Overview

Winona County is located in the southeast corner of the state of Minnesota in the United States. It lies along the Mississippi River and combines a mix of river lowlands and steep bluffs. According to the U.S. census in 2010 the county had 51,461 residents. The administrative center and largest city is Winona, which serves as the county seat and a regional hub for education and culture.

Geography and landscape

The county’s terrain features dramatic limestone and sandstone bluffs, rolling farmland, and stretches of river floodplain. These landforms create a varied landscape that supports agriculture in the valley floors and woodlands on the higher slopes. The Mississippi River is a key natural feature, shaping commerce, transportation and recreation for communities along its banks.

History and development

Indigenous Dakota people lived in the region for generations before Euro-American settlement accelerated in the 19th century. In the mid‑1800s the county developed as a center for river commerce, agriculture, lumber and stone quarrying, industries that used the river for shipment. Over time towns grew around mills, river landings and rail connections; many historic buildings remain in downtown Winona and other communities.

Economy, institutions and culture

Winona County’s economy blends agriculture, light manufacturing, education and services. Higher education institutions in the county attract students and cultural programming. Local museums, festivals and historic districts reflect the county’s river heritage and regional identity.

Recreation and points of interest

  • Outdoor recreation along the Mississippi River: boating, fishing and riverfront trails.
  • Scenic overlooks and blufflands that draw hikers, birdwatchers and photographers.
  • Historic downtown areas, museums and community festivals that highlight local history.

Winona County balances rural character with institutional and cultural resources centered in the city of Winona. For official county information, public services and statistics visit the county government pages or state resources referenced via local links and agencies.