall. People all over the world known as "Leafers" come to experience the colors and local spots in Red Wing.

9. River City Days

The biggest event in Red Wing during the summer is the week-long River City Days. All sorts of events go on including: Car shows, taste of Red Wing, a parade and a basketball tournament down at Baypoint Park. Towns around Red Wing all come to experience this event.

10. Red Wing Shoes

One of the most iconic things coming out of Red Wing is Red Wing Shoes. Started all the way back in 1905, Red Wing Shoes have grown in popularity all over the world. Located in Red Wing is the World's Largest Boot in their showroom.

11. Community

Personally, one of my favorite parts of Red Wing is the overall sense of community wherever you go. Anywhere you happen to be, you bump into someone you may know, or are acquaintances with. Everyone around town is so helpful and kind to residents and tourists. I appreciate this effect as coming home from college is always better when you're welcomed with open arms.

12. Downtown

Downtown Red Wing is filled with history, shops, restaurants, and small town love. You can always find something to do in downtown, whether just browsing the shops, or heading down to the river just passing by.

13. Randy's

Randy's has to be one of my favorite spots to get lunch in Red Wing. They have the best chicken strips, wraps, shakes and homemade ranch that is to die for! A perfect drive through tradition in Red Wing located on the main strip.

14. Boathouses

If you take a drive down to Baypoint Park, you can take in the sights of the boathouses resting on the river. Growing up with my grandparents having a boathouse was such a cool experience. Walking on the wobbly bridge down to your boat, and taking it out for a beach day. The boathouses are unique to Red Wing and make the river look spectacular!

15. Live Music In Central Park

You know when a concert in Central Park is coming up because you can see all sorts of empty lawn chairs or blankets scattered on the lawn. Red Wing has booked great bands and solo artists. You can always find a show once a week in the summer on a beautiful day.