Trips & Routes

Small Towns

Trips & Routes
Small Towns

One of Minnesota’s Quirkiest Towns Is Still Flying Under the Radar

Learn all about one of the quirkiest towns in Minnesota, filled with unique attractions and small-town charm. A hidden gem worth exploring.

by Trent Jonas
on May 27
A tall, quirky wooden carving of the legendary St. Urho standing against a forest backdrop in Finland, Minnesota.
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The Coastal Minnesota Town Locals Hope Stays Off Tourists’ Radar

by Trent Jonas
on Mar 4
Cross River Falls cascades heavily down jagged, dark rocky ledges surrounded by lush green trees in Schroeder, MN.
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4 Small Towns in Minnesota So Dreamy, You’ll Swear You’ve Seen Them on TV

by Trent Jonas
on Jan 30
The massive Iron Man Memorial statue stands atop a pedestal in Chisholm, Minnesota, honoring the iron ore miners of the Iron Range.
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Discover the Minnesota Small Town That Looks Like a Hallmark Movie Setting

by Trent Jonas
on Nov 4
The world's biggest hockey stick and puck stand next to a colorful mural of boys playing hockey on a frozen pond.
Trips & Routes

This Minnesota Town Turns Into ‘Halloweentown’ Each Fall (and It’s Spooktacular)

by Trent Jonas
on Sep 29
A weathered gravestone is surrounded by fallen leaves in Anoka, Minnesota.

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Small Towns

The Riverfront Village That Feels Like a Slice of Europe in the U.S.

The riverfront town of New Ulm, Minnesota, has deep German roots. A visit to the town offers a taste of Europe without need for a passport or a long flight.

by Trent Jonas
on Apr 9
A bronze, patinaed sculpture of a German warrior with a winged helmet stands atop a white iron cupola with a spiral staircase while holding a sword aloft.
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Small Towns

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

Currie, Minnesota, is the gateway community for Lake Shetek State Park. There are plenty of other reasons to visit this charming small town, as well.

by Trent Jonas
on Jun 18
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Small Towns

I Went to Granite Falls, and I Don’t Know Why I Didn’t Visit This Small Town in Minnesota Sooner

Granite Falls is one of our writer's new favorite small towns in Minnesota, and it should definitely be on your bucket list

by Trent Jonas
on Feb 27
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Small Towns

Winter Transforms This Minnesota Riverfront Town Into a Peaceful Getaway

If you're looking for a laid back winter getaway, look no further than Taylors Falls; it's one of the best winter towns in Minnesota

by Trent Jonas
on Dec 22
A large stone sign for Interstate State Park in Taylors Falls, Minnesota, sits on a snowy lawn next to a park building.
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Small Towns

Minnesota’s Rising Star: This Underrated City Is Ideal for Any Traveler

Bemidji is a university town in the heart of the Northwoods, making it an ideal Minnesota city for travelers interested in an Up North experience

by Trent Jonas
on Dec 13
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Small Towns

There’s No Place Like My Hometown of Stillwater, Minnesota for the Holidays

I don't think there's another town that celebrates the holidays in Minnesota quite like my hometown of Stillwater

by Trent Jonas
on Nov 25
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Small Towns

The Up-and-Coming City in Minnesota That’s Perfectly Sized

Red Wing is a historic, up-and-coming city in Minnesota that's ideal in both size and location.

by Trent Jonas
on Nov 7
Multi-shot panorama looking east across Red Wing and the Mississippi from an elevated vantage.
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Small Towns

This Blink-and-You’ll-Miss-It Town in Minnesota Is So Worth Exploring

Marcell, Minnesota, is a small community that in the heart of the Chippewa National Forest. Take some time explore this Northwoods Minnesota town.

by Trent Jonas
on Sep 22
A brown wooden sign on a fieldstone pedestal depicts a bald eagle and reads "Welcome to Marcell."
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Small Towns

This Charming Community Might Just Be The Most Peaceful Place To Live In Minnesota

by Trent Jonas
on Dec 24
A street view of a small town featuring brick buildings, shops, and trees under a cloudy sky.
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Small Towns

Enjoy A Classical Christmas When You Visit This Charming Small Town In Minnesota

by Trent Jonas
on Dec 19
A fire truck decorated with lights, carrying two Santa figures, drives past a crowd during a nighttime holiday parade.
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Small Towns

Mantorville, Minnesota Is The Very Definition Of Small Town Charm

by Trent Jonas
on Dec 13
A quaint street scene featuring antique shops and patriotic decorations, with an American flag waving overhead.
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Small Towns

The Cozy Small Town In Minnesota That Comes Alive Under A Blanket Of Snow

by Trent Jonas
on Dec 11
A great gray owl perched on a branch amidst falling snow in a forest setting.
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Small Towns

