Minnesota Destinations 2020

M i n n e s o ta

DESTINATI NS DESTINATIONS DESTINATIONS DESTINATIONS

t e s t t h e wat e r s Akeley // Alexandria // Askov // bemidji // brainerd // Cloquet // Detroit lakes Dorset // duluth // ely // itasca state park // little falls // nevis // north shore // osakis park rapids // perham // remer // sauk Centre // staples // wadena // walker

2020

M i n n e s o ta

DESTINATI NS t e s t t h e wat e r s 6 ALEXANDRIA: The perfect year-round playground 14 SAUK CENTRE: The boyhood home of Sinclair Lewis 17 DETROIT LAKES: Where lake life is the way of life 32 PERHAM: Progressive little city with a big heart 34 WADENA: Good things are happening here 38 STAPLES: A railroad town through and through 40 LITTLE FALLS: Where discovery begins 48-49 MAP OF THE DESTINATIONS AREA 51 REMER: Welcome to eagle country 54 WALKER: On the shores of Leech Lake 55 AKELEY: Birthplace of Paul Bunyan 56 NEVIS: Home of the world’s largest tiger muskie 57 DORSET: A taste of small-town Minnesota 57 PARK RAPIDS: Gateway to Itasca 74 ITASCA STATE PARK: Jewel of the Park Rapids Area 78 BEMIDJI: The first city on the Mississippi 80 ASKOV: Rutabaga capital of the world 81 CLOQUET: City of wood industries 83 DULUTH: Find it all at the head of the lake 88 ELY: Gateway to the Boundary Waters 91 NORTH SHORE: Your outdoor adventure is calling Publisher: Jody Hanson Magazine Editor: Marie Johnson Magazine Designer: Jamie Hoyem Destinations is a Minnesota travel magazine published jointly by the following newspapers: Alexandria Echo Press, Brainerd Dispatch, Detroit Lakes Tribune, Duluth News Tribune, Park Rapids Enterprise, Perham Focus, and Wadena Pioneer Journal.

PAGE 4 | DESTINATIONS 2020

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LOCALS LOVE IT:

CENTRAL LAKE S TRAIL This is a must if yo u like to hike, bik e, walk, run, skateb oard or longboard.

The trail winds thr ough the county and is mostly aw ay from busy traffic .

It extends all the way from Osakis in Douglas County to Fergus Falls in Otter Tail County, and is 55 miles lon g with beautiful vie ws of lakes , rivers , flowers, wildlife an d more. Pack a picnic lunch and head do the trail via bicycl wn e.

DESTINATION ALEXANDRIA THE PERFECT YEAR-ROUND PLAYGROUND

I

f you’re looking for fun on the lake and off, Alexandria is the answer, year-round.

The area is brimming with 375 glacier-formed pristine lakes, making it the perfect playground for swimmers, boaters, anglers, golfers, bicyclists, hikers, bird watchers, ice skaters, skiers, snowmobilers and anyone who enjoys the great outdoors.

Even if you don’t consider yourself an outdoors person, there are still plenty of things to enjoy while on vacation here: Browse for antiques. Take in an arts production. Shop historic downtown Alexandria or visit the Viking Plaza. Explore the area’s fascinating — and controversial — history. See a movie — there’s a nine-screen movie theater near the mall. Get a workout at the Alexandria Area YMCA. PAGE 6 | DESTINATIONS 2020

Tour a winery or brewery — the award-winning Carlos Creek Winery is just three miles north of Alexandria and it added a brewery last year, 22 Northmen. Another brewery, Copper Trail, is on North Broadway near the Big Ole statue and the Central Lakes Trail. Catch an entertaining baseball game or college-level hockey game.

In addition, Alexandria lists several golf courses on its website, alexandriamn. org, an amusement park, go-kart racing, horseback riding, three museums, public swimming beaches, a water park, a winter ski hill, three marinas and more.

There is also a trail of antique, curio and specialty shops (many of them downtown) that collectors, browsers and shoppers love to follow, and Alexandria has a very active downtown restaurant and shopping area.

SEE THE ‘7 WONDERS’ OF ALEXANDRIA Seven must-see sights in the Alexandria area, according to Explore Alexandria Minnesota: 7. Glacial Ridge Scenic Highway. This Minnesota State Byway includes more than 220 miles of beautiful rural routes through rolling hills, lakes, woods, prairies and farmlands.

CHEERS TO THIS: TWO BREWERIES + A WINERY Whether you’re into sipping award-winning wines or prefer a cold glass of craft beer, Alexandria is the place to be: it has a winery and two breweries.

Carlos Creek Winery, which offers tastings, tours and a variety of wine, opened 22 Northmen Brewing Company last summer.

Inspired by Viking architecture from around the 12th Century, 22 Northmen is a place to not only enjoy great beer, but to also experience a fun Viking vibe — and grab a Growler to take home.

The brewery also houses a wood fired pizzeria, called Valkyrie’s, and has live music on Thursday evenings.

Yearly events at Carlos Creek Winery include the extremely popular “Grape Stomp,” which is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, Sept. 18-20. The three-day festival is

packed with excitement, including 12 bands on four stages and over 150 food, juried art and marketplace vendors, and of course, grape stomping. Over 300 teams stomp on 10,000-plus pounds of grapes.

Another brewery, Copper Trail, moved last summer to downtown Alexandria on North Broadway, near the famous Big Ole Viking statue. Copper Trail’s industrial style taproom has a relaxing atmosphere, with seating for 150 at its bar top or on custom-made tables made from refurbished wood. Ask for a tour of the brewery system and see exactly how your craft beer was made, 20 feet from where it was poured. The brewery also has a wide selection of games, from cribbage to checkers, and Jenga to Scrabble. Stop in, have a brew from the frequently changing tap list, and grab a Growler or Crowler to go.

HIT THE SLOPES

ANDES TOWER HILLS Located just 15 miles west of Alexandria, Andes Tower Hills has 15 downhill ski runs ranging from beginner to expert, as well as facilities for tubing, snowboarding, crosscountry skiing and snowshoeing. Ski and snowboard lessons, a racing program, lodging, a restaurant, equipment rentals and a pro shop are available. For more information, call 1-877-542-6337 (1-87-SKI-ANDES), or visit www.andestowerhills.com.

6. Lake Carlos State Park / Inspiration Peak. They’re both fantastic natural attractions. The park is located 10 miles north of Alexandria and Inspiration Peak is 25 miles northwest. Inspiration Peak, which is managed by Lake Carlos State Park, is the highest peak within the glacial-formed Leaf Hill Moraines.

5. Historic Downtown.

Downtown Alexandria is teeming with lush history and some of the best locally-owned shops and restaurants around.

4. Big Ole. It’s not every day you’ll see a giant 28-foottall Viking standing guard over a city’s downtown! Big Ole was built in 1965 for the New York’s World Fair by a fiberglass sculptor.

3. The Kensington Runestone. Is it an authentic historical artifact carved by explorers from Norway way before Columbus sailed the ocean blue, or is it an elaborate hoax? You decide.

The famous rock is on display at the Runestone Museum on North Broadway.

2. Central Lakes Trail. The trail was built on an old rail line, and provides users with a flat and smooth experience as it routes through dozens of rolling hills, lakes, woods and prairies, spanning 55 miles from Fergus Falls to Osakis.

1. Chain of Lakes. Lakes Le Homme Dieu, Geneva, Victoria, Cowdry, Jessie, North Union, Taylor, Stony and Brophy link to one another by channels, so you don’t always have to portage your watercraft. www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 7

STAR STORM LIGHTS UP THE SKY A FOURTH OF JULY SHOW TO REMEMBER

This Fourth of July – watch for a storm!

Although there are several fireworks displays around the area on the Fourth, one of the most spectacular is Star Storm. Those who go to Lake Darling near Alexandria will enjoy a spectacular 20-minute fireworks display set to music.

The annual display, which is designed to be enjoyed either from land or the lake, is organized by Arrowwood Resort. Folks can watch the show from the front lawn of Arrowwood, which overlooks the lake, or they can boat over to see the display.

Watchers are encouraged to tune into KXRA-FM, 92.3, for the show.

EXPLORE CENTRAL LAKES TRAIL 55 MILES OF PAVED PATHWAY

If you like biking, walking, in-line skating or snowmobiling, you’ll love the Central Lakes Trail. The 14-foot-wide, 55-mile trail is a paved trail that spans Douglas County from Osakis through Evansville and on to Fergus Falls in Otter Tail County. Located on the old Burlington Northern rail line grade, the Central Lakes Trail connects the cities of Osakis, Nelson, Alexandria, Garfield, Brandon, Evansville and Melby in Douglas County. For more information, visit centrallakestrail.com.

BE A MALLRAT

SHOP IN COMFORT AT VIKING PLAZA The Viking Plaza in Alexandria is a great place to shop. Many updates and improvements have been completed recently, and more are on the horizon — including new tenants in the spaces that once housed Herberger’s and JCPenney.

The Viking Plaza is often described as “tomorrow’s mall” and management takes pride in offering customers a clean, relaxing and fun environment that makes the mall not just a place to shop but a destination to visit. There are events happening all year-round, and it’s also a popular spot for walkers to get in some exercise, seven days a week.

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PARK YOURSELF UNWIND AT ONE OF DOZENS OF GREEN SPACES New improvements at parks in Alexandria and around Douglas County are turning the great outdoors into a year-round playground for children and adults.

The latest buzz is about all the work that’s been going on at Lake Brophy County Park along Brophy Landing, off County Road 82 northwest of Alexandria. Walking and bike trails were added, a big playground was installed, sand was brought in to form a beautiful beach area, and a bathhouse was constructed. There are also sledding hills, picnic areas, a children’s zip line, ice skating, lots of green space, fire rings, easy access to the Central Lakes Trail

MYSTERY SURROUNDS MUSEUM’S RUNESTONE

and more. And this year, a vistor’s center will be built.

You can also relax, picnic, walk or play in one of the dozens of Alexandria parks. The three main parks with shelters are City Park, Noonan Park and Fillmore-Dean Melton Park.

City Park is home to Art In The Park, held the last weekend in July. During the winter months, the pond at Noonan Park transforms into an ice skating rink, complemented by a warming house. Fillmore-Dean Melton Park has a brand new shelter and restrooms, great for family gatherings. It houses a kid-friendly play area, baseball field and large open area.

LEARN YOUR LAKES HISTORY LEGACY OF THE LAKES MUSEUM

OAX? H R O Y R O HIST

The Legacy of the Lakes Museum offers visitors a chance to experience the history of boating and resorts in the Alexandria area and beyond. The museum, located on Third Avenue West, houses an extensive classic boat collection as well as resorting, fishing, hunting and other maritime memorabilia.

An exciting addition to the museum is the Maritime Gardens. It features a grand design of gazebos, park benches, lush flower gardens, ornamental grasses, streams and waterfalls and an event stage with seating.

The museum also provides educational programs in the summer, such as sailing lessons, water safety and youth boat operation. The museum opens for the year in mid-May. For more information, go to legacyofthelakes.org.

Located near the Big Ole Viking statue at the north end of Broadway, the Runestone Museum is home to the controversial, world famous Kensington Runestone.

It tells of early explorers to this area from Norway, and some believe they discovered America long before Christopher Columbus.

There are also Native American exhibits, exhibits on early immigrants and the history of Alexandria, a memorial/gun exhibit, a Minnesota wildlife exhibit, and a hands-on children’s area. Go to runestonemuseum.org for more information.

PAGE 10 | DESTINATIONS 2020

GOLFING OPTIONS, FROM BEGINNER TO EXPERT Want to brush up your golf game? Douglas County has a wide variety of golf courses to entertain and challenge golfers of any skill level, from first-time beginners to league experts. You can play a quick nine holes or take on a 27-hole championship course. Many courses feature scenic views of lakes, woods and rolling hills.

Each summer, the Alexandria Golf Club plays host to the popular Resorters Golf Tournament (this year from Aug. 2-8), a matchplay competition that draws top-notch amateur golfers from throughout the Midwest.

TAKE IN PLAYS, MUSIC, COMEDY THEATRE L’HOMME DIEU

Theatre L’Homme Dieu has been offering professional summer-stock theater to the Alexandria area since 1961. This year’s theater series includes Croce plays Croce (June 18), The Reminders (July 2-3), Farewell Angelina (July 15), Ruthless (July 21-25), The Good Humor Men (July 28-Aug. 1) and Glensheen (Aug 7-16). The theatre is located at 1875 County Road 120 NE. For more information, visit tlhd.org.

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STRIKE UP THE BANDS!

VIKINGLAND BAND FESTIVAL JUNE 28 Every year on the last Sunday in June, the streets of Alexandria come alive with the sound of music. The 36th annual Vikingland Band Festival is set for June 28, featuring the Midwest’s finest high school marching bands in a fun but intense competition.

Summer parade bands are at their peak in June and pull out all the stops as they perform on the city’s extra-wide main street.

For more information, visit marching.com/events/vbf.

READY FOR SOME SLEDDIN’?

SNOWMOBILE TRAILS ABOUND AROUND HERE

Douglas County offers scenic views on 368 miles of trails connecting every community in the area. Snowmobile trails also link to the 55-mile Central Lakes Trail, a four-season recreational trail that spans the county. A free trail map and additional trail information are available at the Alexandria Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce, at 206 Broadway. www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 11

ALEXANDRIA ALEXANDRIA

APRIL 1-28: Earth View From Orbit, Douglas County Library 4: Let’s Get Growing Workshop, Discovery Middle School, 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

6: Foreign Film: “La Vie En Rose,” Grand Arbor Theatre, 4-7 p.m.

6: Taste of Douglas Food Festival, Holiday Inn, 5-7 p.m.

16-18: “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels,” Andria Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

16: Nordic Fest, downtown, 1-5 p.m.

19: “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels,” Andria Theatre, 2 p.m.

20: Documentary Film: “At Eternity’s Gate,” Grand Arbor Theatre, 4-7 p.m.

23: Dancing With the Alexandria Stars, Alexandria Area High School Performing Arts Center, 7 p.m.

23-25: “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels,” Andria Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

24-25: “Harry Clarke,” Fire Pit Productions, Lakes Area

Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

25: “That’ll be the Day,” Alexandria Area High School Performing Arts Center, 7 p.m.

25: Someplace Safe 11th annual Spring Tea Fundraiser, Luther Crest, 11 a.m.

26: Dance, Alexandria Senior Center, 2 p.m.

26: “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels,” Andria Theatre, 2 p.m.

28: Community Read Film, “Still Alice,” Grand Arbor Theatre, 3-5 p.m.

29: Spring Luncheon featuring Cindra Kamphoff, Broadway Ballroom, 11:15 a.m.

30: 57 Chevy Fundraising Concert, AAHS Performing Arts Center, 7 p.m.

MAY 1: The Everly Set, Central Lakes Concert Association, AAHS Performing Arts Center, 7:30 p.m.

2: Small Town Coin and Collectibles Show, Holiday Inn, 9 a.m.

2: Dr. Lori’s Antiques Appraisal, Andria Theatre, 2 p.m.

EVENTS CALENDAR

2: Theatre L’Homme Dieu Run for the Roses Kentucky Derby Party, Carlos Creek Winery, 4:30-7 p.m.

9: Alexandria Spring Arts, Craft and Gift Show, Runestone Community Center, 10 a.m.

16-17: Freedom First Riders Bike Show, Runestone Community Center 17: “Immortal Words,” Central Lakes Symphony Orchestra, AAHS Performing Arts Center, 2 p.m.

18: Documentary Film: “We Are Columbine,” Grand Arbor Theatre, 4-7 p.m.

21: Broken Fiddle concert, Douglas County Courthouse Lawn, 7 p.m.

23-24: Ole Oppe Fest, Big Ole Central Park, Alexandria 24: Awake the Grapes 5k & 10k Races, Carlos Creek Winery, 9 a.m.-noon 25: Memorial Day Activities Throughout Douglas County 28: Live Wire Band, Concert Series,Douglas County Courthouse Lawn, 7 p.m.

JUNE 1: 29th annual Duffers Delight Golf Tournament, Alexandria Golf Club, 10 a.m.

1: Documentary Film: “Bisbee ‘17,” Grand Arbor Theatre, 4-7 p.m.

3: Slew Foot Family concert, Knute Garden Healing Garden, 420 12th Ave. E., 6:30 p.m.

4: Green Lake Bluegrass Band Concert, Douglas County Courthouse Lawn, 7 p.m.

8-16: State Trap Shooting Championship, Alexandria Shooting Park 10: GG Country, Knute Nelson Healing Garden, 420 12th Ave. E., 6:30 p.m.

11: Blonde & The Bohunk Concert, Douglas County Courthouse Lawn, 7 p.m.

12-13: History Live, Runestone Museum 12-13: Art DeTour, Alexandria area 17: Enterprise Duo, Knute Nelson Healing Garden, 420 12th Ave. E., 6:30 p.m.

18: Croce Plays Croce, Theatre L’Homme Dieu 18: Holy Rocka Rollaz Concert, Douglas County Courthouse Lawn, 7 p.m.

19: Wine, Ale & Art Crawl, Downtown 24: Sellin, Wallace & Rousu, Knute Nelson Healing Garden, 420 12th Ave. E., 6:30 p.m.

25: Norway’s Notteroy Skolekorps Concert, Douglas County Courthouse Lawn, 7 p.m.

26-27: “Boy,” Fire Pit Productions, Lakes Area Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

History Happens Here in a lexandria

N. Broadway 320-763-3160 www.runestonemuseum.org PAGE 12 | DESTINATIONS 2020

3rd & Broadway 320-759-1114 www.legacyofthelakes.org

1219 Nokomis Street 320-762-0382 www.dchsmn.org

27: Awake the Lakes 28: Vikingland Band Festival JULY 1: Blond & The Bohunk, Knute Nelson Healing Garden, 420 12th Ave. E., 6:30 p.m.

2-3: The Reminders, Theatre L’Homme Dieu 2: WoodPicks, Douglas County Courthouse Lawn, 7 p.m.

3-4: Evansville Red White and Boom Days 4: Special Patriotic Concert, Douglas County Courthouse Lawn, 7 p.m.

4: Starstorm Fireworks Show, Arrowwood Resort, dusk 8: Cline Connection, Knute Nelson Healing Garden, 420 12th Ave. E., 6:30 p.m.

9: Big Fat Groove Concert, Douglas County Courthouse Lawn, 7 p.m.

