Cities and Towns in Wabasha County, Minnesota
Founded in 1849, Wabasha County is one of 87 counties in the state of Minnesota. Historically, Wabasha County was one of nine original counties. The city of Wabasha is the county seat. With FIPS code of 157, Wabasha County has a population of 21,509 and area of 525.01 square miles (1,360 km²).
List of all cities in Wabasha County, MN alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Dumfries, MN | 55981 | 651 |
| Elgin, MN | 55932 | 507 |
| Hammond, MN | 55991 | 507 |
| Kellogg, MN | 55945 | 507 |
| Lake City, MN | 55041 | 651 |
| Mazeppa, MN | 55956 | 507 |
| Millville, MN | 55957 | 507 |
| Plainview, MN | 55964 | 507 |
| Potsdam, MN | 55932 | 507 |
| Reads Landing, MN | 55968 | 651 |
| Theilman, MN | 55945 | 507 |
| Wabasha, MN | 55981 | 651 |
| Zumbro Falls, MN | 55991 | 507 |
Major Cities and Towns in Wabasha County, Minnesota
Wabasha County, located in southeastern Minnesota along the Mississippi River, is known for its picturesque landscapes, rich history, and small-town charm. The county is home to the historic town of Wabasha, the county seat, as well as other communities like Lake City, Plainview, and Theilman. Each town offers its own unique attractions and history, blending agriculture, tourism, and riverfront life. Below are the major cities and towns in Wabasha County.
1. Wabasha
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 2.37 square miles
- Population: 2,500 (approx.)
- Zip Code: 55981
- Latitude: 44.3603° N
- Longitude: 92.0273° W
Location and History:
Wabasha is located in the southeastern part of Minnesota along the Mississippi River, about 70 miles south of Rochester. It is one of the oldest towns in Minnesota, established in 1854 and named after the Wabasha Band of the Sioux. Historically, the town was a major river port and trading center, benefiting from its position along the river, which facilitated transportation and trade. The construction of the railroad in the late 19th century helped to further establish Wabasha as a key location for commerce, particularly in timber and agriculture.
Wabasha’s historic downtown district is known for its well-preserved buildings from the 19th and early 20th centuries. The town was once home to a thriving logging industry and later grew as a tourism destination due to its scenic riverfront views and proximity to the National Eagle Center. The town remains an important center for commerce and culture in the county, maintaining its small-town charm while embracing modern amenities. Wabasha is also well-known for its role as a hub for outdoor activities, including bird watching, hiking, and boating.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Wabasha is served by the Wabasha-Kellogg School District, which includes Wabasha-Kellogg High School and Wabasha Elementary School. Major landmarks in the town include the National Eagle Center, where visitors can view bald eagles and learn about their conservation. Wabasha’s downtown district is filled with charming historic buildings, offering a glimpse into the town’s past. The Mississippi River, which flows through the town, is a significant landmark, offering scenic views, boat tours, and fishing opportunities. The Eagle’s Nest is a popular spot for local residents and tourists to enjoy panoramic views of the river. Wabasha hosts several annual events, including the Eagle Watch Weekend, which celebrates the town’s connection to the majestic bald eagle, and Winterfest, a community gathering with ice sculpting, games, and outdoor activities.
2. Lake City
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 3.18 square miles
- Population: 5,000 (approx.)
- Zip Code: 55041
- Latitude: 44.4591° N
- Longitude: 92.3021° W
Location and History:
Lake City is located in the eastern part of Wabasha County along the Mississippi River, approximately 80 miles south of Minneapolis. The town was founded in 1854 and was named for its location near Lake Pepin, a natural lake formed by the Mississippi River. Lake City was historically a thriving river port, and its economy was originally based on agriculture, logging, and transportation. The town grew rapidly during the 19th century with the establishment of the railroad, which helped facilitate trade and industry in the region.
Lake City’s picturesque setting, with its lake views and scenic bluffs, quickly made it a popular tourist destination. In the 20th century, the town became well-known for its boating, fishing, and lakeside recreation. The town has retained much of its historical charm, and its downtown area is a popular spot for visitors. Lake City is also famous for being the birthplace of water skiing—a fact that is celebrated each year with the Water Ski Days Festival. Today, the town is a bustling center for tourism, outdoor recreation, and local commerce.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Lake City is served by the Lake City School District, with Lake City High School and Lake City Elementary School as the main institutions. Major landmarks in the city include Lake Pepin, which provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and water sports, as well as the Lake City Marina and Beach Park, which offer lakeside recreation. Barn Bluff is a well-known landmark, offering stunning panoramic views of the town and the surrounding area. Lake City is home to several annual events, including Water Ski Days, which features water skiing exhibitions, a parade, and a carnival. The Lake City Historical Society Museum provides insights into the town’s history, while The Old Frontenac Historic District is a nearby area known for its preserved homes and buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
3. Plainview
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 2.3 square miles
- Population: 3,500 (approx.)
- Zip Code: 55964
- Latitude: 44.2413° N
- Longitude: 92.2674° W
Location and History:
Plainview is located in the central part of Wabasha County, about 10 miles north of Zumbrota and 60 miles south of Rochester. The town was settled in the mid-19th century and was originally a farming community. Plainview’s name reflects the surrounding landscape, with flat prairie lands and fertile soil ideal for agriculture. As the railroad arrived in the area in the late 1800s, Plainview grew into a small commercial center for farmers and local residents.
The town has maintained its agricultural roots while gradually shifting toward a more suburban lifestyle. It offers a slower pace of life, but residents enjoy easy access to nearby urban centers like Rochester. The town is also known for its Plainview Community Center and numerous local parks. Over the years, the town has hosted various community events, including festivals, fairs, and gatherings that highlight its agricultural heritage.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Plainview is served by the Plainview-Elgin-Millville School District, which includes Plainview High School and Plainview Middle School. The town’s landmarks include Plainview Park, which offers recreational facilities such as baseball fields, playgrounds, and walking trails. Plainview’s downtown district is home to several locally-owned businesses, reflecting the town’s agricultural and commercial history. The Plainview Historical Society operates a local museum that highlights the town’s farming history and early settlers. The Plainview Community Pool is a popular summer destination for residents, and The Plainview Farmers Market is a great place to sample local produce. The town hosts Plainview’s Festival of the Arts, a celebration of local artists, musicians, and performers, showcasing the town’s vibrant cultural scene.
4. Theilman
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 0.4 square miles
- Population: 100 (approx.)
- Zip Code: 55945
- Latitude: 44.2415° N
- Longitude: 92.4014° W
Location and History:
Theilman is a small, rural town located in the western part of Wabasha County, near the Zumbro River. The town was established in the early 1900s and remains one of the smallest communities in the county. It was named after John Theilman, a local landowner, and its economy was historically based on farming and agriculture. Over the years, the town has remained largely rural and is known for its agricultural landscapes and quiet, peaceful environment.
Today, Theilman is considered a residential area with a small population. Although it has little commercial development, it is a part of the Zumbro Township and is surrounded by farmland. The town offers a sense of rural charm and is ideal for those seeking a quiet, country lifestyle while being within driving distance of larger towns like Wabasha and Lake City.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Theilman is part of the Zumbro School District, and children attend schools in the nearby communities of Lake City or Wabasha. The town’s main landmarks include Zumbro River, which offers scenic views and fishing opportunities, and Theilman’s General Store, which serves as a community hub for local residents. The town is surrounded by farmland and wooded areas, making it a peaceful retreat for nature lovers. Although small, Theilman hosts community gatherings, and its rural charm makes it an attractive spot for those seeking a slower-paced lifestyle.
