8 Best Small Towns to Retire in Minnesota in 2024
When thinking about where to retire to, many may have their thoughts set on states closer to the southern part of the country. However, what many do not realize are the hidden gems tucked away in the Midwest state of Minnesota. With a number of charming small towns, all of which offer unique and tranquil lifestyles for retirees. With the beauty of towns like Grand Marais or the rich heritage of towns like New Ulm, each has something to draw you in and keep you wanting to stay. These small Minnesotan towns promise a peaceful and fulfilling retirement.
New Ulm
While New Ulm is only a short distance away from the Twin Cities, it may feel like flying all the way to Germany. Considered "The Most German Town in America'' New Ulm has a rich cultural heritage going back to the nineteenth century. Nowadays, New Ulm is well known for affordable homes, low crime rates, as well as plenty of activities for retirees. In New Ulm, it is possible to spend your time along the Cottonwood River at Flandrau State Park. This wonderful 1,000-acre park can be enjoyed year-round. From hiking to enjoying the beach, it is a wonderful spot to sit back, relax, and enjoy.
There are a number of incredible restaurants to visit whenever the urge for a special treat hits. At Kaiserhoff, enjoy German staples from schnitzel to sausage, and do not forget to enjoy a German beer or wine as well. Enjoy retired life by enjoying a beer at the famous Schell's brewery. Known for its German-style beers, it is the second oldest family-owned brewery in the US. One of the best things to do while living in New Ulm, is just to enjoy the quaint town. Walking around the town and immersing in the history of it is one of the most recommended things to do. View the home of John Lind (Minnesota governor) or enjoy the German-Bohemian Immigrant Monument in the town.
Brainerd
Boasting more than 465 lakes, Brainerd is one of the best towns in the entire state for those wanting to retire to peaceful lake country. With access to a number of hospitals near the city, and a low cost of homes this small town is a dream come true for those wanting to settle down somewhere a bit quieter. There are a number of lake cruises that can be done in the summer and fall. A cruise on Gull Lake Cruises is a great way to sit back, relax, and do some sightseeing while eating some great food. Or for a more unique experience, on the paddle-wheeler Breezy Belle, enjoy a public (or private) cruise and take in the scenic views of Pelican Lake.
If golfing seems more exciting, there are a number of golf courses to enjoy, such as Grand View Lodge, Madden's Resort, Whitefish Golf Club, and many more. If you need to get away for a bit, there are hiking trails that can be done. At Crow Wing State Park, explore over 18 miles of trails that go along the Mississippi River. At Northland Arboretum, there are over 12 miles of trails that can be hiked at any time of the year. It is not really lake country without a bit of boating as well. For those who do not have a boat (yet), there are plenty of locations to rent a boat for the day to really take in some of the local lakes.
Little Falls
The slogan 'Where the Mississippi Pauses' can be found in the peaceful town of Little Falls. With low-cost homes, a low crime rate, and some great amenities, this small town is definitely one that needs to be looked at to retire to. One of the greatest charms of Little Falls is how amazing it is year-round. When winter comes, and much of Minnesota must slow down, Little Falls takes advantage of the cold. With cross-country skiing trails at Charles A. Lindbergh State Park and at Crane Meadows National Wildlife Refuge (both of which are also great in the warmer months) it is truly possible to enjoy all the nature in the parks. There are even ice-skating rinks that can be visited at Pine Tree Park, as well as Lindbergh Lions Recreation Area.
There is also a great hiking opportunity at North Pine Grove Park and Belle Prairie Park. While there, try to spot the many different birds that migrate throughout the year. There are plenty of things to do inside if you want to escape the weather as well. At The Falls Theatre, you can enjoy one of the many Hollywood films that are out. For craft beer lovers, the highly reviewed Starry Eyed Brewing and enjoy a nice beer any time of the year. Take a walk around town and look at the incredible Public Art Murals that are displayed around the town.
Red Wing
Home to the famous Red Wing Shoe Company, the small town of Red Wing is a great option for those looking to retire. With a number of parks, access to housing, and a cheaper cost of living, it is an incredibly luring destination. Although home prices tend to be slightly higher (mostly due to its proximity to the Twin Cities), it more than makes up for it in charm. The town lies alongside the Mississippi River, and is able to use it to add to the town's beauty and rich history. The Sheldon Theatre is a great opportunity to enjoy one of the many plays that are put on, as well as take in the amazing architecture of the theater.
Red Wing also benefits from a number of alluring parks such as Frontenac State or Cannon Valley Trails where there are trails that can be hiked, or biked. Red Wing also is home to some wonderful golf courses, such as Red Wing Golf Course and Mississippi National Golf Links. However, if exploring nature or golfing is not for you, then why not learn about and enjoy some of the history of the area? At the Pottery Museum of Red Wing, one can learn about how pottery put Red Wing on the map. It is even possible to purchase some pottery at this museum for those who want works of art in their home!
