With as many charming towns as Minnesota has, it’s easy to overlook some. Small towns in certain regions of the state, like the North Shore, attract many more visitors than those in the southeast and southwest. But these quiet corners have plenty of lovely towns to visit, too. One of our favorites is a little southern Minnesota town called Plainview. With its charming downtown and plenty of fun activities, this spot is the perfect place to explore over the weekend.

Plainview is a small town of about 3,200 people in southern Minnesota. It's about 95 miles south of the Twin Cities.
City of Plainview, Minnesota/Facebook
Though rural, the town is full of natural beauty. It was named for the plains that are elevated above the rest of the land, resulting in a lovely view.
PEM Chamber
Throughout town, you'll find many lovely touches that highlight the country setting.
Plainview, Minnesota
But don't let the town's rural surroundings fool you into thinking there's nothing to do here. In fact, it's quite the opposite!
PEM Chamber

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Plainview's downtown is full of shops and restaurants that are lovely places to wander on a lazy weekend afternoon. Just outside of town, hotels and campgrounds ensure you'll have an affordable stay.
PEM Chamber
If shopping and dining aren't your thing, outdoor recreation is plentiful. Try out one of the town's half-dozen parks. Whether you want to have a picnic lunch, settle into the grass to read, or let the kids enjoy a playground, you'll find what you need in Plainview.
City of Plainview, Minnesota/Facebook
You may also enjoy exploring Plainview's winery! The Whitewater Winery is a beautiful - not to mention delicious - spot to kick back and enjoy the scenery. You might just find a new favorite.
Whitewater Wines/Facebook
Minnesota golfers will also love Plainview. The Piper Hills Golf Course is a 36-par course with 9 holes and beautiful surroundings. It's a lovely way to spend a sunny weekend afternoon.
Piper Hills Golf Course/Facebook
Not only does Plainview have a charming downtown and great outdoor activities. It also has a one-of-a-kind festival! Corn-on-the-Cob Days is a not-to-be-missed festival for corn lovers!
Michael Dorausch/Flickr

All in all, Plainview, Minnesota, is a charming small town that is well worth exploring. If you’d like more information about the town, check out their town website and chamber of commerce. And if you love Minnesota’s small towns, take a look at our list of 19 small towns worth visiting in Minnesota.

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