9 Best Downtowns In Minnesota
In Minnesota’s best downtowns, 19th-century brick buildings, riverfront parks along the Mississippi River and St. Croix River, and hotels that have been welcoming guests for more than a century can sit within just a few walkable blocks. In Stillwater, it’s easy to wander from historic storefronts to the water’s edge, where green spaces and a lively main street keep the riverfront feeling like part of everyday life. Farther north, Grand Marais delivers that same compact charm on Lake Superior, with a harborfront that makes a trip feel like a real escape. Elsewhere, some main streets spill toward lakes like Okabena Lake, while others anchor local life with theaters, civic centers, and long-running restaurants, keeping architecture, gathering spaces, and waterfront access closely connected year-round.
Farmington
Just south of Minneapolis is the suburban city of Farmington, offering a welcoming small-town atmosphere. Right on 3rd Street is the Community Room, a local event venue that hosts seamless events, accommodates up to 80 guests, and hosts weddings, parties, and private gatherings for people to enjoy. Further up the street is Celts Pub, an Irish restaurant serving patrons incredible meals from the likes of Celt Wings, the Works Nachos, and the Castlewellan burger, incredible drinks, and can host parties and local events. The Market on Oak Boutique is a wonderful gift shop in downtown that sells unique, high-quality gifts not found in major retailers, as well as lakehouse decor, holiday gifts, and snacks made in the state.
Stillwater
On the banks of the St. Croix River and the Wisconsin state line lies the city of Stillwater, with a delightful downtown, a wonderful culinary scene, and warm, welcoming antique shops. Right on 2nd Street is the Lowell Inn Hotel and Restaurant, a traditional boutique hotel perfect for a weekend getaway. The hotel offers its guests 35 cozy private guest rooms, has fine dining for a wonderful night out on the town, and can host weddings, meetings, and events. Across the street is the Velveteen Speakeasy, a quaint cocktail bar serving delicious bites like charcuterie boards and flatbreads, and memorable drinks like the Sappy Rendezvous and the Don Corleone, all set against an art deco interior.
Nestled on the banks of the St. Croix River is Lowell Park, a lovely place to visit and unwind during a sunny day. The park is a perfect place to enjoy a stroll along the river, a picnic with plenty of open spaces, local events like the Rivertown Fall Art Festival, and gondola rides courtesy of nearby Gondola Romantica. Back in town is Ziggy's On Main, an amazing place to enjoy excellent food, live local music, and private parties via reservation.
Excelsior
On the southern end of Lake Minnetonka is the city of Excelsior, which has a very walkable downtown, access to outdoor recreation, thanks to the lake, and its vibrant small-town atmosphere. In the heart of downtown is Hotel Excelsior - Suites on Water Street, a relaxing boutique hotel focused on providing its guests with luxury and comfort during their stay. The rooms overlook Water Street and make people feel like they're home. Guests can begin their day at the Lobby Coffee and Leisure with a fresh cup of coffee and breakfast, and the hotel is within walking distance of local shops, restaurants, and the waterfront in town.
At the northern end of Water Street is Wayzata Bay Charters - Lake Minnetonka Cruises, offering private and public cruises on the lake, from a Sunday Brunch Cruise to a Friday Night Happy Hour Cruise. People can have their bachelor or bachelorette parties on a cruise, and their weddings. Back in town is the Yumi Japanese Restaurant and Bar - Excelsior, where patrons can enjoy incredible Japanese cuisine, sushi, Japanese whiskey, Saki, noodles, and Kobe Beef Style in a traditional and calm setting.
Mankato
On the banks of the Minnesota River is the city of Mankato, the home of Minnesota State University - Mankato, diverse natural scenery, and historic landmarks. Just near the river is the Arch + Cable Hotel, a boutique hotel that welcomes guests with a relaxing, modern atmosphere for an incredible weekend escape. There are 20 unique rooms to enjoy during the stay. Guests can begin the day with a complimentary breakfast, and it is a great place to gather for weddings in the area.
On the northern end of downtown is Riverfront Park, which offers elegant views of the Minnesota River, a canoe launch for river exploration, a fun spot for walking, and a music venue for outdoor local concerts, as the Vetter Stone Amphitheater is in the park. Back in town is the Mankato Civic Center Grand Hall, also called the Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center, which also hosts concerts, events like the Mankato Bridal Show, and is the home for the Minnesota State University Mankato Men's and Women's Hockey teams, attracting over 75,000 fans annually to the Civic Center.
Winona
About 45 miles east of Rochester is the riverfront city of Winona, renowned for its scenic natural beauty, museums, and history. On the outskirts of downtown is the Polish Cultural Center and Museum, where people can learn about Polish immigrants who made the city their home, how they immigrated from Poland, and see numerous artifacts, photographs, and books in exhibits. The museum also hosts events, including webinars and local festivals. Right on the riverside, Hotel 44º North is a luxury boutique hotel offering elegant rooms with views of Levee Park and the Mississippi River. The hotel also has the Latitude 44 Bar in the lobby, an indoor pool, and is within walking distance of local restaurants and shops. The Nosh Scratch Kitchen is a contemporary spot in downtown, serving patrons made-to-order meals from scratch, incredible cocktails and drinks, and can host private and public events.
