The city of Rochester was established by white settlers migrating from the eastern parts of the United States. The land that Rochester currently occupies belonged to the Wahpeton tribe who were part of an establishment known as Oceti Sakowin. Rochester's strategic location contributed to its early development. It was a stagecoach between Minnesota, Saint Paul, and Dubuque, near the Zumbro River. George Head and his wife Henrietta founded the Rochester community by becoming the earliest permanent settlers. He built a log cabin named Head's Tavern in 1854 and named the area after his hometown of Rochester, New York. This explains why there are two cities named Rochester in the United States. The city's early development was based on its strategic location near some of the major urban areas in Minnesota. When St Peter and Winona Railroad initiated service in October 1864, it triggered a major population increase in Rochester. Many people moved into the city looking for jobs and better living conditions. As a result, real estate in Rochester, Minnesota, experienced a drastic surge, with developers building the earliest residential apartments in the city. With a booming economy, Rochester became one of the transport and logistics hubs in the state. Even though the city suffered a significant economic drop during the Great Depression, it recovered in the 1980s, thanks to the efforts of the state government. Today, it remains a top economic hub in the Upper Midwest region.

Being one of the most established cities in Minnesota, there is a lot to see and do in Rochester. One of the great attractions in the city is the Plummer Building. Opened in 1928, the building is now an iconic symbol of the famous Mayo Clinic. It is also a National Historic Landmark, making it one of the top attractions in the city. It is named after Henry S. Plummer who designed it and helped create procedures and systems still in use at the clinic. Dr. Plummer wanted the clinic to be as efficient as the building is pleasant to the eye. On the building's third floor, you will find the offices of Dr. Will and Dr. Charlie Mayo. These were the founders of Mayo Clinic.

Another great place to visit is the Quarry Hill Nature Center. The facility offers visitors a great place to observe live animals, fish, birds, and other living species. There is also a taxidermy collection that will excite tourists. The facility is home to about 35 species of live animals native to Minnesota. You will also be thrilled by the huge aquarium that has about eight varieties of fish.

There are two raptors in the aquarium that give you a spectacular view with routine movements. Kids will love the open playground found within the facility. The facility is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places, making it a major attraction in Minnesota. It is located near residential neighborhoods in the city, making it ideal to invest in Rochester real estate.

The Rochester Art Center is another great place to visit in Rochester. It is a non-collection institution that features local, national, and international artists. It is also a great area to learn about art history in Minnesota and beyond. The availability of various amenities near the art center makes it a great place to visit.