Minnesota’s history is filled with defining moments that left a lasting imprint on the land, from its early Indigenous heritage and fur trading posts to the formation of the state itself in the mid-19th century. Key events such as the 1848 territorial convention in Stillwater marked the beginning of statehood, while places like New Ulm and Pipestone preserve the cultural and architectural legacies of German immigrants and Native American traditions. Across Minnesota, historic sites like the Grand Marais Lighthouse, Barn Bluff in Red Wing, and the Pipestone quarries tell powerful stories. Scattered among these landmarks are small towns where the past lives on, quiet streets lined with 19th-century buildings, museums housed in original courthouses, and riverfronts once bustling with steamboats and sawmills. These must-visit towns are living history.
1. Stillwater
Nestled along the scenic St. Croix River, Stillwater, is often hailed as the “Birthplace of Minnesota.” In 1848, a pivotal territorial convention held at the corner of Myrtle and Main Streets set the stage for Minnesota’s path to statehood . The city’s rich lumbering heritage is evident in its well-preserved 19th-century architecture and historic sites.
A highlight is the Stillwater Lift Bridge, constructed in 1931, which stands as one of the few remaining vertical-lift bridges in the U.S. Now serving pedestrians and cyclists, it offers picturesque views of the river. The downtown area, designated as the Stillwater Commercial Historic District, boasts 63 buildings from the 1860s to 1940, reflecting styles like Greek Revival and Queen Anne.
Visitors can delve into history at the Warden’s House Museum, the former residence of prison wardens from 1853 to 1914, now showcasing exhibits on local heritage. For a broader perspective, the Washington County Heritage Center offers interactive displays detailing the region’s past.
Exploring Stillwater’s historic charm is made easy with self-guided walking tours, highlighting significant homes and landmarks. Alternatively, the Stillwater Trolley provides narrated tours through the city’s storied streets.
2. Lanesboro
Tucked into the limestone bluffs of southeastern Minnesota, Lanesboro is a picturesque town of around 750 residents that blends rich history, natural beauty, and a thriving arts scene. Established in 1868, the town flourished with the arrival of the Southern Minnesota Railroad, and much of its 19th-century downtown is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
A standout feature is the Lanesboro Stone Dam, constructed in 1868. This rare gravity-arch dam, one of only six of its kind in the U.S., is situated across from Sylvan Park and offers scenic views of the South Branch of the Root River.
For history enthusiasts, the Lanesboro Historical Museum provides a deep dive into the town’s past, showcasing artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that chronicle local life, including connections to figures like Buffalo Bill.
Art and culture thrive here, with the Commonweal Theatre Company offering professional productions since 1989, and Lanesboro Arts hosting galleries and performances that have earned the town national recognition as a top small art destination.
Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the Root River State Trail, a 60-mile paved path ideal for biking and hiking, which meanders through Lanesboro’s scenic landscapes.
3. Red Wing
Perched along the Mississippi River, Red Wing, Minnesota is a historic gem that blends natural beauty with rich cultural heritage. Founded in the mid-19th century, Red Wing quickly became a hub for agriculture, pottery, and river commerce.
One of the town’s most iconic landmarks is He Mni Can–Barn Bluff, a sacred site to the Dakota people and a popular hiking destination offering panoramic views of the river valley. The bluff’s trails lead visitors through a landscape steeped in both geological and cultural significance.
Downtown Red Wing boasts a collection of well-preserved 19th-century buildings. The St. James Hotel, established in 1875, stands as a testament to the town’s prosperous past and continues to welcome guests with its historic charm. Just a short walk away, the Sheldon Theatre, opened in 1904, is one of the oldest municipally owned theaters in the U.S., hosting a variety of performances throughout the year.
Art and history enthusiasts will appreciate the Pottery Museum of Red Wing, which showcases the town’s legacy in stoneware production, and the Goodhue County Historical Society, offering exhibits that delve into the area’s diverse past.
4. New Ulm
Nestled along the Minnesota River, New Ulm is a vibrant testament to German-American heritage and historical resilience. Founded in 1854 by German immigrants from the Chicago Land Society, the town was named after Ulm in Württemberg, reflecting its settlers’ roots.
