The Unique Village In Minnesota Where Time Stands Still

Do you ever find yourself wishing that you lived in another time? Do you crave the days when life was just a little simpler? If you live in Minnesota, you’re in luck. The Land of 10,000 Lakes is home to a unique village where, as soon as you cross its borders, you’ll be transported over 100 years into the past. Better yet, that village is part of one of the state’s coolest parks, and it’s well worth a visit.

Follow a country road through southern Minnesota, and you’ll eventually end up at Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park.

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The Mystery Cave, as the longest cave in the entire state, is well worth visiting.

MN Photos/Flickr

But it is the village of Forestville that is perhaps the most unique part of this state park. To get there, you’ll cross the old Carnegie Steel Bridge…

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…and be transported back over 100 years, to 1899 Forestville.

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The town’s dirt street is lined with carefully preserved buildings.

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You can peek inside to see how people lived long ago.

State Historic Preservation Office Local History Service/Flickr

Outside, the farm buildings are sure to be interesting to anyone who likes animals. You can even help the costumed staff do farm chores!

State Historic Preservation Office Local History Service/Flickr

The Meighen family store is the hub of the town, with staff and visitors crowding inside to answer questions and get a good look.

State Historic Preservation Office Local History Service/Flickr

Why? Because it’s filled with real 18th-century merchandise. Study the shelves to see what people bought over a century ago!

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All in all, this little village in southern Minnesota is well worth visiting. You’ll find it at 21071 County Road 118 in Preston, Minnesota.

Tony Webster/Flickr

MN Photos/Flickr

This unique village sure is a fascinating look at the past. Have you ever been there? And don’t forget to check out our article about Mystery Cave, the incredible cave in Minnesota that will give you a surreal experience.

Tony Webster/Flickr

MN Photos/Flickr

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State Historic Preservation Office Local History Service/Flickr

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