Mid West Music Fest 2026: Where to eat and explore in Winona
by Tay Elhindi
May 06, 2026
Mid West Music Fest returns to Winona on Friday, May 8, and Saturday, May 9, for a weekend of live, local music. Headliners Bad Bad Hats and Yam Haus lead a lineup of more than 25 performers set to play on four stages.
Alongside the music, there will be a vibrant mix of pop-ups, vendors, and community activations. Between sets, take time to experience the city of Winona itself. Here’s a local’s guide to the waterfront views, hidden gems, and hometown staples to make the most of your weekend. (I created this guide for the first time in 2023. So much has changed since then, so here’s an update.)
Breakfast
Cafe Sapori di Sicilia is great any time of day, but breakfast there is a true glimpse into Winona culture. The restaurant, staff, and guests are neighborly and inviting. The bakery counter is always loaded with fresh pastries, there’s a great coffee program, and the extensive breakfast menu has both light and hearty options, making it great for groups. Spin back for pizza, pasta, and paninis at dinner. Do not leave without a cannoli! 211 Main St., Winona
Blue Heron Coffeehouse is a sweet, sunshine-filled cafe just off Levee Park by the Mississippi River. Its locally sourced, seasonal menu features all-day breakfast. It’s great if you’re looking for something light and nutritious to start your day. If you make it back around lunchtime, their Southwest turkey sandwich and butternut kale salad is one of my favorite meals in Winona - I never leave town without having it. 162 W 2nd St., Winona
Similar to a tree falling in the woods if you go to Winona and don’t get to Bloedow Bakery, you did not go to Winona. The multi-award-winning donut shop pulls a line out the door on weekends, but they move fast and are beyond worth the wait. My go-to’s are a maple long john, a chocolate frosted cake donut, and a glazed croissant. A date-filled cookie usually makes it into my box too. The best way to do Bloedow is to grab a big box and save a couple for a late-night sweet treat. 451 E Broadway St., Winona
Cafe Zorya is a rustic Euro cafe with light but eclectic bites and great pastries. For a flavorful start to the day and a great cup of coffee, look no further. 65 E Front St. Suite C, Winona
Lunch
Beno’s Deli is a long-standing downtown staple and a perfect quick stop between sets at the festival. The menu features stacked sandwiches, soup, classic deli sides (coleslaw, pasta salad, etc.), and some indulgent desserts. 78 E 4th St., Winona
To sit and stay a while, Miya Japanese Bistro is the spot. The menu is loaded with sushi, hibachi, katsu, and more! There’s something for everyone and lots to try. The interior is calm and quiet, which makes it a perfect hideaway from all the action. 62 E 3rd St., Winona
Acoustic Cafe is a long-standing local favorite best known for their loaded hot hoagies and French sodas. It’s a sweet and cozy hangout spot right in the heart of downtown - just blocks from any Mid West Music Fest location. My go-to order is a hummus hoagie with everything, a strawberry French soda, and whatever treats they have floating around their bakery counter. There’s also incredible coffee for anyone in need of a mid-day jolt. 77 Lafayette St., Winona
Dinner
Make a reservation for Nosh Scratch Kitchen and, weather permitting, sit on the patio. The cocktail menu here is stunning alongside their rotating, seasonal farm to table menu. My favorite way to do Nosh is with a couple friends - order a few dishes, and enjoy family style. Don’t miss out on dessert either! Their pastries are unreal. 102 Walnut St. Suite 105, Winona
Muddled Thyme Brick Oven Pizza and Cocktails is your stop for brick oven pizza and great vibes. It’s laid back with a no-miss menu boasting classic margarita pizza all the way down to loaded chicken alfredo. 75 W 3rd St., Winona
Great Hunan is another Winona staple. It’s a classic Chinese restaurant, and is great for takeout or dine-in, lunch or dinner. It’s an easy walk from the festival, the service is fast, and the food will let you know exactly why it’s been around for so long. 111 W 3rd St., Winona
The Old Tiger is a waterfront steak house just down the levee from the festival. It’s a great stop for a satisfying dinner after a long day of festing and will certainly keep you fueled for the night ahead. I’m thinking a cocktail, half a dozen oysters, sweet potato croquette, a medium ribeye, and some fries. Earl grey crème brûlée for dessert! 65 E Front St. Suite B, Winona
Late-Night Grabs
Aside from the lineup of food trucks, ‘Sippi’s Pub & Grub is your late-night bite go to with pizza and classic bar food. Don’t sleep on the rest of the menu. The jalapeño curds and Korean style corndogs hit every time. 176 E 3rd St., Winona
Shops & Hangouts
Garvin Heights Park is a must-see for sunrises and sunsets. It’s accessible by hiking or driving up to the bluff-top park. Looking out over the entire city of Winona and surrounding areas from above is an absolutely stunning view. 200 Garvin Heights Road, Winona
Lake Winona is a few blocks from the festival and an incredible getaway for a break from the action. It’s perfect for outdoor recreation — walking, rollerblading, fishing, frisbee golf — or a peaceful waterfront lunch!
Also right on Lake Winona is the Lake Lodge Recreation Center, which rents out kayaks, canoes, paddle boards and more and get on the water! 113 Lake Park Drive, Winona (open May 15, 2026)
Tranquil Gardens (for 21-plus customers) is a new addition to the downtown scene — a dispensary. Aside from cannabis products, they also have a collection of vintage accessories for sale, as well as a lounge for a perfect between-sets stopover. 79 W 3rd St., Winona
Bumble Bee Soaps is an all-natural, handmade body care shop with incredible products for face, hair, and body. I never leave town without stocking up. 103 E 3rd St., Winona
Treasures Under Sugar Loaf is a short drive from downtown, but a can’t-miss for thrifters, vintage lovers, and antiquers alike. Three floors of treasure to hunt through with home goods, clothes, toys, and Winona memorabilia you won’t find anywhere else. It’s a perfect last stop for one-of-a-kind souvenirs! 1023 Sugar Loaf Road, Winona
Mid West Music Fest is May 8-9 in Winona, Minnesota. Tickets & Info
