Freeborn County is known as the southern gateway of Minnesota.  Located in the heart of the County at the intersection of Interstate Highways 90 and 35, is the County Seat of Albert Lea.  The 720 square miles of rolling land, beautiful lakes, and rich soil have historically attracted people to Freeborn County, and today the County has a population of 33,000 within 14 cities and 20 townships.  Freeborn County offers a highly productive agricultural trade center, excellent school systems, a variety of industrial and retail establishments, cultural and recreational activities, low cost of living and a safe environment.

Recreational opportunities abound in Freeborn County.  Each year 125,000 people visit Helmer Myre State Park to enjoy hiking, biking, camping, wildlife watching, snow shoeing, cross country skiing and canoeing.  Albert Lea boasts 38 city parks and Freeborn County maintains 4 County parks along with over 250 miles of groomed snowmobile trails.  Each summer Freeborn County Fair hosts "The Best Six Days of Summer". The Blazing Star biking and walking trail is in progress and will comprise 18 miles running from the State Park to Hayward and hooking up with the Shooting Star trail in Mower County.  Geneva Lake, Albert Lea Lake, Fountain Lake, Freeborn Lake, Bear Lake and Twin Lakes are excellent sources for summer boating and fishing year round.  

The Freeborn County Museum is one of Minnesota’s finest and features genealogy research services.  Pioneer Village maintains 20 historical buildings open to public tours and events.

Meet the Commissioners

Last Edited: 2/8/2007