Why Currie, Minnesota, the Gateway to Lake Shetek State Park, Is Worth a Visit in Its Own Right

Lake Shetek is a gem of a state park in southwestern Minnesota, just outside the tiny town of Currie—which, despite its petite size (a few more than 200 residents), is no slouch, itself. Folks who visit Lake Shetek State Park or who otherwise recreate in the greater Lake Shetek area are often charmed by what the community has to offer. In fact, whether you come for the state park or not, Currie, Minnesota is worth a visit in its own right.

Lake Shetek is the headwaters of the Des Moines River, which flows more than 525 miles southeast from the lake, across southern Minnesota and the Hawkeye State, before joining the Mississippi River at Keokuk, Iowa. It is also the largest lake in southwestern Minnesota, making it a popular year-round destination for water and nature loving folks in the region. The lake's namesake park preserves more than 1,100 acres of prairie, wetlands, and woods along its eastern shoreline, and it draws hikers, campers, and nature lovers all year long.

Currie, the "Gateway to Lake Shetek," lies about 3 miles outside the park's main entrance. Not only can you reach it with a quick drive from the park, but a paved segment of the Casey Jones State Trail connects the two places via a 6-mile loop, so you can hike or bike between town and the park along a scenic, level path.

On the north side of town, near a bend in the Casey Jones State Trail, you'll find End-O-Line Railroad Park and Museum. This fascinating spot is a former Chicago, St. Paul, Minneapolis, and Omaha Railway station that closed in 1973, and it's a must-stop for rail enthusiasts in Minnesota. The park is home to several outdoor exhibits, including cars and locomotives from different eras, as well as indoor exhibits featuring model train layouts of several southwestern Minnesota towns, including Currie. Perhaps the biggest draw for the park is a turntable from a roundhouse. This rare artifact was used to turn locomotives when they needed to travel in a different direction, and this method was much more efficient than building enough track for them to do so. Now, it's one of the park's most unique outdoor attractions.

When you've worked up an appetite, head on over to The Hideaway, the most recent iteration of a Currie eatery that's renowned for outkicking the expectations of its small-town location. From casual fare like tacos and sandwiches to heartier entrees, such as ribs, steaks, fish, and chops, you'll find plenty to satisfy your appetite here. Wash down your meal with something from the eatery's curated selection of beers, wines, and cocktails.

Between the park and the town, Currie is perfect for a weekend getaway, and the charming Prairie Getaway, right in town, is the perfect place to stay. This historic, three-bedroom home was built in 1890, and it simply oozes charm. It's an ideal place to kick your feet up after a day at the lake and a meal at The Hideaway.

Whether you visit Lake Shetek State Park or not, a trip to the charming town of Currie—one of our favorite small towns in Minnesota—should definitely be on your travel to-do list.

What are some other Minnesota towns that are gateways to special places but wonderful in their own right? We'd love to hear about your favorites.