Compared to many states, the Land of 10,000 Lakes is a pretty peaceful place to live – and this holds doubly true when you consider all the incredible small towns in Minnesota. Among these is the charming village of Chatfield, a town of just under 3,000, located a few miles south of Rochester on the Olmsted-Fillmore County border. We think Chatfield is one of the most peaceful towns in Minnesota.

You'll find Chatfield 22 miles southeast of Rochester in Minnesota's picturesque Bluff Country.
Bobak Ha'Eri/Wikimedia Commons
Located near the source of the Root River's North Branch, Chatfield is a charming small community with an historic downtown.
Bobak Ha'Eri/Wikimedia Commons
The community was established in 1853 - before Minnesota statehood - and served as home of the regional land office for the southern part of the territory (and eventually state) from 1856 to 1861.
Chatfield Historic Marker, Chatfield, MN, USA
Kel Krosschell/Google Reviews
As such, residents and visitors are able to enjoy many historic structures in the town.
For example, the Chatfield Public Library is an original Carnegie library that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Chatfield Public Library, Main Street South, Chatfield, MN, USA
Jonathunder/Wikimedia Commons
It's also home to the Chatfield Historical Museum.
St. Mary's Catholic Church is another example of the fascinating architecture you'll find in Chatfield.
St Mary Catholic Church, Twiford Street Southwest, Chatfield, MN, USA
Bobak Ha'Eri/Wikimedia Commons

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The town is also home to several parks and natural spaces, including City Park and Groen Park.
Michelle/Google Reviews
Pin Oak Prairie SNA and the Root River State Trail's western terminus are just minutes from town.
For such a small community, Chatfield also has a robust arts community.
Chatfield Center for the Arts, Main Street South, Chatfield, MN, USA
Google Street View
The Chatfield Center for the Arts offers music and stage performances, as well as visual arts exhibits and classes.
The Chatfield Music Lending Library's brass band also stages regular performances throughout the year.
Chatfield Brass Band Music Lib, Library Lane Southwest, Chatfield, MN, USA
Jonathunder/Wikimedia Commons
The Chatfield Music Lending Library, itself, is home to the world's largest collection of brass band music.
Chatfield Western Days is a popular annual event that draws hundreds of spectators and participants every August.
Chatfield Western Days/Facebook
Folks in town enjoy a robust local business scene.
Jac's Bar & Grill, 129 Main St S, Chatfield, MN 55923, USA
Jac's Bar and Grill/Google Reviews
For example, they can grab a bite to eat or a libation from Jac's Bar and Grill right on Main Street.
Meanwhile, visitors to Chatfield can stay at the charming Oakenwald Terrace Bed and Breakfast.
Jack F/TripAdvisor
You can learn more about the charming Oakenwald Terrace at its Hotels.com listing.

In addition to these, there are many other reasons we think Chatfield is one of the most peaceful towns in Minnesota and a great place to live. Speaking of peaceful, if you enjoy small-town getaways where you won’t find much in the way of crowds, be sure to check out the charming community of Crane Lake, Minnesota, which is one of the state’s most remote towns and a fantastic destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Have you visited Chatfield, and would you agree that it’s one of the most peaceful towns in Minnesota? Let us know in the comments!

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Chatfield, MN 55923, USA