Cities and Towns in Blue Earth County, Minnesota

Founded in 1853, Blue Earth County is one of 87 counties in the state of Minnesota. Historically, Blue Earth County was formed from unorganized Territory and Dakota County. The city of Mankato is the county seat. With FIPS code of 13, Blue Earth County has a population of 69,280 and area of 752.36 square miles (1,949 km²).

List of all cities in Blue Earth County, MN alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Amboy, MN	56010	507
Eagle Lake, MN	56024	507
Garden City, MN	56034	507
Good Thunder, MN	56037	507
Lake Crystal, MN	56055	507
Madison Lake, MN	56063	507
Mankato, MN	56001	507
	56002	507
	56006	507
Mapleton, MN	56065	507
North Mankato, MN	56002	507
	56055	507
Pemberton, MN	56078	507
Saint Clair, MN	56080	507
Vernon Center, MN	56090	507

Major Cities and Towns in Blue Earth County, Minnesota

1. Mankato

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 19.47 square miles
• Population: 44,000 (as of 2020 census)
• Zip Codes: 56001, 56002
• Latitude: 44.1630° N
• Longitude: 94.0107° W

City Location and History

Mankato is the largest city and the county seat of Blue Earth County, located in southern Minnesota at the confluence of the Minnesota River and the Blue Earth River. The city has a rich history that dates back to the mid-19th century when it was first established as a trading post. Mankato was named after a Sioux word, “mahkato,” which means “blue earth,” referencing the blue-colored clay found in the region. Mankato became a focal point of European settlement due to its strategic location along important trade routes, particularly the river, and the arrival of the railroad in the 1870s helped it become a regional hub for commerce and agriculture.

In 1862, the Dakota War took place in the region, a significant and tragic event in Minnesota’s history, which led to the mass execution of 38 Dakota men in Mankato. Today, the city has evolved into a vibrant university town, thanks in part to the presence of Minnesota State University, Mankato. It is a center for education, healthcare, and commerce in the southern part of the state.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Mankato is home to Minnesota State University, Mankato (MSU), a large public university that offers a wide range of academic programs and is known for its strong programs in business, engineering, and the arts. The city is served by the Mankato Area Public Schools district, which includes Mankato West High School and Mankato East High School, both of which offer diverse extracurricular activities, including competitive sports teams. Key landmarks in Mankato include The Yoder Arena and Blakeslee Stadium, both located on the MSU campus, which host various sports events. The Minnesota River offers numerous recreational opportunities, such as fishing, kayaking, and hiking along the Riverfront Park. A notable historical landmark is the Mankato Free Press Building, which showcases the city’s history as a media and cultural hub. The Land of Memories Park offers both historical and recreational significance, with access to the Mankato National Cemetery, which commemorates the Dakota War and honors veterans. The Hiking Trail at Sibley Park offers scenic views of the surrounding countryside, and the Hannahs Bend Park is a popular spot for outdoor activities.

2. Eagle Lake

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 2.16 square miles
• Population: 4,500 (as of 2020 census)
• Zip Code: 56024
• Latitude: 44.1719° N
• Longitude: 94.1301° W

City Location and History

Eagle Lake is a suburban community located just north of Mankato in Blue Earth County, Minnesota. The city is named after Eagle Lake, a large natural lake that is central to the area’s history and economy. The settlement of Eagle Lake began in the mid-1800s, and like many communities in the region, it developed around agriculture, particularly farming and dairying. Over time, the city grew in size and importance due to its proximity to Mankato, which fueled suburban development.

Eagle Lake was incorporated as a city in 1949, and as Mankato expanded in the 21st century, Eagle Lake became a desirable place for people seeking to live in a quieter, residential community while being close to the amenities and job opportunities offered by Mankato. The town’s growth has been marked by an increase in residential development and commercial services. It remains a peaceful, family-friendly city with excellent access to outdoor recreation, particularly water activities on Eagle Lake. Over the years, the community has maintained its small-town charm while providing residents with access to larger urban areas.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Eagle Lake is part of the Mankato Area Public Schools district, with students attending schools like Eagle Lake Elementary School and the nearby Mankato East High School. The schools offer strong academic programs and a wide variety of extracurricular opportunities, including sports and arts. Major landmarks in Eagle Lake include Eagle Lake Park, which features walking trails, sports fields, and a picnic area, making it a popular spot for residents and visitors alike. Eagle Lake itself is a central feature of the city, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and other recreational activities. The Eagle Lake Community Center is a hub for local events, including festivals, fairs, and community gatherings. The Eagle Lake Nature Area offers scenic views and hiking paths, perfect for birdwatching and exploring the local flora and fauna. The city also hosts the annual Eagle Lake Festival, which draws visitors for live music, local food, and outdoor entertainment. With its proximity to Mankato, Eagle Lake is a peaceful retreat for those who enjoy both suburban living and access to urban amenities.

