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Mayo Clinic Plummer Building

4.9
·16 reviews·Rochester, United States

A historic architectural marvel and foundational building of Mayo Clinic, offering a glimpse into its origins and legacy.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, during business hours

Access to tours and staff

CrowdMedium
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the elevator

Mayo Clinic Plummer Building

Best Time

Weekdays, during business hours

Access to tours and staff

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic architectural marvel and foundational building of Mayo Clinic, offering a glimpse into its origins and legacy.

4.9
(16 reviews)

"Beautiful architecture and history of Mayo Clinic. A must see in Rochester."

Vertical photo
TIP

🏛️ Admire the Architecture

The Plummer Building boasts beautiful, ornate architecture. Take time to appreciate its details.

🎶 Listen for the Bells

Catch a performance by the carillonneur playing the 56 bells atop the building.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Plummer Building Architecture

Plummer Building Architecture

Mayo Clinic Campus, Rochester, MN

Admire the stunning, ornate architecture of this historic Mayo Clinic building. A true visual masterpiece.

The Carillon Bells

The Carillon Bells

Top of the Plummer Building

Listen to the unique melodies played on the 56-bell carillon, a special auditory experience.

Historic Significance

Historic Significance

Mayo Clinic Campus

Explore the building that represents the very beginning of Mayo Clinic's legacy.

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Planning Your Visit

Understand the Plummer Building's Significance

The Plummer Building is a historic landmark at Mayo Clinic, representing its origins. While not a typical tourist attraction, its architecture and history offer a unique glimpse into the institution's past. Plan your visit to appreciate its aesthetic and historical value.

Access and Tours

Access to the Plummer Building may be limited to specific areas or during scheduled tours. Check Mayo Clinic's official visitor information for the most up-to-date details on what parts are accessible and if guided tours are available. Planning ahead ensures you can experience its highlights.

Best Times

When
Weekdays, during business hours
Why
Access to tours and staff
Crowd
Medium
When
Evenings (for exterior views)
Why
Beautifully illuminated landmark
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Austin Ferguson may have one of the most unique roles at Mayo Clinic, playing the carillon comprised of 56 bells at the very top of the Plummer Building. “I play music and hopefully brighten someone’s day if they just happen to be listening,” Ferguson said. The Longview, Texas native says how he wound up in Rochester was an accident. Ferguson first got his hands on the instrument in high school,...
kttc_news
33 likes • 1.7K views

🏛️ Admire the Architecture

The Plummer Building boasts beautiful, ornate architecture. Take time to appreciate its details. Instagram

🎶 Listen for the Bells

Catch a performance by the carillonneur playing the 56 bells atop the building. TikTok

So grateful for the opportunity to welcome my friend @bobbymukkamala to my alma mater @mayoclinic where our morning began with a special tour led by Ms. Lehman then a self directed tour in the Plummer building followed by a wonderful meal at Mayowood. Of course, fire alarms going off for 30 minutes and the arrival of multiple security staff and a fire truck did not stop Dr. Mukkalama from deliveri...
lildocd
20 likes • 405 views
Earlier this week, Mayo Clinic staff in Rochester gathered in a moment of pride and gratitude as the Plummer Building was illuminated in blue, honoring National Nurses Week.⁠ ⁠ Each year, from May 6 to May 12, we celebrate the heart, strength and dedication of nurses everywhere.⁠ ⁠ To all the incredible nurses: thank you for your unwavering compassion, exceptional skill, and tireless commitment to...
mayoclinic
912 likes • 27.1K views

📅 Check Tour Availability

Inquire about guided tours to learn more about the building's history and significance. Reddit

💡 Understand its Role

Remember this is a working medical facility; respect patient privacy and operational needs. Instagram

✨ A timeless landmark of Mayo Clinic, the Plummer Building always makes an impression from every angle. #MayoClinic #MayoClinicRochester #MayoClinicCollege #PlummerBuilding #RochesterMN
mayocliniccollege
61 likes • 2.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🏛️ Admire the Architecture

The Plummer Building boasts beautiful, ornate architecture. Take time to appreciate its details. Instagram

🎶 Listen for the Bells

Catch a performance by the carillonneur playing the 56 bells atop the building. TikTok

📅 Check Tour Availability

Inquire about guided tours to learn more about the building's history and significance. Reddit

💡 Understand its Role

Remember this is a working medical facility; respect patient privacy and operational needs. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.9
(16 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Plummer Building for its beautiful and ornate architecture, recognizing it as a significant historical landmark of Mayo Clinic. Many feel it's essential to see as part of any visit to the institution, appreciating its role in Mayo's origins. Some note that access might be limited, and it's primarily an exterior viewing experience unless tours are available.

"Mayovhas a different building for every need"

Ginger Furry

"Beautiful architecture and history of Mayo Clinic. A must see in Rochester."

Joe Arant

"You can't visit the Mayo clinic without a visit to it's beginning and initial host building."

