You’ll find the charming but unassuming village of Spring Grove nestled among the valleys and bluffs of the state’s “driftless area.” As one of the best small towns in Minnesota, this hidden gem is both historic and charming and it’s one of our favorite destinations for a getaway in the state. Come with us to explore one of America’s best hidden gems, we believe it’s a destination that’s worth the trip.
More than a century and a half ago, the state’s first group of Norwegian immigrants settled in the southeast corner of Minnesota.
Spring Grove celebrates its heritage as the first Norwegian settlement in Minnesota with annual festivals, a language camp, and other "Norskie" events and programs.
True to its Scandinavian roots, Spring Grove is unassuming. But it’s also neat and historic, which help to give the town its charm.
Experience Spring Grove’s hospitality for yourself with a stay at Big Raven Farm.
The 10-acre bed-and-breakfast is also a yoga retreat.
No visit to the town would be complete without a stop at the retail outlet for its beloved namesake product.
The venerable Spring Grove Soda Pop Company sells its products and merch at "The Sugar Shack."
More recently, Spring Grove has gained additional renown for beverages of a stronger variety.
RockFilter Distillery is recognized as one of the state’s top bourbon-style whiskey distillers.
Beaver Creek Valley State Park is only a few minutes north of Spring Grove, near the neighboring town of Caledonia.
The park showcases the limestone bluffs and deep valleys of the state's "driftless area," and it's an ideal place to spend an afternoon hiking, snowshoeing, or chasing trout.
The half-hour drive from Spring Grove to the charming town of Houston is worth the trip.
If you do decide to visit the town of Houston, be sure to stop in at the International Owl Center to learn about and get up close and personal with these fascinating birds.
After a weekend in Spring Grove, you may be reluctant to go back home. While in the area, though, be sure to take advantage of the town's location to explore all that the driftless area has to offer, like its many wineries and breweries, and the nearby town of Caledonia, MN.
Have you had a chance to visit Spring Grove? Do you agree that it's one of the best small towns in Minnesota? What are some other unassuming towns in the North Star State that make for perfect weekend getaways?
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!