9 Most Laid-Back Small Towns in Minnesota
Minnesota may be the land of 10,000 lakes, but its lesser-known, laid-back towns deserve all the attention. Consider Ely, the gateway to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, where over a million acres of forest invite year-round adventurers, and local centers like the International Wolf Center offer glimpses into the lives of native predators. Meanwhile, Red Wing, south of Minneapolis, not only houses the manufacturing hub for the iconic Red Wing Shoes but also holds a storied pottery industry, where craftsmen have been turning local clays into renowned stoneware for over a century.
These towns, from the artistic colonies in Grand Marais to the historic trading posts in Wabasha, invite you to turn off your engine and take in some good old Midwestern charm.
Grand Marais
Lanesboro
Lanesboro is known as the "Bed and Breakfast Capital of Minnesota," so don't shy away from booking a relaxing retreat in one of its many B&B establishments. For culture enthusiasts, the Commonweal Theatre Company provides an intimate setting to enjoy professional stage performances year-round, adding a sophisticated touch to the rural landscape. Nearby, the St. Mane Theatre expands the cultural offerings with a variety of concerts, films, and community events. For those drawn to the outdoors, the Root River and the paved Root River State Trail beckon adventurers to explore by bike, foot, or watercraft, winding through some of Minnesota’s most picturesque landscapes. The downtown area completes this idyllic setting with its quaint shops, art galleries, and cozy cafés nestled among inviting bed and breakfasts, such as the elegant Cottage House Inn, making it a perfect destination for a relaxed getaway.
Visitors can explore this fascinating aspect of local life through Bluffscape Amish Tours, which offer insights into Amish craftsmanship and lifestyle amidst the stunning backdrop of Fillmore County’s bluffs. These tours not only provide an opportunity to purchase authentic Amish-made goods—from quilts to pastries—but also allow for a deeper appreciation of the simple, peaceful life led by the Amish. Back in town, Lanesboro's artistic side shines through with attractions like Sylvan Brewing and the High Court Pub, alongside the celebrated Commonweal Theatre.
Nisswa
Positioned along the expansive Paul Bunyan State Trail, which extends over 120 miles, Nisswa offers year-round recreational activities, including biking, hiking, and snowmobiling, catering to outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds. Gull Lake, one of Minnesota’s most famous lakes, enhances Nisswa’s appeal with opportunities for fishing, boating, and simply soaking in the serene lake views. Summer in Nisswa brings the much-anticipated Nisswa Turtle Races, a tradition that provides wholesome entertainment for families and visitors, demonstrating the town's community spirit and love for quirky, fun events. Additionally, the Nisswa Area Historical Society offers a dive into the region’s history, with exhibits on local Ojibwe traditions, logging, and the lives of early European settlers, enriching visitors’ understanding of the area's past.
Nisswa remains a vibrant community with plenty of ethically unambiguous attractions that ensure a visit is both enjoyable and conscientious. The town boasts a renowned gift shop and a chocolate store that draw visitors for their delightful selections and local charm. Cultural events like the Scandinavian music festival also highlight the area’s heritage, offering a taste of local traditions through music and festivities. Nearby, cinephiles can explore Brainerd, a location featured in the Coen Brothers’ film "Fargo," adding a touch of cinematic history to the visit.
Ely
Ely, located on the edge of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW), is enveloped by over one million acres of dense forests and numerous lakes, creating a landscape that beckons adventurers to swim, kayak, fish, or simply soak in the tranquil surroundings. Trails like the Kawishiwi Falls Trail provide scenic hikes, while Shagawa Lake, a local favorite, offers peaceful waterside relaxation. Adding to its allure, Ely hosts educational and cultural centers such as the Bois Forte Heritage Center and the Dorothy Molter Museum, where visitors can immerse themselves in the local history and stories of the region's earliest inhabitants and iconic figures. These attractions, combined with the hospitality venues like the Grand Ely Lodge Resort & Event Center, paint a picture of a community deeply connected to both its natural environment and its ancestral roots, offering a comprehensive experience that is both refreshing and enlightening.
