Monticello, Minnesota

Monticello is a quaint town known for its charming downtown, proximity to the Mississippi River, and family-friendly attractions like the Monticello Community Center and nearby state parks. I was drawn to the area for its peaceful vibe and outdoor recreational opportunities, hoping for a relaxing getaway. The town’s small population and rural setting gave it a cozy, welcoming feel—at least on the surface.

My visit started pleasantly. I enjoyed strolling through the historic downtown, grabbing coffee at a local shop, and hiking in Bertram Lake Park. The natural beauty and quiet atmosphere were refreshing. However, my experience was marred by several incidents that made me feel unwelcome as a Black traveler.
At a local diner, I noticed the server was noticeably warmer and more attentive to other patrons, while my order was delayed, and my requests for refills were met with curt responses. Initially, I brushed it off as a busy day, but the pattern continued elsewhere. At a gas station, the cashier scrutinized my ID excessively for a simple purchase, something I observed wasn’t done with others. The most overt incident occurred at a local bar where a white guy made a derogatory comment about my appearance, assuming I “wasn’t from around here,” which drew uncomfortable stares rather than support from others nearby. These microaggressions and overt hostility left me feeling hypervisible and unsafe, a stark contrast to the “Minnesota Nice” reputation I’d heard about.