About
Cottage Grove
Cottage Grove sits along the Mississippi River in southern Washington County, just fifteen minutes from St. Paul. We offer the convenience of the Twin Cities Metro Area with the feel of a close-knit river town — 35 parks, miles of connected trails, and a downtown-adjacent business community that keeps growing.
Our Story
Cottage Grove was platted in 1871, built on wheat farming, some of Minnesota’s first creameries, and river shipping along the Mississippi. The city has more riverfront than any other in Minnesota, a legacy still visible at sites like the Grey Cloud Lime Kiln and the Schilling Archeological District. When 3M opened a production facility here in 1947, the town grew from a farming community into the thriving suburb it is today, without losing its small-town character.
What You’ll Find Here
Cottage Grove is built for getting outside. Explore the Mississippi River Regional Trail, one of the state’s largest inclusive playgrounds, a bike park, dog park, disc golf course, splash pad, municipal golf course, and a state-of-the-art ice arena. Pair a day in the parks with local shopping, dining, and entertainment, then stay the night at one of our hotels.
Getting Here
Cottage Grove is easy to reach by Highway 61 and I-494, about thirty minutes from Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport and fifteen minutes from the Wisconsin border — close enough for a day trip, close enough to stay a while.
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