Wonderful visit to Fairmont

To the editor:

On Wednesday, Sept. 3, 2025, I was part of a bus tour of Fairmont sponsored by the Minnetonka Senior Center. Most of us on the trip had never been to Fairmont and it is safe to say none of us had any real idea what to expect from the day.

We had an all-too-short time at the Martin County Historical Society; we all agreed it is a fascinating building. Around every nook and corner, we saw excellent displays in which to immerse ourselves. I was especially impressed with the amount of time, effort and work that has gone into the MCHS to make it the wonderful facility it is. I have worked in museums myself [Yale Peabody Museum in New Haven, Conn.] and therefore doubly appreciate the years and decades that have been dedicated to preserving and showcasing this rich history.

We then had our lunch at The Ranch Family Restaurant and we all agreed that the food and service were wonderful….fresh, homemade soups, breads, sandwiches and an extensive salad bar. This was followed with a walking tour of your lovely, vibrant downtown. We all enjoyed the pigs [colorful, highly creative…You have never have too many painted pigs.] The murals [even interactive murals] and the lovely pianos strategically placed throughout the downtown for anyone to play.

I personally popped into the GiddyUp Boutique and bought a vest and lovely necklace. I could happily have spent two to three hours here alone going through everything that was on offer.

By the time we got back on the bus to head home, many of us were discussing our day and making plans to return to Fairmont for a day or longer to really enjoy all that you have to offer. We all learned more about pork production and its important role in Martin County.

The overwhelming impression I had as I left Fairmont was that this is a place with a lot of community spirit and civic pride. The locals are undertaking major projects to add even more things to do throughout town. I know I will be returning soon on my own to take in the whole town at a more leisurely pace.

You are all to be commended on working so hard and so creatively to beautify Fairmont and to make it a place we all want to visit again. I am sure we just scratched the surface of things to see and do. All of us received a warm welcome and were duly impressed by Fairmont. More people need to visit and see what you have to offer.

Thanks again for a wonderful visit and a great impression of your community.

Dr. Marcie Parker

Chanhassen