Lake City
Voted the second best town to retire to in Minnesota (by Niche) is the small town of Lake City. While being safe, affordable, and offering a variety of activities, it is pretty easy to see why. Located next to Lake Pepin and the widest spot of the Mississippi River, it is clear how the town got its name. One of the top things to do in this town is to enjoy nature. At Hok-Si-La Park, enjoy over 250 acres of walking trails, camping, and even a beach to enjoy in the summer. Take a break and rest at one of the spas in town, such as Roots Hair Studio and Spa, or refresh yourself at Rivers Edge Wellness Yoga.
Golfing is a big part of life at Lake City, and with multiple golf courses to choose from, you can really understand why. Lake City Golf and Lake Pepin Golf Course are just a few of the golf courses that those in town have easy access to. For those who are a bit more competitive, there is the Chamber of Commerce Annual Golf Tournament, where all levels can participate and enjoy the day. The town is also famous for its 100-mile Garage Sale in May, Water Ski Days in June, and, of course, for its fireworks on the Fourth of July. Needless to say there is something going on that will attract locals any time of the year.
Northfield
One thing that sets Northfield apart from many other small towns in Minnesota is how close it is to some of the best healthcare in the state. Being close to the twin cities does have the benefit of being able to go to the city quite easily as it is less than a 50-mile drive away. Home to the famous St. Olaf College, this small town has much to offer those who choose to settle down here. In the summer, enjoy scenic views of the Cannon River, and incredible shopping at the Riverwalk Market Fair. Taking place every Saturday morning from May to mid-October, this is a great way to get to know the local community.
Cross-country skiing is a big activity for many Minnesotans, and that can be enjoyed in Northfield at the Cowling Arboretum. Here, it is possible to explore miles of trails that are fully groomed in the winter and open to the public. For those willing to make the 15-minute drive to Nerstrand Big Woods State Park, explore some of the most beautiful forests in the state. In the summer hike, see how many different types of trees you can spot. In winter, you have the opportunity to snowshoe or cross-country ski and see what winter animals you can find. To get to know more about the community, enjoy bluegrass music, some art exhibits, and dance performances every first Friday of every month!
Grand Marais
The waves of Lake Superior washing up alongside the beach, the sound of wind through the trees, if either of these catches your interest, then Grand Marais is for you. Located in the north eastern part of Minnesota, this small time is one of the best towns to retire to in the area. With access to some of the best weather in the state, access to outdoor activities, as well as some beautiful art, Grand Marais will not disappoint. There is an abundance of acres of nature to explore year-round. For those with time (and energy), the Superior Hiking Trail is over 300 miles long, and there is easy access to this trail from Grand Marais. The town is also home to world-class canoeing with being so close to the Boundary Waters. For anyone wanting to canoe through there, a permit is required.
To enjoy the sound of waves, there are a number of beaches that can be enjoyed year round. Old Shore Beach, Cutface Creek Wayside Rest, and Paradise Beach are some of the recommended beaches in the area. Grand Marais is home to the annual Plein Air Grand Marais festival, where hundreds of artists from around the country attend and show off some of their incredible work. It is even possible to learn a new hobby or two at North House Folk School, where you can learn to craft baskets, make fiber art, or even learn how to make your own boat!
Wayzata
Leaving the hustle or bustle of the Twin Cities can feel like a must at a certain point; however, it can be hard to leave behind the comforts they provide. Luckily, Wayzata is a quick 15-mile drive away and is one of the nicest small towns to retire to in the state. Being so close to the Twin Cities gives access to some of the best healthcare while being close enough to friends and family who are still there. While the housing prices are not the lowest, it is incredibly safe and offers tons of amenities. Located along Lake Minnetonka, it is wonderful to enjoy some time on the incredible lake. While sailing and boating are some of the local favorites, it is perfectly fine to swim, kayak, or paddleboard. If you do not own one, it is easy to rent some at Wayzata Beach.
Enjoy pleasant evenings while walking along Grays Bay Dam Park. This is one of the lesser-known areas of the town and tends to be a peaceful place to stroll. With over 13 miles of trails, the Dakota Rail Regional Trail is a great place to spend time if interested in hiking or biking. With so many different restaurants in the town, too, it would take a while to try them all out and find your favorite one. A favorite in the town, though, is COV Wayzata, which is best known for its steak and seafood.
Minnesota offers several small towns that are the perfect combination of peace and excitement for recent retirees. For those who are looking for a vibrant cultural experience, outdoor adventures, or just a place to sit back and relax, Minnesota has something for all. With low crime rates, affordable housing, and a number of activities to participate in, it is an ideal state to spend life in after being able to retire.
