Why Lanesboro, Minnesota Should Be Your Next Small-Town Escape

Have you been to Lanesboro, Minnesota? If not, you’re missing out on one of the sweetest small-town getaways in the state. Tucked away in the scenic Root River Valley, Lanesboro is a hidden gem that’s perfect for families, couples, or anyone looking to slow down and enjoy the beauty of southeastern Minnesota.

We visited last fall for just one night, but it was enough to make us fall in love with this charming town. Lanesboro is best known for the Root River State Trail, a beautifully maintained biking and hiking path that winds through bluffs, forests, and along the river. The trail was developed in the 1990s, and since then, Lanesboro has grown into a tourist-friendly town with welcoming inns, local restaurants, and outdoor adventures. It’s even earned the title of “Bed and Breakfast Capital of Minnesota.”

Exploring Lanesboro

We arrived in the late afternoon and started our visit by exploring historic downtown Lanesboro. The downtown area is full of character with art galleries, boutique shops, and cozy spots to eat.

We had dinner at Clara’s Eatery, a newer addition to town owned by a young couple. Their homemade pizza hit the spot, and they also serve sandwiches and Chocolate Shoppe ice cream (a win for kids and adults alike!).

Of course, we couldn’t stop at just one ice cream experience. Across the street, we treated ourselves to a scoop of pumpkin ice cream from Another Time Ice Cream Parlor, a nostalgic little shop that looks like it belongs in a Hallmark movie. Afterward, we walked down to the river and the dam — the evening light made everything feel extra magical.

And we discovered a phone booth that you can go into to hear stories about Lanesboro! It’s free and quirky.

We also saw the beautiful waterfall near downtown (see picture at the top).

Then in the evening, my husband and I enjoyed a quiet drink at Sylvan Brewing, a local brewery set in a beautifully restored granary. It’s family-friendly so we brought the kids who found snacks and games to enjoy here. It’s a cool mix of old-meets-new and a great spot to unwind.

Morning Treats and Farm Fun

The next morning, we had breakfast at the Lanesboro Pastry Shoppe, a cozy café with great coffee and even better food. I had the veggie omelet, and it was absolutely delicious — the kind of breakfast that feels like a hug in food form.

From there, we headed to Big Springs Farm for the day — a whole adventure in itself! (I shared more about our time there in this post if you want to read about hayrides, goats, and fall fun.)

Where to Stay

If you’re planning a visit, we highly recommend staying at the Cottage House Inn. It’s clean, comfortable, and located right in the heart of town, making it easy to walk everywhere. The staff was so friendly, and it felt like the perfect home base for our short but sweet trip. (Read about our stay there.)

Lanesboro is a wonderful mix of natural beauty, small-town charm, and family-friendly activities. Whether you’re biking the trails, catching a show at the Commonweal Theatre, or just relaxing with some ice cream by the river, it’s a trip that feels both restful and fun. We’re already dreaming about going back!

Where is it?

Lanesboro is 2 hours southeast of the Twin Cities. When you drive there it feels like you’re entering a new world! The landscape is just gorgeous and it feels like a true getaway.

Have you been to Lanesboro? I’d love to hear your favorite spots or tips for next time!