10: Music in the Gardens: Mick Sterling, Legacy of the Lakes Museum, 6-9 p.m.

11: Minnesota Lakes Classic Boat Show, Arrowwood Resort on Lake Darling, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

15: Doo-Wop Divas, Knute Nelson Healing Garden, 420 12th Ave. E., 6:30 p.m.

15: Farewell Angelina, Theatre L’Homme Dieu 16: WhiteSidewalls Concert, Douglas County Courthouse Lawn, 7 p.m.

17-19: 50th Miltona Tornado Days 17-19: Art of the Lakes Studio Tour, Evansville Art Center and other locations 21-15: Ruthless, Theatre L’Homme Dieu 22: Kori Williams & Friends concert, Knute Nelson Healing Garden, 420 12th Ave. E., 6:30 p.m.

23: Shalo Lee Band Concert, Douglas County Courthouse Lawn, 7 p.m.

24-25: Anderson Bash 25-26: Art in the Park at City Park 25-26: Rose City Threshing & Heritage Festival, Miltona 28-31: The Good Humor Men, Theatre L’Homme Dieu 29: Tuesday Night Club concert, Knute Nelson Healing Garden, 420 12th Ave. E., 6:30 p.m.

29-31: Summer Fest, Brandon 30: Front Fenders Concert, Douglas County Courthouse Lawn, 7 p.m.

31: Music in the Gardens, Legacy of the Lakes Museum, 6-9 p.m.

31: Wine, Ale and Art Crawl, Downtown 31: Fall Festival, Parkers Prairie AUGUST 1: The Good Humor Men, Theatre L’Homme Dieu 1: Forada Days, Forada 1-2: Summer Fest, Brandon 1-2: Fall Festival, Parkers Prairie 2-8: Resorters Golf Tournament 5: Annual Steak Fry Fundraiser, Fort Alexandria, 5-7 p.m.

5: Jewett Benson & Peggy Wiese, Knute Nelson Healing Garden, 420 12th Ave. E., 6:30 p.m.

6: Crows Feet Band, Douglas County Courthouse Lawn, 7 p.m.

7-16: “Glensheen,” Theatre L’Homme Dieu 7-8: Garfield Days 8: Alexandria Festival of the Lakes Concert No. 1, Alexandria

United Methodist Church, 7 p.m.

12: Cassie Wiesner & Kevin Klimek concert, Knute Nelson Healing Garden, 420 12th Ave. E., 6:30 p.m.

13: Honky Tonk Cowboys Concert, Douglas County Courthouse Lawn, 7 p.m.

14: Music in the Gardens, Legacy of the Lakes Museum, 6-9 p.m.

14: Alexandria Festival of the Lakes Concert No. 2, Alexandria United Methodist Church, 7 p.m.

16: Alexandria Festival of the Lakes Concert No. 3, Alexandria United Methodist Church, 7 p.m.

19: Paradocx concert, Knute Nelson Healing Garden, 420 12th Ave. E., 6:30 p.m.

19-22: Douglas County Fair 20: Salty Dogs Concert, Douglas County Courthouse Lawn, 7 p.m.

21-22: “BFF,” Fire Pit Productions, Lakes Area Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

22: Alexandria Festival of the Lakes Concert Finale, Alexandria United Methodist Church, 7 p.m.

26: Dale Martell concert, Knute Nelson Healing Garden, 420 12th Ave. E., 6:30 p.m.

27: Doc’s Dixieland Concert, Douglas County Courthouse Lawn, 7 p.m.

SEPTEMBER 11-12: Oletoberfest, Copper Trail 12: Moonshine Madness, Osakis 29: The Folk Legacy, Central Lakes Concert Association, AAHS Performing Arts Center, 7:30 p.m.

LOCALS LOVE IT:

DJ’S TAPHOUSE DJ’s has the best BBQ chicken lavosh, with a cra cke smooth and tangy ry crisp crust, barbecue sauce , grilled chicken, ha varti cheese, sweet pineapple, fire-roasted red peppers and red onion. They usually have quite a variety of beer choices , as well.

OCTOBER 23-24: “The Pillowman,” Fire Pit Productions, Lakes Area Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

31: Fall Fest in the Fort, Runestone Museum, Alexandria, 2-6 p.m.

31: Masters of Soul, Central Lakes Concert Association, AAHS Performing Arts Center, 7:30 p.m.

NOVEMBER 5-7: Art and Crafters Tour 8: Janoska, Central Lakes Concert Association, AAHS Performing Arts Center, 7:30 p.m.

27: Christmas at the Fort and Lighting Ceremony, Runestone Museum and downtown, 3-6 p.m.

DECEMBER 5: Jingle Bells Telethon, Lake Geneva Christian Center 5: European Christmas Market, Downtown 6: Dickens by Candlelight, Evansville Art Center 18-19: “Christmas 2: It’s a Wonderful Nativity,” Fire Pit Productions, Lakes Area Theatre, 7:30 p.m. *All events in Alexandria unless otherwise noted.

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DESTINATION SAUK CENTRE THE BOYHOOD HOME OF SINCLAIR LEWIS

I

f you’re in the Alexandria area, take a half-hour drive east down Interstate 94 to the historic town of Sauk Centre — the inspiration behind Sinclair Lewis’s satirical novel, “Main Street.” Sauk Centre is the boyhood home of the Nobel Prizewinning author, and this summer, the community will celebrate the 100th anniversary of the publication of “Main Street.”

While you’re in town, visit the Original Main Street Historic District, built

La Ferme

613 Broadway Alexandria visit lafermemn.com 320-846-0777

for our hours!

LOCAL ALWAYS ORGANIC WHEN POSSIBLE...BECAUSE IT MATTERS WHERE YOUR FOOD COMES FROM!

PAGE 14 | DESTINATIONS 2020

between 1920 and 1947, as well as Lewis’ boyhood home, a National Historic Landmark. You can also hike or bike the Lake Wobegon Trail, stop in to quaint shops and restaurants, enjoy Sauk Lake with fishing and canoe trips, go on garden tours, and visit a winery, zoo, distillery and farmers’ markets. The Glacial Lakes Trail is also nearby.

For more information, call 855-444-SAUK (7285) or visit visitsaukcentre.org.

LAKES AREA REALTY Independently Owned & Operated

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DESTINATION OSAKIS SMALL TOWN, BIG ATTRACTIONS

O

sakis may not be a big city, but it’s packed with big things to see

OSAKIS FESTIVAL

and do.

Population 1,800, Osakis is located on the southern shores of Lake Osakis — one of the state’s premier walleye fishing lakes. The sparkling waters of the 6,700-acre lake also offer the perfect setting for soaking in a relaxing summer afternoon, or taking a spin on your watercraft. For waterfowl hunters, public hunting areas are nearby. During the winter, the lake makes for great snowmobiling and ice fishing.

Any time of year, be sure to check out the family resorts, campgrounds and motels inviting you to stay for your next vacation.

001686051r1

Explore

Lake Osakis Resorts • Camping • Fishing • Trails Antiques • Restaurants • Golfing

800.422.0785

www.LakeOsakisMN.com www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 15

CHECK OUT DOWNTOWN OSAKIS! Those looking for off-the-water options should definitely check out downtown Osakis, which features several antique and specialty shops and cozy dining options. Several new businesses have opened in the last year, including Abundant Life Coffee, J Decor 54 (a boutique selling refurbished furniture, home decor and clothing), and Empower Nutrition.

If you’re planning a getaway with the young ones, venture over to the local parks and stop by the petting zoo. If you’re looking for something to do over the fourth weekend in June, bring the kids to Osagi Park, which comes alive with activities for all ages during the annual Osakis Festival. The celebration includes events for kids, food, flea markets and crafts, antique tractors, street dances and a grand parade.

Check out visitosakis.com for a list of lodging and accommodations as well as a calendar of events.

LOCALS LOVE IT:

THE TIP TOP DA IRY BAR This iconic ice cre am shop has been serving up treats on West Nokomis Street since 1955.

The WCCO-TV ’s “View business won er’s Choice” for Best Ice Cream Sh op couple of years ag in Minnesota a o. It’s open about six months of the year, from April through Septemb er.

Don’t miss it!

TAKE THE KIDS TO A PETTING ZOO From spring Easter egg hunts to fall corn mazes, pony rides and pumpkin patches, families will enjoy an afternoon at Erickson’s Petting Zoo, located at 11890 Hope Road SE near Osakis.

Admission ranges from $6.50 to $8.50 per person, depending on the time of year.

The zoo features a playground, plus wholesome family fun on an old-fashioned farm. Animals include pygmy goats and their kids, sheep, miniature horses, llama, potbelly pigs, rabbits, and many varieties and colors of chickens, ducks, geese, pheasants, peacocks, pigeons, doves and more. For more information, visit ericksonspettingzoo.com.

KNOCK ‘EM DOWN AT THE NEW BOWLING ALLEY Here’s some fun that could be right up your alley — The Bowling Barn & Grill in downtown Osakis. New owners have completely revamped the old bowling alley, and added a full kitchen, as well. Once the weather gets nice, outdoor dining will be available.

The menu is simple, and goes along with the alley’s barn and country theme. Items include Cheese Bales with Blazin’ Berry sauce, the Farmers Paradise Burger and broasted chicken and coleslaw. Call ahead to reserve a lane on the weekend. For more information, call 320-497-0843.

VISIT THE STATE’S FIRST

LEGAL WHISKEY DISTILLERY

GO TO HOT ROD HEAVEN Experience a blast from the past and check out an array of impeccably restored classic cars: make plans to attend the Roddin’ Round the Lake event on the second Friday and Saturday of July. Hundreds of cars line the streets of downtown Osakis, and proud classic car owners love to show off their prized possessions and chat with the crowd. The Central Lakes Cruzers organizes this popular, family-friendly event.

PAGE 16 | DESTINATIONS 2020

Panther Distillery, at 300 East Pike Street, opened in 2011.

Take a tour and learn how the company makes whiskey by hand, then enjoy a sample of the distillery’s products and check out the gift store. In September, watch for an annual event called Moonshine Madness — a citywide celebration with a theme going back to the Prohibition days. For more information, go to pantherdistillery.com.

LOCALS LOVE IT:

THE MILE-LONG BEACH Boating, swimmi ng biking, fishing, scu , sunbathing, ba diving, yoga on the sand… what’ s not to like? The City Park and Pavilion are at one end of the beach, and res taurants like Zorba z and Lakeside Tav ern are just acros s the strip. There are also motels, hotel s and watercraft ren tals nearby.

BASH ON THE BEACH

DESTINATION DETROIT LAKES WHERE LAKE LIFE IS THE WAY OF LIFE

D

etroit Lakes is a prime example of Minnesota’s famous ‘lake culture’ — a laid-back, splash around, swimsuit-and-flip-flops kind of place in summer, and in winter it’s a town that’s cool with the cold. Flip flops get traded in for insulated boots, and folks head outdoors to tromp around in the snow and ice.

A magnet for fun-loving outdoor enthusiasts, Detroit Lakes is a city for all seasons.

Birders flock to this migration hotspot every spring, the beaches are full all summer long, fall’s the scenic season for leaf-peeping, pumpkin patches and deer hunting, and winter’s the hottest time of year for skiers, snowmobilers and ice anglers.

Just about every weekend, the

community calendar is packed with powwows and concerts, golf tournaments and flea markets, rodeos and ballets, street fairs and classic car cruises, plus everything in-between.

Unique attractions include the city’s mile-long beach, which crowds of sun-loving lake lovers populate all summer long, and Detroit Mountain Recreation Area, a 15-run ski hill that features snow tubing, cross-country trails, mountain biking and more. In addition, Detroit Lakes is the home of WE Fest, one of the nation’s biggest country music festivals. WE Fest is taking this year off, but will be back in 2021.

Come check Detroit Lakes out, and see for yourself why people just love it here. www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 17

WORTH THE DRIVE COOL PLACES OFF THE BEATEN PATH

NORTHWEST WATER CARNIVAL A 10-DAY SPLASH BASH

A major highlight of the summer in Detroit Lakes is the 85-year-old Northwest Water Carnival, a weeklong community extravaganza complete with competitions, contests, kids’ games, live music and the best-in-the-region Parade of the Northwest, all of which revolve around and celebrate the area’s love of the water. There are water fights, concerts on the beach, sand castle competitions and so much more. This year’s water carnival will be going on from July 10-19. For more information, visit dljaycees.com.

Forest Edge Art Gallery is tucked away on a little piece of paradise about a 25-minute drive south of Detroit Lakes. Owned and operated by a metal artist and potter, as well as a painter and jewelry maker, the gallery features artwork from the owners as well as many other artists from across the country. The grounds of the woodland gallery, are uniquely landscaped with floral and sculpture gardens.

North of Detroit Lakes, by about 17 miles, is Richwood Winery, where guests can sample a variety of vintage wines. The winery has live music every Saturday through the summer, as well as a handful of other fun events, like an annual grape stomp and summer solstice festival.

Maplelag Resort, north of Detroit Lakes between Callaway and Richwood, offers nearly 45 miles of cross country skiing and snowshoeing trails, an ice skating rink and sliding hill. It’s also known for hosting the Laddies Loppet Mountain Bike Races, held every Labor Day weekend.

POLAR FEST

THE REGION’S PINNACLE EVENT OF WINTER A multi-day celebration of the good ol’ Minnesota cold, Polar Fest gives people plenty of good reasons to get out of their warm houses and into the thrill of the winter outdoors. Events and attractions include giant lighted ice structures, larger-than-life snow sculptures, a sledding hill at the City Park, “Ice Tee” golfing on the frozen lake, a Polar Fest Plunge fundraiser, the famous Poles ‘N Holes Ice Fishing Derby, and much, much more. The festival takes place every year in mid-February. For more information, visit polarfestdl.com.

PAGE 18 | DESTINATIONS 2020

The Western Minnesota Steam Threshers Reunion has been held in the tiny town of Rollag for 65 years. This nonprofit event takes place over Labor Day weekend, and typically draws around 80,000 visitors.

With tons of food choices, games and play places for kids, train rides around the grounds, and endless rows of big machinery to admire, this is an unexpectedly huge and family-friendly party you don’t want to miss.

2 Nights Stay & Unlimited Golfing

Enjoy a 2 nights stay and unlimited golfing on our 18-hole Championship Golf Course.

Park your RV in one of our deluxe asphalt padded sites or stay in one of our exclusive park model homes. When you’re not showing off your golf swing, relax in our pool and hot tub spa or grab a bite and drink at lzzo’s Bar and Grill.

Package Includes:

• 2 night stay • 3 days of unlimited golfing

• golf cart included • Access to pool, hot tub, spa and fitness center

Full Hook-up RV Parking $299

Furnished Park Model $449

2 nights/3 days

2 nights/3 days

Sunday - Thursday (2 people)

$349

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Sunday - Thursday (2 people)

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Friday & Saturday (2 people) 2 nights/3 days

Additional Person(s)

$99/Per adult

(Sunday - Thursday)

$129/Per adult (Friday & Saturday)

Contact us today to book your stay!

22931 185th Street, Detroit Lakes, MN 56501 800.482.3441 I ForestHillsGolfRV.com info@foresthillsgolfrv.com I Like us on Facebook

BOATS & BARS

DETROIT MOUNTAIN

A PREMIERE RECREATION DESTINATION

Detroit Mountain Recreation Area, with its handsome ski lodge, cross country trails, ski, snowboarding and tubing hills, bike trails, hiking paths and more, has been the area’s premiere recreation destination since it opened in 2014. It offers outdoor opportunities for every season. For more information, visit detroitmountain.com.

LAKES, LAKES + MORE LAKES RIDE THE WAVES, TAKE A DIP OR DROP A LINE

With 412 lakes, plus rivers, streams and other waterways all within a 25-mile radius of Detroit Lakes, there are plenty of places to get wet.

One of the best ways to enjoy the area is by boat. The recreational lakes around town are popular for sailing, canoeing, jet skiing, kayaking, speedboating, pontooning, paddleboarding and other water sports, and it’s common for people to boat through several lakes at a time via the Pelican River chain. No boat? No problem. Rentals are available at J&K Marina at the Detroit Lakes City Beach.

If you’re just looking for a good place to take a dip or sunbathe, the city’s mile-long beach is a sure bet. It runs along West Lake Drive, south of downtown.

If you’re up for a fishing challenge, try muskie fishing. The muskie fishing opener is June 6, and Detroit Lake is one of the best muskie lakes in the state. Guide service is available throughout most of the area, or just get out there and hit the weedlines.

Big Elbow Lake www.jollyfisherman.com

1-800-927-2262

HATFIELD’S ISLAND VIEW RESORT on Beautiful Island Lake, Detroit Lakes, MN

218-847-8704

email: pahat4x8@aol.com

Close to Itasca State Park

hatfieldsislandviewresort.net

2020 WMSTR

SEPT 4 - SEPT 7 MALL HOURS: MONDAY-FRIDAY 10AM-8PM SATURDAY 9:30AM-5:30PM SUNDAY NOON-5PM 808 Washington Avenue Downtown Detroit Lakes WashingtonSquareMallDL.com

Full & Miniature Steam Train Rides Many Rare Steam & Gas Engines Tractor Pull, Prony Brake & Plowing Pioneer Ladies Exhibits & MORE!

Kids 14 & Under FREE

$14/day - $25/season pass • $45/4-day primitive camping

W estern M innesota s teaM t hreshers r eunion Every LABOR DAY Weekend

Great services • Unique shopping • Casual dining • Fun entertainment PAGE 20 | DESTINATIONS 2020

O

EXP OTTO

@WMSTR

Rollag, MN | www.rollag.com

SHOP ‘TIL YOU DROP From whimsical little shops like Red Willow to contemporary downtown retailers like The Nines, Detroit Lakes has a lot to offer in the way of shopping.

The Washington Square Mall, located right downtown, encompasses more than 20 local shops and businesses, including an 8-screen movie theatre. There are also LOCALS LOVE IT: independent thrift stores, THE POLAR FE ST boutique shops, and ICE SCULPTUR E Some years a full palace, some restaurants downtown. years a giant and lit-up throne, Antiquers won’t want to you won’t find an yth feat of community ing like this miss SuLaine’s Antique creativity and ingenuity anywhe re else this Mall, the area’s largest side of St. Paul. antiques and collectibles center, east of town on Highway 10.

