These 9 Towns In Minnesota Were Ranked Among US Favorites In 2025
Many small towns in Minnesota are among the best in the U.S. Due to their proximity to shimmering lakes, dense northern forests, and historic riverfronts, these small towns in the “Land of 10,000 Lakes” are remarkable and unforgettable destinations where communities thrive in harmony with nature. Where one can truly traverse and appreciate the magical, natural majesties that Minnesota boasts, as well as take in Bavarian celebrations and other cozy amenities, these towns in the North Star State were ranked among U.S. favorites thanks to their comfortable air and stellar attractions.
Grand Rapids
People will have a grand time in the graceful small town of Grand Rapids. As a northern jewel where outdoor adventure and cultural history are abundant, the town was named for the once-powerful rapids along the Mississippi River, which drew early settlers and are now hidden underneath the dam of the Blandin Paper Mill. Of course, one can enjoy fishing and boating on the aforementioned Mississippi River, or perhaps you can try your fishing skills in the nearby lakes, including Lake Winnibigoshish. On the other hand, you can wander the vast trails of Chippewa National Forest for impressive sights and sensations in Minnesota’s humble outdoors. Costumed interpreters at the Forest History Center bring Minnesota’s logging past to life with interactive exhibits and demonstrations. Fans of classic Hollywood will want to stop at the Judy Garland Museum, which preserves the beloved actress’s childhood home and memorabilia from The Wizard of Oz. Whether you are hiking forest trails or immersing yourself in local heritage, Grand Rapids offers a grand escape into the wild beauty of Minnesota.
Ely
At the doorstep of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Ely is Minnesota’s wilderness getaway and gateway. Visitors can paddle tranquil lakes like Shagawa Lake and hike forested trails in the pine-scented atmosphere of the Superior National Forest. Meanwhile, at the Dorothy Molter Museum, one can learn all about the legendary “Root Beer Lady” who lived deep in the wilderness and offered homemade brew to travelers and wanderers. Those who wish to be better prepared in their travels beyond Ely’s confines ought to visit both the International Wolf Center and the North American Bear Center, both of which offer rare opportunities to learn about the creatures that roam the wilderness around the town. There is a definitive reason why Ely has been ranked as one of the U.S. favorites in 2025, and it is mainly because it is an adventurer’s paradise, where wild landscapes and fascinating stories make every visit unforgettable.
Red Wing
Red Wing sits gracefully on the banks of the Mississippi River, providing a setup of simplicity and enchantment for those seeking the easy pleasures of a Minnesota country town. A climb up Barn Bluff rewards hikers with sweeping views of both Minnesota and Wisconsin, which are separated by the Mississippi River. Cyclists and walkers can enjoy the lush Cannon Valley Trail, a 20-mile path through river bluffs and farmland. Artists and art purveyors can stroll through the Anderson Center Sculpture Garden at Tower View, home to large-scale works by local and international artists. Last but not least, a leisurely stroll through the Spring Creek Prairie Scientific and Natural Area, a region alive with wildflowers in summer, will rejuvenate your sense of merriment and wonder at all things green and lively. With its timeless riverfront and wealth of activities, Red Wing will keep you under its wing with a number of amenities and activities to adore.
Grand Marais
Grand Marais, an amazing destination that one can find between the Sawtooth Mountains and the vast waters of Lake Superior, will bring you closer to the creative arts and wilderness wonders that one can enjoy in the North Star State. For those of you wishing to get photographic or painting-perfect views of the land, head to Artist’s Point and the Grand Marais Lighthouse, where the lake, the distant mountains, and the awesome shoreline create scenes that one will feel compelled to paint or photograph. Individuals excited for adventures can go trekking through areas like Cascade River State Park and encounter awesome and mysterious attractions like Devil’s Kettle Falls, where one branch of the waterfall vanishes into the rock below. Additionally, the George Washington Pines offers peaceful trails that lead to more waterfalls, waterways, and other locations of note within Grand Marais’ terrain. As one of the most unforgettable lakeside towns to visit in Minnesota, Grand Marais will not engender any sense of malaise for you.
