@kista77 I think you are in for a treat, not only for the excellence in medical care, but also for some of the interesting things you can see while in Rochester if you are up to it. The best place that I found to stay near the campus with the Gonda & Mayo buildings is Candlewood suites because they have full kitchens in the room, are close to Mayo, but not so close as to be more expensive. I discovered this from speaking with the Mayo Concierge services (free) and the hotels in walking distance do cost more. Most hotels have their own shuttles to the Mayo campuses (including St. Mary's Hospital) and you can park on one of the Mayo parking decks that they call "parking ramps". You have to pay each day and if you move the car to another ramp, but it is reasonable. Parking fills up, so get there early in the day. You can buy a pass for several parking days that might save some money now or on a future followup visit. Connect member, Lawrence @lmindela is from the Concierge services.

Rochester parking information
https://www.mayoclinic.org/patient-visitor-guide/minnesota/parking

As you drive across Wisconsin and cross the Mississippi, it is very scenic with hills and bluffs above the river and I have seen eagles circling there. From that point, it is about an hour to Rochester through farm country and you wonder how there will be a small city out there, but there is and it is completely surrounded by farms and summer cornfields. Each time I have visited, I've discovered something new to me, like the statue garden across from the shuttle drop off entrance at the Gonda building. I took a photo sitting with the statue of the Mayo brothers on the steps there. There is art everywhere, in elevator lobbies, waiting areas, etc and they do give tours, but currently tours are discontinued because of Covid protocols. Often someone may be playing a piano in a lobby.

Another thing on my "to do" list is a tour of the mansion of Charlie Mayo. Tours are run by the historical society and will be resuming on March 19th.
https://www.olmstedhistory.com/mayowood

There is also a small Mayo history museum in the area between the Gonda and Mayo buildings (which are connected). It may be closed due to Covid protocols, but you can ask.

We all come to Mayo for a medical reason, and when you get there, you realize how special it is because you walk into an atmosphere of hope and healing. That is why the art and music is ever present. It gives you a level of comfort and can distract you from your worries. I see Lori has already shared some great resources. I can tell you that I love coming to Mayo. I think you will too.

Is there something you would like to do in addition to receiving medical care while in Rochester?

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