Cottage Grove is a city located in the southeastern corner of Minnesota, United States. It is situated along the banks of the Mississippi River and is part of Washington County. The city has a population of approximately 35,000 people and covers an area of about 18 square miles.

The city was founded in 1858 and was originally known as Grey Cloud Island. It was later renamed Cottage Grove after the many cottages that were built along the riverbank. The city has grown steadily over the years and today it is home to a variety of businesses, including manufacturing, retail, healthcare, education, and more.

Cottage Grove offers a variety of recreational activities for its residents and visitors alike. There are several parks located throughout the city, including Grey Cloud Island Park which features a beach area with swimming access to the Mississippi River. Other parks include Lions Park which offers playgrounds, picnic areas, and trails; Pine Tree Park which features a disc golf course; and Valley Creek Park which has a fishing pier and boat launch.

The city also boasts several cultural attractions such as the Cottage Grove Historical Society Museum which houses artifacts from early settlers in the area as well as exhibits on local history. The Cottage Grove Arts Council hosts events throughout the year such as art shows, concerts, plays, and more. Additionally, there are several annual festivals held in Cottage Grove such as Summerfest which features live music performances from local bands and food vendors from around town.

Overall, Cottage Grove is an ideal place to live or visit due to its close proximity to both Minneapolis-St Paul metropolitan area and St Croix National Scenic Riverway. With its rich history and vibrant culture, Cottage Grove provides something for everyone!