Cities and Towns in LeSueur County, Minnesota
Founded in 1853, Le Sueur County is one of 87 counties in the state of Minnesota. Historically, Le Sueur County was formed from Dakota County. The city of Le Center is the county seat. With FIPS code of 79, Le Sueur County has a population of 28,841 and area of 448.50 square miles (1,162 km²).
List of all cities in LeSueur County, MN alphabetically
City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
Cleveland, MN | 56017 | 507 |
Elysian, MN | 56028 | 507 |
Kasota, MN | 56050 | 507 |
Le Center, MN | 56057 | 507 |
Le Sueur, MN | 56058 | 507 |
Montgomery, MN | 56069 | 507 |
Waterville, MN | 56096 | 507 |
Major Cities and Towns in Le Sueur County, Minnesota
1. Le Sueur, Minnesota
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude & Longitude
- Area: 4.03 square miles
- Population: Approximately 4,000 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 56058
- Latitude: 44.3828° N
- Longitude: 93.8056° W
City Location and History
Le Sueur is the county seat of Le Sueur County and is located along the Minnesota River in southern Minnesota. The city was founded in 1852, named after French fur trader Pierre-Charles Le Sueur, who explored the area in the early 1700s. The area’s rich soil and proximity to the Minnesota River attracted early settlers, primarily of European descent, who engaged in farming, trade, and transportation. The city’s early economy was based on agriculture, particularly wheat and corn, and as railroads expanded, Le Sueur became a hub for shipping agricultural goods. The construction of the Minnesota River’s locks and dams in the 1930s furthered its development, and the river became a key transportation route for both freight and passengers. In the 20th century, Le Sueur diversified its economy, with notable growth in manufacturing, including the Green Giant vegetable processing plant, which became one of the city’s most significant employers. Today, Le Sueur retains its agricultural roots but is also known for its charming small-town feel, local businesses, and proximity to both urban centers and the scenic Minnesota River.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Le Sueur is served by the Le Sueur-Henderson School District, with students attending Le Sueur High School. The school offers a wide range of academic and extracurricular programs, including sports, music, and arts. The city is home to several notable landmarks, including the Le Sueur County Historical Society Museum, which provides insights into the area’s history, including its Native American heritage, early European settlers, and agricultural history. Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area is a large park located just north of the city and offers walking trails, fishing spots, and beautiful river views. The Green Giant Statue in the downtown area commemorates the city’s connection to the Green Giant brand and is a popular tourist attraction. The Minnesota River Valley Scenic Byway also runs through Le Sueur, offering travelers a picturesque route with stops that highlight the region’s natural beauty, history, and recreational opportunities. With its blend of history, agriculture, and small-town charm, Le Sueur offers residents and visitors alike a scenic, welcoming environment.
2. Elysian, Minnesota
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude & Longitude
- Area: 1.11 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,000 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 56028
- Latitude: 44.2815° N
- Longitude: 93.8667° W
City Location and History
Elysian is a small city located in the central part of Le Sueur County, near the southern shore of Lake Elysian. The town was first settled in the 1850s and incorporated in 1897. It was named after the Greek mythological concept of Elysium, an idyllic paradise, which reflects the area’s natural beauty and abundant lakes. The town grew as a rural farming community, with agriculture playing a central role in its economy. Over time, however, the presence of Lake Elysian and its appeal as a recreational destination has shifted the focus toward tourism and lakefront living. With boating, fishing, and other water-based activities becoming increasingly popular, Elysian has developed a strong second-home and retirement community. The city’s population swells during the summer months as visitors come to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Elysian’s rural charm and easy access to both Minnesota Highway 60 and Interstate 35 have made it a desirable location for those seeking a quiet, scenic lifestyle close to larger cities like Mankato and the Twin Cities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Elysian is served by the Elysian Public Schools District, with students attending Waterville-Elysian-Morristown High School. The school provides a comprehensive educational experience, with extracurricular programs in sports, music, and academics. Elysian’s primary landmark is Lake Elysian, a large and scenic lake that offers a range of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, swimming, and ice fishing in the winter. The lake is surrounded by several parks, including Elysian City Park, which features a beach area, picnic spots, and a boat launch. The Elysian Municipal Golf Course is another popular local destination, offering a nine-hole course with views of the lake and nearby woods. The Elysian Community Center hosts a variety of local events, from seasonal festivals to town meetings, and is a key gathering space for the community. The town also celebrates the Elysian Days festival each summer, featuring activities such as a parade, live entertainment, and a carnival, attracting both locals and visitors.
