Minnesota’s largest towns and cities get all the attention. Even outside of the Twin Cities, smaller communities like Stillwater and Red Wing tend to overshadow the state’s tiniest towns. But there’s plenty to see in small-town Minnesota, from lively celebrations to local eateries and shops. In western Minnesota, there’s a little town called Dawson that is home to one of the most unique claims to fame in the state. This tiny town is strangely full of garden gnomes. Read on below to learn more about this quirky town.
Dawson, Minnesota, is a tiny town in western Minnesota, along the Lac qui Parle River. It’s about 60 miles west of Minneapolis.
Greg Gjerdingen/Flickr
With a population of around 1,500 people, it isn’t the biggest town around. But it is among the most charming.
Dawson, Mn Area Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
The town has several nice restaurants and stores that are sure to be fun stops for those looking to explore small-town Minnesota. But Dawson’s most popular claim to fame is its gnome collection. Most are found at Gnome Park in the center of town.
Greg Gjerdingen/Flickr
The gnome theme is carried throughout the park. There is even a sports field named after the quirky garden decorations.
Greg Gjerdingen/Flickr
Gnome park houses a map where you can see where all of the gnomes at the park are housed. There are many other gnomes throughout town that are not listed on the map. See how many you can spot as you drive through town!
Greg Gjerdingen/Flickr
Gnomes have found their way into Dawson’s celebrations, too. At events such as Dawson Riverfest, you’re likely to run into a costumed gnome or two! This, combined with all of the other activities, make the event well worth traveling for.
Dawson Riverfest/Facebook
Thanks to its dozens of garden gnomes, Dawson, Minnesota, is one of the quirkiest towns in the state. It’s a great stop on a Minnesota road trip, or a great day trip destination for those in search of something a little different.
Greg Gjerdingen/Flickr
Have you ever been to Dawson? What did you think? For other fun small towns in Minnesota, check out our past article about 11 small towns in Minnesota with unique claims to fame.
Greg Gjerdingen/Flickr
Dawson, Mn Area Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
Dawson Riverfest/Facebook
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Address: Dawson, MN 56232, USA