Grand Marais
Grand Marais is one of the northernmost cities in the state, as it sits on the northern banks of Lake Superior, has a scenic arts scene, and is an outdoor adventure hub. On the eastern shores of town is the East Bay Suites, a hotel offering incredible winter retreats for those wanting to enjoy the serene winter landscape. The rooms are comfortable and match the city's tone, with some featuring kitchens and kitchenettes, and some are dog-friendly. Just down the street is the Historic Cook County Museum, which was built in 1896 and was acquired by the county historical society in 1966. The museum displays artifacts, photographs, books, and unique documents from the city's past throughout its exhibits.
On the western end of downtown is Harbor Park, a quaint green space offering picturesque views of the lake, the Grand Marais Lighthouse, and hosting the annual Arts Festival every July. During the festival, people can purchase paintings, sculptures, and jewelry created by local artists and enjoy food from food vendors, attracting around 10,000 visitors annually. Across from the park is the Blue Water Café, a family-owned local cafe serving patrons a freshly made breakfast, a warm, brewed cup of coffee, and delicious homemade Blue Water Pies.
Worthington
In the southwest corner of the state, off Interstate 90, is the city of Worthington. Its downtown shines next to Okabena Lake and welcomes visitors with its quaint small-town atmosphere. Lake Front Park and Sailboard Beach are attractive places to enjoy during the summer, with a dock for water access, benches to relax on, and they are within walking distance of downtown. Up the street is the Nobles County Heritage Center, which documents and preserves the history of the city and the county. Admission to the museum is generally free, and visitors can observe exhibits displaying artifacts and stories about the local history.
Across from the Heritage Center is the Forbidden Barrel Brewing Company, which opened its doors in 2019, serving the community unique beers like Turtle Tears and Tap the Breaks. The Brewery also hosts public events like trivia nights and cocktail Thursdays, as well as private events. Up the street is the Buffalo Billfold Company, a store that sells genuine leather goods made in the USA, consisting of belts, handbags, duffel bags, wallets, cases, and leather gifts.
Red Wing
On the banks of the Mississippi River is the historic river city of Red Wing, renowned for its natural beauty, history, arts and culture scene, and incredible downtown. The Sheldon Theatre is a downtown staple, providing visitors and residents with a place to enjoy local plays, musicals, and live concerts. Plays and musicals to see at the theater include Kickin' It Irish, for the community to enjoy before St. Patrick's Day. Up the street is the Aliveo Military Museum, where visitors can see a vast collection of U.S. Military artifacts, weapons, flags, and uniforms from the Revolutionary War, Civil War, Spanish-American War, WWI, WWII, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and the Persian Gulf War.
On the waterfront is the St. James Hotel, which was established in 1875 and presents guests with a historic hotel with modern touches. The rooms are alluring and luxurious, and guests can enjoy dinners in the Scarlet Kitchen and Bar in the lobby, and the hotel can host meetings and weddings. The hotel is within walking distance of Levee Park, providing visitors with stunning views of the Mississippi River. The park has the Red Wing Riverfront Trail running through it, benches and large trees throughout, historical monuments, and is a landing spot for riverboats.
Lindstrom
Just 40 miles north of St. Paul and Minneapolis is the city of Lindstrom, surrounded by numerous lakes and nicknamed "America's Little Sweden" for its Swedish Heritage. On Lake Boulevard is the Swedish Restaurant, serving wholesome, hearty breakfasts to patrons since 1991. There is a mix of American and Swedish cuisine, with menu items like Swedish Pigs in a Blanket and Swedish muffins. Just east of the restaurant is the Swedish Gift Store, where people can find unique gifts such as Dala horses, Swedish jelly, and more.
Just on the southern end of downtown is Beach Park, an excellent place to unwind for the summer. The three-acre park has a quaint beach for swimming in the lakes, a picnic pavilion, and it's a wonderful place to play volleyball. Near the iconic Lindstrom Water Tower is the Municipal Bar, where locals gather for drinks, tasty pizza, and have pool tables, dart boards, and is the place to be for watching sporting events with friends and loved ones.
Downtown Adventures Await Within The Land Of 10,000 Lakes
Minnesota has incredible downtowns to explore, with Lindstrom, Grand Marais, and Worthington offering access to stunning lakes, while Red Wing and Stillwater feature rivers to explore and unique history throughout. Lindstrom and Winona showcase European heritage from Sweden and Poland, reflected in their delightful downtown areas. Yet, the natural beauty within these towns enhances their local charm, making them must-visit destinations in the "Land of 10,000 Lakes." These communities are highly walkable and welcome visitors from everywhere.