3. Montgomery, Minnesota
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude & Longitude
- Area: 2.22 square miles
- Population: Approximately 3,000 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 56069
- Latitude: 44.5392° N
- Longitude: 93.6183° W
City Location and History
Montgomery is located in the southeastern part of Le Sueur County, approximately 50 miles south of the Twin Cities. It was founded in 1856 and named after the Montgomery family, early settlers in the region. Originally established as a stop along the Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul and Pacific Railroad, Montgomery’s early growth was driven by agriculture, particularly the production of grain and livestock. By the early 20th century, Montgomery had developed into a thriving community with a bustling downtown area. Known as the “Kolacky Capital of the World,” Montgomery has a rich Czech heritage, and the community has long celebrated its roots with the Kolacky Days festival, a popular event held every summer. Today, Montgomery is a vibrant small town with a strong sense of community and a focus on preserving its history while adapting to modern needs. Montgomery’s proximity to both rural farmland and the Twin Cities has allowed it to remain a hub for both local agriculture and suburban development, attracting new residents seeking a peaceful, family-friendly atmosphere.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Montgomery is part of the Montgomery-Lonsdale School District, with Montgomery-Lonsdale High School serving students in the area. The district provides a range of academic programs and extracurricular opportunities, including sports, fine arts, and vocational training. Key landmarks in Montgomery include the Kolacky Days Festival, a unique celebration of the city’s Czech heritage that features a parade, a polka dance, and, of course, kolacky pastries. The Montgomery Area Historical Society Museum provides visitors with a look at the area’s history, including its settlement, the rise of agriculture, and the community’s Czech cultural roots. The Montgomery Community Center serves as a gathering place for residents and hosts events such as dances, concerts, and craft fairs. The Veterans Memorial Park honors local veterans and serves as a peaceful space for reflection. Montgomery’s agricultural heritage is also showcased at various local farms and seasonal events, and the city’s location along major highways makes it a convenient stop for visitors exploring the Minnesota River Valley.
4. Le Center, Minnesota
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude & Longitude
- Area: 2.08 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,500 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 56057
- Latitude: 44.4217° N
- Longitude: 93.7783° W
City Location and History
Le Center is located in the central part of Le Sueur County, around 20 miles west of the city of Mankato. Originally settled in the mid-1800s, the town was named after the Le Sueur River, which runs nearby, and it quickly became an important agricultural center. Le Center’s economy has historically been driven by farming, with crops like corn, soybeans, and wheat being central to its growth. The town was officially incorporated in 1868 and, like many towns in the region, grew with the construction of the railroad, which connected it to larger markets. Today, Le Center maintains its rural character, with farming still an important part of the local economy, but it has also become a pleasant residential community. Its close proximity to the Twin Cities has made Le Center an attractive option for those looking for a quieter, more affordable place to live while still being within commuting distance of urban job markets and amenities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Le Center is served by the Le Sueur-Henderson School District, and students in the area typically attend Le Center Secondary School. The school district offers a wide variety of programs, including sports, extracurricular clubs, and vocational training, which cater to a diverse student body. Le Center is known for the Le Center City Park, a local green space that hosts a variety of recreational activities, including picnicking, sports, and community events. Another local landmark is the Le Center Community Center, which offers a meeting space for local groups and organizations, as well as hosting seasonal events. The Le Sueur County Historical Society Museum is located in the nearby town of Le Sueur and features exhibits about the region’s history, including early settlement and agricultural practices. Veterans Park, a tribute to local veterans, is also a key landmark in Le Center, providing a peaceful spot for reflection and community gatherings. The town’s annual Farm Fest celebrates its agricultural roots and draws attendees from across the region.