A prominent symbol of this heritage is the Hermann Heights Monument, a 102-foot statue honoring the Germanic chieftain Arminius (Hermann), who defeated Roman forces in 9 A.D. Erected in 1897, it stands as a tribute to German-American pride and offers panoramic views of the surrounding valley.
The town’s brewing tradition is embodied by the August Schell Brewing Company, established in 1860. As one of the oldest family-owned breweries in the U.S., it offers tours that delve into its rich history and brewing processes.
For a deeper historical exploration, the Brown County Historical Society Museum provides exhibits on the U.S.-Dakota War of 1862 and the area’s development. Housed in a former post office built in 1910, the museum itself is a piece of history.
Art enthusiasts can visit the Wanda Gág House, the childhood home of the renowned author and illustrator of Millions of Cats. This Queen Anne-style house showcases her life and work, celebrating her contributions to children’s literature.
Downtown New Ulm offers a charming experience with its historic architecture, local shops, and the unique Glockenspiel, a 45-foot-tall clock tower that plays German melodies and features figurines depicting local history.
5. Grand Marais
Nestled along Lake Superior’s rugged North Shore, Grand Marais, Minnesota, is a harbor town rich in history and natural beauty. Originally inhabited by the Ojibwe people, the area was known as “Gitchi-Bitobig,” meaning “double body of water,” referencing its unique twin harbors. French Canadian settlers arrived in the 1850s, and by 1903, a small village had formed, laying the foundation for the vibrant community that exists today.
The Cook County History Museum, set in the old 1896 Lightkeeper’s House, tells much of this story, chronicling shipwrecks, early settlers, and life on the North Shore. Just a short walk away, the Bally Blacksmith Shop, founded in 1911, remains one of the most intact blacksmith shops in the U.S., preserving the tools and trade of a bygone era. At the tip of the breakwall stands the Grand Marais Lighthouse, still guiding visitors with its simple, stoic silhouette since 1884.
But Grand Marais is more than preserved history. It hums with creativity, thanks to the Grand Marais Art Colony and the North House Folk School, both of which bring traditional arts and crafts to life. And just beyond the town’s edge lies a wilderness corridor leading to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area, where lakes stretch endlessly and time slows.
6. Hastings
Hastings, nestled at the confluence of the Mississippi, St. Croix, and Vermillion Rivers, is a town where history and natural beauty intertwine. Established in the mid-19th century, Hastings quickly became a vital milling and shipping hub, thanks to its strategic location and the power provided by the Vermillion River Falls.
The town’s historic downtown along 2nd Street showcases well-preserved 19th-century architecture, housing a variety of shops, eateries, and the local favorite, Spiral Brewery. Nearby, the LeDuc Historic Estate, built in 1865, stands as a testament to Gothic Revival architecture and offers insights into the life of Civil War veteran and former U.S. Commissioner of Agriculture, William G. LeDuc.
Nature enthusiasts can explore Vermillion Falls Park, where the river cascades over limestone ledges, or stroll along the Hastings RiverWalk, offering panoramic views of the Mississippi River. The town’s commitment to preserving its heritage is evident in the West Second Street Residential Historic District, featuring homes dating back to the late 1800s.
7. Mantorville
Founded in 1854 by brothers Peter and Riley Mantor, Mantorville quickly became renowned for its distinctive limestone, which was prized for its workability when freshly quarried and its durability over time. This “Mantorville stone” found its way into numerous structures, both locally and nationally, lending the town a unique architectural character.
A centerpiece of this heritage is the Dodge County Courthouse, constructed in 1865 from local limestone. Designed by architect E. Townsend Mix, it holds the distinction of being the oldest working courthouse in Minnesota. Just a short stroll away stands the Hubbell House, originally built in 1854 and rebuilt in 1856, which has served as a stagecoach stop, saloon, and now a fine dining establishment frequented by notable figures such as Ulysses S. Grant and Dwight D. Eisenhower.
