The Best Ghost Towns and Abandoned Places in Minnesota

Minnesota's landscape is dotted with remnants of its rich history, including bustling towns that once thrived, now turned into eerie ghost towns left behind by changing times. Exploring these abandoned places offers a unique glimpse into the past, revealing stories of communities that once flourished. Each site holds its own unique charm and secrets, waiting to be uncovered by the curious explorer. From haunting ruins to well-preserved structures, these sites paint a vivid picture of Minnesota's past.

On this journey, we’ll take you through the state's most interesting ghost towns and abandoned sites, from Forestville's preserved buildings to the haunting ruins of Finland Air Base. Discover the history, mystery and beauty of Minnesota's forgotten places. Whether you're a history buff, an urban explorer or simply curious about the past, Minnesota's ghost towns offer a captivating adventure into the state's storied history. With that said, let’s dive in.

About Ghost Towns in Minnesota

Minnesota is home to numerous ghost towns scattered across its vast landscape. These towns, numbering over a hundred, reflect the diverse history and economic shifts that shaped the state. From former mining hubs and logging camps to agricultural communities and military bases, each ghost town tells a unique story of growth, decline and abandonment.

Features of Ghost Towns:

• Historical Ruins: Many ghost towns feature remnants of old buildings, from homes and schools to churches and factories.
• Natural Reclamation: Over time, nature often reclaims these abandoned sites, creating a blend of historical architecture and natural beauty.
• Cultural Artifacts: Artifacts left behind offer a glimpse into the daily lives of former residents.

Travel Tips for Exploring Ghost Towns:

1. Research and Plan: Before visiting, research the history and location of the ghost town. Some may be on private property, so ensure you have permission to visit.
2. Safety First: Wear appropriate clothing and footwear, as abandoned structures can be unstable. Bring a first aid kit and plenty of water.
3. Respect the Site: Take nothing but photographs and leave nothing but footprints. Preserve the integrity of these historical sites.
4. Local Insights: Engage with local historical societies or museums for detailed information and guided tours.

Exploring Minnesota's ghost towns offers a unique adventure into the past, providing both educational insights and a sense of mystery. Whether you're a history buff, an urban explorer or simply curious, the following abandoned places offer a fascinating glimpse into Minnesota's storied past. 

Forestville

Forestville, established in 1852, was once a bustling community thanks to its prime location along the South Branch of the Root River. However, it began to decline in the late 19th century after being bypassed by the railroad. Today, Forestville is part of Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park. 

Visitors can explore restored buildings, including the Meighen General Store and the Forestville Bridge, showcasing architectural styles from the time. The general store, stocked as it would have been in the 1890s, offers a glimpse into 19th-century commerce. Travel tips include taking guided tours to fully appreciate the history and exploring the nearby Mystery Cave, the longest cave in Minnesota with fascinating underground formations.

Grey Cloud Island

Grey Cloud Island holds a rich history, having been settled by Native American peoples and featuring significant Woodland and Mississippian culture mounds. The island is also home to a historic lime kiln, built around 1846. This kiln was used to burn limestone to make quicklime for use in fertilizer, plaster, and mortar. Located on the east side of Grey Cloud Island, the kiln overlooks the Grey Cloud Channel, which separates the island from the mainland. Today, the Grey Cloud Island Kiln is a stunning example of Minnesota's early industrial history.

The kiln is one of the few remaining in the Upper Mississippi region, though much of the tower was recently destroyed in a flood. It stands on private land and is best viewed from a boat or canoe. Besides its historical significance, Grey Cloud Island is also known for its haunting local superstitions, with stories of ghostly figures seen near the cemetery and on roads, making it a unique destination for history buffs and those interested in the supernatural.

Finland Air Base

The Finland Air Base, located near Finland, Minnesota, was a radar squadron operational from 1950 to 1980, integral to Cold War defenses. After its deactivation, it was repurposed for housing, but residents were forced to evacuate in the late 1990s due to groundwater contamination.

Today, the abandoned base remains frozen in time, with houses still containing personal belongings and cars, offering an eerie, time-capsule-like experience. Once listed for sale at $800,000, its current status remains uncertain, making it a unique site for exploring both military history and environmental impacts on communities. 