CATERING Private Parties - Special Occasions Banquet Rooms or Off-Site

lunch specials • 11am–3pm $10 Sandwich of the day with choice of side

happy hour • 3-6pm

MONDAY - 1/2 PRICE BOTTLES OF WINE ALL DAY 1/2 price select apps from 9-10pm $450 domestic pints all day • $350 during Happy hour

voted #1 Restaurant #1 BBQ/RIBS in the Lakes Area 1100 North Shore Drive, Detroit Lakes MN

218-844-FIRE (3473)

North Shore – 46 people I South Shore – 88 people

spitfirebarandgrill.com LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 21

LOOK TO THE SKIES

DETROIT LAKES IS FOR THE BIRDS The Detroit Lakes area is home to over 250 species of birds, and is considered a migration hotspot. A mix of pine forests, deciduous woodlands, native tallgrass prairies, sand dunes, bogs, marshes, lakes and more make up a transition zone that attracts many avian visitors.

• The Pine to Prairie Birding Trail runs through Detroit Lakes and extends 300 miles north to Manitoba, Canada. It features 23 birding sites, most of which are on public land or private reserves open to the public. Birding trail logo signs are in place at a number of birding locations, with interpretive signs in place at featured sites.

• Excellent viewing of waterfowl and birds of prey is available at Hamden Slough, near Audubon. Its wetlands and natural grasslands are home to many interesting and unusual shore and marsh birds during their nesting and migratory seasons. Best viewing is during early morning and evening hours, May through November.

• Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge, located about 15 minutes northeast of Detroit Lakes, is also a great place to spot birds and other wildlife, as well as the buds and blooms of spring. The same can be said of Dunton Locks County Park, Sucker Creek Preserve and Maplewood State Park — all within easy driving distance of Detroit Lakes.

TOUR THE TOWN

ART & ARCHITECTURE WALKING TOUR As the name implies, this walking tour is all about interesting art and architecture in Detroit Lakes. Historical buildings like the Detroit Lakes Public Library and Detroit Lakes Pavilion are included on the tour, along with several notable murals, sculptures and other creative pieces in town. Designed to be family-friendly, the self-guided tour features two possible routes — a 1 mile and a 2.2 mile — with either 13 or 24 sites to be seen along the way, depending on which route you choose. The best way to take the tour is with an informational brochure in hand, available in the main entrance area of the Historic Holmes Theatre.

GO ON A FISH HUNT Did you know Detroit Lakes is home to 32 unique and decorative sunfish sculptures? Created and painted by local artists, the 4-foot “Sunny in DL” sculptures range from the serious to the silly: one is rosemaled, while another has sunglasses; one sports a sun, while another has arms. The fish were made in 2002, and can be found at locations all over town. Try and find them all!

PAGE 22 | DESTINATIONS 2020

TUBULAR, MAN FLOAT DOWN THE OTTER TAIL RIVER

Tube rides down the Otter Tail River are always a party, so grab your friends and head to Charlie’s Tubing (218-847-3258) and K & K Tubing (218-847-5734). Both are located seven miles east of Detroit Lakes on Highway 34.

BOAT LAUNCH

PET ALLOWED

GASOLINE

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BAIT AVAILABLE

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BOAT DOCK

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GRILL

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PLAYGROUND

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TELEVISION

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TUBS/SHOWERS/BOTH

HATFIELDS ISLAND 23546 Warbleway • Detroit Lakes, MN VIEW RESORT 218-847-8704

SHORT STAYS/ALL SEASONS

HANDICAP FACILITIES

AND CAMPGROUNDS

ACCEPT CREDIT CARDS

AREA RESORTS

FISHING LICENSE

DETROIT LAKES

Island Lake • Hatfield’s www.hatfieldsislandviewresort.com

6 Units • Camping & RV Sights • Clean spacious resort area.

THE HIDEAWAY 25574 E. Island Lake Road RESORT Detroit Lakes, MN

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Island Lake 218-847-6886 • 800-363-7122 Al & Marg Chirpich www.detroitlakes.com/hideaway

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Big Elbow Lake 800-927-2262 • 701-388-8042 Ann & Donnie www.jollyfisherman.com

DAY SPA

JOLLY FISHERMAN 39126 Jolly Fisherman Road RESORT Waubun, MN 56589

FITNESS CENTER

7 Units • Camping & RV Sights • Lakeside modern cabins, sandy beach. Near Tamarac Wildlife Refuge and Itasca State Park. Excellent fishing. Snowmobilers welcome.

15 Units • Close to Itasca State Park. Secluded comfort. Canoes, kayaks, paddle boards and paddle boats, no charge. Loon wake up calls. 3 seasons.

SHOREWOOD PUB 1743 Long Bridge Road

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AMERICA’S BEST 400 Morrow Ave VALUE INN Detroit Lakes, MN 56501

218-847-1651 • 888-315-2378 www.AmericasBestValueInn.com

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HANDICAP FACILITIES

AREA LODGING

INTERNET - WIRELESS

DETROIT LAKES

INTERNET - HARDWIRED

Camping/RV Sights: 20, Summer Camping May through October, primitive sites, electrical available.

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38 Rooms

QUALITY INN 615 Highway 10 East & SUITES DETROIT LAKES, MN 56501

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56 unites - pool, hottub, waterslide, fridge and microwave in all rooms

www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 23

CRUISE DL Drive your favorite cruiser down Detroit Lakes’ West Lake Drive, which runs along the City Beach, for an evening of classic car fun from 4-8:30 p.m., the second Wednesday of every month in June, July, August and September. Don’t have a classic car? That’s okay, just come view the variety on display. More than 200 cars have been known to gather at the beach for these monthly events.

STREET FAIRE AT THE LAKES TURNS 20 Street Faire at the Lakes will celebrate 20 years of fun, food and shopping in the downtown Detroit Lakes business district in 2020. A rain or shine annual event, this year’s faire will feature well over 100 artist booths, more than a dozen food vendors, a beer garden, musical entertainment, activities for kids and more. The Street Faire will go on Friday and Saturday, May 29 and 30. For more information, visit www.dlstreetfaire.com.

TEE ‘EM UP There are 10 golf courses within a short drive of the Detroit Lakes area. Whether you’re looking for an easy evening game among friends, a competitive match, nine holes or 18, there’s something for everyone.

Five minutes from Detroit Lakes are the Detroit Country Club, Lakeview Golf Course, Forest Hills Golf Course, Maple Hills Golf Course and River Hills Golf Course.

Of note is the week-long Pine to Palm Amateur Golf Tournament, one of Minnesota’s so-called “resort circuit” tourneys. Pine to Palm has been held at Detroit Country Club every August since 1932.

TUESDAYS IN THE PARK

GREAT MUSIC IN THE GREAT OUTDOORS Bring your lawn chair or a comfy blanket to sit on, and nestle next to the City Bandshell for Tuesdays in the Park. These weekly concerts at the City Park feature family-friendly performances by some of the area’s best musicians, playing every Tuesday in June, July and August. Concerts are free, with free will donations accepted. The music starts at 7 p.m. under the Bandshell, or inside the City Pavilion if there’s bad weather. Volunteers serve a free-will ‘Picnic in the Park’ before each show, starting at 6 p.m.

PAGE 24 | DESTINATIONS 2020

RIDE THE HILLS

OF BECKER COUNTY There are miles of ATV and OHV trails around, with the northeastern part of Becker County being a particular hotspot. The Forest Riders Trail in the Smoky Hills and Two Inlets State Forest is a 100-mile scenic ride through Becker and Hubbard counties, on terrain ranging from rolling and hilly to level and smooth. For more information and a route map, visit the Becker County Parks and Recreation Department website.

SADDLE UP FOR THE DOUBLE S RODEO August 14-15, Wojo’s Rodeo Performance will be coming back to Double S Arena to present a thrilling show of bareback bronc riding, saddle bronc, bull riding, breakaway, barrel racing, team roping, steer wrestling and more. There will be a food court with multiple vendors as well as tack, art, clothing and heavy equipment displays. Live music and dancing after each rodeo. Double S Arena is located five miles north of Detroit Lakes, on Highway 59. For more information, visit doublesarena.com.

HAVE A WILD TIME AT THE ZOO

GO PICKIN’ AT ‘THE FLEA’

Located five miles south of Detroit Lakes on Highway 59, the famous Shady Hollow Flea Market is open on the extended Memorial Day, Labor Day and 4th of July weekends as well as every Saturday and Sunday from Memorial Day through Labor Day. The market has more than 100 vendors, plenty of free parking, food and beverages sold on site, and live music. Visit shadyhollowfleamarket.com for more information.

The Trowbridge Creek Zoo, located south of town on County Highway 17, boasts camels and kangaroos as well as parrots, elk, deer, wolves, porcupines, alligators and many other animals.

Guests are able to feed pellet treats to some of the wild animals, and there’s also a petting zoo with tame animals like miniature ponies and goats.

Playground areas for kids add to the fun. The zoo is open Memorial Day through Labor Day, and on weekends as weather permits before and after that.

For more information, visit trowbridgecreekzoo.com.

SCREAM, SCREAM FOR ICE CREAM

POWWOWS THAT’LL WOW YOU

Chase after The Ice Cream Truck as it cruises around the Detroit Lakes City Park and Beach area on hot summer days, and then beat the heat with a frozen treat. The truck makes various stops around town every May through September. Visit The Ice Cream Truck Facebook page to find out where it’s headed next.

CATCH A SHOW AT THE HOLMES

CONCERTS, PLAYS, COMEDIANS + MORE The art-deco Historic Holmes Theatre offers an array of entertainment options, from local children’s theatre productions to professional touring dance groups, and from comedy acts to big-name concerts. Whether you’re planning a date night or just looking for something a little different to do, a visit to the Holmes is a great way to spend an evening in Detroit Lakes. For more information, visit dlccc.org/holmestheatre.html.

Detroit Lakes is located just south of the White Earth Reservation, and local members of the White Earth Nation host powwows throughout the year.

The biggest of them all, the White Earth Powwow, celebrates its 152nd year this summer.

Scheduled for June 12-14 at the powwow grounds in White Earth, it’ll offer native dance, food, art and dress in celebration of the day the reservation was created. Then, August 9-10, the Pine Point Powwow Grounds in Ponsford will host the annual Pine Point Powwow, which attracts hundreds of participants in a celebration of fellowship and history of the White Earth Band of Ojibwe in the Pine Point area. www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 25

DETROIT DETROIT LAKES LAKES

APRIL 3: The New Standards concert, Historic Holmes Theatre, Detroit Lakes 4: Maple Syrup Day, Vergas and Maplewood State Park 9: Jessica Vines concert, Historic Holmes Theatre, Detroit Lakes 24: Lakes Area Chorale concert, Historic Holmes Theatre, Detroit Lakes 25: Triple Espresso, Historic Holmes Theatre, Detroit Lakes 26: Lakes Area Community Concert Band, Historic Holmes Theatre, Detroit Lakes 27: Concordia Wind Quartet concert, Historic Holmes Theatre, Detroit Lakes MAY 1: Croce Plays Croce, Historic Holmes Theatre, Detroit Lakes 2: No Mercy MMA Fights XI, Freeman Arena, Detroit Lakes 7: Pat Lenertz Band, Historic Holmes Theatre, Detroit Lakes 9: Walleye and Bass Fishing Opener 13: Celebrate Aging Expo, Holiday Inn, Detroit Lakes 14-16: 23rd Annual Festival of Birds, Detroit Lakes 22-25: Avenue of Flags/ Memorial Walk, Oak Grove Cemetery, Detroit Lakes PAGE 26 | DESTINATIONS 2020

29-30: 20th Annual Street Faire at the Lakes, downtown Detroit Lakes JUNE Every Saturday & Sunday: Shady Hollow Flea Market, 12672 Cty. Hwy. 17, Detroit Lakes Every Tuesday & Saturday: Lakes Area Farmers Market, Peoples Park, Detroit Lakes Every Tuesday: Tuesdays in the Park Community Concert Series, Detroit Lakes City Park Every Thursday: Summer Thursday Concerts, Lodge on Lake Detroit Every Saturday: Live Music, Richwood Winery, Richwood Every Saturday & Sunday: Discovery Dives, Tri-State Diving, Detroit Lakes 5-6: Hawley Rodeo, Hawley 6: Muskie Fishing Opener 10: Cruise DL Night, West Lake Drive, Detroit Lakes 12-14: 152nd Annual White Earth Powwow, on the White Earth Powwow grounds 20: 6th Annual Summer Solstice Festival, Richwood Winery, Richwood 27: 6th Annual Antique & Classic Boat Show, Detroit Lakes 27-28: 14th Annual Quake the Lake Powerboat Races, Detroit Lakes

EVENTS CALENDAR

JULY Every Saturday & Sunday: Shady Hollow Flea Market, 12672 Cty. Hwy. 17, Detroit Lakes Every Tuesday & Saturday: Lakes Area Farmers Market, Peoples Park, Detroit Lakes Every Tuesday: Tuesdays in the Park Community Concert Series, Detroit Lakes City Park Every Thursday: Summer Thursday Concerts, Lodge on Lake Detroit Every Saturday: Live Music, Richwood Winery, Richwood Every Saturday & Sunday: Discovery Dives, Tri-State Diving, Detroit Lakes 4: Fireworks at the City Beach, Detroit Lakes 8: Cruise DL Night, West Lake Drive, Detroit Lakes 10-19: 85th Annual Northwest Water Carnival, Detroit Lakes 11: Music on the Mountain with Billy Currington, Detroit Mountain, Detroit Lakes 23-26: 66th Annual Turkey Days, Frazee 26: 42nd Annual Arts & Crafts in the Park, Detroit Lakes City Park 29-Aug. 1: Becker County Fair, Detroit Lakes

AUGUST Every Saturday & Sunday: Shady Hollow Flea Market, 12672 Cty. Hwy. 17, Detroit Lakes Every Tuesday & Saturday: Lakes Area Farmers Market, Peoples Park, Detroit Lakes Every Tuesday: Tuesdays in the Park Community Concert Series, Detroit Lakes City Park Every Thursday: Summer Thursday Concerts, Lodge on Lake Detroit Every Saturday: Live Music, Richwood Winery, Richwood Every Saturday & Sunday: Discovery Dives, Tri-State Diving, Detroit Lakes 4: Crazy Daze, downtown Detroit Lakes 6-9: Looney Days, Vergas 8: Blues, Beer & BBQ Festival, Washington Ballpark, Detroit Lakes 9-10: Pine Point Powwow 10-16: 89th Annual Pine to Palm Golf Tournament, Detroit Country Club, Detroit Lakes 12: Cruise DL Night, West Lake Drive, Detroit Lakes 14: 2nd Annual Detroit Lakes Craft Beer Tour, Washington Ballpark, Detroit Lakes

14: Young Life Family Fun Night, Detroit Lakes City Park 14: Firefighters Street Dance, Lakeside Tavern, Detroit Lakes 14-15: Harvest Festival, Wolf Lake 14-15: 4th Annual Double S Rodeo, Detroit Lakes 15: Cormorant Days Festival, Cormorant Village 27-29: Muscatell Ojibwe Forests Rally Racing, Detroit Lakes 29: 15th Annual Boats & Bars, Detroit Lakes SEPTEMBER Every Tuesday & Saturday: Lakes Area Farmers Market, Peoples Park, Detroit Lakes Every Saturday: Live Music, Richwood Winery, Richwood 5-6: 30th Annual Laddies Loppet Mountain Bike Races, Maplelag 5-6: Shady Hollow Flea Market, Detroit Lakes 9: Cruise DL Night, West Lake Drive 11: Toast to Tamarac, Richwood Winery, Richwood 12: 25th Annual Dick Beardsley Run, Detroit Lakes

12: Grape Stomp, Richwood Winery, Richwood 17: United Way Community Celebration, Detroit Lakes Pavilion 19: Fall Festival, Hawley 26: Pumpkin Fest, Lake Park 26: Fall Festival, Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge 26-27: Leaf Days, Maplewood State Park OCTOBER Every Tuesday & Saturday: Lakes Area Farmers Market, Peoples Park, Detroit Lakes 3: “I Outran the Hairy Man” 5K, Vergas 3: Damien Society Fall Home Tour, Detroit Lakes NOVEMBER 1-30: Light Up the Lakes Events, Detroit Lakes 22-29: Parade of Trees, American Legion, Lake Park 27: Ski Season Opener, Detroit Mountain Recreation Area, Detroit Lakes 28: Old-Fashioned Christmas, Vergas 30: Santa’s Grand Parade of Lights, downtown Detroit Lakes

LOCALS LOVE IT:

LONG BRIDGE BAR, GRILL & MARINA With its casual, be achy atmosphere, this joint reflects what summertim e in Detroit Lakes is all about. Stroll up in your swimsuit, gra b a drink , and en joy some live outdoor music . the wings — they’v Also, try e been voted the best in town.

DECEMBER 1-31: Light Up the Lakes Events, Detroit Lakes 20: Candles & Carols, Trinity Lutheran Church, Detroit Lakes 31: New Year’s Eve Bash, Detroit Lakes Community & Cultural Center JANUARY 2021 TBD: ULTRA 80s & Older Classic Cruise Snowmobile Ride, Detroit Lakes

FEBRUARY 2021 TBD: Polar Fest, Detroit Lakes MARCH 2021 TBD: Moosejaw OldTime Dance, Clogging & Music Weekend, Maplelag Resort, Callaway TBD: Spring Splash and Pond Skim, Detroit Mountain Recreation Area, Detroit Lakes TBD: Lake Region Builders Association Home & Sport Show, Kent Freeman Arena

IT’S A JUNGLE OUT THERE! A unique stay, an experience to remember!

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK MEMORIAL DAY THROUGH LABOR DAY Spring and fall hours may vary.

Karinall Estate is a 9,400 sq foot year-round home with 300 feet of lakeshore on Wymer Lake. It is a great setting for a family reunion, friends getaway, small wedding or even a corporate retreat. We can take care of the details for you. Located two miles south of Frazee and just 12 miles east of Detroit Lakes.

At Karinall every room is named and themed after a classic book. Karinall has 8 bedrooms, 18 beds and sleeps up to 24 people. The kitchen has place settings for 65, 2 sinks, 2 refrigerators, 3 ovens, a stove, and a dishwasher. Karinall features a hot tub/exercise room, a pool table for entertainment, even an atrium with live trees, a waterfall and bistro tables.

