Hailed as a city "Where Pride and Prosperity Meet," Cottage Grove is a progressive suburb located 20 miles southeast of Minneapolis and St. Paul. Cottage Grove is a great place to raise a family outside the urban hustle and bustle of the Twin Cities, with safe streets, good schools and opportunities for community involvement. More than 35,000 people live here, fostering a hometown environment where newcomers immediately feel comfortable. Look for Cottage Grove apartments for rent and find Midwestern charm and excitement in the Great Lakes region.
Cottage Grove's first settlers moved west from New England and brought traditional Greek revival architecture with them. The town was nicknamed "New England of the West" during its early years. Most of the residents were grain and dairy farmers who took advantage of the area's rich soil and easy access to Midwestern markets. Cottage Grove was founded in 1846 and quickly grew to house the shops and businesses required for a new community to thrive. However, the settlement remained a rural township for more than 100 years. In the mid-20th century, a land developer built ranch-style homes in town, which drastically changed the rural landscape. Today, Cottage Grove is the product of suburban sprawl. The city is one of Minnesota's fastest growing communities as residents escape the fast-paced lifestyle of nearby Minneapolis and seek solace in Cottage Grove apartments.
The Cottage Grove Strawberry Fest is one of the city's favorite events. The four-day festival helps kick off the summer season and brings thousands of visitors to Cottage Grove to enjoy a carnival, car show, hot air balloon rides, a petting farm, strawberry pie eating competition and top chef contest, among other events. The Deadview Cemetery is also here and invites guests to experience one of the best outdoor Halloween attractions in Minnesota.
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