Tenney

Tenney, once heralded as one of the smallest incorporated towns in the United States, saw its peak population reach around 200 residents. Founded in the late 19th century, it embodied the quintessential small-town charm with its modest homes and communal buildings. As residents gradually moved away over the decades, the town's vibrancy waned, leading to its official dissolution in 2011. 

A few structures stand as silent witnesses to its past, offering a poignant reminder of its brief but notable history. For those visiting, the remnants of Tenney provide a unique opportunity to reflect on the life cycles of small rural towns and their role in the broader tapestry of Minnesota's history.

Taconite Harbor

Taconite Harbor was established in the 1950s as a company town, specifically built to house workers of the nearby taconite plant. The town featured mid-20th-century architectural styles, with functional homes and communal facilities designed to support the working families. However, the closure of the plant in the early 1980s led to the town's rapid decline. 

While the residential buildings have been demolished, the harbor where the ships of Lake Superior stopped, and some industrial infrastructure still remain at this Minnesota ghost town. Explore the harbor area and envision the once-thriving community that depended on the taconite industry. The site offers a unique perspective on the rise and fall of company towns and the economic shifts that impact them.

Elcor

Elcor, located near Gilbert in northeastern Minnesota, was established in the early 1900s as a thriving mining town. At its peak, it housed numerous miners and their families, supported by a bustling community infrastructure that included a school, stores, and residential homes. The town's prosperity was tied to the mining industry, which saw a sharp decline in the 1950s, leading to Elcor's abandonment.

Elcor still has remnants of foundations and scattered artifacts, offering a haunting glimpse into the town’s industrious past. Fun fact: this MN ghost town was originally named Elba, but due to postal confusion with another Elba in Minnesota, the name was changed. For those visiting, it’s recommended to wear sturdy shoes and respect the historical integrity of the site.

Lewiston

Lewiston, situated in Winona County, flourished during the railroad boom of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The town served as a bustling hub for trade and transportation, with its growth fueled by the expansion of railway lines. However, as major routes bypassed Lewiston, the town experienced a steady decline in population and economic activity. Today, it is largely abandoned, with several structures still standing, offering a glimpse into its former vibrancy.

Located northeast of Northfield and nearest to the small city of Randolph, Lewiston was once larger than nearby Northfield. The town, set near the Cannon River and Alta Avenue, was home to many notable Minnesotan politicians. Edward J. Thye, a Minnesota governor; Pierce Butler, a United States Supreme Court justice; and Loren W. Collins, a Minnesota Supreme Court justice, all hailed from Lewiston. From 1851 to 1866, Lewiston thrived with a horseracing track and a hotel, but today, only the 1860 schoolhouse, now Sciota Township Hall, remains. This makes Lewiston a fascinating pitstop between Hastings and Faribault, offering a peek into Minnesota’s political and community history.

Leaf River

Leaf River, located in Wadena County, grew as a logging and farming town during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The town thrived due to its rich natural resources and agricultural potential. However, as logging operations moved elsewhere and industrial activities declined, Leaf River saw a significant reduction in population and economic activity.

Only a few buildings remain, with the old town hall standing as a testament to its past. Travelers can explore these remnants to get a sense of the town's history and its role in Minnesota's logging and farming heritage. It’s recommended to take precautions due to the dilapidated state of the structures.

Radium

One of the more interesting town names on the list, Radium, situated in the northwestern part of Minnesota, thrived during the early 20th century as a vibrant agricultural town. The community saw significant growth during this period, but post-World War II, it began to decline as people moved to urban areas for better opportunities and agricultural practices changed.

Today, Radium is mostly abandoned, with some structures still visible, offering a glimpse into its past. Fun fact: Radium was named during a time when radium was considered a wonder element, symbolizing progress and modernity. For visitors, it’s advisable to tread carefully and respect the historical integrity of the site, capturing the haunting beauty of the abandoned buildings.

Huot

Huot, located in Polk County near the Red River, was a vibrant settlement in the 19th century, benefiting from its position along the Red River Ox Cart Trail. This trail was a vital trade route connecting St. Paul to the Red River Valley, fostering Huot’s growth as a trading hub. However, as new transportation methods emerged, the importance of the trail waned, leading to the town's decline.

