7 Prettiest Downtown Strips In Minnesota

Nicknamed “The Land of 10,000 Lakes,” Minnesota easily ranks as one of the Midwest’s top states for outdoor recreation. But what many travelers overlook is the abundance of attractions found in the downtown districts of the state’s small towns. Annual Bavarian festivals, marine art museums, and 19th-century Victorian bed and breakfasts are just a few of the highlights waiting in these active town centers. Many of them also feature scenic lakes and rivers, making it easy to spend an afternoon at a waterfront park or paddling a centrally located lake. These seven towns, located across Minnesota, have some of the most inviting downtown areas to explore this year.

Winona

Winona is a lively waterfront town that sits along the banks of the Mississippi River. Travelers wanting to enjoy some live music have several options around town. Acoustic Cafe, a local coffee and sandwich shop, hosts plenty of live performances throughout the year. For a handcrafted cocktail and band performance, No Name Bar is another great choice. Make sure to check out some of Winona’s museums while in town as well! Visitors can learn about Winona’s Polish immigrant heritage at the Kashubian Cultural Institute & Polish Museum, located right off of Liberty Street. The Minnesota Marine Art Museum, meanwhile, exhibits contemporary and historical pieces that revolve around water. There are six galleries to explore, totalling more than 600 pieces of art.

Stillwater

Situated along the St. Croix River, Stillwater is perhaps best known for the Stillwater Lift Bridge—a historic steel structure built in 1931. In 2020, it was converted into a bridge exclusively for pedestrian and bike traffic, so make sure to walk or cycle across it to experience it up close! There are also several ways to get out on the river. Those looking for a romantic evening can reserve a trip with Gondola Romantica, which takes passengers out on the St. Croix River via gondola ride. After your trip down the river, grab a bite at one of the centrally located restaurants, such as LoLo American Kitchen and Craft Bar, which specializes in gourmet American street food and handcrafted cocktails. Travelers can then unwind for the evening at the Aurora Staples Inn, set in a 1892 Victorian home with thoughtfully decorated rooms.

Excelsior

The lakeside town of Excelsior offers just as much to do downtown as it does in the surrounding outdoor areas. The Excelsior Commons is a wonderful place to spend a sunny afternoon, covering 13 acres and located right along the shore, with areas to picnic, swim, and launch boats. In the summer, visitors should attend some of the Summer Concert Series that take place in the park. 100% of soda, beer, wine, and seltzer proceeds go directly to local charities! Moving into September, the Excelsior Chamber of Commerce hosts the Apple Days festival in town, consisting of apple pie contests, craft booths, food vendors, and more. Those who enjoy a cold beer at the end of the day can stop by the Excelsior Brewing Company taproom downtown, which has a rotating beer menu and hosts periodic live music events.

Red Wing

Around Red Wing, visitors will find a variety of public art installations and museums. At West 3rd and Plum, visitors can snap a photo with the Red Wing Welcome Mural, painted by a community of volunteers in 2007 and restored in 2020. With over 30 pieces of art downtown, travelers can also embark on a sculpture walk, appreciating sculptures like Pati Stajcar’s Balance of Power and Jeff Barber’s Ever Upward. There are at least six museums to explore around town as well. The Red Wing Shoe Museum is certainly a memorable one, home to the world’s largest boot! Those interested in history can spend a morning at the Goodhue County History Center, featuring various long-term exhibits that explore the area’s past.

New Ulm

With a rich history of German immigration, New Ulm offers plenty of Bavarian heritage to explore throughout the town. One of the town’s most renowned annual festivals is Bavarian Blast, taking place each July and featuring a Polka Hall, live music, lots of beer, a sauerkraut-eating contest, a parade, and more. To further explore the town’s heritage, the Brown County Historical Society has an array of artifact collections and historical exhibits. Afterwards, walk through the gardens or sit by the fountain of German Park, which lies in the heart of town. The country’s second-oldest family-owned brewery is also in New Ulm: August Schell Brewing Co., which visitors can explore on a guided tour of the facilities.

Grand Rapids

Grand Rapids has several lakes right in the city center, making it a scenic place to spend the weekend. Those looking to enjoy the lakes or the stretch of the Mississippi River that runs through town can rent kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, or canoes from Paddle Hoppers. You can also spend a warm day at one of the town’s lakefront beaches, like Blandin Beach, located along Forest Lake on NW 10th Avenue. Afterwards, unwind with a drink and some live music at Rapids Brewing Company, a beloved local brewery. To immerse yourself in Grand Rapids’ history, you can also spend the night at The Historic Gilbert Mansion, a bed and breakfast that offers an elegant, multi-course breakfast to start each day.

Fergus Falls

Fergus Falls has an active community of residents that keeps the town exciting throughout the year. Year-round, visitors can catch a performance at Fergus Falls’ “A Center For the Arts”, with upcoming performances including a Silent Film & Theatre Organ Concert and Civic Orchestra Spring Concert. In the summer months, visitors can explore Phelps Mill County Park, home to a historic mill and areas for fishing, picnicking, and walking. Those craving a fresh meal can grab lunch at The Fabled Farmer on West Lincoln Avenue, which offers homemade, fresh, and nutritious dishes. The Market on South Union Avenue, meanwhile, is an excellent stop for a souvenir, offering home decor, kitchen goods, stationery, jewelry, and other fun products.

Final Thoughts

While many travelers often associate downtown excitement with larger cities, these seven towns prove that a lively district depends more on community involvement than size. Apple festivals, summer concert series, public art installations, community murals, historical society museums, and year-round theaters keep these small town communities active regardless of the season. So, experience this small town spirit for yourself this year by planning a visit to these charming downtown strips!