3. Lake Crystal

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 2.11 square miles
• Population: 2,500 (as of 2020 census)
• Zip Code: 56055
• Latitude: 44.2115° N
• Longitude: 94.2370° W

City Location and History

Lake Crystal is located in the eastern part of Blue Earth County, about 15 miles northeast of Mankato. The city is named for Lake Crystal, a scenic lake that serves as a focal point for the community. Originally settled by European immigrants in the mid-1800s, Lake Crystal quickly became a hub for agricultural trade, especially grain and livestock. Its location along the Big Cottonwood River also contributed to its development as a key transportation point for local farmers and traders.

The town was incorporated in 1872 and experienced steady growth throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with several businesses and mills springing up around the lake. In recent decades, Lake Crystal has maintained its small-town charm while experiencing some suburban growth, particularly as a commuter town for those working in Mankato. The city is known for its strong sense of community, excellent local schools, and the natural beauty surrounding Lake Crystal, which provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and outdoor recreation.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Lake Crystal is served by the Lake Crystal Wellcome Memorial School District, which includes Lake Crystal Wellcome Memorial High School and Lake Crystal Elementary School. The district is known for its solid academic programs, as well as its athletic and fine arts offerings. Notable landmarks in Lake Crystal include Lake Crystal Park, which provides a lakefront setting for picnics, fishing, and outdoor activities. Crystal Lake is a popular location for boating and swimming, with its serene environment attracting both locals and visitors. Crystal Lake Regional Park offers hiking trails and birdwatching opportunities, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts. The Lake Crystal Community Center is a central venue for local events, festivals, and gatherings. The Lake Crystal Historical Society Museum provides exhibits on the city’s history, including its early days as an agricultural settlement. The Lake Crystal Cemetery is a historic site, with graves dating back to the city’s founding. The annual Lake Crystal Harvest Festival is a major event, featuring a parade, carnival, and various community activities.

4. Minnesota Lake

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 1.19 square miles
• Population: 1,100 (as of 2020 census)
• Zip Code: 56068
• Latitude: 43.9851° N
• Longitude: 94.0145° W

City Location and History

Minnesota Lake is a small town located in the southeastern part of Blue Earth County. As the name suggests, the town is situated near Minnesota Lake, a body of water that is central to the community’s history and recreational life. The area was settled in the mid-1800s, with many early settlers involved in agriculture, particularly grain farming. The arrival of the railroad helped solidify the town’s place in the region’s agricultural economy.

Minnesota Lake was officially incorporated in 1881, and throughout the 20th century, it remained a quiet, agricultural community. The town’s growth has been relatively slow, but it has seen gradual development in the last few decades, especially with the construction of new homes and businesses. It has also become a popular destination for those seeking a peaceful, rural lifestyle close to larger urban centers like Mankato.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Minnesota Lake is served by the Lake Crystal Wellcome Memorial School District, with students attending Minnesota Lake Elementary School and Lake Crystal Wellcome Memorial High School. The schools are known for their strong academics, athletics, and arts programs. Key landmarks in Minnesota Lake include Minnesota Lake City Park, which offers recreational facilities for families, including a playground, sports fields, and picnic areas. Minnesota Lake itself is a popular location for boating, fishing, and camping, attracting both locals and tourists. The Minnesota Lake Historical Society Museum provides insights into the city’s agricultural history and early settlement. The Minnesota Lake Fire Hall is another historical site that serves as a gathering point for the community. The Minnesota Lake Community Center hosts numerous events throughout the year, including the annual Minnesota Lake Festival, which features a parade, carnival games, and other community celebrations. The town is also known for its scenic country roads and farmland, which provide beautiful landscapes for walking, cycling, and birdwatching.