7 Quietest Small Towns Near Minneapolis
Minneapolis is one of the grand cities of Minnesota. Located near where the Mississippi River and Minnesota River meet, it is also paired with St. Paul to form the Twin Cities metropolitan area. While Minneapolis is a fantastic place to live and visit, sometimes it is better to head out of town for something a bit more serene. If you are looking for a weekend retreat away from the big city, these seven small towns are within a reasonable distance and make great destinations for a visit.
Wayzata
The perfect weekend retreat can be had outdoors in Wayzata, just 20 minutes from Minneapolis, especially for those staying at The Hotel Landing. The Landing is situated along Wayzat Bay and is just a short walk from notable outdoor spots for those heading outdoors. Wayzata Beach is located just minutes away and offers visitors the chance to stroll along the shores, feel the sand between their toes, and step out onto the water. A day outdoors continues with PJ the Fishing Guide. These charters specialize in guided fishing tours of nearby Lake Minnetonka, where guests can fish for bass, pike, and panfish using the highest-quality rods and tackle. Those who want to spend a day indoors can find shopping and dining options along Lake Street, which runs parallel to the Broadway Docks and Wayzata Bay. As you walk the street, you will also find the Wayzata Depot Museum. The Great Northern Railway Depot has been a town landmark since 1906 and served as the town's last train station. Today, you can see history up close by stepping into the depot's waiting room and taking a look at the original station master's office.
Lake City
A weekend full of time on the water can be found at Lake City, an hour and fifteen minutes from Minneapolis. Those who want to stay along the water will enjoy John Hall's Alaskan Lodge, which, despite its name, stares out onto nearby Lake Pepin in Minnesota. Just down the street, along Marina Park, visitors will find dining and shopping options that overlook the water. These locales along Lakeshore Drive are also near Ohuta Park and Beach, where visitors can walk the Riverwalk trail before heading onto the beach. The park is also home to events, such as Water Ski Days, that can be enjoyed from shore. For those who want to head out of town for the day, adventures can be had at Frontenac State Park. The park is open to campers, but day trippers can spend the day hiking, birdwatching, and even skiing, depending on the weather. For anyone looking to hit the green, Lake City Golf Club is an 18-hole championship golf course that offers visitors to the area a challenging course set against stunning green landscapes.
Nisswa
Just over two hours from the city, Nisswa is an incredible destination for anyone who loves lakes, as the town is bordered by Gull Lake, Round Lake, Lake Hubert, and several smaller lakes. The Nature Link Resort is an ideal destination for visitors to the area, offering cabins that overlook Clark Lake. Thanks to its many lakes, Nisswa is a destination that fishers love. Anglers who want to head out on the lake can contract with Boggs Fishing Adventures for a day on Gull Lake in search of Northern Pike, Sunfish, Musky, and more, all from the comfort of a Skeeter boat. Just a little north, Sibley Lake Park is a popular spot for walking along the shores. Guests will find plenty of areas for a picnic, or they can head out onto the fishing pier to cast a line. For those who want a change of pace, a tour can be arranged at the Nisswa Area Historical Society. The society preserves the region's history through photographs, documents, and artifacts that help explain the history of these lakes and their people.
Excelsior
As with many small towns around Minneapolis, Excelsior sits on the shores of a lake. Hotel Excelsior puts you in the middle of town and just minutes away from Excelsior Bay. Visitors there will find Excelsior Public Beach, a 13-acre park with numerous picnic sites, tennis courts, and two beaches for swimming. The park is also home to a summer concert series for music enthusiasts. For those who enjoy history, a unique way to tour historic Excelsior is by trolley. The Excelsior Streetcar Line makes its way through town. The line stops at a car barn, where guests can see pictures from throughout the town's history, including images of hotels, trains, and historic landmarks. And outside of town, Edenbrook Conservation Area includes a 3.6-mile track. A popular hiking destination, this spot is ideal for those who want to enjoy the outdoors while searching for local wildlife.
Center City
Center City is situated along both South Lindstrom Lake and North Lindstrom Lake. This part of Minnesota is a center of Nordic culture, and visitors to the region will enjoy their stay at Nordic Harbor. This hotel features not only cozy rooms but a Nordic Market where guests can purchase burnt-end brisket sausages, gelato, but also unique souvenirs that speak to the area's culture. Those hoping to learn about the region's unique history may want to head south of nearby South Center Lake to find Nya Duvemåla. This unique destination preserves the history and culture of Swedish immigrants to the area, and the centerpiece is the Karl Oskar House, constructed in 1860 by the Swedish immigrant Carl Linn family. Just four minutes away from Nordic Harbor, you can also continue your exploration of Nordic culture at the Night Art Gallery, which hosts exhibits showcasing Scandinavian design. The gallery's framed pieces reflect the stories of the early Swedish settlers who made the region their home. Those who would prefer to spend their time outdoors can head to Loren's Park. The park is open for those who want to walk along the shores, enjoy an afternoon picnic, or cast a line into the lake from the shore.
Lanesboro
Lanesboro is a small town with only a few hundred residents, making it an ideal spot for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the big city. Visitors may want to stay at the Coffee Street Inn, which was originally established as a boarding house in 1870 and now stands as one of the oldest buildings in town. From here, it is not far to the Commonweal Theatre. This nationally acclaimed live theater presents performances such as A Sherlock Carol and The Half-Life of Marie Curie, encompassing a range of genres that include comedies, dramas, musicals, and more. For a view into the past, a visit to the Lanesboro Museum may be in order. The museum preserves the town's history, dating back to before its incorporation, through three stories featuring a diverse collection of artifacts. For a unique experience, you can head a little more than 20 minutes outside of town to the Niagara Cave. Guides lead tours, escorting guests to see limestone rock formations and fossils that are hundreds of millions of years old as the group descends 200 feet underground.
Circle Pines
Visitors to Circle Pines will find a town brimming with lakeside activities for the weekend. The nearest hotel, the Hampton Inn and Suites in Lino Lakes, is located five minutes away along the highway. Once settled in, you can head into town for a visit to Golden Lake Park. Positioned along Golden Lake, the park holds volleyball and tennis courts, picnic areas, and a concession stand. Guests can walk along the beach area, fish from the pier, or launch a boat onto the water. Not too far away, outdoor lovers will find the Rice Creek North Regional Trail. The trail follows Rice Creek, connecting Anoka and Ramsey counties, and stretches a total of 13 miles. Those planning to travel the whole trail and do some birdwatching may instead want to bike along its prairies and woodlands. If you want to tee off, the Chomonix Golf Course sits just a little further north between multiple lakes. Guests will find an 18-hole course with distinct water features and beautiful grounds just minutes outside Circle Pines.
Get Away From The Big City
Sometimes you need a retreat from the hustle and bustle of the big city. Fortunately, Minnesota is a diverse state with numerous attractions and activities to explore. Whether relaxing along South Lindstrom Lake or enjoying a trolley ride through Excelsior on a streetcar, you can find plenty of relaxing ways to enjoy yourself. If you are ready to get out to the countryside and enjoy a peaceful weekend, then visit any one of these seven towns.
