This Charming Minnesota Town Is Picture Perfect For An Autumn Day Trip
By Betsy Rathburn|Published October 12, 2016
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Betsy Rathburn
Author
Betsy is a Minneapolis-based writer who's lived in Minnesota for 20 years. If you know of any amazing Minnesota restaurants, nature areas, or other attractions, feel free to let her know about them at brathburn@onlyinyourstate.com or on Twitter @betsyrathburn.
Autumn is the perfect time to visit some of Minnesota’s more out-of-the-way places. The weather is cool and the trees’ vibrant colors make for a gorgeous drive. One of Minnesota’s charming towns is Lanesboro, a historic town that was founded along the Root River in 1868. Lanesboro has plenty to see and do, making it the perfect destination for an autumn day trip.
Lanesboro is a quiet town in southeastern Minnesota with a population of less than 800 people. But what it lacks in people, it more than makes up for in charm.
One of the things you'll definitely want to see is the hydroelectric dam on the Root River. The dam creates an incredible waterfall that, when combined with the fall foliage, make for a picture-perfect view.
Speaking of the Root River, Lanesboro is famous for being home of the Root River Bike Trail. This 60-mile trail takes bikers past 300-foot limestone bluffs and through beautiful fall forests. If you don't want to pack a bike, you can always rent one from Little River General Store in downtown Lanesboro.
You can also explore Lanesboro's interesting history through a visit to the largest Amish community in the state. Bluffscape Amish Tours offers a three-hour excursion into Amish country. See farms, retail stores and more.
When you're done wandering the countryside, there are plenty of things to do in Lanesboro's cute downtown area. You can visit the Lanesboro Historical Museum to learn area history.
And for dessert, pick up something sweet at one of the cutest shops in town. Another Time Ice Cream Parlor & Chocolates definitely lives up to its name.