New Ulm
Known as “the most German town in America,” New Ulm introduces people to Bavarian flair amidst an American landscape of Midwestern warmth. Rising above the town is the Hermann Monument, honoring the Germanic hero Arminius, who rebelled against the Roman Empire long ago. Meanwhile, the nearby Glockenspiel delights visitors with its musical chimes three times a day. Beer lovers can tour the August Schell Brewing Company, one of the nation’s oldest family-owned breweries, and sample craft beers in a beautiful historic setting. Furthermore, you can experience more of New Ulm’s cultural affiliations with Bavaria or Germany with the Bavarian Blast in July, the HermannFest in September, and a lively Oktoberfest, each representing difficult aspects of New Ulm’s European attitudes. With storybook architecture and festive spirit, New Ulm offers new experiences for everyone this 2025.
Stillwater
Stillwater is one of Minnesota’s oldest towns, located along the Saint Croix River and about 26 miles east of Minneapolis. Its most recognizable landmark, the Stillwater Lift Bridge, is especially picturesque at sunset, reflecting golden light across the water that delineates the state borders between Minnesota and Wisconsin. Strolling along the river at Lowell Park or climbing the hills to Pioneer Park promises many memorable journeys and excursions throughout Stillwater’s area. Just outside town, you can also explore Afton State Park or Pine Point Regional Park, both brimming with diverse trails and year-round outdoor activities. Stillwater also highlights its creative side through the River City Sculpture Tour, featuring public artworks throughout town. Thanks to its proximity to one of Minnesota’s big cities, Stillwater is a convenient and lackadaisical getaway that combines history, charm, and natural beauty in a way few towns can match.
Lindström
Just 35 miles from the Twin Cities, Lindström embraces its title as “America’s Little Sweden” with aplomb. The town is surrounded by lakes such as South Lindstrom Lake, Chisago Lake, and North Center Lake, making it an idyllic destination for boating, fishing, and picnicking. Each summer, locals celebrate their Swedish heritage during Karl Oskar Days, a festival inspired by Vilhelm Moberg’s novels about Swedish immigrants. Nearby in Scandia, the Gammelgården Museum offers an even deeper look into the lives of Minnesota’s early Swedish settlers, with historic buildings and exhibits to boast about. With its strong cultural roots and lakeside beauty, Lindström is a humble and amicable plot of Swedish land in the middle of Minnesota.
Bemidji
Bemidji, known as the “First City on the Mississippi,” is a lively northern town with a mix of outdoor recreation and quirky attractions. Families will fall in love with the Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox statues, classic roadside icons that celebrate the legendary lumberjack. At the Headwaters Science Center, hands-on exhibits spark curiosity for those of you who are interested in knowing more about the workings of the universe. There are adventures to be experienced in places like the Lake Bemidji State Park and the Buena Vista State Forest. Best of all, there are festivities and excitement to participate in during the Night We Light Festival, which is held on a Friday after Thanksgiving, when downtown comes alive with dazzling holiday displays and parades. Whether you are seeking family fun, outdoor adventure, or a dose of Minnesota folklore, Bemidji delivers plenty of reasons why it is ranked among the U.S. favorites in 2025.
Wabasha
Situated along the Mississippi River, Wabasha is a riverine town filled with the charisma and energy to make you want to see what it has to offer. The highlight for many visitors is the National Eagle Center, where you can learn about and even see bald eagles up close. Of course, you can encounter other kinds of wildlife in the Nelson-Trevino Bottoms State Natural Area, a wetland shared by Minnesota and Wisconsin. Each July, the town celebrates Riverboat Days, with parades, music, and river cruises that highlight its connection to the Mississippi River. Later in the season, the Wabasha Watermelon Festival brings families together for sweet treats and quirky contests. Having a plethora of festivals, outdoor wonders, and riverfront charm makes Wabasha one of the best small towns to visit in Minnesota this 2025.
Why You Should Visit These Amazing Towns in Minnesota
Between the more iconic lakes, such as Lake Superior, and other minor yet beautiful bodies of water in the North Star State, one will come upon a number of towns in Minnesota that were ranked among the U.S. favorites in 2025. These Minnesota small towns each provide an ensemble of unique attractions and activities, from sipping Schell’s beer in New Ulm, climbing Barn Bluff in Red Wing, or wandering the art-filled streets of Grand Marais. Every one of these ideal destinations has something to spark curiosity and wonder, with countless reasons for everyone to linger a little longer in these amazing villages beside lakes, rivers, or in the shadow of mountains. In 2025, the best way to experience Minnesota’s magic is to explore these warm, welcoming towns that make the North Star State shine.
