New Ulm – Discover Art and History

New Ulm brings together art, history, and other cultural themes to create a distinctive travel destination. The Wanda Gag House highlights the work of a children’s book author and illustrator; the Glockenspiel, Hermann Monument, and museum offer other perspectives on the city and its history. If you’re looking for hotels in New Ulm, these different areas of focus can help you decide whether the city suits your travel interests.

Art and Literature at the Wanda Gag House

The Wanda Gag House was the childhood home of the renowned children’s book author and illustrator Wanda Gag. The restored Queen Anne-style house displays lithographs, drawings, and paintings by Wanda Gag. It also features paintings by Anton Gag and Flavia Gag, as well as books created by Wanda and Flavia. Visual art and books are thus featured together, providing a tangible connection between the house and the artistic work of its former resident.

Visits are available year-round by appointment. Check in advance whether an appointment is currently available, and schedule your visit accordingly.

Glockenspiel and Hermann Monument

The 45-foot-tall Glockenspiel has 37 bells that weigh more than two tons combined. During scheduled musical performances, twelve figures rotate on a moving stage. They represent important people, industries, and traditions that have contributed to New Ulm’s history. In this way, the Glockenspiel combines sound and movement with historical themes. This offers a different approach from the Wanda Gag House, where paintings, drawings, lithographs, and books showcase artistic works.

In 2000, the US Congress declared the Hermann Monument a national symbol of German heritage. Visitors can climb a staircase to enjoy panoramic views of New Ulm and the river valley. The monument thus combines historical context with a view across the city and river valley.

Regional History at the Museum

The Brown County Historical Society Museum is housed in New Ulm’s former 1910 post office, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Its three exhibition levels cover the history of Brown County, the US–Dakota War of 1862, local businesses, and families. A research library with resources on genealogy and local history complements these subjects.

The exhibits present regional history from several perspectives: alongside events and the history of the county, they focus on businesses and families. The library resources also address questions of family history research and local history. This focus differs from the art collection at the Wanda Gag House and the Glockenspiel’s portrayal of people, industries, and traditions.

Bike Trails and a Seasonal Market

Designated cycling routes in New Ulm connect the Bike Circle Route with local attractions and downtown. These connections may be relevant to your travel plans if you’re considering cycling and visits to local attractions. The routes thus offer another way to experience the city, alongside its focus on art and history.

The New Ulm Farmers Market is seasonal and offers locally grown food and handmade goods. Most markets feature live music, and activities for families are also planned. Since the market is seasonal, check the dates before your trip. This will help you plan the market as a separate activity alongside the city’s cultural attractions.

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