One of the best parts about living in Minnesota is the opportunity to explore all the charming towns and communities that make our state so vibrant. We’ve compiled a list of the coolest small towns in Minnesota, and we think that each one is worthy of a day trip. These towns are all beautiful, and a visit to each one will be a truly unique experience. These are the best small towns in Minnesota, even if you haven’t heard of them yet.

1. Buyck

Our list of the coolest small towns in Minnesota begins in Buyck. By the Vermilion River, this is a beautiful small town with plenty of recreation opportunities.

2. Walnut Grove

Nothing beats a trip through Laura Ingalls Wilder's prairie home of Walnut Grove! In fact, while you're in town, be sure to visit this charming Minnesota cafe that was inspired by the famous story.

3. Grey Eagle

Surrounded by amazing lakes off of 94, this adorable town offers seclusion and beauty. It's one of the small towns in Minnesota to move to if you really want to get away from it all.

4. Litchfield

Litchfield is a gorgeous and historic small town that's perfect for your next getaway. Plus, if you're a history enthusiast, you'll be thrilled to discover that there are over 50 historic buildings in Litchfield.

5. Jordan

Jordan gets high ratings for education, access to libraries, community, and housing. It's the 2nd best place to raise a family. Moreover, it's considered one of the best foodie towns in Minnesota. Have we convinced you that this is one of the coolest small towns in Minnesota yet?

6. Belle Plaine

Belle Plaine is a safe community with great access to housing and daycare. Plus, there's a scenic drive that will take you through the heart of Belle Plaine.

7. Spring Valley

Spring Valley has an amazingly low cost of living, some of the lowest crime rates in the state, and good schools, making it an all-around wonderful place to call home! For more information on this charming small town in Minnesota, be sure to visit the official Spring Valley website.

8. Pelican Rapids

Not only is this a beautiful small town, but it has the world's largest pelican! While you're in town, be sure to visit Maplewood State Park.

9. Greenwood

Greenwood is ranked #1 in Minnesota for livability on areavibes.com and is a stunning place to visit! For more information about planning a trip to this charming town, head on over to the Greenwood, Minnesota visitor's website.

10. Longville

Longville is a wonderful small town with a great community and abundant recreation opportunities! The town of Longville also has a lovable, quirky side you'll want to experience.

11. Biwabik

Honk the Moose guards over this beautiful little town in St. Louis County on the Mesabi Trail. It's no mystery by Biwabik is considered one of the most picturesque small towns in Minnesota.

12. Chatfield

Chatfield has great scenery and is a wonderful place to live, in fact, it's one of the most livable towns in Minnesota. Plus, this region also features a fascinating underground river you'll want to learn more about.

13. Rushford

Rushford has extremely low crime rates and top-notch schools along with plenty of rural beauty in Minnesota's Bluff Country. The tiny town of Rushford, Minnesota is definitely worthy of a day trip.

14. Lake City

It's a perfect place to retire and enjoy recreation on Lake Pepin. They also have top-notch golf! For more information, check out the Lake City, Minnesota visitor's guide.

15. Wabasha

Last but not least on our list of the coolest small towns in Minnesota, is Wabasha. Perhaps one of the best small towns in MN for grumpy old men! Just kidding. (Grumpy Old Men, the 1993 film starring Jack Lemmon and Walter Matthau, was filmed here) Wabasha also has the National Eagle Center, which is pretty cool too!

Do you agree that these are some of the best small towns in Minnesota? If your favorite town in MN is missing from this list, which MN small town would you add? Be sure to share your thoughts with us in the comments below — we’d love to hear from you!