If you’re like most Minnesotans, you relish visits to small towns – especially if you live in a larger city. Most often, they’re full of friendly faces, quirky attractions, and historic charm. That is certainly the case for Wabasha, Minnesota. This historic small town is one that every Minnesotan – and every visitor to Minnesota – should visit at least once.

Wabasha is 85 miles southeast of Minneapolis. It’s located along the Mississippi River in beautiful southern Minnesota.

Courtney “Coco” Mault/Flickr

Anyone who has ever been to Wabasha will tell you that you must take in this town’s natural scenery. Its riverfront view is truly beautiful.

jpellgen/Flickr

Also beautiful? A visit to the National Eagle Center. This spot educates the public on this beautiful bird, and even offers guests up-close views of them.

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Other than the nature and wildlife, Wabasha is notable for its long history. In fact, it’s one of the oldest towns in Minnesota!

Jon Platek/Wikimedia Commons

The town was platted in 1854, several years before St. Paul.

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In fact, parts of it are listed as an historic district in the National Register of Historic Places. The oldest of the properties was built in 1856.

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One of the most beautiful historic buildings is the city hall.

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For example, the historic Hurd House - now known as the Anderson House Hotel - was built in 1856. It went through many changes over the years and now even operates a museum.

McGhiever/Wikimedia Commons

There are historic homes in Wabasha, too. Strolling or driving through the residential streets is a great way to see Minnesota’s history come alive.

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All in all, this small town is filled to the brim with historic charm. If you’re ever in southeastern Minnesota, make a point to stop in.

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What do you think of Wabasha? Is there another historic small town you’d like us to feature? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section below.

Courtney “Coco” Mault/Flickr

jpellgen/Flickr

ShaLynn Wren/Flickr

Jon Platek/Wikimedia Commons

J. Stephen Conn/Flickr

Joe Passe/Flickr

Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr

McGhiever/Wikimedia Commons

Teemu008/Flickr

John W. Iwanski/Flickr

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