6 Minnesota Towns That Rival Europe's Best
Famed for its gorgeous Lake Superior coastline, this unique Midwest state knows no bounds to surprise, inspiring timid artists and nature lovers through small towns. Sprinkled throughout the state, these six towns encapsulate the essence of the Midwest's most beautiful traits and abound with nature and culture only found in the North Star State, yet rivalling even those ancient cities of Europe.
The many riversides evoke lush European banks, and the architecture of the region stands its own against the Gothic vaults and Roman edifices of France and Italy. Pick a town to clue in on its colorful roots, with more than hints in monuments and unobscured views straight from a European postcard.
Grand Marais
The state's first art colony boasts accolades like Coolest Small Town (Budget Travel Magazine). Relentlessly praised for its inspiring scenery, beaches, and nautical atmosphere, it is easy to see a Scandinavian-style fishing village along the north shore of Lake Superior. Artist's Point is an iconic landmark and respite for all the creatives on a whale tail-shaped peninsula in the watery surrounds, with sandy shores, camping, and artists at easels, backdropped by verdant mounds.
Named by the French fur traders to mean Big Marsh, every turn in America's Next Great Adventure Town (National Geographic Adventure Magazine) breeds inspiration at the eastern end of the low Sawtooth mountain range. Take a hike along the Pincushion Mountain Trail System to a granite overlook. From the picture-perfect harborfront to an accessible Great Lake shoreline, with nature trails and rushing rivers, the sparkling Fall River Waterfall cascades off the highway to the west.
Lindström
Lindstrom is one of the five small towns in the community of Chisago Lakes, where the bountiful waters and fertile land encouraged early Swedish settlers to feel at home in a strange land back in 1853. Like an island among the lakes, virtually surrounded by water, the natural barriers enhance the feeling of crossing over into another reality. Cross the channel bridge between North and South Lindström Lake into the lively city and snap a selfie by the iconic 1908 coffee pot water tower.
Incorporated in 1894, “America’s Little Sweden” paints its distinct heritage with monuments, sites, and festivals, like the summertime Karl Oskar Days which celebrates the town's history of Swedish emigration. From weekly music and markets in the park to gifts, coffee shops, and artisan crafts, you can escape Main Street's bustle for a nature hike or a refreshing swim at the town's sandy Beach Park with play equipment. Allemansrätt Park, or “Every Man’s Right” in Swedish, encourages roaming its wilderness trails on 125 acres northwest of downtown.
Moorhead
This town of 45,000 feels serene next to Fargo, ND, across the Red River border to the west. The lively city is particularly enchanting due to its deep Nordic roots, with clues in historic architecture, local businesses, and sites like the stately Rourke Art Gallery + Museum, with local and international artwork in a 1915 courthouse and post-office building. Meanwhile, the winding river creates nature pockets for refreshing strolls, sports, and leisurely recreation in scenic views.
Hjemkomst Center celebrates Scandinavian heritage with replicas of the Hjemkomst Viking Ship and the Hopperstad Stave Church. After imbibing culture, you can carry the magic into a local park. The relaxed Gooseberry Park offers all-season trails and riverside picnics with shelters and play areas. Shooting straight down the highway, Bluestem Prairie Scientific and Natural Area boasts spectacular sunrises and sunsets over a stunning prairie and wonderful biodiversity.
New Ulm
Settled in 1854 at the junction of the Cottonwood and Minnesota Rivers, this lively town boasts a deep German heritage. Its architecture, B&Bs, live music, and breweries invite lively discoveries of a real European slice in Minnesota. Some 90 miles from Minneapolis, travelers enjoy scenic river valley trails and oak-shaded bluffs. In addition to the historic 45-foot glockenspiel, which plays music and accompanies motion pictures, German Park offers play equipment and a fountain in the heart of town.
Check out the dramatic columnade of a Germanic chieftain at Hermann Heights Park, with an observation platform high atop the 102-foot monument. Beyond the festive downtown, the dog-friendly Flandrau State Park is an ideal summer day adventure, with a picnic shelter, sand-bottom swimming pool, and trails, plus camping. Finally, the steepled Cathedral of Holy Trinity is an unforgettable example of German Baroque architecture, boasting an intricate main altar and interior.
Scandia
Scandia lines the western St. Croix banks with mid-19th-century buildings nodding at the state's rich Nordic roots. In addition to the state's oldest 1856 Lutheran church, you can spend a day in the lives of the Swedish immigrants just 40 miles from Saint Paul. Gammelgarden Museum is the only open-air museum devoted to Swedish immigration in the US, recreating an early settlement with period buildings and exhibits, a gift shop, friendly park staff, and plaques in Swedish and English.
After a cultural day and gifts from Scandia Butik, keep the good vibes going at Rustic Roots Winery, offering tours, views, and atmosphere, with a beautiful vineyard, scenic grounds, and patio views to soak in the warm evening over tastings or a wine slushie. Switch lanes the next day, exploring the scenic river valley and lakeside trails, plus camping at William O'Brien State Park. The state's oldest Swedish settlement truly is a doppelganger of a Swedish town under the snow cover.
Stillwater
As the site of the first territorial convention to establish statehood, Stillwater drips nostalgia that has earned accolades for historic charm and picturesque surroundings. Fairy Falls Trailhead is a family-friendly adventure to relax and picnic by a beautiful, 45-foot cascade with the rushing water sounds setting a serene backdrop. The "Birthplace of Minnesota" feels distinctly European along the historic banks of the St. Croix River across from Wisconsin, with breweries and local farms.
In addition to unique shops and rooftop dining, travelers enjoy spectacular views of the historic Stillwater Lift Bridge. This pedestrian bridge offers bike lanes to soak in the river views. The bridge rises at timed intervals for boat passage—a fine sight to take in from one of the waterfront parks. Open April through October, the most charming Teddy Bear Park offers a playground, gazebo, and picnic tables across from the historic 1870 state courthouse, with tours with exhibits.
The North Star State is a magical place with enchantments all around. As the Land of 10,000 Lakes, its unique natural scenery lures travelers from near and far for boundless outdoor recreation opportunities and rich cultural heritage.
From the first art colony along the Great Lake shoreline to its birthplace on the St. Croix River, find your slice of Europe in the North Star State. Each distinct, they leave one with the unmistakable air of having visited Europe.
