Annandale
Welcome to Annandale! Find Your Place Here.
A small town with a big heart, Annandale is a picturesque town with friendly residents. Surrounded by lakes, the outdoors is a big part of the community’s identity, being in the “heart of the lakes.” In addition to natural beauty, the city boasts a vibrant downtown full of shopping and dining options. St. Cloud isn’t far away if you need to escape to a mid-sized city, and Minneapolis is close for those big city weekends. See why this close-knit community attracts lifetime residents, take a look at our homes for sale in Annandale, MN.
The Annandale community is very welcoming to new homeowners. Life moves a little slower here, but there is a relaxing vibe as soon as you enter town. You’re sure to enjoy the town’s outdoor amenities throughout the entire year. See what makes Annandale special, and find a new place to live in our Annandale real estate listings!
Recreation
Annandale’s northern border is Pleasant Lake, and the name is an accurate description of what it’s like to spend time there. Fish, boat, or just lie on the beach at this gem of a lake. Of course, there are other options—Annandale has 26 lakes within a 10-mile radius. That means you’re never short on outdoor fun, even in the winter. Our residents enjoy ice fishing when it’s too cold to take out the boat.
Shopping
The city’s downtown corridor features a large selection of retailers to choose from. Find something for the home at Grandpa Earl’s Country Store or the town’s Do It Best hardware store. Purchase a gift for a loved one at Demille Gifts or Judy’s Cottage. Wherever you decide to shop, you’re sure to receive plenty of small-town smiles and helpful service.
Dining
Check out Lu’s Café & Catering for a good meal and fast service, or unwind after a long day at Rich’s Bar & Grill. Kick back with friends at the Annandale Roadhouse and enjoy a nice cold one. There are many great dining options in the city, and if you decide to drive a little farther, you can experience all the great restaurants of St. Cloud as well.
Green/Environmental
Annandale residents may recycle certain items by signing up for service and leaving their waste at the curb. The city encourages sustainable lifestyles green practices.
Schools
The area’s students attend schools in the Annandale School District. The district has four schools that encourage students to follow their dreams and lead by example. Small class sizes give students an opportunity to get to know their teachers and learn with individual attention.
Transportation
Trailblazer Transit, a system covering Sibley, McLeod, and Wright Counties, provides public transportation. Residents may call a company dispatcher to schedule a ride to a nearby location. Rides cost $4 to $8, depending on the distance traveled.
Local Government
The city government consists of one mayor and four city council members. These elected officials help direct the budget and planning for the community. In addition to the city council, Annandale has Planning & Zoning and Park Commissions.
City History
Annandale was named after Annan in Scotland and platted in 1886. The city was incorporated in 1888. The Minneapolis and Pacific Railroad (now called the Soo Line) led many people to settle in town. The city prospered as a stopping point between Buffalo and St. Cloud on the rail line. State Highways 24 and 55 gave Annandale a modern connection to other cities during the road boom of the 20th century. Today, Annandale offers glimpses of the past with the conveniences of the present.