Welcome to Caledonia, the Wild Turkey Capital of Minnesota

Caledonia is located in the southeastern corner of the state, where the land transitions from rolling hills to scenic bluffs and the Mississippi River Valley. It is not uncommon to see majestic eagles soaring or sitting high in the treetops. Deer, wild turkeys and coyotes are plentiful. Bear, cougar and bobcats are present, but rarely seen. Area streams offer the trout fishermen access to some of the best trout fishing in the state. Bike trails, hiking trails, Beaver Creek Valley State Park, horse trails, boating and bird watching are activities that lure people to the area. Caledonia is proud to be a Historic Bluff Country city.

Caledonia is known as “The Heart of Quilt Country” and offers a scenic driving tour route of over 40 Houston County barns sporting 8×8 squares of plywood painted in vivid colors in a variety of quilt patterns. We welcome you to our area to view beautiful barn paintings and our splendid natural and cultural resources. Caledonia makes a great “hub” for day trips because it is centrally located between some of the region’s favorite attractions. You can explore parts of three states: Minnesota, Iowa, and Wisconsin, while headquartered in Caledonia. The Mississippi River is just 17 miles away. Plan one day as a “cruise day” on the Julia Belle Swain, a paddlewheeler docked in nearby La Crosse, Wis. Another day could be spent cycling nearby bike trails along the Root River. Explore Amish country in the nearby Canton-Harmony area. Hike the bluff lands and explore the Effigy Mounds near McGregor, IA. Canoe the Upper Iowa River or the Root River. Don’t forget to check out the Caledonia area, either! Take a tour of the town and check out the unique architecture of the historic downtown district, the impressive limestone courthouse and former jail, the Houston County Historical museum complex and much more.

Caledonia has much to offer for a weekend get-away or that week away from the office. Come see what you have been missing. Make plans to visit us soon. You will be glad that you did.

A City for All Seasons

Caledonia is busy all year round with a variety of outdoor activities, festivals, traditions, and community activities for residents and visitors alike making it a city for all seasons.
Spring

In the early spring at a local restaurant a turkey hunter shares the story of his hunt with a trout fisherman. Before going antiquing get inspired by going to the Houston County Historical Society Museum near the fairgrounds in town. Bikers, golfers, and nature lovers fill the area. Farmers surrounding the City are busy putting crops in the fields.

Summer

On a warm summer night in Caledonia you can hear music in the park while walking down Main Street. Stop at one of the local shops for some ice cream. Families are swimming in the City pool and others are watching a summer rec ball game at the nearby field.

Winter

While ice skating in the winter the buzz of snowmobiles can be heard. Grab a cup of hot chocolate or coffee after and view local artwork. Children are sledding, making snowmen, and snowshoeing. On Kingston Street a shopper carries three neatly wrapped packages from the gift shops.

Fall

Fast-forward to fall. Hot air balloons are seen drifting over the City. People are taking barn quilt tours in the countryside and looking at the beautiful fall foliage. Drop by the farmer’s market for locally grown produce. Attend a Friday night football game and watch the state champion Warrior football team.

Distance to Major Cities from Houston County Seat, Caledonia

Caledonia
to La Crosse

23 Miles
30 Minutes

Caledonia
to Rochester

76 Miles
1 Hour 19 Minutes

Caledonia
to Madison

137 Miles
2 Hours 38 Minutes

Caledonia
to Minneapolis

161 Miles
2 Hours 37 Minutes

Caledonia
to Milwaukee

217 Miles
3 Hours 32 Minutes

Caledonia
to Des Moines

223 Miles
3 Hours 51 Minutes

Caledonia
to Chicago

300 Miles
4 Hours 40 Minutes

Whether you grew up in Caledonia, moved to the area recently, or visited over the years, you are probably aware there are many reasons to start or expand a business in the City.

Caledonia is a city for all seasons, the county seat of Houston County, and gateway to bluff country. With its great location and affordable cost of living Caledonia is a wonderful place to do business, raise a family, and enjoy many activities all year round. Caledonia is proud to be the county seat of Houston County.