The International Wolf Center and the North American Bear Center stand out as prime educational facilities where visitors can learn about wildlife behavior, conservation efforts, and the ecosystem of the northern wilderness. These centers provide interactive experiences and observation opportunities that are rare and invaluable, enhancing visitors' understanding of wildlife and the importance of conservation. The town’s proximity to both the BWCAW and Superior National Forest ensures that the adventurous can seamlessly transition from a canoe on pristine waters to a trek through lush forests, all within a day's journey.
Stillwater
Red Wing
Founded in 1858 at the confluence of the Mississippi and Minnesota rivers, Red Wing's picturesque setting is highlighted by its iconic bluff overlooking the Mississippi—ideal for hiking and capturing stunning photographs. The town is perhaps most famously known as the headquarters of the Red Wing Shoe Company, an emblem of classic Americana featured in Norman Rockwell's paintings. This rich heritage is celebrated annually in events such as River City Days, which brings the community and visitors together to enjoy local culture, music, and food in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. Moreover, the town's diverse museums, which showcase everything from pottery and ski jumping to a giant 20-foot-tall boot at the Red Wing Shoe Company museum, provide unique insights into the local industry and arts, offering something intriguing for every visitor.
The Cannon Valley Trail offers more than 19 miles of paved paths that beckon bikers and hikers to explore the scenic beauty of the area, including stops at notable sites like the archeological Silvernale Site and the Welch Village Ski Resort. For those looking to enjoy a leisurely day on the water, Welch Mill offers canoeing and tubing, adding a splash of adventure to the visit. Not to be overlooked, Hanisch Bakery, crowned Minnesota's best bakery for two consecutive years, provides delectable local flavors that can't be missed.
Park Rapids
Named for its scenic beauty and proximity to the Fish Hook River, the town is an ideal destination for those who thrive outdoors. With over 70 lakes in the vicinity, Park Rapids offers endless possibilities for boating, fishing, and leisurely lakeside picnics, making it a haven for water enthusiasts and families alike. Beyond the immediate lakes, the town serves as a gateway to Itasca State Park, Minnesota's oldest state park, where over 32,000 acres of forests and more than 100 lakes provide a picturesque backdrop for hiking, bird watching, and immersing oneself in the tranquility of nature. The park is especially significant as it houses the headwaters of the Mississippi River, offering a unique opportunity to explore a pivotal piece of American natural heritage.
For those looking to delve deeper into the natural splendor, Lake Itasca Tours Inc. provides guided excursions that enhance the visitor experience with educational insights and prime wildlife viewing opportunities. Whether you're eager to spot a bald eagle soaring overhead or catch a glimpse of more elusive species like sea hawks or blue herons, these tours offer a chance to connect with wildlife in their natural habitat. Moreover, accommodations such as the Heartland Inn Hotel & Suites provide comfortable, budget-friendly options with amenities like an indoor swimming pool, ensuring a relaxing end to a day of exploration.
Pipestone
Known for its significant relationship with the Sioux nation and other Indigenous groups, the town is centered around the Pipestone National Monument, where the sacred red quartzite has been quarried for over 3,000 years. This unique stone not only holds historical importance in the crafting of ceremonial pipes but also adorns several of the town's historic buildings, including the intricately detailed County Courthouse and the County Museum, which are highlighted by distinctive carved gargoyle heads. Visitors to Pipestone can immerse themselves in this rich heritage by walking the ¾-mile trail that winds through the prairie cliffs to the serene Winnewissa Falls, enhancing their visit with the sight of local artisans at the Pipestone Indian Shrine demonstrating the revered craft of pipe making—a memorable and educational experience.
The town’s proximity to the tranquil Cannonball River adds to its picturesque setting, ideal for those looking to unwind in a quiet, pastoral environment. Local parks such as Leon Moore Park and Westview Park provide ample green spaces for picnicking and leisurely strolls, while the Pipestone Family Campground offers a chance to relax under the stars. For golf enthusiasts, the Pipestone Country Club features a nine-hole course that promises a peaceful day of golf amidst the town’s scenic vistas.