The Huot of today is marked by a few remnants and historical markers detailing its significant past. The site offers insights into the transformation of transportation networks and their impact on small communities. Fun fact: Huot was named after a prominent local family who were instrumental in its early development. Take time to read the historical markers to fully appreciate the town's rich history.

Wasioja

Wasioja was an up-and-coming town in southern Minnesota during the mid-19th century. Its promising future was abruptly halted when many of its young men did not return from the Civil War, leading to a sharp decline in growth. 

Tourists to Wasioja can explore the seminary ruins, which serve as a poignant reminder of the town's significant role in Minnesota's Civil War history. These ruins are an essential piece of the state's heritage and offer a fascinating glimpse into the past.

Vicksburg

Vicksburg, once a promising town in southwestern Minnesota, saw its potential stifled after the railroad bypassed it. Established in the late 19th century, Vicksburg flourished briefly but declined rapidly as transportation routes shifted.

Today, Vicksburg is largely abandoned, with remnants of its past still visible. Explore the area to see the remains of buildings and infrastructure that hint at its once-promising future. The site offers a unique look at how pivotal transportation developments can impact small towns.

Nininger

Nininger, founded in the 1850s by territorial legislator Ignatius L. Donnelly, was an ambitious planned community near the Twin Cities. It was envisioned as a thriving city but failed to grow as expected due to economic downturns and competition from nearby towns.

Today, few structures remain, but historical markers explain its history and the grand vision that never materialized. Nininger offers a fascinating glimpse into early urban planning and the challenges of 19th-century town development.

Old Crow Wing

Old Crow Wing was a major trading center in the 19th century, strategically located at the confluence of the Crow Wing and Mississippi Rivers. It thrived as a hub for fur traders and settlers until the railroad bypassed it in favor of nearby Brainerd.

Now part of Crow Wing State Park, Old Crow Wing features restored buildings and historical markers. Tourists can marvel at the preserved structures and learn about the town's rich trading history and its decline after the arrival of the railroad.

Manganese

Manganese, a mining town established in the early 20th century in Crow Wing County, thrived on the extraction of its namesake mineral. The town saw rapid growth, with homes, schools, and businesses supporting the mining operations.

After the mine closed, Manganese quickly declined, leaving it mostly abandoned. Today, a few ruins remain, offering a stark reminder of the town's mining heritage and the transient nature of such communities. Anyone visiting should tread carefully and respect the historical site. Among the ruins, one can find remnants of old mining equipment and structures that tell the story of the town's bustling past. These artifacts provide a tangible connection to the early 20th-century mining boom and the challenges faced by those who lived and worked in Manganese.

Clear Grit

Clear Grit, founded during the logging boom in the late 19th century, was a bustling community reliant on the timber industry. As logging operations moved on and the industry declined, so did the town.

Currently, very few remnants of Clear Grit remain, making it a quiet, almost forgotten spot in Minnesota’s logging history. The site offers a tranquil yet evocative experience for those interested in the state’s industrial past.

Chippewa City

Not to be confused with Chippewa Forest, Chippewa City was a community of Ojibwe people located near Grand Marais. It thrived in the late 19th and early 20th centuries but gradually declined as residents moved to nearby towns for better opportunities.

Today, only the St. Francis Xavier Church remains, serving as a historical site. This church is a testament to the community's rich cultural heritage, and people can look around it to gain insights into the life and traditions of the Ojibwe people.

Rice Lake

Rice Lake, located in St. Louis County, thrived during the logging era, benefiting from the vast timber resources of northern Minnesota’s forests. The town supported a robust logging industry with numerous sawmills and related businesses.

As the logging industry moved away, Rice Lake declined, leaving few structures remaining, mostly foundations and ruins. Visitors can explore these remnants to appreciate the town's contribution to Minnesota’s logging heritage.

Pomme de Terre

Pomme de Terre, one of Minnesota’s earliest settlements, was established in the mid-19th century. It flourished briefly but began to decline after the railroad bypassed it, leading to a gradual population decrease.