50622 CO. HWY 17 VERGAS, MN

Visit www.Karinallestate.com for more info.

218-234-9513 to schedule your stay or corporate event.

(218) 731-8711 www.trowbridgecreekzoo.com

(Between Vergas & Hwy 59)

www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 27

TRUCKS + TUNES GET DOWN WHILE YOU CHOW DOWN! Trucks and Tunes is a newer event at the City Park Bandshell that pairs food trucks with live outdoor concerts. Taking place on select Thursdays from 5-8 p.m., June through August, a handful of food trucks park and serve their unique brands of tasty grub as live music rocks the bandshell. For dates and other information, visit dlccc.org/trucksandtunes.html.

LOCALS LOVE IT:

BUFFALO BURG ERS AT SUNLITE Though it’s their hand-pattied beef burgers that have been named “best burger” by the De troit Lakes Tribune ’s annual Readers’ Choice Awards, the family-owned Sunlite Bar & Grill has a cult following for its and bison burgers. elk

Home of the Famous

Thunder Burger

GLIKS.COM

@GLIKSOFFICIAL

Ice Cracking Lodge Est. 1934

OWNERS - BRIAN AND TANDRA PARSONS

Class 2 Slot Machines BINGO: TELECONFERENCE MONDAY 6PM FRIDAY 6PM RESERVATIONS RECOMMENDED

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30389 COUNTY HWY 35 • PONSFORD MN, 56575 • (218)573-3631 PAGE 28 | DESTINATIONS 2020

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Lakes Liquors

The Detroit Mountain Recreation Area is a first-class four-season recreational destination in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota. The mountain features brand new ski lifts, a new terrain park, midwest’s largest tubing hill and cross country ski trails. In spring, summer and fall there are beautiful hiking trails with a special scenic outlook.

Purpose-built biking trails have been professionally designed and engineered to host all level of mountain bike enthusiasts. Detroit Mountain Recreation Area is truly a place for everyone! We look forward to seeing you in 2020!

Family friendly rodeo held in Detroit Lakes, MN. August 14th at 7 pm and August 15th 6 pm. Follow us on facebook for details. Action packed night with 13 different events! Enter your kid in mutton busting. First come first serve. Awesome food vendors and jewelry, leather, and tack vendors as well. End each night on the dance floor with Silverado Friday night and Trey Windhorst Saturday night. Stock contractor, Wojo’s Rodeo Performance.

Double S also holds a summer barrel league. Barrel shows Wednesday evening, check online for dates.

Almost every Wednesday a barrel jackpot is held. Check us out at our facebook page ‘Double S Arena Barrel Shows’ for updates.

Family owned and operated by the Cervenkas for over 47 years, the Shorewood Pub is located on the sunny side of the lake! This is your PARTY PLACE! Fundraisers, Anniversaries, Class Reunions, Birthdays, Weddings, Corporate Parties...YOU NAME IT...WE’LL HOST IT! NO EXTRA CHARGE! Genuine hospitality served daily.

There’s always something going on at the Pub! We invite you in for the big game, Nascar race, pool and dart leagues, Booty Chaser Bingo! or just some of the...very best...HOMEMADE SANDWICHES and BURGERS IN TOWN! SUMMER CAMPING May thru October.

Open at 11 am, 7 days a week.

Welcome to Lakes Liquor located in the Downtown Crossing addition.

Stop in and check out our beer cave, wide selection of wine and craft beers along with 30 cooler doors to shop from.

www.detroitmountain.com P.O. Box 1039 Detroit Lakes, MN 218-844-7669

Doublesarena.com Hwy 59 North Detroit Lakes, MN 218-234-7491

1743 Long Bridge Road Detroit Lakes, MN 218-847-3206

200 Holmes Street East Detroit Lakes, MN 218-846-1180

Lakes Liquor is owned and operated by the City of Detroit Lakes.

It’s a premier libation destination for residents and tourists alike.

As a city-owned establishment, proceeds from the store funnel directly back into the Detroit Lakes community. Stop in and see us, and ask about volume discounts.

Hours of Operation: 9:00am10:00pm Monday-Saturday.

11am-6pm Sunday.

SPONSORED CONTENT

Detroit Lakes Community and Cultural Center

Bleachers Bar & Grill

Detroit Lakes Northwest Water Carnival

Jack Chivers Realty

Seven Sisters Spirits

J & K Marine

Detroit Lakes Community and Cultural Center

Bleachers Bar & Grill

Detroit Lakes Northwest Water Carnival

Jack Chivers Realty

Bring the whole family for a fun-filled experience in “The Backyard,” the LARGEST indoor playland in the region. The DLCCC is a state-of-theart theatre, fitness, aquatic and recreation center featuring cardio equipment, weights, an 8-lane pool with waterslide, running/walking track, racquetball, basketball and much more. People of all ages come here for fitness & fun, making the DLCCC THE Center to learn, grow and play. The Historic Holmes Theatre, adjacent to the fitness, aquatic & recreation center, present entertainment all year long ranging from local & regional to national and world talent!

There’s even outdoor entertainment featured in the DL City Park. www.dlccc.org 826 Summit Avenue Detroit Lakes, MN 218-844-4221

Lakes Area’s Best Sports Bar featuring a 75” HD TV. Come check out our daily lunch specials. Enjoy our scenic deck overlooking Dead Shot Bay for a relaxing setting. Play a game of volleyball on our regulation beach sand court! Happy hour MondayFriday 3:00-6:00 p.m. 2-4-1 burgers every Sunday 5:00-8:00 p.m.

We look forward to seeing you at BLEACHERS in 2020!

The Northwest Water Carnival is a must stop destination this summer.

This has been a staple in DL since its inception in 1935, and this year promises to be an amazing celebration that you will not want to miss. Kickoff Party Friday, July 10 featuring 32 below. Some other events of the 85th Water Carnival events include the Miss Northwest Pageant, Demo Derby, Bed Races, Water Fights, Bash on the Beach and Parade of the Northwest to name a few. Check out dljaycees. com for a complete list of events.

Pre-Bash Party Friday, July 17th with Terry Clark. This year’s Bash on the Beach, Saturday, July 18th, features Clay Walker.

The Chivers are a group of local realtors who dedicate their passion and knowledge to one thing: Lake Style Living. We believe that living at the lake is more than just establishing a homestead. This gift from nature drives us to share our way of living with our clients. It’s a lifestyle we know and like to share.

If you are looking to find your place in the area try our intuitive map search at jcrlake.com to find real estate property for sale in the location you desire.

Meet with one of our local real estate experts at our downtown Detroit Lakes office.

P.O. Box 456, Detroit Lakes, MN Mandie - 320-444-5603 Annette - 218-234-9012

816 Washington Avenue Detroit Lakes (218) 847-3112

25807 Cty. Hwy. 22 Detroit Lakes, MN 218-844-6820

Seven Sisters Spirits

J & K Marine

Voted the Best Liquor Store in the Lakes Area two years running.

The inventory at Seven Sisters Spirits is as unique as the experience.

Standing grand and beautiful, the log building both fits in with the surrounding lakes feel and also stands out as a destination most anyone would like to visit.

Seven Sisters caters to the customer.

Once through the door, you will find an unsurpassed selection of beverages. Besides the 23 coolers filled with domestic and imported beers, there are shelves filled with craft beers where customers can build their own six packs.

Monday-Saturday 8 AM-10 PM • SUNDAYS 11 AM-6 PM MEMORIAL DAY THRU LABOR DAY 25275 S. Melissa Dr. Detroit Lakes, MN 218-847-BEER (2337) 218-846-WINE (9463)

J & K Marine was founded in 1992.

We‘re open 7 days a week and we offer a complete list of marine services. We carry Alumacraft Fishing boats, Sanger Tow boats, Larson Sport boats, G3 boats, South Bay and Cypress Cay pontoons. We also sell, service and deliver Beach King docks & lifts, with a full display in our showroom on Highway 10 in Detroit Lakes…OR visit our Marina on Little Detroit Lake for all our rental opportunities! We’ll see you at the lakes!

www.jkmarine.com Wine Lake Rd Detroit Lakes, MN 218-847-0324 or 121 West Lake Drive Detroit Lakes, MN 218-847-7291

SPONSORED CONTENT

Main Street Restaurant

Callaway Municipal Liquor Store

Recreations Salvage

Becker County Museum

Street Faire at the Lakes

Sapphire Sushi, Hibachi & American Cuisine

Main Street Restaurant

Callaway Municipal Liquor Store

If you want to experience one of Detroit Lakes’‘local hangouts’, you have to stop by Main Street Restaurant! They have been voted the “Best Breakfast in Town” and they are sure to deliver. Main Street Restaurant offers quality, homemade food and big portions at a reasonable price. Daily breakfast and lunch specials round out the plethora of menu options. Homemade caramel rolls, cookies and muffins can be picked up for a quick breakfast or enjoyed with a bottomless cup of coffee and some good conversation with the locals. No matter what you’re in the mood for, you’re sure to find it at Main Street Restaurant on Washington Avenue, in the heart of Detroit Lakes.

Located 11 miles North of Detroit Lakes on HWY 59. Stop at our Non Smoking Establishment and PLAY our gaming machines. Avoid the wait and shop here for your Off Sale purchases, Senior Discounts of 10% every Wednesday in our Off Sale.

Callaway Liquor is owned and operated by the City of Callaway.

As a city owned establishment, proceeds from the store funnel directly back into the Callaway community. Stop in, we have a lot to offer: Large selection of pizza and appetizers, TV’s to watch all your sporting events, Bar Bingo Friday and Monday at 6pm, AGS Gaming machines, Pull tabs, On-site ATM Happy Hour M-F 1-3 & 4-6 Sat 12-1 & 4-6

900 Washington Ave. Detroit Lakes, MN 218-847-3344

Hwy 59 North Callaway, MN

Recreations Salvage Recreationalsalvage.com sells the largest inventory of rebuildable items in the Tri-State area!

Search our wide selection of powersports! Looking for a do-ityourself project that you can do at home on the weekends, to teach your kids a hobby you love, or to keep you busy during retirement?

We list boats, pontoons, campers / RVs, ATVs, snowmobiles, motorcycles and much more!

New items arriving daily! Visit recreationalsalvage.com today!

1682 US-10 Detroit Lakes, MN 218-844-3033

Becker County Museum

The Becker Museum has something for everyone. From a 100lb meteorite, to the world’s smallest gas station to the legend of Old Three Legs, the museum displays the stories of our past. Our research library is filled with photos, newspapers, family records, yearbooks, township records and more. The lower level features science and children’s activities giving visitors of all ages the opportunity for a hands-on learning experience. Downtown History tours, Brown Bag Lunches, Flashlight Tours, Cemetery Walks and our log cabin and schoolhouse (during the Becker County Fair) brings history to life for visitors. Don’t forget to stop in the gift shop to find work from local authors, musicians, visual artists and more!

The Becker County Museum is open Tuesday thru Saturday from 10am-4pm. For more information, please feel free to contact us.

714 Summit Avenue Detroit Lakes, MN 56501 218-847-2938 www.beckercountyhistory.org follow us on Facebook!

Street Faire at the Lakes Friday May 29 & Saturday 30, 2020, kick off your summer with two days of fun in beautiful downtown Detroit Lakes! The Street Faire features an arts and craft show (over 130 artists booths), free live music, a variety of fair food, kid’s entertainment, beer garden, and more! Stay and play at the lakes for fun, food and festivities for the official kick-off to summer during the 20th Annual Street Faire at the Lakes.

Downtown Detroit Lakes Detroit Lakes, MN 218-844-7469 www.DLStreetFaire.com

Sapphire Sushi, Hibachi & American Cuisine If you want to experience Detroit Lakes newest restaurant drop by and check us out.

We are family owned and operated and pride ourselves on the freshest and highest quality food.

Daily Lunch and Dinner specials along with a full bar.

Happy Hour Monday-Sunday 3pm-6pm.

The menu ranges from Sushi, Hibachi and American Food including official broasted chicken to please everyone’s tastes.

Open 11am everyday.

705 US Hwy 10 East Detroit Lakes, Mn 56501 218-844-0220

DESTINATION PERHAM PROGRESSIVE LITTLE CITY WITH A BIG HEART

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In addition, Perham is home to two renowned museums, a dog park, traditional and disc golf courses, the historic Pioneer Village, a skate park, a retro-style movie theater, a community pool and fitness center, and public library. Walking paths and recreational trails wind through town, connecting to the city’s parks, schools and athletic fields.

Downtown, Perham’s shopping corridor is a consistent hit with visitors, with a unique variety of specialty shops, clothing stores, eateries and more.

In addition, the area’s mix of prairie, wetlands and forests, along with its record number of lakes and other waterways, creates a diverse ecosystem fit for wildlife watching, fishing, hunting, birding, swimming, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, hiking, camping, and the list goes on.

hidden gem in the heart of Lakes Country, Perham boasts a charming downtown full of unique boutiques and restaurants, fun and family-friendly community festivals, and tons of opportunities for outdoor recreation, Seated in the northeastern corner of Otter Tail County, along Highway 10 between Wadena and Detroit Lakes, the city’s yearround residents number around 3,500, but the area’s population swells to three times that in the summers, when seasonal lake home and cabin owners are factored in.

On just about any given weekend, but especially between June and August, the Perham community calendar is packed with things to do. Events and festivals such as the International Turtle Races, East Otter Tail County Fair, Turtle Fest, Pioneer Fest and many others provide entertainment for kids and adults alike.

Your Next Lake Side Resort Vacation Destination - Dead Lake! hts Resort Northern Lig “Come and enjoy the good life” at Northern Lights Resort on Dead Lake.

t offers 10 , family resor Our clean, funcabins and 8 campsitesa c a/ rn m de .co ca mo . Lo ted on resort ter/electricity y beach and exwww.northernlights 3 withlm wa 34 a sand th -2 wi 58 y ba -7 18 ca laundry, bath/ #2 tsresort.com cellent fishing. Gas,dbastoit,re onsite. info@northernligh e an us ho ers ow N sh RICHVILLE, M

PAGE 32 | DESTINATIONS 2020

Sunset Bay Resor

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10 CABINS -

...with fire pits, Adi rondac chairs, picnic tables,k charcoal grills 7 total nightly/weekly campsi electric, 3 with wa tes, 4 with water/ ter/electric/sewer.

Restrooms/Showers .

On site boat launch , laundry, expanded game room, and new guest lounge!

550 feet of clea with swim platformn soft sand beach and water sports Exceptional fishing

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www.sunsbay.com

Email us at info@sunsbay.c , om or call 1-800-786-7229 for reservations RICHVILLE, MN

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Kimps Ka

12 CABINS -

kitchens, ...with full ocks and 8d Pontoons boat lifts, for rent, ts a o b d n a y fire pit Communit Friendly. t e P , a re a round and playg esort.comations. rv impskampr site www.k. Call 218-758-2555 for rese eb W r ou k Chec p@aol.com

or email us at

kimpskam

DENT, MN

PERHAM PERHAM

TBD: Community Carnival, New York Mills TBD: Perham Area Community Musical DECEMBER 1-24: Perham Christmas Promotion 7: Community Christmas Party, New York Mills City Hall Ballroom TBD: Otter Dazzle, Ottertail

WINTER ACTIVITIES

GASOLINE

BAIT AVAILABLE

BOAT/MOTOR RENTAL/PONTOON

BOAT LAUNCH

GRILL

SAUNA/WHIRLPOOL

GOLF/NEAR/ON

TENNIS/NEAR/ON

* Dates may change, and new events are added throughout the year. For more information, visit perham.com.

PLAYGROUND

SWIMMING AREA

RECREATION ROOM

SCREENED PORCH

CONVENIENCE STORE

TELEVISION

PETS ALLOWED

LAUNDRY FACILITIES

INTERNET/WIFI

AIR CONDITIONING

Black Powder Rendezvous, Perham Pioneer Grounds SEPTEMBER TBD: Lakes Area Home Tour, Perham OCTOBER TBD: Harvest Fest, Perham TBD: Pumpkin Festival, Ottertail NOVEMBER 6-7: Women of FOCUS Annual Christmas Plus Bazaar 27: Holiday Parade of Lights, Perham TBD: Christmas Tree Festival, New York Mills

HOUSEKEEPING CABINS

TUBS/SHOWERS/BOTH

HANDICAP ACCESSIBLE

SHORT STAYS/ALL SEASON

ACCEPT CREDIT CARDS

FISHING LICENSE

PERHAM LAKES AREA RESORTS & CAMPGROUNDS

CAMPING/RV SITES

at Turtle Park in downtown Perham; 10 a.m. registration, races begin at 10:30 a.m. For more info, call the Perham Area Chamber at 218-346-7710 4: Fireworks, Krueger Field/East Otter Tail County Fairgrounds in Perham, 10 p.m.

10: Lund Mania Summer Celebration and Fishing Tournament, New York Mills 11-12: Phelps Mill Arts Festival 23-26: East Otter Tail County Fair AUGUST Every Wednesday: International Turtle Races at Turtle Park in downtown Perham; 10 a.m. registration, races begin at 10:30 a.m. For more info, call the Perham Area Chamber at 218-346-7710 21: Corn Feed and Puppet Pageant Festival, New York Mills 22-23: Finn Creek Summer Folk Festival, New York Mills TBD: Pioneer Days and

NUMBER OF UNITS

APRIL 18-19: The Gathering Sporting Collectible Show, Perham Area Community Center MAY 22: Perham Area Chamber Golf Scramble, Perham Golf Course JUNE Every Wednesday: International Turtle Races at Turtle Park in downtown Perham; 10 a.m. registration, races begin at 10:30 a.m. For more info, call the Perham Area Chamber at 218-346-7710 13: Great American Think-Off, New York Mills School Auditorium 13: 18th Annual Ronald McDonald House Ride, New York Mills VFW 17-21: Perham Turtle Fest 20: Rib Cook-Off, downtown Perham JULY Every Wednesday: International Turtle Races

EVENTS CALENDAR

PERHAM/RICHVILLE/DENT/ BATTLE LAKE RESORTS KIMP'S KAMP RESORT

38267 White Haven Rd. Dent, MN 56528

218-758-2555 218-298-2716 www.kimpskampresort.com kimpskamp@aol.com John & Loranda Kimple

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Dead Lake • Pontoons, bonfire pit. Come for a relaxing family vacation.

