About Us

Welcome to the City of Balaton

We are defined less by boundaries on a map than by the sense of shared values our residents hold dear. We take pride in maintaining a wholesome lifestyle, rich in cultural history, along with a deep commitment to the preservation of our environment and a progressive approach to local business. 

You can search the entire United States, and you won't find another Balaton.  Settled in 1879 when the Dakota Central Railroad was laid, the town was incorporated in 1892.   No one is sure how Balaton got its name, but it's believed to be named after Lake Balaton in Hungary.  Others claim it was named after Mr. Balaton, a stockholder and employee of the railroad.  An early resident has written that it was to be named for Mr. Belland called Belltown, but a traveling salesman suggest it be Balaton, saying there was only one other place with that name.   

The City of Balaton would like you to visit our town.  We invite you to check out the many opportunities that are in our community.  We are proud of what our community offers.  Lake Yankton is located along Highway 14 on the north edge of town.  Summer months offer swimming, boating, fishing and areas for family gatherings.  The winter also offers good fishing if you know where they are biting!  Legion-Lions Park is the center point for the kickoff to our annual Fun Fest Celebration, which takes place the first weekend of July.   On the East side of town is the Balaton Bay Golf Course; a par 3 nine-hole landscaped course and a 4-site camping area with complete full hook-up located just across from the golf course.

Parks and recreation sites include Legion-Lion Park downtown which provides a picnic area and nice playground equipment for the younger children.  On the west side of town, Balaton has a lighted softball field and a nine-hole disc golf course.

Our business district will meet most of your daily needs including First Independent Bank, liquor store, vehicle and equipment repair services, insurance offices, dental clinic.   The City of Balaton also has a community center, library and houses the city public office.   Located on Highway 14, there is a gas station/convenience store/restaurant.  

We welcome your visit and invite you to consider Balaton as a place to raise a family and spend retirement years.  We have much to offer and remember, there is only one Balaton!

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