While there’s plenty to do in Minneapolis, sometimes it’s nice to venture out of the city. There are dozens of towns all around the Twin Cities that offer natural beauty, small-town charm, and plenty of fun without the traffic or busyness of a big city. If you’re looking to get away from it all without venturing too far from the Twin Cities, plan a trip to these 15 small towns near Minneapolis where everyone knows your name.

1. Henderson
Henderson, MN 56044, USA
Alexius Horatius/Wikimedia Commons
Blink and you might miss Henderson, Minnesota. But this little town of fewer than 1,000 people is well worth a visit next time you're in the area. Located in the Minnesota River Valley, it's surrounded by tree-covered hills in every direction. Take a scenic drive through the farmlands, or visit the small but charming downtown area. If you're really looking for adventure, visit in June when the annual Sauerkraut Days festival is going on.
2. Anoka
Anoka, MN, USA
123dieinafire/Wikimedia Commons
Anoka, Minnesota is the Halloween Capital of the World. But this town of 17,000 people is a delight to visit all year long. Downtown Anoka is lined with local shops and restaurants that are full of local flavor.
3. Marine on St. Croix
Marine on Saint Croix, Marine on St Croix, MN 55047, USA
McGhiever/Wikimedia Commons
Marine on St. Croix is one of the most charming towns along the St. Croix River - and in Minnesota in general. The town centers on the historic Marine General Store, which dates back to 1849. It's still in operation today, and the nearby General Scoop ice cream shop just adds to the charm of this little town near Minneapolis.
4. Jordan
Jordan, MN 55352, USA
McGhiever/Wikimedia Commons
Jordan is a small town of just 5,000 people. It is most known as the home of Minnesota's Largest Candy Store, but the town is so much more than a place to get sweets. Founded in 1853, the town is home to many historic buildings including the Jordan Brewery Ruins. These century-old buildings are covered in vines and backed by a hill of trees, making it one of the most picturesque spots in town.
5. Stillwater
Stillwater, MN 55082, USA
Dave Gingrich/Flickr
It should come as no surprise that Stillwater is one of the loveliest towns around the Twin Cities. With a population of around 19,000 people, it's certainly not the smallest town on this list. But its charming downtown and location along the St. Croix River make it one of the most beautiful.
6. Hastings
Hastings, MN 55033, USA
Tony Webster/Wikimedia Commons
Home to 22,000 people, Hastings is another of the larger towns near Minneapolis on this list. But don't let its larger size fool you. This town is full of charm, from its historic downtown to its location at the confluence of three rivers. Downtown Hastings is an amazing place to wander on foot, but a quick scenic drive around town will do the trick if you're in a hurry.
7. Glencoe
Glencoe, MN 55336, USA
Jon Platek/Wikimedia Commons
This little town of about 5,000 people is centered on the farming that helped it grow. Today, the lovely main street of Glencoe draws in tourists who crave a small-town experience. The friendly people and charming downtown alone make Glencoe worth a visit.
8. St. Peter
Saint Peter, St Peter, MN 56082, USA
City of Saint Peter, Minnesota/Facebook
About 70 miles outside the Twin Cities, St. Peter is a charming town of about 11,000 people. Home to Gustavus Adolphus College, the town does get busy at times. But its quiet beauty and historic downtown still give it the small-town atmosphere you are looking for.
9. Northfield
Northfield, MN 55057, USA
123dieinafire/Wikimedia Commons
About 20,000 people live in Northfield, and one visit to this charming town will tell you why. The historic downtown is full of picturesque buildings, including the famous First National Bank the Younger gang failed to rob in 1876. The Cannon River runs through town, making for beautiful sights no matter where you look.
10. Excelsior
Excelsior, MN 55331, USA
Excelsior, Minnesota/Facebook
Just 20 miles from Minneapolis, Excelsior has a population of around 2,000 people. But this little town keeps its urban feel with a bustling downtown lined with beautiful buildings. There's always something going on in Excelsior, and you'd be hard-pressed to visit during a time when it isn't full of people. But that's what makes visiting so fun.
11. Cannon Falls
Cannon Falls, MN 55009, USA
Jonathunder/Wikimedia Commons
About 50 miles southeast of the Twin Cities, Cannon Falls is a charming little town with a population of around 4,000 people. Downtown Cannon Falls is lined with lovely historic buildings that house local businesses. Also of note is the Cannon River, which flows into a small but pretty waterfall. This small town is well worth the drive from Minneapolis.
12. Afton
Afton, MN, USA
Iulus Ascanius/Wikimedia Commons
Afton is a lovely town just 30 miles outside of Minneapolis. The charming downtown makes it a good spot for day trips, and the Afton Alps draw in snowboarders and skiers from miles around. Whether or not you take part in winter sports, you'll love your visit to Afton.
13. New Prague
New Prague, MN 56071, USA
Alexius Horatius/Wikimedia Commons
Here's another spot in Minnesota that is full of small-town charm. New Prague is lined with historic buildings that house local shops and restaurants. Take a stroll through downtown to take in all of the sights in this small town of 7,000 people. It's only about a 50-minute drive from Minneapolis, and it's well worth the trip.
14. Lindstrom
Lindstrom, MN, USA
clumpinglitter/Wikimedia Commons
Lindstrom is one of the most unique towns in Minnesota. Just 41 miles north of Minneapolis, this town of about 4,400 has a Swedish heritage that is evident just about anywhere you look in its lovely downtown area. Another draw of this small town is its proximity to several lakes. In fact, if you look at Lindstrom from above, it looks like it could be an island because it is so surrounded by water.
15. Belle Plaine
Belle Plaine, MN, USA
City of Belle Plaine/Facebook
Passing through Belle Plaine, Minnesota, you might be surprised that 6,600 people live there. This quiet town is as unassuming as they come, but that's what makes it so nice to visit. Because it's nestled in Minnesota prairie, there are a few spots around town where you can see Belle Plaine from above. The sight is gorgeous and well worth the drive from Minneapolis.