Tofte, Minnesota Is The Perfect Midwest Winter Travel Destination

by Trent Jonas
on Nov 14
A snowy pathway along the coast, with a view of colorful buildings and a calm sea under a blue sky.
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Small Towns

7 Christmas Towns In Minnesota That Will Fill Your Heart With Holiday Cheer

by Trent Jonas
on Nov 8
Aerial view of a snowy village illuminated with colorful holiday lights, creating a festive atmosphere at night.
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Small Towns

Tiny Aurora, Minnesota Is A Time Capsule Town That’s Irresistibly Charming And Nostalgic

by Trent Jonas
on Nov 6
A panoramic view of a small town surrounded by lush green trees and hills under a clear blue sky.
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Small Towns

There Is A Unique Man-Made Wonder Hiding In This Small Town In Minnesota

by Trent Jonas
on Oct 24
A large, colorful fish sculpture under a pavilion, surrounded by picnic tables and flowers in a park setting.
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Small Towns

The Remote Small Town in Minnesota Locals Don’t Want You to Find

Crane Lake is a remote town in Minnesota that’s perfect for outdoor adventure and escaping the outside world for a few days.

by Trent Jonas
on Oct 10
A large statue of a man in historical attire, holding a paddle, surrounded by trees and a stone base with inscriptions.
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Small Towns

The Enchanting Village In Minnesota That Is One Of The Best Places To Enjoy Autumn

by Trent Jonas
on Oct 3
A vibrant autumn landscape featuring a winding river surrounded by trees with colorful yellow and orange foliage.
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Small Towns

The Small Town In Minnesota That Comes Alive In The Fall Season

by Trent Jonas
on Sep 23
A large, wooden deer statue wearing an orange vest and hat, standing on a log with a "Welcome to Deerwood" sign.
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Small Towns

This Small-Town Harvest Festival In Minnesota Belongs On Your Autumn Bucket List

Stillwater, Minnesota hosts a unique and wacky Harvest Festival featuring giant pumpkins and a Pumpkin Regatta.

by Trent Jonas
on Aug 31
A group of kayakers paddles on a river, with a crowd watching from a bridge and riverbank in the background.
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Small Towns

Enjoy The Simple Life When You Visit This Tiny Rural Community In Minnesota

Mountain Lake in Minnesota offers a rich historical experience with well-preserved sites and a charming community.

by Trent Jonas
on Aug 31
A quaint, white country schoolhouse with a porch, surrounded by greenery and a few bicycles nearby.
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Small Towns

The Charming Small Town in Minnesota That’s Perfect For A Fall Day Trip

Grand Rapids, Minnesota, offers a perfect fall day trip with its unique forest biomes, scenic views, and various outdoor activities.

by Trent Jonas
on Aug 31
Two cyclists on a wooden path surrounded by tall, golden grasses, enjoying a sunny day outdoors.
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Small Towns

The Most Charming College Town In Minnesota Is Home To Delicious Dining, Shopping, And More

Northfield, Minnesota, is a charming college town with rich history, vibrant coffee and brewery scenes, and plenty of shopping and dining options.

by Trent Jonas
on Aug 21
Historic buildings line a street under a clear blue sky, with trees and shops adding to the charming atmosphere.
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Small Towns

The Best Small Town Getaway In Minnesota: Best Things To Do In Stillwater

Stillwater, Minnesota, offers a rich blend of history, culture, natural beauty, and vibrant nightlife, making it a memorable small-town getaway.

by Trent Jonas
on Aug 5
Aerial view of a town with historic buildings, a church, and colorful autumn trees by a river.
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Small Towns

Few Communities In Minnesota Are More Enchanting And Historic Than Owatonna

Owatonna, Minnesota, is a historic and charming community with unique attractions like the National Farmers Bank and Mineral Springs Park.

by Trent Jonas
on Jul 29
A sunny street view of a small town with shops, cars parked along the sides, and a blue sky with fluffy clouds.
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Small Towns

The Scenic Drive In Minnesota That Runs Straight Through The Charming Small Town Of Akeley

Akeley, a charming small town in Minnesota, offers scenic views, lakefront activities, and a rich history tied to Paul Bunyan.

by Trent Jonas
on Jul 28
A large statue of a lumberjack in a red and black checkered shirt, holding an axe, in a park setting.
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Small Towns

The Rodeo Capital Of Minnesota Is One Of The Most Charming Small Towns You’ll Ever Visit

Hamel, Minnesota, though technically not a town, is known for its charming local businesses, historic significance, and hosting the state's largest rodeo.