NORTHERN LIGHTS RESORT

35387 Northern Lights Trail Richville, MN 56576

218-758-2343 www.northernlightsresort.com nlr@northernlightsresort.com Mark & Karen Seaton

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Dead Lake. Open year around. Brand New! Eleven Seasonal Sites. Sandy beach, protected bay, clean, fun, modern family resort. Rave (water trampoline). Stand up paddle boards. Kayaks. Paddle boats, innertubes, canoe free for guests.

Campfire rings. Shower/restroom facility & dump station for campers. Water/electric hookups. All cabins air conditioned, housekeeping. Wi-Fi available. Spring/Fall packages.

SUNSET BAY RESORT

38274 Co Hwy 44, Richville, MN 56576

218-758-2080 800-SUNSBAY (786-7229) www.sunsbay.com info@sunsbay.com Jim & Kristin Wherley

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Dead Lake. Expanded in 2019 to now include 10 cabins and 7 campsites (3 sites with full hookups)! Family fun. secluded, wooded 15 acres w/550’ of clean sandy beach. Outdoor, indoor & water activities. Wi-Fi available. campfire pits. Spring & Fall special rates and short stays. Air conditioning extra charge. 1 unit with screened porch, some units include television. New children’s play set to explore, and guest laundry with new Kinetico soft water system servicing the entire resort added in 2016!!

www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 33

LOCALS LOVE IT:

THE WADENA TR EEHOUSE This little-known getaway on the ed ge of town puts you among the branc hes of some massive tre es . If you’re thinking rustic, thi nk again. This ho use has a full kitchen , bath, two floors of living space and a huge deck with a grill to boot. If yo u care to get down , there’s plenty of room to play on the heavenly property . Arrange a visit by calling the ow ners at 218-639-8017.

DESTINATION WADENA GOOD THINGS ARE HAPPENING HERE

S

omething good is happening in Wadena.

That’s a motto the city has embraced recently as it enjoys a resurgence of new businesses throughout town.

It’s a place where you can start your day by sinking your teeth into a fresh donut, sample just-roasted coffee, and continue shopping in the historic art deco downtown. Or step out to one of the many outdoor opportunities in and outside of Wadena’s city limits. Make your way back into town later for a movie or a fresh brew before staying the night in one of Minnesota’s first treehouse vacation rentals.

WADENA’S CROWNING EVENT JUNE JUBILEE

Wadena is pulling out all the stops for this year’s big summer event, June Jubilee. Events take place June 12-13, in partial unison with the All-School Reunion on June 11-14.

Find special deals throughout the city, a city-wide garage sale, parade, outdoor music concerts, sporting events and fireworks.

PAGE 34 | DESTINATIONS 2020

JUNE JUBILEE

WHISKEY CREEK FILM FESTIVAL Wadena becomes a mecca of film buffs each September during the annual Whiskey Creek Film Festival. This event packs an impressive field of films into a week-long festival with food, films and conversation at the historic Cozy Theatre.

Check out whiskeycreekfilmfestival.org for the latest info and dates.

HANG OUT IN BACK ALLEYS NO REALLY The back alleys of downtown Wadena may seem like strange places for tourists to hang out, but there’s something truly unexpected to be found there — unique and eye-opening murals that tell the story of Minnesota’s history. Murals of Minnesota, also known as the Alley Arts Project, features dozens of huge, colorful murals depicting the people and places that have shaped the state’s history over the past 1,000 years.

TAKE THE PIG N’ WING CHALLENGE If it’s barbecue you’re after, look no further than the annual Pig N’ Wing Challenge for a sampling of dozens of wing and rib flavors from the region’s best BBQ artists. This event takes place at the Wadena County Fairgrounds and is put on by the Wadena Lions Club. Also check out a car show on site, but keep your BBQ sauce-covered fingers off the rides.

SEE IF YOU CAN SURVIVE THE ZOMBIE RUN Want to find out if you’d survive a zombie apocalypse? Wadena has a peculiar new event that mixes people’s strange love for running with their even stranger fascination with zombies. Those that make it through Wadena’s gorgeous Black’s Grove Park with flags intact are survivors, and those that don’t are still rewarded with food and drink following the run. Scream on over to this event. The next Zombie Run will have you running for your life at noon on Saturday, Oct. 10. www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 35

DAR EVENTS CALEN

THE HISTORIC WADENA DEPOT The restored, historic Wadena Depot hosts a number of community and arts events throughout the year, and is the new home of the Wadena Chamber of Commerce. It is located at Burlington Northern Park near the intersections of U.S. Highway 10 and 71, where you can still sit and watch the trains roar past. For more information, visit thedepotwadena.org.

WHITETAIL RUN GOLF COURSE Golfers will want to experience this champion-caliber course north of town. It’s a Joel Goldstand 18-hole course that captures the beauty and challenge of this place “where the prairie meets the woodland.” For more information, call 218-631-7718.

APRIL 19: Colton Dixon, Citizen Way, Manic Drive Concert, Wadena Memorial Auditorium, 6 p.m.

MAY 22: England Prairie Pioneer pancake fundraiser, 4:30-7:30 p.m.

JUNE 11-13: City-Wide Garage Sales 11-14: Wadena-Deer Creek All School Reunion 12-13: June Jubilee 12: Historic Carnival, Wadena County Historical Society Museum, Noon-3 p.m.

12: Katie Dahl, SingerSongwriter, Wadena Depot, 7 p.m.

13: Family Fun Day, SunnyBrook Park, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

18-21: Wadena County Fair, Wadena County Fairgrounds 20: Arena, rock band, Wadena County Fairgrounds, 8 p.m.

21: Enduro Race Series, Wadena County Fairgrounds Track, 2 p.m.

26: Kathie Brekke and 42nd Street Jazz, Wadena Depot, 7 p.m.

27: Wings & Wheels Over Wadena, Wadena Airport, 7 a.m.-1 p.m.

JULY 12: Enduro Race Series, Wadena County Fairgrounds Track, 2 p.m.

14: Tri-County Health Care Block Party, Wesley Lawn

16: Wadena Lions Summer BBQ, Burlington Northern Park, 11 a.m.-7 p.m.

31: Camp Madhatter Showcase Performance, Wadena Memorial Auditorium, 7 p.m.

AUGUST 9: Enduro Race Series, Wadena County Fairgrounds Track, 2 p.m.

10: Tri-County Health Care Golf Classic, Whitetail Run Golf Course 13: Rotary Chicken Feed, Burlington Northern Park 15: Pig N’ Wing Challenge, Wadena County Fairgrounds 21-23: England Prairie Pioneer Club Show Days, England Prairie Pioneer grounds SEPTEMBER 11-17: Whiskey Creek Film Festival, Cozy Theatre 13: Enduro Race Series, Wadena County Fairgrounds Track, 2 p.m.

18: England Prairie Pioneer pancake fundraiser, 4:30-7:30 p.m.

18: Fred Keller, singersongwriter, Wadena Depot, 7 p.m.

26: Princess Warrior 5K. Registration at 8:30 a.m., event at 10 a.m. More information at princesswarriorwadena.com.

27: Enduro Champion Race, Wadena County Fairgrounds Track, 2 p.m.

area are all offered at Tapley Park. The park is located on Lincoln Avenue Southwest and encompasses about 18 acres.

The Southwest Playground on Fourth Street provides numerous activities for children, including a playground, courts for basketball, tennis and volleyball, soccer and baseball fields, and skating in the winter. A warming house and restrooms are on site.

At the center of the city is Burlington Northern

Park, a place where people of all ages gather during the summertime. The park offers a picnic area, bandstand and access to the historic train depot.

The Softball and Horseshoe Complex is on the southwest side of town, at Second Street. Home to summer recreation baseball and softball programs, this complex includes four fenced softball fields, competitive horseshoe pits, a concession area, restrooms and a winter sliding hill.

HIT UP THE PARKS Wadena boasts a total of more than 200 acres of playgrounds and parks.

Sunnybrook Park, just east of Wadena with access from U.S. Highway 10, is the largest park in the city, with 78 acres of grass, water, pines and oak trees. Fish for trout and sunfish, grill out or have picnics, play disc golf, volleyball or softball, and play on the playground. A children’s zoo has buffalo, deer, peacocks and golden pheasants. There are also semi-enclosed shelters and a campground.

On the other side of town, PAGE 36 | DESTINATIONS 2020

two miles west of Wadena, is Black’s Grove Park.

Surrounded by majestic oak trees and pines, this 50-year-old park provides a place for relaxation. Trails are suitable for hiking in the summer, and children will enjoy playing in a log shelter or watching for wildlife. A long and winding ski trail can be used for hiking, mountain biking or cross-country skiing in winter.

A soccer field, basketball and volleyball courts, nature trails, horseshoe pits, a shelter, restrooms and play

4 Seasons of Adventure

CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU FOR MORE INFO: (218) 632-7704, (877) 631-7704

www.wadenachamber.com/cvb

AMERICINN® OF WADENA Toll-Free Reservations:

1-800-634-3444 www.americinn.com

EASTWOOD INN OF WADENA

Toll-Free Reservations:

1-877-425-7026

www.eastwoodinnwadena.com

BROOKSIDE MOTEL

Toll-Free Reservations:

1-800-929-4603

www.brooksidemotel.org

SUNNYBROOK PARK & CAMPGROUND 218-631-7707 Ext 204

TREE HOUSE GETAWAY 218-639-8017 or 218-639-2359

DESTINATION STAPLES A RAILROAD TOWN THROUGH AND THROUGH

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ith a new hotel in town, you can stay after you play in the beauty that surrounds the quiet city of Staples.

There’s plenty of parking and no lines to keep you from enjoying a float down the slow-moving Crow Wing River.

Take a walk, bike or roll down the new paved paths around town and you’ll find they take you to a special place called Living Legacy Gardens. This place has more flowers, shrubs, plants and butterflies than your senses can handle.

If you need more adventure, head to one of the many nature areas in town, like Pine Grove Park, which sports towering pines from days of old. Take rest in their shade while enjoying an amateur baseball game.

Walk around town for a taste of a variety of food options. Don’t forget to watch the sunset while strolling on Minnesota’s longest fishing pier, on Dower Lake.

More information about Staples and the surrounding area can be found online at greaterstaples.com.

EVENTS CALENDAR APRIL 4: Lions Easter Eggstravaganza, Staples Community Center MAY 2: Spring Craft and Vendor Expo, Staples Community Center 25: Memorial Day Ceremony, Evergreen Hill Cemetery 29: Host Lions Par 3 Challenge, The Vintage Golf Course 30: Sprint Into Summer 5K PAGE 38 | DESTINATIONS 2020

and 1K, Sacred Heart School.

Registration at 8:30 a.m., event starts at 9:30 TBD: Lumberbats, Amateur Baseball Season Opener, Pine Grove Park, Saturdays and Sundays, 1:30 p.m.

JUNE 8-12, 15-19: Lamp Camp, Game of Myths theatre camp for children ages 8-18, Centennial Auditorium, Lamplighter Community Theatre 20: Motley June Fest, Motley Fairgrounds

RAILROAD DAYS PARADE 21: Father’s Day Best Ball, The Vintage Golf Course 21: Lamp Camp public performance, Centennial Auditorium at Staples-Motley High School JULY 12: Music in the Park, Northern Pacific Park, StaplesMotley Area Arts Council, 7 p.m.

16: Bruce the Bug Guy, Staples Regional Library, 2 p.m.

19: Music in the Park, Northern Pacific Park, Staples-

Motley Area Arts Council, 7 p.m.

25: Izzy Cup Invitational, The Vintage Golf Course 26: Music in the Park, Staples-Motley Area Arts Council, Northern Pacific Park, 7 p.m.

AUGUST 2: Music in the Park, Northern Pacific Park, StaplesMotley Area Arts Council, 7 p.m.

8-9: Old Wadena Rendezvous Days, Old Wadena Park, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Summer

small town, BIG fun!

Your local getaway where small town charm meets scenic adventure and fun. Float the Crow Wing River, fish off Dower Lake pier, enjoy a Lumberbats baseball game or concert in the park.

Get-away, relax, and have some fun this summer in Staples, Mn.

discoverstaplesmn.org #staplesmn

Visit Little Falls Minnesota Military Museum

Where the Mississippi Pauses…

Discovery Begins ATTRACTIONS

Great River Arts

• Charles Lindbergh House and Museum • Great River Arts • Linden Hill Historic Estate • Minnesota Fishing Museum and Hall of Fame • Minnesota Military Museum • Pine Grove Zoo • Cass Gilbert Trail Depot • Weyerhaeuser Memorial Museum

OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES Hiking

• Crane Meadows National Wildlife Refuge • Charles Lindbergh State Park

Biking

• Camp Ripley Veterans State Trail • Mississippi River Trail • Soo Line Trail

Public Art

• Murals Outdoor and Indoor • Fresco Art

Linden Hill Historic Estate

WATER SPORTS ON THE MISSISSIPPI

Little Falls has something for everyone as our hospitable city will accommodate your needs whether you’re a history buff, nature enthusiast or adventure seeker.

EVENTS June 7

Dollar Day at Charles Lindbergh House & Museum Noon-5:00pm $1/free MNHA members and ages under 4

June 11

Music on the Mississippi Free Public Event Live Music Kids activities

June 19 - 20

Charles Lindbergh House & Museum

Little Falls Dam Festival at Maple Island Park Free Public Event Live band | Fireworks

July 4

Pine Grove Zoo – 4th of July Enrichment Event 1:30pm-3:00pm info@pinegrovezoo.com

July 14

Log Jam 4 – Linden Hill Historic Estate 6:00pm-8:00pm Free Concert

July 18

Music on the Mississippi Free Public Event Live Music Kids activities

Pine Grove Zoo

July 31 - August 8

Little Falls Summer Musical Godspell

August 5

The Green Fair Folk Festival 4:00-8:00pm Free Public Event West lawn at St. Francis Convent

August 20

MN Military Museum Mural

Music on the Mississippi Free Public Event Live Music Kids activities

November 27 - December 6 Christmas Tours

Soo Line Trail

Plan Your Trip Today!

606 1st St SE | Little Falls, MN 56345 | LittleFallsMN.com | (800) 325-5916

DESTINATION BRAINERD WHERE MINNESOTA MEMORIES ARE MADE

A

s the name suggests, the Brainerd lakes area is known for natural attractions: sparkling water bodies and 2,000 miles of shoreland amid tall pines, with hundreds of miles of bicycle, walking, jogging and snowmobile trails.

There are deep mine pit lakes for a quiet kayak ride or scuba dive, lakes and rivers for fishing and recreation, and 100,000 acres of wetlands.

Load up the bike (or rent one) to try the Cuyuna Range mountain bike trails, and then take a break in an area coffee shop or eatery. The area has 45 resorts and more than 400 holes of golf, plus a zip line. Or camp and see the glorious Milky Way away from city lights.

While nature and the outdoor experience are the stars here, that’s not the only attraction. Visit historic homesteads in area parks PAGE 42 | DESTINATIONS 2020

— from early settlements to the nearby boyhood home of famed aviator Charles Lindbergh — along with local history museums and art galleries.

But the area offers so much more, from Brainerd-Baxter to Pine River, Pequot Lakes to Crosslake, Crosby to Pillager, there are unique experiences available, whether walking on a nature trail or along a main street. With numerous festivals and events all year long, a visitor can be as active as they want to be or simply relax with a book at the beach.

The Brainerd micropolitan area offers diverse shopping, theater productions and worldclass summer music fests with everything from bluegrass to symphonic orchestra to opera, and a regional airport with commercial and general aviation.

PAUL BUNYAN

FUN FACTS One small flight In 1957, a helium balloon carried a manned 3-by-8-foot aluminum capsule about 19 miles above the Earth — far above the flight path of commercial airliners. Dr. David Simons, a 35-year-old Air Force major, climbed to nearly 102,000 feet above the Earth as part of the Man High project. The flight, which was launched from the 400-foot deep Portsmouth Mine pit in Crosby, helped the country take its fledgling steps into space exploration.

Minnesota was chosen for its northern latitude. Crosby was picked because the fragile balloon needed a calm launch, which the 400-foot deep Portsmouth Mine pit offered. The launch site is now submerged beneath the waters of a mine pit lake.

MACKENZIE TOUR TOURNAMENT COMES TO THE LAKES AREA

Cragun’s Legacy Courses is primed to host the inaugural CRMC Championship as a part of the Mackenzie Tour-PGA Tour Canada Aug. 17-23. The event will be the first Mackenzie Tour tournament to be played on United States soil, and the second PGA-sanctioned event in the state of Minnesota for 2020.

Cragun’s Director of Golf, Chuck Klecatsky, will act as tournament director for the Championship. The players will play the Dutch Legacy course, which has hosted the CRMC Brainerd Lakes Tour Showcase the past two years.

The Brainerd area is home to numerous nationally recognized championship golf courses.

Golfers could play a different championship course every day for a week. Golfing legends Arnold Palmer, Robert Trent Jones Jr. and Joel Goldstrand all have developed courses in the area.

What a view The 100-foot Pequot Lakes fire tower, north of County Highway 11 and east of Highway 371, is on the National Register of Historic Places. It was built in 1934. Crow Wing County bought the tower from the DNR and restored it for a planned tourist attraction with grand opening expected in the spring.

HE’S KIND OF A ‘BIG’ DEAL MEET TALKING PAUL BUNYAN

Paul Bunyan Land, an amusement park 6 miles east of Brainerd on Highway 18, has the trademark 26-foot-tall animated and talking statue of Paul Bunyan, with his faithful friend Babe the Blue Ox nearby. As children enter, Paul welcomes them by name. The amusement park has about 30 rides for kids. For more information, go to paulbunyanland.com.

CAN YOU CALL A LOON?

A RIVER RUNS THROUGH IT The mighty Mississippi River runs through the Brainerd lakes area, offering opportunities to bike or walk along its banks, or boat, kayak or canoe down the water. Or, you can simply watch the bald eagles who live along its expanse.

The second annual loon calling contest is 11 a.m. Sept. 26 at the Crosslake Town Square Pavilion.