The town’s commitment to preserving its past is evident in the Mantorville Historic District, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors can embark on a self-guided walking tour, exploring structures like the 1918 Opera House, which continues to host performances, and the Restoration House, an 1856 residence that once housed the county’s first jail. The Dodge County Historical Society Museum, located in a former Episcopal church built in 1869, offers deeper insights into the area’s rich history.
Beyond its historical landmarks, Mantorville offers a serene escape with its scenic parks, antique shops, and local eateries.
8. Marine on St. Croix
Perched along the wooded banks of the St. Croix River, Marine on St. Croix is a living testament to Minnesota’s early frontier spirit. Founded in 1839 as Marine Mills, it was the site of Minnesota’s first commercial sawmill, built by lumbermen from Marine, Illinois, who harnessed the river’s power to process the region’s abundant white pine. The mill operated until 1895, and its stone foundations remain visible today at the Marine Mill historic site, a peaceful riverside park managed by the Minnesota Historical Society.
The town’s historic district, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, encompasses over 60 structures and three ruin sites, reflecting its rich architectural and cultural heritage. Notable landmarks include the Marine General Store, continuously operating since 1870, and the Village Hall, built in 1888, which still serves as a community gathering place. The Stonehouse Museum, housed in the town’s former jail and township hall, offers exhibits on 19th-century settler life in the St. Croix Valley.
Visitors can explore the town’s history through a self-guided walking tour, with maps available at the city office. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby William O’Brien State Park, offering hiking, camping, and river access. For a unique experience, guided kayaking tours provide insights into the area’s natural and cultural history.
9. Taylors Falls
Perched atop the basalt bluffs of the St. Croix River, Taylors Falls is a Minnesota town where geology, history, and Scandinavian heritage converge. Founded in 1850 and named after territorial politician Jesse Taylor, the town became a vital hub for the logging industry, with the river serving as a conduit for transporting logs downstream. One of the most notable events in its logging history was the 1886 St. Croix River log jam, which drew thousands of spectators and required weeks to clear.
The town’s historic district, particularly the Angel Hill neighborhood, showcases New England-style architecture, a nod to the early settlers from the East Coast. The Folsom House, built in 1855 by lumber baron W.H.C. Folsom, stands as a testament to this era, complete with original furnishings and offering insights into 19th-century life. Nearby, the 1852 Town House School and the Taylors Falls United Methodist Church further exemplify the town’s rich architectural heritage.
Nature enthusiasts are drawn to Interstate State Park, established in 1895 as one of the nation’s first interstate parks. The park is renowned for its unique geological formations, including glacial potholes and towering cliffs, offering hiking trails that provide panoramic views of the river valley. For a different perspective, the Taylors Falls Scenic Boat Tours offer narrated excursions that delve into the area’s natural and cultural history.
Taylors Falls also serves as a gateway to the Swedish Immigrant Regional Trail, a path that honors the legacy of the Swedish settlers who once arrived via steamboat, seeking new opportunities in Chisago County.
10. Pipestone
In the heart of Minnesota’s prairie lies Pipestone, a town deeply rooted in Native American heritage and the sacred red stone that shares its name. For over 3,000 years, Indigenous peoples have journeyed here to quarry catlinite, a soft red stone used to craft ceremonial pipes integral to spiritual traditions. These quarries, considered neutral ground among tribes, are preserved within the Pipestone National Monument, established in 1937 to protect both the land and the enduring cultural practices tied to it.
Visitors to the monument can walk a ¾-mile trail that winds through tallgrass prairie, past the Winnewissa Falls, and alongside the historic quarries. At the visitor center, Native artisans demonstrate traditional pipemaking techniques, offering insights into a craft passed down through generations.
Downtown Pipestone showcases buildings constructed from local Sioux quartzite, giving the town a distinctive pink hue. The Pipestone Commercial Historic District features 39 historic structures, including the 1888 Calumet Inn and the Pipestone County Courthouse, noted for its 110-foot clock tower.
The town also bears the complex legacy of the Pipestone Indian School, a boarding institution that operated from 1893 to 1953 with the aim of assimilating Native American children. The Superintendent’s House, built in 1907, remains as a somber reminder of this era.
