Rochester

Folwell, Rochester Neighborhood

Folwell offers a charming, laid-back atmosphere with a variety of well-established homes that showcase character from the pre-1960 building boom. The neighborhood features predominantly single detached houses, with three or more bedrooms, appealing to those seeking spacious living options. Good bicycling infrastructure supports convenient travel, complemented by many nearby businesses facilitating easy access to daily necessities. Dining options and cafes are plentiful, adding to the area’s welcoming feel. Public transportation provides numerous bus lines with stops within close proximity, enhancing connectivity. Parking availability and proximity to major highways contribute to convenient vehicle travel throughout the neighborhood.

Those who enjoy a vibrant atmosphere will feel at home in Folwell. Even though the ambience is not the liveliest in this part of the city with its a few bars, it is very easy to find a place to grab a drink since they are generally located very close by. As there are few people out and about on the streets, this area remains relatively quiet,.

Highlights of Folwell

Parks, schools, dining, and what makes this neighborhood special

🏫 Folwell Elementary School

Located at 603 15th Avenue SW, Folwell Elementary is a historic pre-K through 5 neighborhood school established in 1930, celebrated for its close-knit community and nationally recognized excellence as a 2023 National Blue Ribbon School.

⛳ Rochester Golf & Country Club

An iconic private club situated within Folwell on Country Club Rd W, featuring a restored 1925 A.W. Tillinghast‑designed 18‑hole course, comprehensive practice facilities, pool, fitness center, and year‑round social events that anchor the community.

🏥 Saint Mary's Hospital (Mayo Clinic Campus)

Occupying the northeastern edge of the Folwell neighborhood, Saint Mary’s Hospital is a major Mayo Clinic campus with over 1,200 beds, multiple intensive care units, a children’s hospital, and outdoor landscaped greenspace serving patients and professionals alike.

🚶 Zumbro River Trail & Silver Lake Corridor

Bordering Folwell, the Zumbro River Trail weaves through riverside paths, connecting to Silver Lake loops and offering residents scenic, walkable routes for biking, jogging, or casual riverside recreation right from the neighborhood.

🍽️ 2nd Street SW Restaurant Corridor

Just north of Folwell across 2nd Street SW lies a strip of local eateries—including Canadian Honker, Sweet House Bakery, Caribou Coffee, and AP’s Griddle—where residents and Mayo Clinic visitors mingle over breakfast staples and coffee in a friendly, walkable village‑like setting.

Folwell

This August in Folwell

Things to do, events, and what's happening this month

August 4, 2026

Teen LGBTQIA+ Board Game Night

Rochester Public Library, Downtown Branch • 5:30 PM–7:30 PM

A fun, inclusive evening for teens in Folwell to connect over board games in a welcoming environment; great for socializing and meeting peers.

August 5, 2026

Science Discovery: Colors

Rochester Public Library, Downtown Branch • 10:30 AM–11:30 AM

Hands‑on science fun ideal for families in Folwell with young children — a bright, educational activity close to home.

August 12, 2026

Olmsted County 4‑H Day Camp: Ag Day

Aune Hall, 1508 Aune Dr SE, Rochester • 9:00 AM–3:30 PM

A full‑day agricultural camp perfect for kids in Folwell to explore farming hands‑on — engaging, nearby, and educational.

August (Saturdays) 2026

Rochester Farmers Market at Graham Park

Graham Park, Rochester • 7:30 AM–12:00 PM

Weekly access to fresh local produce and vendors just a short trip from Folwell — great for weekend shopping and community connection.

August 25, 2026

Westside Farmers’ Market

Westside (neighborhood market) • 4:00 PM–7:00 PM

A neighborhood farmers’ market offering fresh produce and goods; close‑by and community‑oriented for Folwell residents.

August 6 & 13, 2026

Thursdays Downtown – Market & Music Festival

Downtown Rochester (1st Ave SW & Peace Plaza) • 11:00 AM–8:30 PM

A vibrant weekly market with handmade vendors and live music — a lively outing for Folwell locals to enjoy downtown culture.

From the Neighborhood

Stories, updates, and things to know in Folwell

Know Your Neighborhood

Local characteristics and demographics for Folwell

Neighborhood Characteristics

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Demographics

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