Make Lanesboro Part of Your Story

Nestled in the valley of the Root River, framed by majestic bluffs, Lanesboro is the treasure of southeastern Minnesota.

It is home to just over 700 residents who enjoy all the best things of living in a small town - friendly people, recreational opportunities, a strong school system and a diverse business community.

Our community is a popular vacation destination and we welcome nearly 10,000 visitors to the Lanesboro and Whalan area each year. They enjoy biking on the Root River Trail, fishing or tubing in the cool waters of the Root River or strolling through the historic downtown area and shopping in our charming stores.

This guide provides a brief look into our community and highlights some of the best parts of our region.

Ŷ Lanesboro is the Rhubarb Capital of Minnesota. A local legend shared her delicious rhubarb pie recipe with several organizations and is a popular choice at the annual Rhubarb Festival. Find the recipe on page 16.

Ŷ Business owners in Lanesboro operate some of the cornerstones of our town. Read about their secrets to success on page 19.

Ŷ Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center is becoming known as the “premiere astronomy site for Southeast Minnesota.” Learn how to enjoy these beautiful night skies on page 20.

Ŷ Whalan’s Cedar Valley Resort was created with families in mind. It is the perfect gathering spot in any season. Look for fun ideas for a getaway on page 28.

“Everyone has a Lanesboro story; why don’t you stop by and create one of your own?” urges Mayor Jason Resseman. We look forward to welcoming you to Lanesboro and Whalan this year. The opportunities for fun and interesting adventures await you and your family. Come and experience the treasures of Bluff Country.

Welcome to Lanesboro!

Jason Resseman, Mayor

City of Lanesboro lanesboro-mn.gov | (507) 467-3722

Lanesboro Annual Travel Guide

Produced by the Lanesboro Area Chamber of Commerce in support of its members and in cooperation with the City of Lanesboro, EDA and Lanesboro Public Schools.

Contributors

Special thanks to Lanesboro Area Chamber of Commerce members, the City of Lanesboro, Dairyland Power Co-op, Lanesboro Public Utilities, Lanesboro Economic Development Authority and Lanesboro Public Schools for their generous financial contributions to this publication. Thank you to those who helped provide information and edits, Melisa Vander Plas, Kristen Asleson, Dan Rooney, Marti Lee Gray and Alison Leathers.

Writers

Melissa Vander Plas, Steve Harris, David Hennessey, Dan Rooney, Jonathan Levine.

Creative Direction & Graphic Design Andrzej (ahn-jay) Zalasinski, Jr.

Printing

(608) 788-2500 | lacrossegraphics.com

Photography

Barb Jeffers, Bluff Country Photogrphy, Ray Iezzi, Alison Leathers, Bailey Otto, Sarah Peterson, Peterson Creative Photography & Design, Lance Prado, Ryan Tylor, Paul Vincent, Kristi Danielson Vreeman, Andrzej Zalasinski and other chamber members.

On the Cover Starry Night (somewhere in MN) Photo Courtesy of Explore Minnesota Tourism / Paul Vincent.

Partners

Andrzej (ahn-jay) Zalasinski, Jr.,

Executive Director

Lanesboro Area Chamber of Commerce lanesboro.com | (507) 467-2696

FEATURES

10 LANESBORO ART ATTRACTIONS CELEBRATE MILESTONE ANNIVERSARIES | Lanesboro Arts and The Commonweal Theatre are celebrating with special events in 2023.

16 LANESBORO LEGEND CREATES FAVORED RHUBARB PIE RECIPE | A local woman created a popular pie recipe that is widely shared within the community.

19 LANESBORO BUSINESS OWNERS REVEAL SECRETS TO SUCCESS | Supportive community members share insights on running businesses in a small town.

20 LANESBORO SITE CONSIDERED “PREMIERE” SPOT FOR STARGAZING | Local and regional stargazers find perfect skies for viewing at Eagle Bluff.

28 WHALAN’S CEDAR VALLEY RESORT IS PERFECT DESTINATION FOR FAMILIES OF ALL SIZES | Comfortable lodging and many activities make local resort a favorite for families.

34 RHYTHM OF LANESBORO CREATES PERFECT PLACE TO LIVE, WORK AND PLAY | City leaders look at employment and new housing options to enhance livability.

39 THE MAGIC THAT IS LANESBORO | Author shares reflections on the people of Lanesboro.

If you’re headed here for your first visit or 20th, make sure you try out our Lanesboro App. It will provide you up-to-date, information on local businesses, including hours, amenities, and health practices. The Lanesboro App also features a user-friendly glossary to help you find what businesses have ice, hand sanitizer, sun tan lotion, snacks,