See bald and golden eagles like never before – face to face!
The National Eagle Center is a tourist must-see and top Minnesota attraction that offers a unique viewing experience that brings visitors to within a few feet of these majestic raptors without any barrier in between. You can learn about eagles while standing right next to them – an unforgettable experience unlike any other!
Located in Wabasha, Minnesota, the National Eagle Center is home to several non-releasable Bald Eagles and a nesting place for hundreds of others who come for the winter.
Whether you wish to see these beautiful creatures up close, observe them in their prime habitat, incorporate their research into your own teachings, or donate to support their mission, they have a way for you to get involved.
Upcoming Events
New skatepark under construction at the Wabasha Athletic Complex
A new skatepark is being built at the athletic field, along Pierce Avenue, behind the softball fields, with expected completion date of August 28, 2025. The flooding at the old athletic field damaged the old skatepark and meant that there needed to be a new location. The project also marks a major success for Riley Costello in his new capacity as Emergency Management Director.
“Our original skatepark equipment experienced multiple flooding events, which left it decaying. The original skatepark equipment had significantly deteriorated due to repeated flooding events. Relocating the skatepark has been a long-standing objective, and I am proud to say it is now a reality,” said Costello.
Another highlight of the new facility is that it was completely funded through FEMA’s Public Assistance grant program. The skatepark was part of the original new athletic field plans but could not be completed due to lack of city funding.
The skatepark is another example where the City has created new recreational facilities that encourage healthy lifestyles for youth, families, and adults living in Wabasha. Among many other benefits, it provides a safe and fun environment for skateboarding, while encouraging lessons for youth like self-directed exercise, creative expression, and the value of persistence.
And persistence certainly paid off for the City of Wabasha, to be able to complete the goals for the new Athletic Complex.
Riley Costello Emergency Management Director
Behind The Scenes Tours at the National Eagle Center
The Behind the Scenes tours at the National Eagle Center are proving to be popular and a guest-favorite experience! These small group learning experiences for up to six people are guided by one of our Avian Care team members. Meet the birds up close, observe daily training and care, and even create customized toys for the Ambassadors of your choice! Plus, you get to meet Ambassador Hollywood, the Red-tailed Hawk. Ask all of your eagle questions and take all the photos you like.
Behind the Scenes tours are available for walk-ins daily at 2:15pm or you can schedule your group in advance.
Chamber Bucks
Are you looking for a last-minute gift for a friend, family member, or coworker? Chamber Bucks are a great gift to give while also supporting our local merchants by shopping local! They work just like a gift certificate but lets the receiver decide where to spend the money. Chamber Bucks can be used at any local business that is a member of the Wabasha-Kellogg Chamber of Commerce or taken to WNB in Wabasha to be cashed. Stop by the Chamber Office for more information or to purchase Chamber Bucks.
Spend the Weekend in Wabasha-Kellogg
Friday Afternoon
Arrive in Wabasha and check-in at your hotel, bed and breakfast, or campground. Head downtown and visit some of the boutiques around Main Street. Stop in Heritage Park for Music Under the Bridge – a summer favorite featuring a different musical group every Friday evening.
Friday Evening
Walk along the riverfront to Slippery’s for dinner at the iconic destination for all Grumpy Old Men Fans. Enjoy dinner inside or on the patio and take in the beautiful view of the bridge and Mississippi River.
Saturday
Start your morning off on the right foot with breakfast at Town & Country Cafe in Kellogg. Find everything you need for a delicious breakfast: homemade cinnamon rolls, eggs, bacon, biscuits and gravy, and more!
Walk down the street to the National Eagle Center, your destination for everything eagles. Explore the museum and learn about the magnificent birds and history of eagles in our culture. Step out onto the observation deck and take in the breathtaking view of the Mississippi River, while trying to spot eagles in the wild. Stick around for the engaging live eagle program and meet eagles ‘nose-to-beak’ within the center.
Ready for lunch? The staff at Silver Star Saloon is waiting to serve you! Grab a booth and try one of the many famous burgers offered on their menu. Another must try? The stuffed mushrooms – yum!
Pick up a walking tour brochure from the Chamber of Commerce and take a leisurely walk through the Commercial Historic District. Learn about the businesses that used to occupy the historic buildings on Main Street and reminisce about life in Wabasha in the late 1800s.
Round out your day with a Sunset Tour with Broken Paddle Guiding. Enjoy a leisurely paddle through the side streams and River and enjoy the stunning views of the sunset on the Mighty Mississippi. End the tour with a tasty craft brew at Reads Landing Brewing Co. If you’re hungry, stick around for dinner – you won’t regret it!
Sunday Morning
Rise and shine! Visit The Chocolate Escape for a breakfast treat. Enjoy a cup of gourmet coffee to start off your day.
Hop in your car and drive to LARK Toys, the ultimate stop for kids and kids at heart. Wander through the toy store, peek in at the workshop, and reminisce while looking at the Toys of Yesteryear. Play a round of mini golf and finish off your weekend with a ride on the hand carved carousel – a must for all!
Feeling hungry? The Front Porch for lunch. Enjoy a juicy hamburger or cold beer from the bar, also enjoy Live Music many nights of the week!
