There’s no shortage of places to visit in the United States. The options are endless and varied—from the high-thrill adventures to the slow-down and recharge trips—there’s probably a destination just a tank of gas away. If you live in the Midwest, fill up your travel coffee mug and hit the road to this small-town gem where arts and nature collide.
Midwestern Small Town: Lanesboro, Minnesota
Lanesboro is a small town nestled in the bluffs in the southeast corner of Minnesota. It’s not the large population that puts this Fillmore County town on the map, with only about 750 residents. Here’s why the charming, historical, nature- and art-rich small town should be on your list of spring, summer, or fall places to visit.
Lanesboro claimed the #3 spot in USA Today’s reader’s choice for Best Midwestern Small Town. The city boasts charming hotels and bed and breakfast (B&B) and proclaims the title of B&B capital of Minnesota on its website. It’s hard not to agree with the number of quaint and historic options. One B&B option even brings a bit of “Hollywood.” The James A. Thompson House is the setting for a recent filming of an independent horror flick. The house was chosen for its late 1800s Victorian setting, not because it is haunted—in case you want to book a stay and are worried your late Great Aunt Mary might tag along for the ride.
Rooted in Nature
The crown jewel in Lanesboro for outdoor enthusiasts is the Root River State Bike Trail, a paved trail that winds its way through the heart of town. Hop on a bike and pedal alongside the scenic Root River, enjoying the gentle flow of the water and the breathtaking vistas of the bluffs. The trail seamlessly integrates with the town, allowing you to explore the charming downtown area and grab a refreshing bite (or beverage of choice) after your ride.
Explore nature at a slower pace by heading to Sylvan Park and hiking the Bunny Trail, which the Civilian Conservation Corps built in the 1930s. One of Lanesboro’s most captivating wonders is the 1868 historic waterfall dam. It’s one of only six gravity arch dams in the United States.
Culture & Arts
Are you looking for a slightly different type of trail? The Lanesboro Area Art Trail is a self-guided tour of shops where you can talk to artists and get a first-hand explanation of their creations. The Art Trail features ten shops on six Fridays and Saturdays from August through October. Download the map and learn about the featured artists here.
Be sure to check out the Lanesboro Arts calendar when planning your stay to sculpt, paint, or play (the theatre type) your way through the enchanting arts community.
Looking to refresh your go-to travel accessories before you hit the road? Here are some road-trip-worthy additions: 3D White Radiant Mint Toothpaste, Batiste Dry Shampoo, Zyrtec Allergy Relief, Burt’s Bees Facial Cleansing Towelettes, Nexxus Finishing Hairspray, and the perfect ‘pamper yourself while on the go’ kit: Burt’s Bees Tips and Toes kit.
Pack your car, fill the tank, and explore this small-town Midwest gem!
Photo Credits: Lanesboro Area Chamber of Commerce
