The Gnome Capital Of The World Is Hiding In Small Town Minnesota And It's As Weirdly Wonderful As You'd Expect
By Betsy Rathburn|Published November 05, 2021
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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.
Here in Minnesota, there are more than a few towns with a unique claim to fame. For example, Anoka is the Halloween Capital of the World. Austin, Minnesota, is also known as SPAM Town USA. And the tiny town of Dawson, which we’d like to discuss today, is the Gnome Capital of the World. Read on below to learn more about this tiny town and its weirdly wonderful claim to fame:
Dawson, Minnesota, is a small town along the state's western edge, about 150 miles west of Minneapolis. Around 1,600 people live in this small town. As soon as you arrive, you'll realize you've found somewhere special.
Dawson's downtown is small, with a few shops and restaurants scattered about. But for the most part, Dawson has a classic small-town feel, with wide, well-manicured streets. If you look closely, you might find a few gnomes scattered through people's yards.
That's because Dawson is also sometimes called Gnometown USA. That's right: it's a gnome capital! These charming additions to the town make it a fun, quirky place to visit.
...and you'll find gnomes of all shapes and sizes, wearing different costumes and outfits. It may be a little silly, but it sets this small town apart from the rest!
There are even gnome-themed festivities in Dawson. Visit during an event, and you might just be able to meet some gnomes in person! This little town has a unique claim to fame. Its small-town atmosphere and whimsical gnome attractions make it a worthy Gnome Capital of the World!
Have you ever been to Dawson? What other quirky towns in Minnesota do you enjoy? Let us know by nominating your favorite spots! Also, be sure to check out our full list of quirky towns in Minnesota.
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