A National Loon Center is planned in Crosslake.

www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 43

MOUNT SKI GULL

SKI IN WINTER, ZIP LINE IN SUMMER

CONNECT WITH NATURE

(218) 822-5634 • www.arrowwoodbrainerd.com • 822-FOOD

On Famous Gull Lake

• Cabin and Condos • Pools & Beach • Reunion Facilities • Great Fishing • Affordable Vacations

OPEN MAY 9 - SEPT 27, 2020

THANK YOU FOR MAKING US YOUR

8493 Hwy 371, Brainerd, MN 56401

PAGE 44 | DESTINATIONS 2020

ILY

it’s so much more than what you see from the Highway!

TWO YEARS IN A ROW!

800-964-4855

O R I T E FA M

This Place is a MUST stop for the Families –

#1 FAMILY FUN SPOT

www.mnResortCabins.com

FAV

AC TI O N

• Our rooms are so large we call them cabins!

• Baxter’s Bar & Grill • Paul Bunyan Indoor Waterpark • Meeting and Banquet Rooms • Children’s Playground, Zipline; Horseshoe pits; Sand Volleyball court

’S

TR AT

All The Amenities You Need!

• Giraffe Feeding • Parakeet Landing • Dino-Dig • Petting Zoo • Camel Rides • Snack Shack • Picnic Area • Kids Play Area

D

Dining

Paul Bunyan Water Park

ER

Lodging

Mount Ski Gull offers skiing, snowboarding and tubing in one convenient location near the shores of Gull Lake, off Cass County Highway 77 in Fairview Township between East Gull Lake and Lake Shore. Mount Ski Gull offers another way to see the lakes area’s beauty — on a zip line. The Brainerd Zip Line Tour boasts seven zip lines of varying length, with bridges and tree platforms connecting them. The daring rider can jump off the edge into a 50-foot free fall. The longest zip line is more than 950 feet long. For more information, call 218963-4353.

BRAIN

Whether by canoe or kayak, paddle the peaceful expanse of the Pine River, a Minnesota Department of Natural Resources-designated canoe route with nearly 60 miles marked as a water trail for travel. This river flows through the Whitefish Chain of Lakes.

Or, take a historic Mississippi River trek to the Crow Wing State Park. You can also enjoy the calm, deep, turquoisecolored waters of the Cuyuna Range mine pit lakes. Glide above the outstretched limbs of mature trees entombed in the clear water that reclaimed the mine pits.

Bring your own kayak or canoe, or rent one from area establishments that will deliver them to the launch point and pick them up when the paddling adventure is complete.

Or try a stand-up paddle board on any number of Crow Wing County’s more than 400 glorious lakes.

2 Miles North of the Welcome Center, or about 5 Miles South of Brainerd on 371

218-454-1662 • SafariNorth.com

NEW fo Snow Ler 2020 opards

Gemstone mining mine for real gemstones!

BEAN HOLE DAYS

LOCALS LOVE IT:

GET A TASTE FOR BREWERY TOURS

BRAINERD INTERNATIONA L RACEWAY This world-class , 600-acre racing facility gets fans revved up with its road co urse and dragstrip . It co ntinues to grow an d bring in top name s in racing, drawin g in a crowd of 100 ,000 for its annual marquee drag rac ing event — Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals.

The Brainerd area is home to several craft beer options with local brews. Make it a daylong outing by visiting Jack Pine Brewery’s tap house in Baxter, Big Axe Brewing Co. in Nisswa, 14 Lakes Brewery in Crosslake, Cuyuna Brewing Co. in Crosby, the Roundhouse Brewery in Brainerd, Block North Brew Pub in Aitkin and Starry Eyed Brewing in Little Falls. Also venture to the Dennis Drummond Wine Co. near Brainerd with wine tasting, retail, a bistro and wedding venue.

PAGE 46 | DESTINATIONS 2020

A midsummer day brings throngs to Pequot Lakes to take part in the annual Bean Hole Days celebration, where cast iron kettles of beans are buried so they can cook overnight and be served free of charge at noon the following day in Trailside Park. The tradition stretches back 82 years. An average of 3,500 people are served each year. People move quickly through the lines to receive their free cup of beans, bun and water. A King Bean and Queen Bean are crowned each year during the event.

TAKE A WALK ON THE WILD SIDE VISIT SAFARI NORTH WILDLIFE PARK

The mission of Safari North Wildlife Park is to promote conservation and preservation through safe, affordable and memorable experiences with a quality recreational and educational environment dedicated to wildlife care and conservation. There are hundreds of mammals, birds, reptiles and primates that make their home in the wildlife park.

People can take camel rides and view the African and Asian grasslands exhibits from the viewing areas. Hand-feed the white-tailed deer, or step up high and feed a giraffe from the comforts of a feeding station.

BE PART OF THE LARGEST CHARITABLE ICE FISHING CONTEST

GULL FOUR SEASONS RESORT

4132 St. Columbo Road Brainerd, MN 56401

Dan and Sue Padrnos 218-963-7969 www.Gull4Seasons.com

• •

32

• • • • •

•

• • • • • • •

WINTER/CHILD ACTIVITIES

GASOLINE

BAIT AVAILABLE

BOAT/MOTOR RENTAL/PONTOON

BOAT LAUNCH

GRILL

POOL/SAUNA/WHIRLPOOL

GOLF/NEAR/ON

TENNIS/NEAR/ON

PLAYGROUND

SWIMMING AREA

RECREATION ROOM

SCREENED PORCH

CONVENIENCE STORE

TELEVISION

PETS ALLOWED

LAUNDRY FACILITIES

FIREPLACES

AIR CONDITIONING

HOUSEKEEPING CABINS

TUBS/SHOWERS/BOTH

HANDICAP ACCESSIBLE

SHORT STAYS/ALL SEASON

ACCEPT CREDIT CARDS

AND LODGING

FISHING LICENSE

AREA RESORTS

CAMPING/RV SITES

BRAINERD LAKES

NUMBER OF UNITS

The Brainerd Jaycees $150,000 Ice Fishing Extravaganza, hosted annually 10 miles north of Brainerd, is billed as the world’s largest charitable ice fishing contest. Founded in 1991, the event draws thousands of anglers to the ice of Hole-in-the-Day Bay on Gull Lake with the promise of more than $200,000 in prizes. All proceeds from the volunteer-driven extravaganza go to about 45 area charities; since the event began, it has raised $3.3 million.

• • •

ARROWWOOD LODGE

6967 Lake Forest Road Baxter, MN 56425

218-822-5634 www.arrowwoodbrainerdlodge.com

• • • • • • • • • •

• • •

• • • • •

FITNESS

INTERNET

WINTER ACTIVITIES

OUTDOOR PLUGINS

PET ACCOMODATIONS

CONTINENTAL/FULL BREAKFAST

COCKTAILS

FOOD ON PREMISES

FIREPLACES

WHIRLPOOL/JACUZZI

SAUNA

POOL/INDOOR/OUTDOOR

MEETING ROOM

GAME ROOM

TENNIS/NEAR/ON

GOLF/NEAR/ON

PHONE IN ROOMS

PREMIUM CHANNELS

CABLE

TELEVISION

AIR CONDITIONING

TUBS/SHOWERS/BOTH

KITCHENETTE

HANDICAP ACCESSIBLE

ACCEPT CREDIT CARDS

FISHING LICENSE

Indoor and Outdoor Pool.

• • •

www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 47

DESTINATIONS COUNTRY!

Explore

DULUTHSUPERIOR AREA

NORTH

BRAINERD BRAINERD

MAY 9: Spring Arts and Craft festival, Brainerd Senior High School, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

9-10: Cuyuna Rock, Gem and Mineral Society’s annual agate and mineral show, Crow Wing County Fairgrounds JUNE Every Wednesday: Turtle Races, downtown Nisswa, registration at 1 p.m., races start at 2 p.m.

12-13: Nisswa-stämman Scandinavian Folk Music and Dance Festival, at Nisswa Pioneer Village and other Nisswa venues 20: Whitefish Chain

Antique and Classic Wood Boat Rendezvous, on the docks at Moonlite Bay Family Restaurant & Bar, Crosslake, 10 a.m. start, 4 p.m. boat parade 25-27: Lakes Jam, Brainerd International Raceway 28: Arts in the Park, at Gregory Park in Brainerd, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

JULY Every Wednesday: Turtle Races, downtown Nisswa, registration at 1 p.m., races start at 2 p.m.

1: Fireworks over Sand Island on Cross Lake 2: Fireworks at Grand View Lodge, Nisswa

EVENTS CALENDAR 3: Fireworks in Pequot Lakes 3: Freedom Days Celebration, Nisswa, firecracker run at 8 a.m., parade at 7 p.m.

4: American Celebration, Brainerd, afternoon parade, music and nighttime fireworks at Madden’s Resort and Brainerd High School 4: Pequot Lakes Stars & Stripes Days, parade at noon 14-15: Bean Hole Days, Pequot Lakes 22-26: Pine River Summerfest 31-Aug. 2: Riverboat Heritage Days, Aitkin AUGUST Every Wednesday: Turtle Races, downtown Nisswa, registration at 1 p.m., races start at 2 p.m.

13-16: Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals, Brainerd International Raceway 27-30: 15th annual Lakes Bluegrass Festival, at the Lakes Music and Events Park in Pine River 29: Gull Lake Classic Boat Show, on the docks at Bar Harbor Restaurant in Lake Shore SEPTEMBER 9-10: Little Falls Arts and Crafts, Market Place and Man Cave Fairs 19: 47th annual Nisswa Fall Festival and 15th annual Smokin’

PAUL BUNYAN STATE TRAIL With 123 miles of continuously paved trail from Crow Wing State Park south of Brainerd to Bemidji State Park in Bemidji, this longest recreational trail in Minnesota ranges from flat and open to hilly and scenic. It passes through 15 communities — including Brainerd, Baxter, Nisswa and Pequot Lakes — and connects with the Heartland Trail, Blue Ox Trail and Cuyuna Lakes State Trail. It is popular with bikers, hikers, walkers, runners, inline skaters and snowmobilers. It’s a member of the Rail-Trail Hall of Fame, with more than 650,000 users a year visiting the trail, making it one of the premier state trails in Minnesota.

Bring a bike or rent one, including multi-passenger options, from a number of local providers.

PAGE 50 | DESTINATIONS 2020

Hot BBQ Challenge, downtown Nisswa 24-26: Crosslake Days NOVEMBER 14: Brainerd Holiday Arts and Craft Festival 27: Nisswa City of Lights Celebration, lights turn on throughout town at 5:30 p.m., and Santa Claus greets children in the gazebo 27: World Famous Fish House Parade, Aitkin JANUARY 30: 31st annual Brainerd Jaycees $150,000 Ice Fishing Extravaganza, on Gull Lake’s Hole-in-the-Day Bay in Nisswa, Noon - 3 p.m.

FEBRUARY TBD: Crosslake WinterFest TBD: Nisswa Winter Jubilee & Jam TBD: Gull Lake Frozen Fore winter golf and snowmobile charity event, at establishments around Gull Lake TBD: Cuyuna Lakes Chamber of Commerce Annual Ice Fishing Contest & Scorpion Homecoming

LOCALS LOVE IT:

CUYUNA MOUN TAIN BIKE TRAI Tight turns and sce LS nic vistas around lakes and mine pit s define this 28-m ile trail system sprea d across 800 acres of the Cuyuna Co untry State Recreation Area.

Bonus pro tip: Sta y in at the rec area; thr a yurt ee are available to rent.

DESTINATION REMER WELCOME TO EAGLE COUNTRY

G

6231 72nd St. NE Remer, MN 56672 218-566-2346 • balsambayresort.com

7 20 • •

TWO NODS TO BIGFOOT

• • •

• • • •

•

•

• • • • • • •

WINTER ACTIVITIES

SUPERVISED CHILD ACTIVITIES

GASOLINE

FISHING LICENSE

BAIT AVAILABLE

BOAT/MOTOR RENTAL/PONTOON

BOAT LAUNCH

GRILL

POOL/SAUNA/WHIRLPOOL

GOLF/NEAR/ON

TENNIS/NEAR/ON

PLAYGROUND

SWIMMING AREA

RECREATION ROOM

SCREENED PORCH

CONVENIENCE STORE

TELEVISION

PETS ALLOWED

LAUNDRY FACILITIES

FIREPLACES

AIR CONDITIONING

Remer celebrates its “home of Bigfoot” status with two big annual events: Bigfoot Days, happening July 10-11, offers great family fun, with a BBQ challenge, Bigfoot calling contest, town hall meetings with the Bigfoot Research Team, the She Squatchers, music, a 5K run/walk, ATV ride, parade, kids games and more.

Then, Sept. 12-13, the fifth annual Bigfoot Music Festival will entertain with professional musicians, great food, craft beer and more. You might even get to dance a jig with Bigfoot himself!

HOUSEKEEPING CABINS

TUBS/SHOWERS/BOTH

HANDICAP ACCESSIBLE

SHORT STAYS/ALL SEASON

AND CAMPGROUNDS

BALSAM BAY RESORT Big Sand Lake Bob and Su Ugstad

ACCEPT CREDIT CARDS

AREA RESORTS

CAMPING/RV SITES

REMER

NUMBER OF UNITS

et your cameras ready! Remer is known as the home of Bigfoot, and you don’t want to miss your chance to collect some questionable evidence of the big hairy legend.

While you’re at it, keep those cameras out for some excellent shots of the local wildlife — especially the bald eagles. Remer is located in the southeast corner of the Chippewa National Forest, a 650,000-acre forest that is home to the largest population of nesting bald eagles in the contiguous 48 states.

Watch the eagles soar overhead while you enjoy a plethora of opportunities for outdoor recreation around Remer. Surrounded by hundreds of lakes, streams, rivers and vast expanses of woodland, the area provides the perfect setting for year-round outdoor fun.

Go “squatching,” hiking, biking or riding on your off-highway vehicles. The Eagle Country ATV/Snowmobile club prides itself on having some of the best maintained trails in the state.

On August 8, Remer celebrates its 73rd annual Harvest Festival with one of the largest parades in the North Country, fireworks, music, food and games. This event is a hit every year.

•

At Itasca State close Showerhouse, Park on to paved ATV trail, road/bike free usetrail, of kayaks, wirelesspaddle internet, boats, open bicycles, May-Oct. canoe & wifi.

TIMBER TRAILS RESORT Big Boy Lake Tom and Kathy Marnik

3014 S. Boy Lake Drive NE Remer, MN 56672 218-566-2376 • timbertrailsresort.com

10 12 •

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• • • • • • •

At Itasca Sandy beach.

State Park on paved road/bike trail, wireless internet, open May-Oct.

www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 51

Remer...aa place to belong.

Remer...

Shopping, Dining, Family Fun, Swimming, Quilting, Bigfoot Days, Soo Line Trail, Snowmobiling, ATVing, Sled Dog Racing, Fishing, Birding, Chippewa National Forest, Biking, Hiking and so much more!

REMER MUNI On/Off Sale

e Fre i F Wi-

remerchamber.com

107 Main St. S. Remer, MN 218-566-9997

Daily Ha Happy Hour Off-Sale Hours: Mon. – Sat. 9am – 10 pm Sunday 11am – 6pm

Bar Hours:

Mon. – Thurs. 9am – Midnight Fri. & Sat. 9am – 1am Sunday Open at 11am 001828335r1

Remer - Home of Bigfoot Historical depot, caboose & museum 24-hour restrooms • Tourist info Library • Pavillion with picnic area 45 Main St. E. Remer, Minnesota

Fun-Family-Fishing Vacation Destination

The

Woodsman Cafe

“Everything Homemade” Woodsman Specialties & Full Dinner Menu Try the “Bigfoot” Home of the “Woody”

10 Cabins, 12 Campsites, Sandy Beach, Boat Rentals, Children’s Activities

Breakfast Anytime!

218-566-2080 Downtown Remer

Open 7 Days A Week At 6 AM

After your meal stop into

Lovin’

Scoop Full Ice Cream & Sandwich Shoppe

Fat/Sugar-free ice cream available We feature quality Cedar Crest Ice Cream Northwoods Homemade Candies

218-566-2082 Open Daily at 11:00 AM Noon on Sunday

Big Sand Lake in the Chippewa National Forest Lakeside Cabins, RV Park Campground, Heated Pool, Boat & Pontoon Rentals

(218) 566-2346

www.balsambayresort.com

6231 72nd St. NE • Remer, MN 56672

“Home of Bigfoot” Gifts Fuel • Snacks • Drinks 218-566-2913 Main Street • Remer, MN

REMER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

2020 CALENDAR OF EVENTS Remer Chamber meets on the 3rd Tuesday of every month at the Remer Depot.

February 8th: Festival of the Falling Snowflakes Mid-Minnesota 150 Sled Dog races, chili cook-off, kids games, bonfire April 11th: Easter Eggsplosion at Northland Community Schools, sponsored by Harvest Church - Easter Bunny, egg hunt, candy & more!

May 1st: First National Bank plant sale 24th: RVFD pancake breakfast June TBD: Garden Club Perennial flower sale 13th: Library Open House Book & Craft Sale July 10th & 11th: Bigfoot Days - pancake breakfast, food vendors, BINGO, BBQ contest, 5K run, flea market & more!

August 8th: Remer Harvest Festival - Parade at 11 and all day activities, Entertainment, food, games. Fun for the whole family!

September 6th: RVFD Pancake Breakfast 12th & 13th: Bigfoot Music Festival Live music, food and craft vendors, activities for the kids October 3rd: RVFD Annual “Outdoorsman” Night 20th: Remer Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner 31st: “Trunk or Treat” at Northland Community School’s parking lot November 22nd: Turkey Bingo December 4th First National Bank Christmas Open House 12th: Santa comes to the Remer Centennial Library 18th: Christmas Crawl Mainstreet’s Open Late, sales, drawings, snacks, at Mainstreet Businesses.

Icecube Antiques & Coins

“Coolest Deals Around” Quality Antiques, Coins, Collectibles, Furniture, Old Native American Turquoise Jewelry

Open Year ‘Round Hours: Tues.-Sat. 10 am-5 pm

218-566-2646

ALL DATES AND TIMES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE

(Downtown Remer)

VISIT WWW.REMERCHAMBER.COM FOR UPDATES

12 Main St. E., Remer, MN 56672

COUPON

• Live Bait • Fishing & Camping Supplies • Ammo • Ice • Tobacco Products • Hot Stuff Pizza • Gourmet Grub Sandwiches • Fresh Scooped Ice Cream • F’Real Shakes & Smoothies • Novelties

3 OFF Any Large Pizza $

00

Valid at Remer Junction Cenex - Expires: 12/31/20

COUPON

Stop in and try our Bigfoot Sandwiches!