Bridget Pruitt

What People Like

Beautiful architecture
Historic significance
Ornate details

What People Dislike

Limited interior access

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Plummer Building is located on the Mayo Clinic campus in Rochester, Minnesota. Visitors can reach it by car, with parking available in nearby Mayo Clinic ramps. Public transportation options also serve the campus. Reddit

Yes, Mayo Clinic offers several parking ramps close to the Plummer Building. It's advisable to check the Mayo Clinic visitor guide for the most convenient parking locations and rates. Reddit

The Plummer Building is centrally located on the Mayo Clinic campus, which is accessible from downtown Rochester. Depending on your starting point, it's a walkable distance, or you can utilize the city's skyway system. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Generally, no tickets are required to view the exterior of the Plummer Building. Access to specific interior areas or guided tours may require booking or adherence to specific schedules. Reddit

While the exterior is always visible, interior access might be limited to business hours or during specific tour times. It's best to check Mayo Clinic's official visitor information for current access details. Reddit

Mayo Clinic sometimes offers guided tours that may include the Plummer Building. These tours provide historical context and insights into the building's significance. Check the Mayo Clinic website for tour schedules. Reddit

Viewing the exterior of the Plummer Building is free. If there are specific exhibits or guided tours within the building that have a fee, this information will be available on the Mayo Clinic visitor website. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Inside, you can appreciate the historic architecture and learn about Mayo Clinic's origins. Some areas may be accessible for viewing, and guided tours offer deeper insights. Instagram

Photography policies can vary. It's recommended to check for signage or ask staff about restrictions on photography inside the building to respect patient privacy and operational guidelines. Instagram

Mayo Clinic campuses are generally designed with accessibility in mind. Inquire with visitor services about specific accessibility features within the Plummer Building if needed. Reddit

The Plummer Building is one of the original and most iconic structures of Mayo Clinic, representing its foundational years and growth into a world-renowned medical institution. Reddit

The best place to find information about Mayo Clinic tours, which may include the Plummer Building, is the official Mayo Clinic website under their patient and visitor guide section. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The exterior offers many picturesque angles, especially from across the street or nearby green spaces. The building is also beautifully lit at night. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted in hospital and medical facility areas due to safety and privacy concerns. Always check local regulations and Mayo Clinic policies before flying a drone. Instagram

Yes, the building features ornate stonework, intricate carvings, and classic architectural elements that make for stunning close-up shots. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the Plummer Building is primarily a historic medical facility, families can appreciate its impressive architecture from the outside. Point out the intricate details and imagine the history it holds. If tours are available, they might offer a glimpse into the past that could engage older children interested in history. Remember to keep noise levels down and respect the ongoing medical operations. Instagram

🏛️ History Buffs

For those fascinated by the history of medicine and iconic institutions, the Plummer Building is a must-see. It represents the foundational era of Mayo Clinic and its evolution. Seek out any available historical markers or information displays to deepen your understanding of its significance. Consider researching the Mayo brothers and their contributions before your visit to fully appreciate the context. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Architectural Gem of the Plummer Building

The Plummer Building is a testament to early 20th-century architectural grandeur, standing as a significant landmark on the Mayo Clinic campus. Its design is characterized by a blend of Gothic and Renaissance Revival styles, featuring intricate stonework, decorative carvings, and a commanding presence. Visitors often remark on its ornate beauty and the historical atmosphere it evokes. Instagram The building's aesthetic appeal makes it a point of interest for those appreciating historical architecture.

Beyond its visual splendor, the Plummer Building holds deep historical importance as one of the original structures of Mayo Clinic. It symbolizes the institution's humble beginnings and its subsequent growth into a global leader in healthcare. Exploring its exterior and, if possible, interior offers a tangible connection to the legacy of Drs. William J. and Charles H. Mayo. Reddit

For photography enthusiasts, the Plummer Building provides numerous opportunities. Its detailed facade, from the grand entrance to the upper levels, offers varied compositions. The building is also particularly striking when illuminated at night, creating a dramatic silhouette against the sky. Instagram

The Melodious Legacy: The Plummer Building Carillon

Crowning the Plummer Building is a magnificent carillon, a musical instrument consisting of at least 23 tuned bells. This unique feature adds an auditory dimension to the landmark's appeal. The carillon is played by a dedicated carillonneur, who performs melodies that can be heard across the Mayo Clinic campus and surrounding areas. TikTok

The carillon's music serves as a unique soundtrack to the Mayo Clinic experience, offering moments of reflection and beauty for patients, staff, and visitors alike. Austin Ferguson, a carillonneur at Mayo Clinic, describes his role as playing music to 'brighten someone’s day if they just happen to be listening.' TikTok This highlights the carillon's role in providing comfort and a sense of peace.

Experiencing the carillon's performance is a special treat. While specific performance times may vary, listening for its chimes can enhance your visit. It's a reminder that even within a medical setting, elements of art and culture contribute to the overall environment. TikTok

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