FULL EPISODE: Austin, Minnesota | John McGivern's Main Streets
Join John McGivern and Emmy Fink as they uncover the hidden treasures of Austin, Minnesota—affectionately known as “Spamtown, USA.” From the world-famous SPAM Museum to family-owned businesses and a thriving arts scene, you’ll see why there’s much more to Austin than meets the eye.
Highlights in This Episode:
SPAM Museum & Hormel Legacy: Discover how Austin became home to Hormel Foods and learn the surprising history behind SPAM’s global popularity.
Local Eateries: Watch John serve up “spam-ples,” savor a tender loose-meat sandwich at Tendermaid, and peek inside the last traditional butcher shop in town, Knauer Meats—family-owned since 1886.
Historic Hormel House & Institute: Tour George Hormel’s 1901 residence and explore cutting-edge cancer research at the Hormel Institute—where you’ll see a Cryo-Electron Microscope in action.
Buffy the Cow & The Big Fork: Snap a must-have photo with Buffy at the Mower County Fairgrounds and the towering “Big Fork,” a public sculpture forged from 20,000 donated forks that celebrates the city’s food heritage.
Austinaires & Paramount Theater: Experience the city’s rich musical roots as John meets past and present members of the Austinaires in the historic, Spanish-villa-themed Paramount Theater.
Jay C. Hormel Nature Center: Enjoy hiking or roll through the trails in a free track chair, all while learning about Minnesota’s conservation efforts and the fascinating “Pearl City” history of the Cedar River.
Vibrant Community: Meet Miguel and dive into the thriving Oaxacan community’s annual basketball tournament, parades, and church gatherings—all part of the cultural tapestry that makes Austin unique.
From small-town hospitality to big-time flavor, see why Austin’s blend of history, innovation, and community spirit makes it a must-visit destination in southern Minnesota.
If you enjoyed this episode, hit the “Like” button, leave a comment, and subscribe for more travels with John McGivern’s Main Streets. Let us know your favorite Austin highlight or share your own Minnesota travel tips below!
Featured Locations Include:
0:00 Intro
2:55 SPAM Museum - Watch an extra at • The SPAM Museum | John McGivern's Main Str...
6:40 Buffy the Cow
7:13 Paramount Theater - Watch an extra at • Austinaires | John McGivern's Main Streets
9:25 Hormel Historic Home
10:15 The Hormel Institute - Watch an extra at • The Hormel Institute | John McGivern's Mai...
12:45 The Big Fork
13:14 Knauer's Meat Market - Watch an extra at • Knauer's Meat Market | John McGivern's Mai...
15:50 Rydjor Bike Shop
16:25 Tendermaid - Watch an extra at • Tendermaid | John McGivern's Main Streets
19:00 Austin Artworks Center
19:30 Jay C. Hormel Nature Center
20:31 Pillars of the City - Watch an extra at • Pillars of the City | John McGivern's Main...
21:55 Rotary Park
23:34 Austin High School
***
Thank you for watching John McGivern's Main Streets! Join hosts John McGivern and Emmy Fink as they explore the Midwest’s most charming communities. Visit https://www.mainstreets.tv to discover more episodes, behind-the-scenes content, and exclusive features.
New Episodes drop every Thursday
On Air Thursdays at 7:00pm on @pbswisconsin and @milwaukeepbs
Check your local #PBS listings to find out where it airs across the Midwest or stream on YouTube and the free PBS Video App
Stay Connected
Follow us on social media for updates, sneak peeks, and more:
Instagram: / mainstreetstv
Facebook: / mainstreetstv
Twitter: / mainstreetstv
Never Miss an Update
Sign up for our newsletter at https://www.mainstreets.tv and get the latest on new episodes and exclusive content delivered straight to your inbox.
❤️ Support the Show
This program is made possible by the generous support of our sponsors and underwriters. Visit https://www.friendsofmainstreets.org to learn more or make a donation to support our mission.
We Want to Hear from You!
What was your favorite spot from this episode? Let us know in the comments below!
Discover More
Check out our playlist for more amazing Main Streets stories.
#JohnMcGivernsMainStreets #ExploreLocal #MidwestStories
