Nestled in the heart of Minnesota’s bluff country, Lanesboro is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Located 120 miles southeast of the Twin Cities, this charming town offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Known as the “Bed and Breakfast Capital of Minnesota,” Lanesboro provides a unique travel experience with its picturesque views, outdoor recreation, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re planning a romantic trip, family vacation, or solo adventure, this town has something for everyone.
With its scenic trails, Root River kayaking, and local shops, you’ll find plenty of activities to fill your itinerary. Discover why Lanesboro deserves a spot on your travel bucket list.
Discover the Charm of Lanesboro, Minnesota
Nestled in the heart of Minnesota’s bluff country, Lanesboro offers a unique blend of natural wonders and charming experiences. This picturesque town is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a tranquil escape.
Location and Unique Features
Lanesboro is situated in southeastern Minnesota, an area known as bluff country, approximately 2.5 hours southeast of the Twin Cities. The bluffs surrounding the town were formed during the last ice age, creating a distinctive topography.
- Nestled in the heart of Minnesota’s bluff country, Lanesboro sits approximately 2.5 hours southeast of the Twin Cities, positioned between Rochester, Minnesota and La Crosse, Wisconsin.
- The town is uniquely situated in Fillmore County – the only county in Minnesota without a natural lake – which contributes to its remarkably low mosquito population, making outdoor activities more enjoyable year-round.
- Lanesboro’s dramatic limestone bluffs and rolling hills were formed during the last ice age, creating the “driftless area” that gives the region its distinctive topography and scenic beauty.
Best Time to Visit
The time you visit Lanesboro can greatly impact your experience. Spring and early summer bring wildflowers along the trails and ideal temperatures for outdoor activities. Fall transforms the bluffs into a spectacular display of colors, making it a great time for photography enthusiasts.
For a cozy stay, consider one of Lanesboro’s many charming bed & breakfast establishments, making it the perfect place to relax after a day of exploring.
Outdoor Adventures Along the Root River
The Root River in Lanesboro, Minnesota, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. With its picturesque landscapes and diverse wildlife, it offers a unique experience for visitors.
Biking the Root River State Trail
The Root River State Trail is a 42-mile paved pathway that caters to cyclists of all skill levels. You can rent bikes from the Little River General Store in downtown Lanesboro, which offers a variety of options, including regular pedal bikes and electric bikes for easier navigation of the occasional hills along the route.
The trail follows the scenic Root River through stunning limestone bluff country, connecting nine communities with Lanesboro at its center. You can plan rides of various lengths and difficulties while enjoying river overlooks, historic barns, and abundant wildlife.
For a particularly scenic ride, head south from Lanesboro to Preston (a 20-mile round trip) along a relatively flat section of the Root River Trail that features wildflowers in early summer and several picnic spots.
Kayaking, Canoeing, and Tubing Experiences
When you’re ready to experience the Root River from the water, choose from kayaking, canoeing, or tubing adventures offered by local outfitters like Root River Outfitters and River Rats.
Tubing down the Root River offers a relaxing way to enjoy the scenery, with access points near the downtown waterfalls in Lanesboro and rental services available at the Little River General Store.
For more active water adventures, Root River Outfitters provides canoe and kayak rentals with routes ranging from 2.5 to 5 hours, complete with shuttle service to make your river experience hassle-free.
Remember to practice “leave no trace” principles during your outdoor adventures along the Root River, keeping the natural environment pristine for future visitors.
Explore the Natural Wonders
As you explore Lanesboro, Minnesota, you’ll uncover the natural wonders that make this destination so captivating. The area is rich in unique landscapes and outdoor activities that cater to all kinds of nature enthusiasts.
Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park
Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park offers a unique two-in-one experience, featuring Minnesota’s longest cave system with over 13 miles of underground passages. The cave maintains a constant 48-degree temperature year-round, making it an ideal destination for those seeking an underground adventure. You can take a guided tour between May and October to witness stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and fascinating geological formations.
Above ground, explore the historic Forestville ghost town, a preserved 19th-century village that offers a glimpse into Minnesota’s past. The park’s hiking trails, including the scenic one-mile Palisade Trail loop, take you along limestone bluffs and the South Branch Root River, showcasing the area’s dramatic landscape.
Trout Fishing in Spring-Fed Streams
Lanesboro is renowned for its exceptional fishing opportunities in the cold, spring-fed streams that maintain a consistent 50°F temperature year-round. This creates ideal conditions for brown, rainbow, and brook trout. The “driftless region” geography, shaped by ancient glaciers, has created a unique landscape of deep valleys, limestone bluffs, and cold-water streams that make this a premier fishing destination.
Local outfitters like Root River Rod Company can provide gear rentals, guided fishing experiences, and expert advice on the best fishing spots. The crystal-clear water of these streams not only supports healthy trout populations but also offers excellent visibility for fly fishing enthusiasts looking to perfect their technique, ensuring a memorable experience.
