7 Towns Perfect for Retirement in Minnesota

While many think of Minnesota as a harsh, cold state, they do not realize that it is a state filled with both relaxing and active towns. Every town presents its unique charm, from lakeside scenery to a rich culture. When deciding on where to retire, some seek peace, while others seek to be a bit more active now that time is available. With some towns offering world-class access to nature and others with vibrant downtowns, Minnesota is a state that offers it all. When deciding on where to retire, Minnesota is a place that promises a fulfilling retirement for those who are looking for natural beauty as well as small-town charms.

Wayzata

Leaving the busy life of the Twin Cities eventually feels like something that has to be done. Luckily for those who want to find somewhere a bit quieter but still enjoy being close to the cities, the town of Wayzata is perfect. Being only an 18-mile drive away from the cities, this town is one of the best places to retire in the state. While the price of a home is a bit on the higher side, all of the amenities, plus being close to world-class healthcare, easily make up for it. The town is along Lake Minnetonka, which provides entertainment year-round. For those who want to be a bit more active, renting a kayak or paddleboard at Wayzata Beach is a great way to explore the lake at your own pace. Otherwise, take some time to enjoy swimming in the summer or just reading along the beach and watching sailboats glide across the water. During the winter, people will gather on the frozen lake for several different winter activities. From ice fishing to skating, do not be surprised to see snowmobilers driving on the ice as well. Being so close to the Twin Cities also gives people of the town the benefit of some world-class food. There are many restaurants throughout the town, but many will be along the lake. One of the best places to go for a bit of a hike or bike ride has to be the Dakota Rail Regional Trail. The trail running through the town is a great way to get some jaw-dropping views of the lake as well as the beautiful countryside. If just taking a nice morning or evening stroll is more your cup of tea, you will love checking out the Grays Bay Dam Park. While never particularly busy, this hidden gem is a great place to visit to sit back and take in the beauty of this town.

Lake City

With a wide range of activities to enjoy, on top of being affordable and safe, it is easy to see why Lake City was voted the second-best town in the state to retire to. For those who want to retire and spend their time outdoors, there are few better places in the state, let alone the whole country. Spend your days at Hok-Si-La Park, where you can hike, enjoy the beach, or camp for as many days as you want. The town is located where the Mississippi River is at its widest and along Lake Pepin. Bluffs that are characteristic along the Mississippi River are plenty in Lake City, giving some stunning hiking opportunities to find some breathtaking views. To get a better understanding of the river, take a scenic cruise along the Pearl of the Lake Paddleboat. It is a replica of the riverboats that used to travel up and down the Mississippi River in the 1800s. Another opportunity now that you have time is to take a ride on the S.V. Quintessent Sailboat and feel the wind as you cruise through the waters. While being along the water is one of the highlights of the town, that is not to say that it is the only thing to do in town. There are a few golf courses scattered around the town where you can play. Two of the most popular are Lake City Golf and Lake Pepin Golf Course. While the entire town draws people outside, there are plenty of places inside to enjoy. Lake City has some world-class restaurants to choose from, as well as several unique shops to go to. With several annual festivals such as the De Pepin Bike Tour, Water Ski Days, and the Fourth of July Fireworks, there is entertainment year-round in this amazing town.

Little Falls

For those seeking a calm and relaxed town to retire to, look no further than Little Falls. This quaint town boasts a low crime rate, low-cost homes, and some of the best access to nature in the state. While many worry that once they retire, their life will be dull, that is not an issue for Little Falls residents. Taking time to appreciate what is around is easy to do at one of the many hiking trails throughout the town. Two of the more famous ones are Crane Meadows National Wildlife Refuge and Charles Lindbergh State Park. These parks provide miles of hiking trails that will take you through quiet forests and jaw-dropping wetlands and allow those to watch the migratory birds that call the area their homes. The trails are spectacular year-round, as in winter, the trails are popular amongst cross-country skiers. The town is also connected to a good number of biking trails for the warm months. One of the most beautiful trails is the Mississippi River Trail. This trail follows the river from start to finish, and while biking the entire thing is not recommended, sections of it can be done easily in a day. There is also the Soo Line Trail, as well as the Lake Wobegon Trail, for you to explore. During the winter months, there are ice skating rinks set up at Pine Tree Park and Lindbergh Lions Recreation Area. However, for those wanting to get out of the cold, there are several terrific restaurants to warm up in. At Great River Arts, go enjoy a gallery and possibly even watch a show. When family or friends (especially with children) come to visit, look no further than Pine Grove Zoo for entertainment that can be enjoyed by all ages. The zoo has numerous exhibits, from animals like zebras to kangaroos and even Siberian tigers.

