Scandia, Minnesota, is a historic rural town located approximately 35 miles north of St. Paul, near the Wisconsin border. Known for its serene environment, Scandia is surrounded by forests, lakes, rivers, and farmland. The town, established in the mid-1800s as Minnesota’s first Swedish settlement, retains its heritage through historic architecture and rustic farmhouses adorned with barn quilts. Big Marine Lake is a popular attraction for boating, hiking, swimming, and fishing, while the St. Croix River offers camping, hiking, and boating opportunities. William O’Brien State Park provides trails for hiking, biking, horse riding, and winter sports like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The Gammelgarden Museum of Scandia celebrates the town’s Swedish roots with its open-air exhibits. Housing in Scandia includes 19th and early-20th century homes, newer cottages, cabins, ranch-style homes, and luxury properties around Big Marine Lake, typically on lots of an acre or more. Dining options feature local favorites like Meister’s Bar & Grill, New Scandia Café, Ozark Tavern, and Scandia Pizzeria. Scandia Elementary School, recently renovated, offers modernized classrooms and new facilities. Forest Lake Area Middle School and High School are nearby, with the high school known for its award-winning skiing programs. Residents commute to St. Paul and Minneapolis, with Interstate 35 about 12 miles away and Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport 40 miles away.