Walker, Akeley, Longville, Remer, Hackensack Backus, Pequot Lakes, Crosslake, Baxter

fnbnorth.com

$

500 OFF Propane Cylinder Fill

Valid at Remer Junction Cenex - Expires: 12/31/20

GAS & DIESEL

REMER JUNCTION CENEX • 218-566-2390 Cenex Convenience Store in Remer is located at 6790 State Hwy 200 NE, at the junction of State Highways 200 & 6

OPEN 5 AM EVERY DAY - 365 DAYS A YEAR!

DESTINATION WALKER ON THE SHORES OF LEECH LAKE A LITTLE BIT COUNTRY, A LITTLE BIT ROCK ‘N’ ROLL TWO BIG MOONDANCES

MOONDANCE Visitors flock to the 14th annual Moondance Jammin’ Country Fest to hear some of the world’s greatest country artists. Set for June 18-20, the 2020 festival will feature Old Dominion, Midland, Nitty Gritty Dirt Band and many more.

Then, on July 16-18, Moondance Jam will attract thousands to the 300-acre Moondance Events campground and concert area east of Walker. Celebrating its 29th anniversary this year, Minnesota’s largest rock ‘n’ roll concert will have something for every rock fan, including shows by The Beach Boys and Night Ranger (pictured).

Welcome to

Walker, MN Crazy Days: June 25, July 23, Aug. 13 Moondance Jammin’ Country: June 18-20 Moondance Jam: July 15-18 Ethnic Fest: Sept. 12

“A taste of Mexico in the heart of Walker.”

Serving Traditional Mexican Food & American Favorites Too! Made-Fresh Salsa & Sauces • Kids Menu Large Outdoor Patio • Weekday Happy Hour Hours may vary with seasons, call 218-547-3558 5th St., Downtown Walker • Summer 7 Days A Week

Full menu at www.cafezonarosa.com

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT FRIDAY & SATURDAY

OUR FRONT DOOR IS STEPS AWAY FROM THE START OF

THE HEARTLAND TRAIL OUR BACK DOOR IS STEPS AWAY FROM

LEECH LAKE

PAGE 54 | DESTINATIONS 2020

001829583r1

A

land of stories and rich history, Walker is a sparkling little city in northern Minnesota.

LOCALS LOVE IT: Seated on the shores of Leech Lake, LEECH LAKE RE it’s busy throughout the year with GATTA This 49th annual event is celebrations, musical events and slated for Aug. 7-1 0. sailing, campfires, Enjoy unique shopping opportunities. music and ca ma rad eri e.

There are The Northern Lights Casino, three race segme nts . operated by the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe, is nearby. And tourists can learn more about the Walker area’s history by visiting the Cass County Museum.

A variety of recreational activities are available in the area, including fishing, hunting, hiking, biking and snowmobiling on hundreds of miles of woodland trails and scenic byways.

The Chippewa National Forest that surrounds Walker was the first national forest established east of the Mississippi River, in 1908. It is home to more lakes and wetlands than any other national forest, plus 3,000 archeological and historic sites.

HAPPY HOUR MONDAY-FRIDAY 4:02PM-6:02PM

218.547.7777

WWW.CHASEONTHELAKE.COM

LAKESIDE PATIO BAR & DINING

001829329r1

Y, MN

BIRTHPLACE OF PAUL BUNYAN

N

o drive around northern Minnesota is complete without a visit to Akeley, the home of one of the biggest selfie stops in the state — everybody wants their picture taken on the hand of the legendary big man himself, Paul Bunyan.

Local lore has it that the giant lumberjack was born in Akeley, and the community honors their native son with the world’s largest Paul Bunyan statue. His huge hand outstretched, the 31-foot friendly behemoth has welcomed visitors for more than 25 years.

Located on the Lake Country Scenic Byway, 10 miles west of Walker, Akeley is a hard-to-miss destination for anyone traveling around the area.

The little town of about 440 people offers an array of outdoor activities and attractions for visitors, including a city beach and campground, picnicking, fishing, and trails for hikers, snowmobilers, ATVs and more.

Paul Bunyan State Forest, just north of Akeley, has hundreds of miles of recreational trails, and The Heartland Trail — a 49-mile, multiple-use trail open to non-motorized recreation — meanders right through town. Resorts around the lake-rich area offer amenities for a vacation to remember.

PROPS TO PAUL

In addition to the giant statue, Akeley boasts a Paul Bunyan Museum, with exhibits on the town’s logging history. There’s also an annual Paul Bunyan Days celebration, featuring a parade, food, refreshments, flea market, live music and more. The 72nd Annual Paul Bunyan Days is June 26-28.

Welcome to

The

AKELEY, MN

Akeley Muni Where Paul Wets His Whistle!

Join Us

JUNE 26-28, 2020

On-Sale: Mon.-Sat. 9am-1am, Sun. 11am-8pm Off-Sale: Mon.-Sat. 9am-10pm, Sun. 11am-6pm

For our 72nd

ANNUAL AKELEY

®

Visit the Winery in the Woods

Happy Hour: Mon-Fri • 11am-12pm & 5-7pm

• Food • Pool • Darts • Pull Tabs • E-Tabs 2-for-1 Saurday 11am-noon

DAYS!

218-652-4084

Abigail’s Antiques & Gifts STOMPIN’ GROUNDS

LODGE & CAMPING

IMPRESSIVE COLLECTION OF ANTIQUES,GARDEN ART, PRIMITIVES, GLASSWARE & MUCH MORE! CHARMING SHOP FULL OF TREASURES

Open May thru Mid-November Tuesday-Saturday 9:30 am

Hwy. 34 Downtown Akeley • 612-720-8833 www.abigailsatticantiques.com

Plan Your Stay In The Heart Of The Paul Bunyan Forest

RV & Tent Sites•ATV Trails

Most Sunday afternoons & Mondays Seasonal hours beginning October 1

Restaurant Open Daily • Full Bar • OFF SALE

001829274r1

me to

DESTINATION AKELEY

3 miles North on Hwy. 64 Akeley, MN 218-652-2964 800-725-1579

www.stompingroundslodge.com

Tasting Room & Gallery Open May-December

Art Fair at the Winery Aug. 15 & 16, 2020

ART • FOOD • WINE • LIVE MUSIC 218-224-3535 • 13 miles North of Akeley on Hwy. 64

forestedgewinery.com

www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 55

DESTINATION NEVIS HOME OF THE WORLD’S LARGEST TIGER MUSKIE FISH FOR SOME FUN AT MUSKIE DAYS Nevis will celebrate its annual Muskie Days on July 24-25, 2020. Geared for young and old, the event features a parade, food, games and music.

N

evis lays claim to “home of the world’s largest tiger muskie,” and its trademark statue resides in the city’s Muskie Park.

Located on State Highway 34 between Park Rapids and Walker, this quaint village is home to several restaurants, small shops, a grocery store and more.

Nevis is also celebrated as the gateway to the Paul Bunyan Forest, where hikers, campers, snowmobilers and ATV riders enjoy more than 40,000 acres of woodland.

The Heartland Trail, especially popular with bicyclists, runs through Nevis.

SQUEAL WITH JOY AT THE PIG RACES Plan a trip to Nevis on Sunday, July 12 to witness divine swine.

Young piglets racing around a track bring squeals of joy. Races times are 1:05 and 3:05 p.m.

VISIT NEVIS THIS SUMMER!

Experience the small town charm!

• Great Selection of Beer, Wine & Spirits • Beer & In-House Specials Open Mon.-Sat. Mon.-Sat. 9am-1am • Off Sale 10% Off: 9 am-1 am Sun. - 12-8pm Military Mondays, Wine Wednesdays, ••Happy HappyHour: Hour: Senior Discount Thursdays.

Monday Off Sale: Mon.-Sat. 9am-10pm Sun. 11am-6pm Monday3-8 3-8pm pm Tues.-Fri. Tues.-Fri.3-6 3-6pm pm • Pizza & Snacks • Pizza & Snacks • Pull Tabs On Pull Tabs ••Tuesday Trivia & Off Sale Tuesday Trivia ••Wednesday Bingo ••Friday FridayMeat MeatRaffle Raffle Main Street, Nevis • (218)652-9910

Full Bar

PAGE 56 | DESTINATIONS 2020

www.NevisChamber.com

WE’RE SMOKIN’!

A Stellar BBQ Joint We offer the best brisket in the northland!

(Not to mention the epic, 218 burger!)

OPEN DAILY AT 11 AM Lunch & Dinner Specials Smoked Prime Rib Every Fri. & Sat. Music Every Weekend Outdoor seating on our awesome, spacious deck.

At the Gateway to the Paul Bunyan Forest

Downtown Nevis •218-652-3898

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April 11 - Easter Egg Hunt June 14 - Sites ‘N Bites July 12 - Nevis Pig Races July 24-25 - Muskie Days Festival August 1 - Citywide Garage Sale August 8 - Northwoods Triathlon June 28, July 11, Aug. 2 - Water Ski Shows Halvorson Beach, lake Belle Taine

DESTINATION PARK RAPIDS GATEWAY TO ITASCA

P

ark Rapids is the ultimate tourist destination, with endless recreational opportunities, lakes and friendly people.

Known as the “Gateway to Itasca State Park,” the population swells in the summertime as visitors return to the area for its unique and beautiful natural surroundings, particularly the more than 500 clean, clear lakes that surround the area and invite all types of water sports — from fishing to water skiing.

The Park Rapids area also boasts more than 3.5 million forest acres to explore year-round.

In the fall, visitors enjoy hiking, hunting, canoeing, fishing, biking and colorful autumn leaves.

Ample snowfall attracts snowmobilers every winter. Ice fishing, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, skijoring and many other wintertime activities abound.

In-between the outdoor fun, check out the many shops, restaurants and entertainment options, as well.

WORTH THE DRIVE: DORSET

La Pasta Italian Eatery

Dorset, MN

A TASTE OF SMALLTOWN MINNESOTA Dorset is known for its annual Taste of Dorset festival, held the first Sunday in August. Folks walk the boardwalk while testing out all kinds of tasty cuisine from outdoor vendors.

The tiny town is a popular spot for bicyclers, who travel to Dorset via the Heartland Trail.

SPRING FALL Serving delicious breakfasts, Thru

Lunches, & Full Italian Dinner Menu

www.dorset-lapasta.com DORSET GENERAL STORE 5 miles East of PR on Hwy. 34 1.5 miles North on 226 Souvenirs • Groceries • Ice • Beverages

218-732-0275

www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 57

DOWNTOWN FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY • •

•

•

Crazy Days, July 23-24, makes finding bargains fun.

Businesses go all out with sidewalk sales, staff in crazy costumes, and live music and kids’ entertainment, too.

The extra-wide Main Street is the perfect place for the Run to the Rapids classic car show, Aug. 8 this year.

Car buffs will see beautifully restored classic cars and trucks and can meet with their proud owners.

On Halloween, hundreds of princesses, Ninja turtles, goblins and other cute costumed characters come downtown for Trick or Treat Park Rapids.

Downtown businesses herald the holiday season the Friday after Thanksgiving by hosting a Yuletide Sampler with hot cider, hot chocolate and treats in their stores. The Yuletide Sampler is a prelude to the annual CHI St. Joseph’s Hospice Tree-Lighting Ceremony, with a Christmas carol sing-along, Santa’s arrival, fire pits for roasting marshmallows and the countdown to lighting the beautifully decorated tree on Main Street. The annual event is best described as “a Norman Rockwell moment.”

LOCALS LOVE IT:

ART LEAP Take a driving tou r of artists’ studios and other cultural destinati ons throughout the are a, and meet the artists thems elves . Enjoy live performances of mu are available at the sic . Maps Chamber of Commerce Visito r Cente event is free to the r and the public.

Going on Sept. 26 -27.

BEAUTIFUL AND BOUNTIFUL

OUTDOOR RECREATION GALORE Hugo’s Online Shopping Choose Home or Office Delivery Available at all locations

Hugo's - Park Rapids Destinations Guide Ad - 2018.pdf 1 2/2/2018

Hubbard County’s beautiful natural resources provide the scenery, Choose Convenient while numerous trails offer outdoor Curbside Pickup enthusiasts the opportunity to Available at allyear-round. locations* Many of Hubbard explore *(Grand Forks/EGF at ourhave public County’spickup 313 lakes 1315 S. Columbia Rd. location) accesses for swimming, fishing and canoeing. Park Rapids has numerous public parks, such as the Red Bridge 4:19:33 PM Park and Heartland Park, both located on the Fish Hook River.

Shop online at gohugos.com/online-shopping

FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED SINCE 1939

Relax at home while we do your shopping.

FAMILY C

M

Hugo’s Family Marketplace Online Shopping with Curbside Pick Up or Home Delivery will make your life a little easier.

Let us do your grocery shopping for you.

MARKETPLACE

Stop by Hugo’s Family ¡ ¤ ­ ¦¡ way home.

Shop Online www.gohugos.com Grand Forks (4), East Grand Forks, Crookston, Thief River or& Delivery Falls, Park Rapids, Grafton Jamestown.

Curbside Pickup www.gohugos.com

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in your car while our shoppers- bring 24 Hours Relax apersonal Day 7 Days a Week ­ ¦¡ ¢ ¡ £ ¤ ­ ¦န

Phone: 218.732.3368 101 4th Street East, Park Rapids, MN (Hwy. 71 South)

PAGE 58 | DESTINATIONS 2020

Spend more time with family Š £န

HEARTLAND STATE TRAIL The Heartland Trail was one of the first rail-to-trail projects in the country. During the spring, fall and summer, the 49mile, multiple-use trail is open to non-motorized use such as bicycling, hiking, walking and inline skating. In the winter, it is part of a huge network of groomed snowmobile trails.

The Heartland Trail rests on an old railroad bed that starts in Park Rapids and travels through Dorset, Nevis, Akeley, Walker and Cass Lake. The Park Rapids to Walker segment also has a second grassy trail for horseback riding and mountain biking.

The Heartland State Trail connects with the Paul Bunyan State Trail system and other regional trail Systems.

SOARING EAGLE TRAIL The Itascatur Outdoor Activity Club welcomes beginning or experienced cross-country skiers to their 10 kilometers of marked and groomed trails through snow-laden balsam, pines and spruce.

Soaring Eagle Cross-Country Ski Trails are located at 25467 U.S. Highway 71, eight miles north of Park Rapids and across from the Eagle View Golf Course.

Visitors may bring their own skis or check out Itascatur’s ski equipment at no cost. They have both adult- and children-sized skis, boots and poles. They also have experienced skiers to help beginners get started in the sport — and serve cups of hot cocoa to warm up.

Open houses take place every Sunday through January and February, weather and snow conditions permitting.

PARK RAPIDS’ SIGNATURE EVENT INDEPENDENCE DAY

The Fourth of July has become Park Rapids’ signature event. The celebration includes a large parade through town, the Firecracker 5K Foot Race in Heartland Park, lake flotillas, patriotic music by the community band and a famous fireworks display over the beautiful Fishhook River. The fireworks display has grown into one of the largest and most spectacular shows in the state.

42ND ANNUAL PARK RAPIDS

PRCA XTREME BULLS & XTREME BRONCS

3 BIG DAYS

RAIN OR SHINE!

JULY 2 • 3 • 4

ALL

3 DAYS FANTASTIC OPENING T NIGHT TICKE! SPECIALS

7 PM GATES 0PEN AT 5:00 PM

ING NOW ACCEPTS VENDOR ONLINE

• Kid’s Sheep Riding (online entries) • Pro Rodeo’s Top Clowns • Nightly Dances under the Pavilion

SAVE $$$ Online Click & Print YOUR TICKET!

parkrapidsbullride.com

DISCOUNTED ADVANCE TICKETS

MINNESOTA’S

LARGEST RODEO EVENT

www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 59

2ND STREET STAGE A SUMMER MUSIC SERIES Join the great community get-together for the summer music series, 2nd Street Stage, held Thursday nights, June 11 through August 13. Each week brings a new band, social hour, beer garden, cornhole tournaments, kids’ activities and more.

HUBBARD COUNTY FAIR A SUMMER CLASSIC

The Hubbard County Fair includes a variety of entertainment at the grandstand arena and in the band shell, 4-H exhibits in the animal barns and a midway filled with games and rides.

The 2020 fair will be held Wednesday to Sunday, July 1519 in Park Rapids. Midway carnival rides will be open from Wednesday evening through Saturday. Other events planned for the fair include motocross, a talent show, a truck and tractor pull, Baja racing and a demolition derby.

And don’t forget the fair food! Stop in for cheese curds, corn dogs, fresh french fries, pork burgers, ice cream and other mouth-watering goodies.

BACK IN THE DAY

WHAT LIFE WAS LIKE ON THE FARM The Park Rapids Antique Tractor and Engine Club will have its annual Field Days show Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 1-2. Field Days brings visitors back to the old days, with demonstrations of what life was like on a farm.

Demonstrations of combining, threshing, tractor plowing, shingle making, a hay press, gas engines, lath making, snow fence machine and sawmill are done on the grounds.

Horse-related machinery is on display, as well. For the kids there’s a petting zoo, miniature railroad train rides and collectibles. A tractor parade is held each day, and Saturday features a tractor pull.

The Antique Tractor and Engine Club grounds are located on County Road 6, about a half-mile south of Highway 34 on the east side of Park Rapids.

PAGE 60 | DESTINATIONS 2020

A CELEBRATION OF

LUMBERJACK HERITAGE Legends and Logging Days celebrates the area’s history of logging and lumberjacking. The definitive summer festival in Park Rapids, festivities start with Water Wars at 5:30 p.m.

Thursday, Aug. 6 on Main Avenue downtown, followed by live music on 2nd Street Stage.

On Saturday, Aug. 8, events continue at the East 40 Park Rapids Antique Tractor Grounds, at 1008 Eighth Street East, a few blocks south of State Highway 34. Lumberjacks will demonstrate sawing, log rolling and other feats reminiscent of the days when pioneers came to the north woods to make a living. Master chainsaw artists will carve their masterpieces, and spectators can watch as logs take shape into works of art before their eyes.

LET US ENTERTAIN YOU BRONCS AND BULLS

THE LARGEST PRO RODEO IN MN The road to Las Vegas and National Finals Rodeo features a major stop at Minnesota’s largest pro rodeo event, held in Park Rapids over the Fourth of July weekend.