What do you think? Are there any other amazing small towns around Minneapolis that we should know about? Let us know in the comments below!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.

More to Explore

Discovering Minneapolis

Sara Dager | September 26, 2022

What are the best places to spend the night around  Minneapolis?

Sometimes the accommodations are what makes the trip, and if you are looking for interesting places to stay near Minneapolis, there are a fair few good ones to choose from. The historic Calumet Inn is a great choice. It looks like an ancient castle from the outside but has all the modern amenities you could imagine beyond its doors. Another good spot to lay your head for the night is the Naniboujou Lodge on Lake Superior. With gorgeous views of the lake and comfy rooms, you will love your time here. If you want a side of scary with your stay, take a look at our list of haunted hotels in Minnesota!

What are the best hikes to take around Minneapolis?

Despite being a bustling city, there are a fair few great hikes around Minneapolis. For those who like an easy hike or one that can be done with the whole family, a walk through Fort Snelling Park could be just the ticket. With stunning river views, five miles of paved trails, and tons of opportunities to spot wildlife, every age group and ability level will love exploring this park. And for more experienced hikers, you can find a massive 63 miles worth of hiking along the Luce Line Trail. Of course, you don't have to hike the entire length of the trail, but doing so will take you through multiple towns and cities in Minnesota and show you so much natural beauty.

Are there any fun things to do for free in Minneapolis?

If you are looking to have some fun without going broke, there are a bunch of free things to do in Minneapolis. Museum junkies can explore the Minneapolis Institute of Art, the Walker Art Center, and the Sculpture garden. If you're more of a nature fanatic, you'll be glad to know the zoo is free as is the Marjorie McNeely conservatory. Or for those who love the nightlife, you can catch a free show at Hexagon Bar, or during the summer, Music and Movies in the park is a swell way to spend an evening.

Related Articles