Grant, MN

County: Washington

History

Grant, Minnesota

Grant, Minnesota is a small city located in Washington County, in the southeast part of the state. The history of Grant can be traced back to the mid-19th century when European settlers began to arrive in the area.

The region was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Dakota Sioux and Ojibwe. The Sioux were prominent in the area until the 19th century when the United States government negotiated treaties to relocate them to reservations further west.

European settlement of Grant began in the 1850s when the federal government offered land grants to encourage development in the newly opened Minnesota Territory. The area was primarily used for farming, and many settlers were attracted to the fertile soil and proximity to St. Paul, the state capital.

The city was officially incorporated as Grant Township in 1957, named after Ulysses S. Grant, the Civil War general and later the 18th President of the United States. Grant Township initially covered a large area, including several neighboring communities. However, over time, some of these areas broke off to form their own municipalities.

Grant has remained predominantly rural and agricultural throughout its history. The city's landscape is characterized by rolling hills, open fields, and wooded areas, making it an attractive location for those seeking a more rural lifestyle close to the amenities of the nearby urban areas.

In recent years, Grant has experienced some suburban development as people have sought out the tranquility of the countryside while still being able to access the cultural and economic opportunities offered in the nearby Twin Cities metropolitan area.

Today, Grant is known for its scenic beauty, spacious lots, and country living. The city preserves its agricultural heritage with horse farms, crop fields, and expansive estates, providing a unique juxtaposition of rural and suburban lifestyles. Its proximity to major highways and the Twin Cities makes it an appealing place to call home for many residents.

Attractions

National Sports Center

National Sports Center

A premier sports and events complex with facilities for soccer, hockey, golf, and more.

Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park Reserve

A natural retreat with hiking trails, lakes, and picnic areas for outdoor recreational activities.

Tamarack Nature Center

A naturalist-led nature center offering educational programs, hiking trails, and exhibits on local wildlife and ecosystems.

White Bear Lake

A beautiful lake with sandy beaches, fishing opportunities, and boating activities.

William O'Brien State Park

A scenic state park with camping grounds, hiking trails, and a beach area along the St. Croix River.

Pine Tree Apple Orchard

A family-friendly orchard offering apple picking, pumpkin patches, hayrides, and seasonal events.

Running Aces Casino & Racetrack

A casino and racetrack offering live harness racing, poker tournaments, and casino games.

Pinehaven Farm

A working farm and pumpkin patch with activities such as corn mazes, hayrides, and a petting zoo.

Matoska Park

A community park with playgrounds, sports fields, picnic areas, and trails along Matoska Lake.

Oasis Cafe

A popular local restaurant known for its homemade pies and cozy atmosphere.

Climate

Grant, Minnesota, experiences a humid continental climate. This means that the city has four distinct seasons with significant temperature variations throughout the year.

Summers in Grant are typically warm and occasionally humid. Average high temperatures in July, the warmest month, range from 82°F (28°C) to 88°F (31°C). However, temperatures can occasionally reach the mid-90s°F (mid-30s°C). Nighttime lows during summer are usually in the mid-60s°F (around 18°C). Occasionally, thunderstorms occur during this time, bringing brief periods of heavy rain.

Autumns in Grant are mild with temperatures gradually dropping. September sees average high temperatures in the low 70s°F (around 22°C) and October sees high temperatures in the low 60s°F (around 15°C). As autumn progresses, temperatures further decrease, with nighttime lows in the 40s°F (around 5°C). The colorful fall foliage in Grant is a popular sightseeing attraction during this season.

Winters in Grant are cold and snowy. December, the coldest month, has average high temperatures in the upper 20s°F (around -2°C) and average low temperatures in the mid-teens°F (around -10°C). However, it is not uncommon for temperatures to drop below zero degrees Fahrenheit (-18°C). Snowfall is significant, with an average annual accumulation of around 50 inches (127 cm). Grant offers opportunities for winter sports and activities such as skiing and snowboarding.

Spring in Grant brings a gradual warming trend. March sees high temperatures in the mid-30s°F (around 1°C), while April and May see temperatures reaching the upper 40s°F (around 9°C) and lower 60s°F (around 16°C) respectively. Spring can be a transition period with occasional snowfall in March, but as it progresses, the snow melts, and nature begins to bloom with vibrant colors.

Overall, Grant, Minnesota, exhibits a typical upper Midwest climate with distinct seasons, ranging from warm and humid summers to cold and snowy winters. The changing seasons offer a variety of outdoor activities and picturesque landscapes.

Neighborhoods

Grant, MN is a small city located in Washington County, Minnesota. It is a predominantly residential area with a population of around 4,000 people. While Grant is a small city, it is divided into a few distinct neighborhoods, each with its own unique characteristics. Here are some of the neighborhoods in Grant:

Downtown Grant

The downtown area of Grant is the heart of the city. It is where you will find the city offices, local businesses, and some small shops and restaurants. The downtown area has a quaint and charming feel, with tree-lined streets and well-maintained historic homes.

Beach Road

Located on the eastern side of Grant, Beach Road is known for its beautiful lakefront properties. Many homes in this neighborhood offer stunning views of the nearby lakes, making it a scenic place to live. Residents in this area can enjoy outdoor activities like boating, fishing, and swimming.

Point Douglas Park

Situated on the northern side of Grant, Point Douglas Park neighborhood is known for its large, spacious lots. Many homes in this area have expansive yards, offering residents plenty of space and privacy. The neighborhood is surrounded by nature, with parks and trails nearby, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.

St. Croix River Valley

Grant is located in the picturesque St. Croix River Valley. This area is characterized by its rolling hills, scenic views, and abundant natural beauty. Many residents in Grant enjoy the rural feel of the St. Croix River Valley and take advantage of the outdoor recreational activities it offers, such as hiking, biking, and wildlife watching.

Mahtomedi School District

Grant is a part of the Mahtomedi School District, which is highly regarded for its excellent education system. This district serves several nearby communities, including Mahtomedi, Dellwood, and Willernie. Many families are drawn to Grant because of its proximity to the schools in this district.

These are just a few of the neighborhoods in Grant, MN. Overall, Grant offers a peaceful and rural lifestyle with easy access to the amenities and attractions of the surrounding area.

Nearby Cities