by Trent Jonas
on Jul 4
A rider in a purple shirt and cowboy hat races on a brown horse during a rodeo event, with trees and trailers in the background.
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Small Towns

There Is A Tiny European Village Hiding In The Middle Of The Countryside In Minnesota

New Prague, Minnesota, showcases its rich Czech heritage through historic buildings, cultural festivals, and European-inspired architecture.

by Trent Jonas
on Jul 1
A group of dancers in traditional costumes perform together at an outdoor event, showcasing cultural heritage.
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Small Towns

The Mesabi Trail Runs Through This Minnesota Town And It’s The Ultimate Outdoor Playground

Pengilly, Minnesota, is a charming stop on the Mesabi Trail, offering recreational activities and local attractions.

by Trent Jonas
on Jun 6
Two cyclists ride on a bridge over a road, with a sign for the Mesabi Trail and lush green trees in the background.
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Small Towns

You Could Spend Forever Exploring This Minnesota Small Town, But We’ll Settle For A Weekend

Warroad, Minnesota, offers a charming small-town adventure with unique local businesses and a variety of outdoor activities on Lake of the Woods.

by Trent Jonas
on Apr 19
Historic brick building with a gray roof, featuring a sign that reads "WARROAD" and a clear blue sky in the background.
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Small Towns

With a Farmers Market, Weekly Music, and Seasonal Festival, There’s Nothing Like a Summer Weekend in This Minnesota Town

When the weather turns warm, Chisago City, MN, host many festivals and events. It's the perfect Minnesota small town for summer fun.

by Trent Jonas
on Jun 30
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Small Towns

The Friendly Small Town in Minnesota That’s Perfect for a Summer Day Trip

Discover why Fountain is one of the best small towns in Minnesota for a summer day trip, with scenic trails, local dining, and Bluff Country charm.

by Trent Jonas
on May 13
The Fountain, Minnesota welcome sign surrounded by colorful bushes and autumn trees on a clear day.
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Small Towns

Grand Marais, Minnesota Is One Of The Best Small Towns In America

Grand Marais, Minnesota, is celebrated as one of the best small towns in America, known for its charming setting, thriving local businesses, and vibrant community.

by Trent Jonas
on May 9
Colorful houses line a calm waterfront, reflecting in the water under a blue sky with scattered clouds.
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Small Towns

This Minnesota Town Is One Of The Most Peaceful Places To Live In The Country

Canby, Minnesota, is one of the most peaceful towns in the U.S., known for its low crime rate and historic sites.

by Trent Jonas
on May 3
Sunset over a calm pond, with silhouettes of trees and tall grass in the foreground against a colorful sky.
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Small Towns

A Charming And Historic Small Town In Minnesota, Marine on St. Croix Is Seemingly Frozen In Time

Marine on St. Croix, Minnesota, is a historic town with 19th-century structures, scenic river views, and various outdoor activities.

by Trent Jonas
on Jun 1
Historic white buildings of the Marine General Store and a nearby structure under a blue sky with fluffy clouds.
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Small Towns

Rock Climb During The Day, Then Sleep In A Tipi Among The Bison At Night In Luverne, Minnesota

Explore Luverne and Blue Mounds State Park in Minnesota for a unique rock climbing and camping adventure.

by Trent Jonas
on Apr 25
Two white tipis stand in a grassy area, surrounded by trees under a partly cloudy sky.
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Small Towns

Few People Know There’s A Beautiful State Park Hiding In This Tiny Minnesota Town

Father Hennepin State Park in Minnesota offers lakefront views, hiking, and camping near the charming town of Isle.

by Trent Jonas
on Apr 22
A serene lakeside scene with colorful autumn trees reflecting in calm water under a clear blue sky.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

There Are 2 World-Famous Pie Shops In The Small Town Of Two Harbors, Minnesota

Two Harbors, Minnesota, is renowned for its famous pie shops, making it a must-visit for pie enthusiasts.

by Trent Jonas
on Apr 20
Sign reading "Two Harbors" at a train station with a covered platform and green landscape in the background.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

Hike Through A Hidden Forest Then Dine At A Small-Town Cafe On This Delightful Adventure In Minnesota

Lake Bronson State Park and Foxy Roxy’s Diner offer a perfect small town adventure in Minnesota with hiking, wildlife, and hearty meals.

by Trent Jonas
on Apr 19
A serene lakeside view at sunset, framed by trees and lush greenery, reflecting calm waters.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

There Are More Long Trails Than Stoplights In The Charming Town Of Beaver Bay, Minnesota

Beaver Bay, Minnesota, is a historic and scenic community located on Lake Superior, known for its proximity to three popular long trails.

by Trent Jonas
on Apr 12
A serene river flows over rocky terrain, surrounded by lush green trees under a clear blue sky.