The Twin Cities are great, but there are amazing activities to partake in, restaurants to sample, and events to discover in every part of Minnesota. One of the best parts of living here is exploring the unique nooks and crannies that make Minnesota what it is. If you’re looking for an adventure outside of the metro area – but not so far that it takes an entire day to get there – look no further than Northfield. This unique town may be much smaller than Minneapolis, but it’s anything but ordinary.

Northfield, Minnesota, is about 40 miles south of the Twin Cities.
Google Maps
With a population of about 20,000, it is small enough to retain some small town charm while still large enough to support many attractions.
Doug Kerr/Flickr
One of the most charming aspects of the entire town is its historic downtown area. Founded in the mid-1800s, this town retains quite a bit of its early history. It shows in the old buildings that line the main street.
123dieinafire/Wikimedia Commons
It's easy to get lost in the many shops that line Northfield's downtown streets.
Downtown Northfield MN/Facebook

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You'll also find history if you take a stroll along the Cannon River, which runs through town. An historic mill still stands on the river, adding a picturesque beauty to the old town.
Jerry Huddleston/Flickr
The center of town is dominated by the Cannon River. A stroll along its banks or across the bridge that links two parts of town is one of the best ways to enjoy Northfield.
Phil/Flickr
The town is not without its interesting events, too. Perhaps the most popular is Defeat of Jesse James Days.
Defeat of Jesse James Days/Facebook
This quirky event celebrates the day Jesse James and his gang tried - and failed - to rob the First National Bank. Crowds line the street to watch the reenactment.
Michael Hicks/Flickr
All in all, Northfield is one of the most charming towns in Minnesota. And because it's less than an hour's drive from Minneapolis, it's the perfect way to get away from the city for a few hours.
Downtown Northfield MN/Facebook

Have you ever visited Northfield? What other towns near Minneapolis do you love? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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