Lanesboro, Minnesota: Best Things to Do for Food Lovers
Lanesboro, Minnesota, is a haven for food enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of culinary delights. As you explore this charming town, you’ll discover numerous places to satisfy your cravings.
Local Restaurants and Cafes
After a day of outdoor activities, refuel at Pedal Pushers Cafe in downtown Lanesboro, a local favorite serving delicious comfort food like fish and chips, fresh salads, and their famous truffle fries. Note that they’re closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, so plan your visit accordingly to make the most of your time in Lanesboro.
Other notable mentions include Juniper’s Restaurant, which offers a riverside patio experience with a diverse menu featuring vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options. For breakfast or brunch, visit Paddle on Coffee, a charming cafe with specialty coffee drinks, smoothies, and a delicious menu.
Sweet Treats and Coffee Shops
If you have a sweet tooth, you’ll be delighted with the options in downtown Lanesboro. Visit Another Time Ice Cream Parlor for locally-made ice cream in a variety of flavors, or stop by Clara’s Eatery for a one-stop dining experience that includes soups, sandwiches, and ice cream desserts.
For a truly special treat, take a short drive to nearby Whalan to visit Aroma Pie Shoppe, conveniently located along the Root River Trail, where you can indulge in freshly baked pies with their signature crumb toppings.
Downtown Lanesboro Experiences
As you step into downtown Lanesboro, you’ll discover a charming town filled with unique shops and historic landmarks. The area is designed to be explored on foot, allowing you to park once and visit all your favorite spots, including ice cream and coffee shops, restaurants, and boutiques.
Shopping and Art Galleries
Downtown Lanesboro is a shopper’s paradise, with a variety of stores offering something for everyone. Visit the Lanesboro Arts shop to admire stunning works by local artists. For unique gifts, head to The Peddler and Amish Experience, which offer handmade crafts and locally made products. You can also browse Windy Mesa Jewelry Shop for beautiful, handcrafted jewelry pieces.
The downtown area is also adorned with beautiful murals, adding a splash of color and storytelling to your stroll through town.
Historic Sites and Architecture
Lanesboro is rich in history, and its downtown area reflects this with well-preserved 19th-century architecture. A must-visit is the Lanesboro Stone Dam, a gravity arch dam built in 1868 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The dam offers stunning views of the Root River and surrounding bluffs. Take a moment to appreciate the historic buildings dating back to the 1870s, when Lanesboro was established as a mill town.
The downtown area serves as an open-air museum, with informational plaques and preserved structures telling the story of this historic river town.
Seasonal Activities and Events
As the seasons change, Lanesboro transforms into a vibrant hub of fun and adventure. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a longer stay, there’s always something exciting happening in this charming Minnesota town.
Summer Fun: Rhubarb Festival and Outdoor Theater
Summer in Lanesboro is a treat, with the annual Rhubarb Festival being a major highlight. Held in early June at Sylvan Park, the festival offers free tastings of rhubarb dishes, live music, games, and the famous rhubarb stalk throw. Be sure to book your accommodations well in advance, as this is a popular time to visit.
Fall Adventures: Pumpkin Patches and Foliage
As summer transitions to fall, Lanesboro becomes a picturesque destination with its autumn foliage. Take a scenic drive or bike trip through the bluffs and enjoy the vibrant colors. For a fun day out, visit Big Springs Farm, which offers a corn maze, giant slide, tractor rides, and pumpkin picking.
With activities and events happening throughout the year, Lanesboro is an ideal destination for a trip at any time. Plan your visit around the seasonal events to make the most of your day or weekend getaway.
Planning Your Perfect Lanesboro Getaway
Lanesboro, with its unique blend of natural beauty and small-town charm, is an ideal place to unwind and experience the best of Minnesota. When planning your Lanesboro getaway, consider staying at one of the town’s many charming bed and breakfast establishments, which offer a more personal and authentic experience than standard hotels.
Located approximately 120 miles southeast of the Twin Cities, Lanesboro makes for an ideal weekend trip that feels worlds away from urban life. To fully experience the Root River State Trail, downtown shopping, water activities, and nearby attractions like Mystery Cave, plan to spend at least two to three days in the area.
To make the most of your visit, pack comfortable walking shoes, bike-friendly clothing, and sun protection for days spent on the trail or along the Root River. Consider renting bikes from Little River General Store for convenient access to the trail. For fishing, contact local outfitters like Root River Rod Company in advance to arrange guided tours or equipment rental.
Downtown Lanesboro is easily walkable, with most shops, restaurants, and ice cream parlors located within a few blocks of each other. Reserve time in your itinerary for simply relaxing and soaking in the scenic beauty of the bluffs, perhaps with a good book on the porch of your bed and breakfast or with a picnic along the Root River. With its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, Lanesboro is a perfect destination for your next trip.
—
The above is subject to change.
Check back often to TRAVEL.COM for the latest travel tips and deals.