Dorothy

Dorothy was founded in the early 20th century as an agricultural hub and thrived briefly. The town declined rapidly after the post office closed in 1956, leading to a significant decrease in population and economic activity. Now mostly abandoned, Dorothy has a few remaining structures, such as old farmhouses and barns, that provide a haunting yet captivating look into rural life from decades past. Dorothy's decline is a poignant reminder of how critical infrastructure can be to a small town's survival. 

For those interested in exploring Dorothy, it is advisable to visit during the day and to respect private property. Bring a camera to capture the eerie beauty of the abandoned buildings and consider a stop at nearby rural attractions to complete your trip.

Whalan

Whalan, founded in 1868, grew as a milling town due to its proximity to the Root River. As milling and other industries moved out, the town's population dwindled significantly. Today, Whalan is partially deserted but remains a charming stop along the Root River State Trail. The town still hosts a few residents and maintains its historic charm with well-preserved buildings and a small-town atmosphere. 

Whalan is famous for its annual Stand Still Parade, where the parade stands still and the spectators walk by. Travelers are encouraged to rent a bike and explore the Root River State Trail, which runs through Whalan. The town is an excellent spot for a rest, offering beautiful views, picnic areas, and local eateries. Don't forget to check out the historic depot and other 19th-century buildings that give Whalan its unique character.

Sawbill Landing

Sawbill Landing began as a logging camp and evolved into a small community in the early 20th century. The town was closely tied to the logging industry, which provided employment and economic stability.

As logging operations moved on, Sawbill Landing declined and was eventually abandoned. Today, there are few visible remnants, offering a glimpse into the transient nature of logging towns. Visitors should respect the historical significance of the site while exploring its remnants. Enjoy the nearby, Sawbill Lake, which is part of one of Minnesota's best national parks.

Old Wadena

Old Wadena, situated along the Crow Wing River, was an early trading post and settlement that thrived in the mid-19th century. It served as a crucial hub for traders and settlers until the railroad bypassed it, leading to its decline.

Now part of a historical park, Old Wadena features some reconstructed buildings and historical markers. Visitors can explore these reconstructions and learn about the town’s role in Minnesota’s early trade and settlement history.

Swede Hollow

Swede Hollow was a vibrant settlement of Swedish immigrants in St. Paul during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The community was known for its close-knit nature and cultural traditions. Settled in the 1850s, it provided a refuge for many immigrants looking for a new start in America. The area was characterized by its simple homes built along the banks of Phalen Creek. However, Swede Hollow was cleared in the 1950s due to urban redevelopment, displacing its residents.

Swede Hollow is now a park with historical markers detailing its past. Visitors can stroll through the park and imagine the lives of the immigrants who once called it home, gaining insights into the cultural heritage of St. Paul. A notable feature of the park is the historic arches that once supported the Seventh Street Improvement Arches, adding a touch of architectural intrigue to the lush green space and trails. These arches stand as a testament to the area's history and provide a unique visual landmark within the park.

Bohemian Flats

Bohemian Flats, located along the Mississippi River in Minneapolis, was a bustling riverside settlement of Eastern European immigrants in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The area was known for its vibrant community life and cultural diversity. It was cleared in the 1930s as part of urban redevelopment efforts.

Also a park, Bohemian Flats features historical markers and community gardens. Visitors can explore these markers to learn about the rich cultural history of the area and the lives of the immigrants who once lived there. Recreational options include walking and biking paths, gardens, picnic areas and river cruises.

Have Fun Exploring Minnesota’s Ghost Towns!

Minnesota's landscape is dotted with remnants of its rich history, from bustling towns that once thrived during the industrial boom to eerie ghost towns left behind by changing times. Exploring these abandoned places offers a unique glimpse into the past, revealing stories of communities that once flourished. 

These ghost towns, scattered across Minnesota, offer more than just historical insights — they are gateways to understanding the state's cultural and economic transformations. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an urban explorer or simply someone with a curious mind, visiting these sites provides an enriching experience. As you wander through these deserted places, you not only step back in time but also connect with the resilience of the people who once called these towns home. Embrace the adventure, and let the ghost towns of Minnesota reveal their stories to you.

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