Pine Island, MN

Since it was first settled in 1854, Pine Island served as a beautiful, rural community filled with farms and cheese factories – more than 60 of them, earning Pine Island the early nickname of “Cheese Capital of the World.” Today, as more people discover this picturesque gem, it is becoming the new “it” location in Minnesota. It is ideally located for commuters, sitting just 15 minutes north of Rochester and less than an hour south of Minneapolis and Saint Paul. The Zumbro River extends through the center of the city, and the historic downtown is an excellent destination for shopping and dining.

Pine Island provides several parks for residents to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Nature Preserve Park includes a pond with fishing dock and a hiking trail. Trailhead Park has a playground, horse shoe pits, a canoe launch, and picnic areas. Collins Park has a playground and a Frisbee golf course. Other destinations include the Pine Island Swimming Pool, the Main Street band shell, a skate park, and a dog park. Golfers can head to the Pine Island Golf Course, located on the southeast side of the city. Events are often held at the historic Pine Island Cheese Company building, and you can borrow a bike (no joke – and no cost) from the historic Butter Factory. Use your borrowed bike and helmet to cruise the 13-mile Douglas State Trail.