Lanesboro, MN
Population: 739
As you wind through the hilly countryside of southern MN towards WI or IA the town of Lanesboro sits tucked up against rivers and trees. Before 1989 the area was "dying and falling apart," as one local put it. But that year brought the instillation of the bike path, and a boom in tourism. The path runs through the countryside, and is a great escape for people of all ages.
Lanesboro Dam
One of only 6 gravity arch dams left in the United States, the Lanesboro dam will be turning 150 next year (2018). It is in desperate need of repairs, and thankfully the fundraisning for it has just been completed and construction will begin shortly.
The dam provides 10% of the homes in Lanesboro with electricity and is an important part of the communitites infrastructure. Without it the area would flood and tourism would not be possible at the level it is currently.
Commonweal Theatre - Steel Magnolias
This theatre company has been operating for 29 years. They put on 5 productions throughout the year with dozens of shows for each. They were showing Steel Magnolias while I was in Lanseboro. It's about a group of women living in a small Louisiana town during the 80's who meet up at a hair salon to gossip and make ever lasting friendships.
They had a stand in actress for the character of M'Lynn, but she was arguably one of the best actors on stage. She has a very emotional scene towards the end, and she nailed it.
The Commonwael Theatre also runs an apprentice program that has each studen write, budget, and perform in their own production at the end of their apprenticeships. Going to the theatre was a great way to end the day, and I recommend you stop by and see one of their other productions if you're going through town.
Lori - Granny's Liquor
Owner of Granny's Liquor, Lori used to own Grandma's Flowers in the same store property. One of the towns two liquor licences opened up and she thought that it would be a good time to switch directions with her store.
"Grandma's Liqour didn't sound as good, kind of plain...but Granny is sassy, so we went with that!"
The town is a historic community, and has a rather strict ordinance on what you can and can't do to each building. To keep some of the history in her sotre, Lori used old wood from the original 1800's building for her wooden floors.
She also has the sign for Grandma's Flowers proudly hanging on the wall.
Pedal Pushers - Bacon, Cheddar, Ranch Burger
The burger was pretty good, but the mashed potatoes and gravy side was incredible. Pedal pushers is locally owned and keeps that philosophy for their food.
It is a small cafe with great atmosphere, and a nice escape from the hot sun.
Lanesboro, MN
This is the Bike Bridge over Root River. The bridges like this one here offer great views over the river where you'll see tubers and kayakers heading down the water. Fun fact, because of the bike path and the subesquent increase in tourism Lanseboro has become the town in Minnesota with the most bed and breakfasts in it. The families usually visit in the summer with their childern to take advantage of the heat and school being out. While older and newly wed couples come during the fall and winter to see the leaves change colors and cross country ski or bike.