Many people love Minnesota because while the thriving Twin Cities add a large cultural center to the state, the real heart of Minnesota lies in the small towns. There are, in fact, only 3 cities in Minnesota with a population of over 100,000, and only 15 over 50,000, while there are hundreds of towns with a population of 1,000 or less (roughly 700 according to census data).  Here are some of the smallest towns in Minnesota that are just as much a crucial part of our state as anywhere in the Metro. Since we obviously can’t list all 700+, please tell us in the comments about your favorite small towns in Minnesota!

1. Holdingford
City of Holdingford
This town of 660 (according to the 2019 data) claims to be "The Gateway to Lake Wobegon" (the fictional town created by Garrison Keillor) and is where you can access the amazingly scenic Lake Wobegon Trail, and the longest covered bridge in Minnesota.
2. Orr
City of Orr
In the Kabetogama State Forest, you may have been to Orr before. With a population fo approximately 241, this town is located on the way to the Boundary Waters and Voyageurs National Park. And while you're there, be sure to check out the delicious breakfast spot called T. Pattenn Cafe.
3. Vergas
City of Vergas
Vergas is a small 358-person town with one huge loon. The world's largest, in fact. And that's not all: there's an eerie urban legend that originates from the town of Vergas.
4. Hallock
City of Hillock
With a reported population of 1,059, Hallock is a beautiful small town in northwestern Minnesota only 20 miles from the Canadian border.
5. Scanlon
City of Scanlon
This town with a reported population of 1,181 sits east of Duluth on the St. Louis River.
6. Maynard
City of Maynard
Maynard is an approximately 394-person town in west central Minnesota with one heck of a 4th of July Celebration!

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7. Wood Lake
City of Wood Lake
Wood Lake's 423 residents are surrounded by beautiful rolling prairie in Western Minnesota.
8. Foreston
Google Maps
A tiny town you can find on the way to Mille Lacs if you take a detour near Milaca. In 2019, its reported population was 471.
9. Watkins
City of Watkins
Watkins in Meeker County has a reported population of 944 and is often noted for its rich German-Catholic heritage.
10. Deer River
Deer River
With a population of 951, Deer River is the "Gateway to the Chippewa National Forest" check it out for yourself by heading north of Grand Rapids. And while you're in town, be sure to check out the nearby Deer Lake.
11. Ranier
City of Ranier
An adventure village on the shores of Rainy Lake with an estimated population of 626.
12. Zumbro Falls
Facebook/Zumbro Falls, Minnesota
With a recorded population of 265, Zumbro Falls is an adorable little town in Wabasha County along, you guessed it, the Zumbro River.
13. Eagle Bend
City of Eagle Bend
Last but not least on our is of the smallest towns in Minnesota is Eagle Bend. With a reported 519 residents, Eagle Bend is a growing small town paradise in the heart of Minnesota.

Do you recognize some of these small towns? What is the smallest town you’ve been to in MN?

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More to Explore

smallest towns in Minnesota

Beth C. | May 14, 2021

What are some of the most charming small towns in Minnesota?

Exploring Minnesota means taking time to visit its charming small towns. Now that you've learned about the smallest towns in the state, there are some other places to add to your itinerary. Some of the most charming small towns in Minnesota include Ely, Lanesboro, Stillwater, Grand Marais, New Ulm, Walker, Lindstrom, Luverne, Askov, Lake City, and International Falls. Have you been to any of these charming small towns in Minnesota?

Does Minnesota have any hidden gems?

You bet! Nearly every region of Minnesota is brimming with hidden gems just waiting to be discovered. Some of the most underrated attractions in Minnesota include Lake Maria State Park, the Minnesota Historical Society's museum in Historic Forestville, Judge C. R. Magney State Park, Harmony, George Crosby Manitou State Park, Old Mill State Park, Franz Jevne, the Split Rock River Loop, Kilen Woods State Park, and Finland State Forest. For more information, check out our previous article: Most People Don't Know These 10 Hidden Gems In Minnesota Even Exist.

Where can I go in Minnesota that only the locals know about?

Experiencing Minnesota as the locals do means taking the time to uncover some hidden gems and under-the-radar destinations. Fortunately, we've pinpointed many of them! Some of these places include Redwood Falls, Hidden Falls Regional Park, Prothero's Post Resort, Spicer Castle Inn & Restaurant, Flandrau State Park, Eddy Falls, Normandale Japanese Garden, Two Harbors, Winona Boathouse Neighborhood, Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area, and the Minnesota Streetcar Museum. Learn more about these places in Minnesota that only the locals know about.

 

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Featured Addresses
Holdingford, MN 56340, USA
Orr, MN 55771, USA
Vergas, MN 56587, USA
Hallock, MN 56728, USA
Scanlon, MN, USA
Maynard, MN 56260, USA
Wood Lake, MN 56297, USA
Foreston, MN 56330, USA
Watkins, MN 55389, USA
Deer River, MN 56636, USA
Zumbro Falls, MN 55991, USA
Eagle Bend, MN 56446, USA