Anyone who's ever been to Minnesota realizes that it can make for a beautiful vacation destination. Though there aren't sprawling metropolises or tropical beaches here, there are still wonderful cities and natural landscapes that are every bit as active and beautiful. Much of the time, the Twin Cities and Duluth make the North Shore get all the attention when it comes to Minnesota hotspots. But, as one Esquire article recently pointed out, there are some Minnesota small towns that are equally worth visiting. In their article about the best small-town vacation destinations in America, Esquire called out the tiny town of Lanesboro, Minnesota. When you learn more about the town, it's easy to see why it makes such a great vacation spot. Check it out:
Lanesboro, Minnesota, is a small town in the southwestern corner of the state. It's about 125 miles outside of the Twin Cities, making it a wonderful destination for those beginning out of Minneapolis or the surrounding area.
There's a lot to love about Lanesboro. Though there are only around 800 residents, it is a tight-knit community where there's always something going on. Annual festivals, such as summer's Buffalo Bill Days, draw people out to take part in fun games, parades, and more.
Lanesboro is also an artsy community. There's a local theatre company that puts on live performances, an art gallery where you can browse the work of local artists, and plenty of art-based events throughout the year. A vacation to this town is a great way to take part in the small but thriving arts scene.
In addition to the theatre and gallery, the town has plenty of other great stops in its bustling downtown. Stores offer plenty of places to browse for gifts and antiques, and restaurants offer great meal options.
If outdoorsy activities are more your thing, you'll be happy to know that Lanesboro is absolutely beautiful. It's nestled in the rolling hills of Minnesota's Bluff Country, and it boasts a beautiful dam waterfall. Pack a picnic to enjoy along the river...
...or bring your bike for a ride along nearby Root River Trail! The scenic beauty of this town cannot be overstated. We recommend a visit during any season of the year!
And when it comes time to get some rest, you'll be delighted to find that Lanesboro is the Bed and Breakfast Capital of Minnesota! There are more than half a dozen B&Bs to choose from (we wrote about them ), and each is a beautiful, comfortable stay. With so many activities, amenities, and beautiful landscapes, a vacation to small-town Lanesboro, Minnesota, is a must!
Have you ever been to Lanesboro? What's your favorite thing to do there? Let us know in the comments! And if you're a fan of other small towns in Minnesota, be sure to let us know about them by filling out our nomination form.
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