Bemidji

At the start, Mississippi awaits one of the best places to retire in the state. With access to quality healthcare and low-cost housing, it is clear to see why many are becoming drawn to the town. The town surrounds the lake that gives it its name (Lake Bemidji), and while there are many lake activities to partake in, they are not the only thing that makes the town great. The downtown area of Bemidji is an excellent place to spend time at one of its many shops, restaurants, and cafes. Spend your mornings eating and chatting with locals at the famous Minnesota Nice Cafe. Once summer rolls around and the weather is a bit hot, nothing will cool you off better than some ice cream at Big River Scoop Ice Cream shop. While the downtown area of Bemidji is wonderful year-round, the access to parks and trails is second to none. Biking around the lake is something that is especially enjoyed during the summer. While being amazing exercise, it is always a great way to see the changing seasons. Going to Itasca State Park is another must for anyone living in Bemidji. This is where the Mississippi River begins, and the park offers several different trails to walk on, as well as over 200 campsites. It is pretty easy to see why many in the area will purchase the annual park permit every year. The Paul Bunyan State Trail also runs through Bemidji. Now, while this trail starts at Lake Bemidji State Park, it is over 115 miles, so do not feel pressure to do it all in one day. The path goes through scenic lakesides, beautiful forests, and incredible streams. Bemidji is also home to its annual Dragon Boat Festivals. This festival entertains people of all ages, from watching the races to eating delicious food and even playing games. After spending a short amount of time in the town, it is clear why so many people decide not to leave after visiting.

New Ulm

The hardest thing for many new to New Ulm is to realize that they are still in Minnesota and not Germany. New Ulm has been called "The Most German Town in America" thanks to its unique cultural heritage. While being famous for this, what many do not realize is that it is one of the best towns to retire to in the entire state. With low crime rates, plenty of activities to partake in, and affordable homes, it is clear what makes this town so attractive for retirees. Since this town will make you feel like you are in Germany, it is best to act like it. Enjoy several incredible restaurants and shops that will have you shopping like a German. At Kaiserhoff, guests can drink some world-famous beer and wine and have some German favorites such as sausages and schnitzel. With all of your spare time, why not enjoy a beer at Schell's Brewery? Being one of the oldest family-owned breweries in the entire country, you will be able to have an incredibly comforting experience while enjoying delicious German-style beers. Being able to spend time outdoors is a must for those who live in New Ulm. At German Park, you will be able to relax, picnic, and enjoy the summer days here. To get out of the town slightly and take in nature is one of the allures of the town as well. At Flandrau State Park, you will be able to find something to do year-round. From hiking some of its many trails in the summer to snowshoeing or cross-country skiing in winter, there is something for everyone.

Grand Marais

Waking up to the soothing sounds of the waves of Lake Superior may sound like a luxury, but it is just a part of daily life for residents of Grand Marais. The northeastern part of Minnesota is often overlooked but is home to some of the best places in the state to retire. Grand Marais is well known for its beautiful art, abundance of nature, and some of the best weather in the state. While heading north may be intimidating for some, Grand Marais offers homes that are cheaper than the national average, and it is one of the safest towns in the state. Enjoy spending your days at the beautiful Harbor Park. This jaw-dropping park offers some incredible views of the lake as well as the Grand Marais Lighthouse. You will find yourself taking strolls along the beach no matter what time of the year it is. There are more beaches in the area, such as Paradise Beach and Old Shore Beach, and with plenty of time on your hands, you can hike parts of the Superior Hiking Trail. This trail is over 300 miles long, so maybe take it in parts. There are areas in the town that provide easy access to parts of the trail, though, so do not feel like you need to travel far to get great views. With being next to the lake, it would be criminal not to spend some time on the waters. The town has plenty of places to rent kayaks, canoes, or paddle boards before you end up buying your own. Grand Marais is also known for its vibrant art scene. World-class artists gather in the area every year during the Plein Air Grand Marais festival. Each year, you will be able to see hundreds of talented artists across the country gather and show off their world-class work.

Northfield

While being close to the Twin Cities may not sound like the start of a calming place to settle down, Northfield is a town that benefits from how close it is but suffers none of the drawbacks. The town is incredibly close to some of the best healthcare in the entire Midwest and is also home to the famous St. Olaf College. The town offers a peaceful escape from the Twin Cities thanks to its proximity to some jaw-dropping outdoor recreation. Cross-country skiing is a popular activity for many in the state, and Northfield offers some amazing trails to go on. Just outside of the town is Nerstrand Big Woods State Park, and with plenty of trails for skiing in the winter (or hiking in the summer), it is easy to see why many come daily. If cross-country skiing isn't for you that is okay, in winter you can also snowshoe on the paths. During the summer months, Northfield is filled with plenty of activities to take part in. You can spend the summer months at the Riverwalk Market Fair. Attending the market isn't just a great way to get some amazing local produce but to get to know the local community as well. Enjoy spending time along the Cannon River and watch the current carry-away boats, kayakers, and canoers. Do not be afraid to take a break from all this activity and have a drink at Imminent Brewing or Loon Liquors Distillery. If you want to pick some of your fruits, make sure to spend some time at Silkey Gardens, where you can pick strawberries, raspberries, apples, and more.

Minnesota is a state where its small towns offer a unique blend of natural beauty, culture, and community. Whether seeking to retire alongside calming lakes, a vibrant downtown area, or the never-ending trails through nature, these towns offer something to everyone. When so much of the country is becoming less and less affordable, Minnesota still has affordable housing. Where crime rates in certain places rise, these towns promise safety. Providing so many activities to be enjoyed, retiring in Minnesota's small towns is an opportunity that should not be missed.