7 Most Eccentric Towns in Minnesota

Affectionately known as the “Land of 10,000 Lakes,” Minnesota is a hidden gem that truly has a little bit of everything, from breathtaking natural landmarks to a thriving cultural scene. As a result, it attracts visitors year-round, even during the colder months, offering winter recreation like cross-country skiing. Many towns also feature vibrant art and music scenes that can be enjoyed throughout the year. Looking for a lively destination to break up the winter chill? These seven unique towns are sure to make time fly.

Faribault

Faribault is celebrated as the birthplace of the Tilt-A-Whirl, the iconic carnival ride patented by inventor Herbert W. Sellner in 1926. While the early 2000s brought an economic downturn and a dip in sales, visitors can still explore the city's original downtown, where a historic plaque commemorates this invention.

The Caves of Faribault is another fascinating historic attraction, with sandstone caves carved in the 1850s that provide an ideal environment for aging cheese. Today, the caves produce award-winning varieties like AmaGorg, AmaBlu, and St. Pete’s Select Blue, which visitors can sample. For historic architecture, make sure to stop by and admire the Cathedral of Our Merciful Saviour, constructed between 1862 and 1869, and the Episcopal Church in the country designed as a cathedral.

Moorhead

Moorhead has caught the attention of food enthusiasts, thanks to its appearances on Guy Fieri’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. Sol Ave. Kitchen was featured for its double-fried chicken sandwich, topped with ssamjang sauce, kimchi, and aioli, while Rustica Eatery & Tavern later earned a spotlight for its pork-laced handmade pasta, celebrated as “American food with a European twist.

For contemporary art by Upper Midwest artists, visitors can explore The Rourke Museum, housed in the town’s former historic post office. To see a striking Viking ship replica, the Hjemkomst Center is a must-visit, showcasing the historic 1982 voyage of a Viking ship to Norway. Those wanting to enjoy the outdoors can run, bike, or walk along The Greenway, 2,200 acres of recreational space that connects the nearby town of Grand Forks, Minnesota to Grand Forks, North Dakota.

Winona

Winona, a town of roughly 26,000 residents, has cultivated a thriving live music and art scene. Venues like the No Name Bar, Black Horse Bar and Grill, and the Minnesota Marine Art Museum showcase a variety of live music events, offering performances that span genres from jazz to holiday tunes. The Minnesota Marine Art Museum is another interesting attraction, exploring the human relationship with water through six galleries and over 600 pieces of art.

To experience a slice of Winona’s history and architecture, visit the Bunnell House, built around 1850 with pine construction, a limestone foundation, and a unique steamboat gothic design. Later, unwind with a handcrafted cocktail at The Lafayette, located in the heart of downtown and featuring a cozy water vapor fireplace to enhance the ambiance.

Ely

Ely serves as the gateway to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, a vast expanse of over a million acres of forests and waterways. Renowned among canoeists and anglers, this wilderness boasts more than 1,500 miles of water trails and numerous campsites accessible only by canoe. To learn about the area’s indigenous groups, visitors can spend a morning at the Bois Forte Heritage Center and Cultural Museum, which has 3,000 square feet of exhibits honoring the history of the native culture.

The Ely Folk Center is another excellent spot to explore, offering art classes and workshops in everything from metalworking to ceramics and folk arts. It is also the perfect place for visitors to pick up new skills and memories!

Taylors Falls

Taylors Falls often slips under the radar with just under 1,000 residents. However, with opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and skiing nearby, it serves as a perfect escape for recreational adventures. To explore fascinating rock formations, hikers can head out to Interstate State Park, which showcases preserved ancient lava flows and remnants of old river beds.

The St. Croix River is also a fantastic spot for kayaking or canoeing, with sandy beaches perfect for a swim or picnic along the way. In the winter, skiers flock to Wild Mountain, renowned for its excellent conditions and snow-making. Shoppers will appreciate Taylors Falls' variety of stores as well. River Alley Shoppes offers unique antiques and repurposed goods, while With August has a fun variety of artisan goods.

Grand Marais

Grand Marais, the state’s oldest art colony, has been recognized multiple times as one of the best towns to visit. Every summer, the town puts on an annual arts festival, which features dozens of art booths from artists from all over the region. There are numerous lively galleries to visit in town as well, including Johnson Heritage Post Art Gallery, Betsy Bowen Gallery, and Silverston Gallery.

Just minutes from downtown Marais, cross-country skiers can enjoy the town’s groomed ski trails, which stretch over 30 miles and include the George Washington Pines, Bally Creek, and the Pincushion Mountain Ski Trail System.

Crosby

Located in central Minnesota, Crosby is a small town of nearly 2,400 residents, situated between Serpent Lake and Portsmouth Mine Pit Lake. Legend has it that Serpent Lake is home to a mythical sea serpent, with visitors able to try their luck spotting this elusive creature during their visit.

Travelers can also unwind at Crosby Memorial Park, which borders Serpent Lake, or enjoy a scenic bike ride along the Cuyuna Lakes Trail, a paved route that connects Crosby to nearby towns and offers stunning views, especially in the fall. The town also boasts a rich history in mining, logging, and railroad, which can be explored at the Soo Line Depot Museum, where artifacts, photos, and documents showcase life from hundreds of years ago. In downtown Crosby, visitors will find a variety of restaurants and bars, including the Iron Range Eatery, known for its creative American dishes and cocktails in a cozy setting.

Final Thoughts

While it can be tempting to hole up at home during the bitter cold, there is so much to explore within the state of Minnesota. Whether you are eager to embrace the cold with winter sports or seek refuge in cozy bars and welcoming art galleries, these Minnesota towns provide an interesting getaway from everyday life. So button up your winter coat, put on your snow boots, and get ready to explore the eclectic side of Minnesota!