For those travelers looking for the out-of-the-ordinary this Spring, make sure to stop by all four of Owatonna’s quirky roadside attractions.
Three T-38 Jets Statue
This statue of three (real!) jets bursting into the sky is an iconic Owatonna landmark. It can be viewed briefly from the interstate, but its worth driving onto the frontage road to pull over and get a great shot. Located in front of the Owatonna Degner Regional Airport, southbound on I-35 Frontage Road.
Warrior King Jesus on a White Stallion
A little known roadside attraction, this giant version of Jesus on a stallion with a sword is worth seeing. Depicted is a warrior version of Jesus who is ready for battle, based on Revelation 19:11-12: Then I saw heaven open, and I saw a white horse! The One who rode him is called `One who can be Trusted’ and `The True One’. He punishes and makes war in the right way. His eyes were like a flame of fire. On his head were many crowns. He had a name written on him, but no man knew what it was but he himself.The statue is 18 feet tall and is located outside of Christian Family Church along I-35 (2300 Heritage Place NW). North of Owatonna along southbound Frontage Road between exits 43 and 45.
CABELA’S ANIMAL SCENES
In addition to being a huge outdoor gear store, Cabela’s is practically a museum. Filled with dioramas of natural animal scenes, many visitors snap photos of the taxidermy animals that are placed in action poses. Located at 3900 Cabela Drive next to I-35 between exits for CR-45 and CR-9.
ROCK ‘N’ ROLL MCDONALD’S
Unassuming from the outside, this McDonald’s is completely decorated inside with rock n roll paraphernalia. Filled with pictures and statues of famous museums and music-themed tables. Located at 1105 W. Frontage Rd. Take exit 42B from exit I-35, drive west on Hwy 45 for a quarter mile, then turn right at the stoplight onto 21st Ave NW.
BONUS ATTRACTION: pRINCESS OWATONNA
The Princess Owatonna statue is not technically a roadside attraction, but many people come to Owatonna to see her. There is a well-known local legend that Chief Wabena heard of the curing waters in Mineral Springs Park and brought his daughter, Princess Owatonna, to the site of the natural springs. She drank from the springs daily and recovered her health. While this story is only a legend, many travelers visit Mineral Springs Park to see the statue and drink the water. From I-35 take exit 42A East onto Hoffman Dr. Take a left onto Rose St., left onto Chestnut Ave., right onto Cherry St. which will bring you into the park.
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