Community Living
Palo Alto County has everything you need - affordable housing, world class health care, outstanding educational services, fine arts, a variety of recreational opportunities and a sense of community. Our nine communities have annual celebrations and attractions that bring residents and visitors together to celebrate the bounty of Palo Alto County. From Emmetsburg's Annual St. Patrick's Day Parade to Ruthven's Bully Bullhead Weekend and Graettinger's annual Oldest Labor Day Celebration, Palo Alto County communities celebrate the things that make life worthwhile. Palo Alto County is home to three beautiful lakes that offer swimming, boating, fishing and camping. Enjoy Five Island Lake in Emmetsburg, Lost Island Lake in Ruthven, and Silver Lake in Ayrshire. Palo Alto County is also home to the world famous Grotto of the Redemption located in West Bend.
Motels, bed and breakfast establishments, restaurants and a variety of unique specialty shops in the area make living in Palo Alto County a unique experience for both residents and visitors Emmetsburg is home to the Wild Rose Casino and Resort which offers entertainment, gaming, dining, hotel and an RV Park.
Our close proximity to Interstates 90 and 35 make coming home to Palo Alto County easy. Commercial air service is close by and rail service transports the abundant crops and industrial goods that make Palo Alto County prosper.