Nestled in the heart of central Minnesota, the city of Paynesville , with a population of 2,383, is located 90 miles west-northwest of the Twin Cities and 30 miles from both St. Cloud and Willmar. Interstate 94 is only 30 miles away. The Paynesville area includes portions of Stearns, Meeker and Kandiyohi counties with an additional population of over 2,500. Three local lakes, Koronis , Rice and Long, form the core of the tourist trade, particularly during the summer. The summer festival, Town and Country Days, sponsored by the Paynesville Area Chamber, is celebrated every June.
Industry continues to grow in the area to complement agriculture, particularly dairy and turkeys.
Our Economic Development Authority of Paynesville works with our industries to keep them growing. The area also has many things to do including our public library , two public beaches on Lake Koronis, walking trails , antiques, horseback riding, an 18-hole golf course, a historical society and many other special events, including a new ethnic festival set for Aug. 18, 2001. Pictured above is the Gazebo Park is in the heart of the city of Paynesville. It features picnic tables, restrooms, sand volleyball, and a playground. Paynesville Area Guide 2001' published by the Paynesville Press .