Minnesota's large cities are great, but sometimes it's nice to get out there and explore the rural areas in Minnesota. There are hundreds of them all across the Minnesota countryside, and each has its own unique charm that makes it a great place to explore. These 13 small towns are just a few examples of rural towns in Minnesota that are delightful to visit.

1. Askov

Askov is a tiny town in Pine County with a population of less than 500. But that doesn't make this rural area in Minnesota uninteresting. To honor the town's early heritage, most of the street names in Askov are Danish with the English translations written below. The town is also the former Rutabaga Capital of the World, and it holds a rutabaga festival every summer. Learn more about the lovely town of Askov.

2. Cosmos

With a name like Cosmos, you've got to wonder what this town has in store. From the rocket ship water tower to the annual Cosmos Space Festival, this rural town in Minnesota lives up to its name. Read more about the water tower and other quirky water towers in Minnesota.

3. Mantorville

Mantorville - population: 1,100 - has plenty to offer day trippers out to experience the Minnesota countryside. Plenty of cute shops and restaurants line its downtown, and the Hubbell House is one of the oldest restaurants in the United States. Get some details on dining at Hubbell House.

4. Blue Earth

Way down in southern Minnesota, Blue Earth has one attraction that draws in 10,000 people per year - about three times its resident population. The 55-foot-tall Jolly Green Giant statue presides over this rural area in Minnesota, and a Jolly Green Giant museum is in the works. Learn more about Blue Earth's Jolly Green Giant Statue.

5. Windom

Windom is one of the larger towns on this list with around 4,500 people. But as a farming community in southern Minnesota, it doesn't really get much more rural than this. The Des Moines River runs through town, a popular canoeing spot. The town is also home to the historic Windom State Theater. It's one of the best rural places to live in Minnesota. Grab a bite to eat at the Bergen Bar & Grill while you're in the area.

6. Pine City

From the Snake River to Pokegama Lake to Chengwatana State Forest, Pine City has a whole lot of nature to explore. But it also has a charming downtown full of shops and restaurants. Really, there is so much to do that it's a wonder only about 3,000 people live in this rural town in Minnesota. Get some inspiration to help plan your day trip to Pine City.

7. Baudette

Baudette is located along the Rainy River on Minnesota's border with Canada. Its northern latitude makes it a prime spot in the Minnesota countryside for enjoying nature and taking a step back from the stresses of life. Read more about Baudette and other Minnesota towns near Canada.

8. Ada

Northwestern Minnesota doesn't get a whole lot of attention, and that's a real shame. Ada is just the kind of rural town in Minnesota that should make a big splash. It's usually a quiet place, but the town does hold several festivals throughout the year to liven things up. Find out more about Ada and other underrated Minnesota towns.

9. Luverne

Luverne is home to Blue Mounds State Park, which holds some of Minnesota's most unique landscape. If you want to see pink cliffs rising over buffalo-dotted grasslands, Luverne's Blue Mounds State Park is the place to go. Discover more about Luverne and what it has in store for you in a visit.

10. Mahnomen

With a population of around 1,200, there isn't a ton to do in Mahnomen. But it's a great place to take a drive along the Minnesota countryside to see what life is like in the Red River Valley. What you will find here are some restaurants. Check out the Red Apple Cafe and other great Minnesota restaurants.

11. Long Prairie

Long Prairie is another town with a nice downtown filled with shops and restaurants. Like most rural areas in Minnesota, it's surrounded by lush farmland that is perfect for a day of drive-by sightseeing. Consider staying in this unique cabin in Long Prairie if you ever visit.

12. Wabasha

Wabasha is located on the western banks of the Mississippi River. Despite its rural location, the town has a lot to do, like visiting the National Eagle Center or attending the annual Grumpy Old Men Festival. Get more reasons for why you should definitely visit Wabasha.

13. Lanesboro

In southeastern Minnesota, Lanesboro quietly holds the title of Bed & Breakfast Capital of Minnesota. Many historic hotels serve this rural town in Minnesota, which draws in thousands of visitors - especially in warmer months. In the surrounding community, rolling hills and river views make Minnesota's Amish country unforgettable. Read up on some of these Lanesboro B&Bs.

What do you think are the best rural areas in Minnesota? Tell us in the comments!

If you love small-town life, check out this list of 11 of the prettiest small towns in Minnesota.