Jokela ProWest has been granted special approval from the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) sanctioning body for an exciting new rodeo format. For the first time ever, the 2020 event will consist entirely of broncs and bulls. Not only is it the first time for Park Rapids, but it’s the first approval given for an event of this kind in the state of Minnesota.

The three-day event, July 2-4, now will feature Xtreme broncs and bulls each day, with the PRCA’s top contestants riding the nation’s toughest bucking stock for eight seconds. This format will show elite contestants setting a new bar for athletic ability and professionalism.

The show is the largest professional rodeo event in Minnesota, and one of northern Minnesota’s premiere summer attractions.

Nightly popular features include women’s professional barrel racing, an exciting aerial show by Freestyle Moto X cycles from the X Games competition and rodeo dances under the log pavilion, plus kids’ sheep-riding and more.

Visit parkrapidsbullride.com for updates, details and ticket info.

• • • •

The Northern Light Opera Company stages musical productions each summer, along with other productions during the year.

The Long Lake Theater presents heartwarming drama and side-splitting comedy. It is located in Hubbard on the south end of Long Lake.

Jasper’s Theater, east of Park Rapids, provides comedy and musical theater for area residents and visitors alike.

And the Heartland Concert Association, Park Rapids Area Community Band and Classic Chorale provide entertainment throughout the year. www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 61

PICK YOUR PUMPKINS AT CARTER’S FARM Carter’s Red Wagon Farm annually holds pumpkin parties on a grand scale in October. Activities include journeys through an “amazing” maze, setting sail in giant pumpkin boats, wagon rides and performances by illusionists and the rockin’, squawkin’ scarecrow band.

A new, 6.5-acre maze, incorporating a historical theme, is created every year. The farm is located southwest of Park Rapids.

CATCH THIS

MINNESOTA’S SECOND-LARGEST ICE FISHING TOURNEY The Park Rapids American Legion Ice Fishing Contest is held the first Saturday of February each year. Well over 2,000 eager anglers are attracted to Fishhook Lake for the second-largest fishing tournament in the state, after Brainerd. Unlike other fishing contests, each ticket at the Park Rapids event provides a chance to win both fishing awards and raffle prizes. Last year, more than $125,000 in prizes were given away, including a $30,000 gift certificate to a local truck dealership and a fish house.

HONOR OUR VETERANS The All-Veterans Memorial Park and interpretive center is located on U.S. Highway 71, adjacent to the Park Rapids Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce. The memorial is devoted to the memory of all veterans of all wars and branches of service. Visitors will find granite monoliths commemorating past wars and a stone walkway and benches commemorating individual veterans.

The lighted area is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

PAGE 62 | DESTINATIONS 2020

Welcome to Park Rapids

WHERE THE STREETS ARE EXTRA WIDE AND EXTRA SMILES ARE FREE!

001829816r1

We invite you to visit Park Rapids soon.

You’ll be glad you did !

Fall PumPkin

PARTIES

September 26, October 3, 10, (15, 16 MEA) 17, 24 and 31 Amaze-ing Mazes, Wagon Rides, Great Food and Family Fun

SeaSonal Home Grown

FRUITS & VEGETABLES From Carter’s Red Wagon Farm

U-PICK STRAWBERRIES Late June to Mid-July y ((Call For Hours)) Serving the Park Rapids Area since 1955 with locally grown farm fresh non-GMO produce from our home to yours! Call for CSA shares & membership info.

218-732-4979 • Hwy. 34 E., Park Rapids www.redwagonfarm.net

Like us on Facebook

Open seasonally, Mon-Sat 10:00 - 5:30

Large Parking Lot For Boats & RVs

Welcome Friends to the Park rapids area Large Selection of Fine Wines, Beers & Liquors Ice & Mixes

218-237-3333

Full Service Real Estate Brokerage 600 PARK AVE SOUTH •PARK RAPIDS

AffinityRealEstate.com

See Us Under The East Side Water Tower

Large Coolers to Assure Cold Beverages

Hwy. 34 E., Park Rapids Open: Monday-saturday 9 am-10 pm

732-0998

P l e a s e U s e O U r P r O d U c t s I n M O d er at I O n

www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 63

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Join your friends at The Royal Bar “Park Rapids” Original Sports Bar & Grill

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

Park Rapids

Mon.-Sat. Open at 11 AM Sunday Open at Noon

In days gone by, Park Rapids’ main street was designed to accommodate logging wagons pulled by a six-horse team. Today, our charming downtown offers unique center parking and a friendly shopping experience.

Beer & Liquor 7 Days A Week Charitable Gambling Video Games & Pool Big Screen Plus 4 Other TVs for Sports Action

DOWNTOWN PARK RAPIDS 218-732-9443

Check our website for more information! www.WolffSimonRealEstate.com

Fresh Meats • Produce • Deli • Bakery • Dairy Naturals • Full Grocery • Pharmacy

218-237-7770

“Small enough to know you, Large enough to SERVE you!”

209 1st St. West, Park Rapids

732-0182

www.coborns.com

Open Open 724 daysHours A Week 6A amDay - 11 pm

Call To Order

Located in Park Rapids at 1217 1st St. East 001829449r1

PAGE 64 | DESTINATIONS 2020

(Hwy. 34 East, just before L&M Fleet Supply)

001829213r1

Delicious Fried Chicken, Salads, Fruits, Dessert & More!

We can cater your special event.

Park Rapids

Let us entertain you! Main street offers superb shopping, delicious dining, outdoor summer concerts at 2nd Street Stage every Thursday evening June 11 - August 13.

001829208r1

218-732-1191

or 866-732-2800

First Choice

parkrapidsfirstchoice.com

Pa s ta•Sea fo o d•Stea k

AUTHENTIC ITALIAN CUISINE

H a p p y H o u r S p ec ials Mo n . - Fr i . 4 : 0 0 PM - 6: 00 P M

311 Main Avenue 218.237.4625 • www.necces.net

Open Daily at 4 pm Call for winter/spring hours

Coming!

Outdoor Patio!

Bakery!

H a nd- Cra f t e d Co c k tails • Pre m iu m S p irits • Im p o r t e d Wi n es • Cra f t Ta p Be ers

AUTHENTIC ITALIAN CUISINE www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 65

Relax, turn off, enjoy, make memories

Welcome to the Park Rapids Lakes Area...

Make Memories That Last A Life Time at OON

Walters Resort

ONT P & T BOA

S L A T N RyEthe Day or Week

on Lake Ida

B

ing • Fish s cruise y l i m • Fa Tubing / g n i • Ski ing • Row

IVERY L E D E FRE WITHIN T P U K C ESOR & PI R F O ES 30 MIL day e To Reserv im Call T -5707 5 5 2 8 21

PAGE 66 | DESTINATIONS 2020

• Lakeside Cabins • Playhouse • Volleyball • Water Toys • Great Fishing

• Easy water access to Big & Little Sand Lake • 1 mile to Dorset and the Heartland Trail

AFFORDABLE FAMILY FUN waltersresortmn.com

719-849-9237 • 218-255-5707 20035 Grouse Road, Park Rapids, MN 56470

KAYAKING, BOATING, CANOEING

Relax in the Northwoods Family Fun Resort on Potato Lake Private Setting • 15 lakeshore cottages 130 wooded acres • Beautiful sand beach Supervised children’s activities • Sauna Tennis • Mini golf • Rec room • Canoes Shuffleboard • Sailing • Paddle boats Children’s playground

Northern Pine Lodge 218-732-5103 www.northernpinelodge.com

Jonathan & Kelly Schupp 14588 230th Street, Park Rapids, MN 56470

jkschupp@q.com

“Embrace ” your wild

The Wilds

Resort & Campground

on Shell Lake Dan & Kellie Francis

Pet Friendly

www.thewildsresort.com

218-849-2051

We are a fishing and family resort located only 1 mile north of Park Rapids and the only resort on Fish Hook Lake. Great accommodations will allow you to relax and enjoy all the charm of Minnesota’s North Woods Lake Country!

Come and listen to the call of the Loon!

www.loonsnest.com 1-218-732-3028 e-mail: loonsnestpr@arvig.net

www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 67

SWIMMING, HIKING, BIKING, FISHING Hoot Owl Resort 16 miles North of Park Rapids on Hwy. 71 and 16 miles West on Hwy. 113

.com 800-927-2262 Warm days, cool nights on a gorgeous clear lake Close to Itasca State Park.

90 Campsites • Sandy swimming beach 80’ Spring-fed lake stocked with rainbow trout Volleyball courts, basketball hoop, horseshoes, row boat and paddle boat rental & playground

10449 Hoot Owl Lake Road Waubun, MN 56589 218-734-2245 • 1-800-635-2157

Premier Featuring 13 abins Lakefront C Located In f The Heart O y Lake Countr

Unlimited paddle boarding, kayaking and fun!

40+ Acres, 2 Miles Of Hiking Tra ils And A Large Sand Beach With Water Toys!

Family and Large Group Friendly Your Hosts:

Cary and Shelley Brzinski

218-652-3821

www.RoyalStarrResort.com • Relax@RoyalStarrResort.com 001374181r1

PAGE 68 | DESTINATIONS 2020

EXPLORING, SIGHTSEEING or RELAXING Park Rapids lakes area offers something for everyone THE BEST OF TWO WORLDS ~

Good Fishing AND Great Shopping & Dining

Welcome to

Cozy cabins & motel rooms nestled in tall pines along the crystal clear waters of the Fish Hook River, leading to Fish Hook Lake and fantastic fishing. Close to the Heartland Trail and challenging golf courses.

Only 19 miles away from Itasca State Park.

PET FRIENDLY FREE WIFI

1-800-733-9711 700 Park Ave N, Park Rapids, MN 56470

www.RiversidePointResort.com

www.norwayhills.com

• Upper Bottle Lake • 14 Miles NE of Park Rapids • 400’ Sandy Beach • Boat & Pontoon Rental • Great Fishing 218-732-4639 whippoorwillresort.com

Enjoy the relaxing comfort of our modern cabins overlooking Big Mantrap Lake, just north of Park Rapids, MN.

frankpat@norwayhills.com

www.vagabondvillage.com

23801 Green Pines Rd. Park Rapids, MN 56470

218-732-5234

((218) 255-0200

East on Hwy 34 to Cty Rd. 4, North 6 miles to Cty Rd. 40, then left to Green Pines Rd. See listing Park Rapids, MN

• Full Hookups, Partial and Tent Sites • Restrooms • Showers • Laundry • Groceries Wireless • RV Supplies • Ice Internet • Picnic Table • Firewood • Campfire Pit • Snacks • Pavilions • Swimming Pool • Lake Swimming • Fishing • Boat Ramp • Docks • Boat Rentals • Rec Hall • Arcade • Tennis • Shuffleboard • Playground It’s great to be outdoors and creating family memories at one of Northern Minnesota’s Top Rated Campgrounds

www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 69

BREEZY POINT 54852 State Hwy. 34, Osage MN 56570 Straight Lake 218-732-3125 • 800-939-2630 Alice & Cyrus Gust breezypoint.com Handcrafted cabins nestled under the pines. Open all year.

BIRCH HARBOR RESORT 25546 Harbor Trail, Lower Bottle Lake, Park Rapids, MN 56470 Gary & Theresa Blakely 218-732-3760 Off Season Short Stays BROOKSIDE RESORT Two Inlets Lake Kellers & Wallenbergs

31671 Co Hwy 50, Park Rapids, MN 56470 218-732-4093 • brookside-resort.com

11 7 • 9 0

• • • • • • • •

29 0 •

EVERGREEN LODGE Big Sand Lake Dan & Juli Dyre HOOT OWL LODGE AND RESORT Hoot Owl/Pickerel Lake Bill and Shirley Fritze

5 4

17838 Goldeneye Lane Park Rapids MN 56470 • 218-732-4766 evergreenlodgemn.com

18 0

10449 Hoot Owl Lake Road Waubun, MN 56589 218-734-2245 • hootowllodge.com

12 0

•

Free use of paddleboards, kayaks and canoes LITTLE NORWAY RESORT 32016 Little Mantrap Drive Little Mantrap Lake Park Rapids, MN 56470 Ben & Steph Brandon 218-732-5480 • littlenorwayresort.com

•

20 0 • •

19331 Eagle Pointe Trail Park Rapids, MN 56470 218-732-3028 • loonsnest.com

14 0 • •

frankpat@norwayhills.com free high speed Internet -5G, HDTV’s in all cabins.

PINE CONE LODGE AND The Brand Family VACATION RENTALS 6950 Sunset Strip NW, Alexandria, MN 56308 Big Sand & Thomas /Loon Lake 320-491-6952 • pinconelodge.info Open year round bonnie@pineconelodge.com RIVERSIDE POINT RESORT/ 700 Park Ave. N., Park Rapids, MN 56470 MOTEL Fish Hook River 218-732-9711 • 800-733-9711 Dan and Cheryl Howland riversidepointresort.com

8 0 • •

PAGE 70 | DESTINATIONS 2020

WINTER ACTIVITIES

SUPERVISED CHILD ACTIVITIES

GASOLINE

FISHING LICENSE

BAIT AVAILABLE

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2 new/homes/cabins, beautiful lodge with restaurant, great swim beach and FREE use of water toys, seasonal campground only.

THE WILDS RESORT & 45120 Maple Lane CAMPGROUND Shell Lake Osage, MN 56520 6 45 • • • • • • • • Barry and Kristy Wilde 218-573-3515 • thewildsresort.com Free use of paddle boards, kayaks & canoe. Pets welcome. Open year round.

BOAT/MOTOR RENTAL/PONTOON

• • • • • • •

Best of both worlds - fishing & boarding, shopping & dining. Free High Speed Wi-Fi. Ask us about our value-added packages. E-mail; riversidepoint@arvig.net ROYAL STAR R RESORT 19222 Echo Ridge Drive, 6th Crow Wing Lake Nevis, MN 56467 218-652-3821 13 0 • • • • • • • • Cary & Shelley Brzinski RoyalStarrResort.com Featuring 13 premier lakefront cabins, large sand beach, family/large group friendly.

TAMARAC RESORT & 32152 Co. Hwy. 35 , CAMPGROUND, LLC Round Lake Ponsford, MN 56575 3 48 Randy & Sheila Blanford 218-573-3262 tamaracresortmn.com

BOAT LAUNCH

• • • •

8 0 • • • • • • • • • • 9 0 • •

GRILL

•

• •

Modern cabins with screened-in porches, heated pool, expansive playground, organized family activities, lodge with wifi/arcade. Email: resort@mantraplodge.com NORTHERN PINE LODGE 14588 230th Street Potato Lake Park Rapids, MN 56470 17 0 • • • • • • • • N Jonathan and Kelly Schupp 218-732-5103 • northernpinelodge.com 20503 Jade Lane Park Rapids, MN 56470 218-255-0200 • norwayhills.com

POOL/SAUNA/WHIRLPOOL

•

Our goal is to provided you with great accommodations so you can enjoy the Park Rapid’s area northwoods charm! Wireless wifi in cabins.

MANTRAP LODGE 20725 Jewel Drive Big Mantrap Lake Park Rapids, MN 56470 16 0 • • • • • • Andrew and Charlotte Hansen 1-800-424-0901 • mantraplodge.com

18 hole mini-golf.

NORWAY HILLS RESORT Big Mantrap Lake Frank & Pat Hoffman

GOLF/NEAR/ON

TENNIS/NEAR/ON

PLAYGROUND

•

Close to Itasca State Park on paved road/bike trail, wireless Internet, childrens activities, open May-Oct. Short stays, early and late season.

LONG LAKE PARK AND 213 Main Avenue North CAMPGROUND Long Lake Bagley, MN 56621 0 89 • • S • • • Clearwater County 218-657-2275 • longlakepark.com Paddle boats.

LOON’S NEST RESORT Fish Hook Lake Grant and Amber Larson

SWIMMING AREA

• • • • •

• • • • •

Open May Through September, Wireless Wifi, Walking Trails Through Our 50 Acres Of Woods JOLLY FISHERMAN RESORT 39126 Jolly Fisherman Road Big Elbow Lake Waubun, MN 56470 15 0 Anne Buelow 701-388-8042 • jollyfisherman.com

RECREATION ROOM

• •

Heated Swimming Pool, Sauna, Supervised Activities, Golf, Tennis, Free Waterskiing, Mini-Golf, Wifi, Ice Cream, Open May Through September.

CAMP LIBERTY RESORT 20522 269th Avenue 8th Crow Wing Lake Nevis, MN 56457 10 0 • • • • • • Todd & Kristin Kittleson 218-652-3533 • camplibertyresort.com Covered Porches on All Cabins With Beautiful Lake Views, Television In Lodge EN-OF-TRAIL RESORT 48883 Marilou Drive Bass Lake Ponsford, MN 56575 John and Patricia Kubat 218-573-3791

SCREENED PORCH

CONVENIENCE STORE

TELEVISION

PETS ALLOWED

LAUNDRY FACILITIES

FIREPLACES

AIR CONDITIONING

HOUSEKEEPING CABINS

TUBS/SHOWERS/BOTH

HANDICAP ACCESSIBLE

SHORT STAYS/ALL SEASON

ACCEPT CREDIT CARDS

AND CAMPGROUNDS

CAMPING/RV SITES

AREA RESORTS

NUMBER OF UNITS

PARK RAPIDS

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VAGABOND VILLAGE CAMPGROUND Potato Lake • The Nelsons

23801 Green Pines Road Park Rapids, MN 56470 218-732-5234 • vagabondvillage.com

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SUPERVISED CHILD ACTIVITIES

GASOLINE

FISHING LICENSE

BAIT AVAILABLE

BOAT/MOTOR RENTAL/PONTOON

BOAT LAUNCH

GRILL

POOL/SAUNA/WHIRLPOOL

GOLF/NEAR/ON

TENNIS/NEAR/ON

PLAYGROUND

SWIMMING AREA

RECREATION ROOM

SCREENED PORCH

CONVENIENCE STORE

TELEVISION

PETS ALLOWED

LAUNDRY FACILITIES

FIREPLACES

AIR CONDITIONING

HOUSEKEEPING CABINS

TUBS/SHOWERS/BOTH

HANDICAP ACCESSIBLE

SHORT STAYS/ALL SEASON

ACCEPT CREDIT CARDS

AND CAMPGROUNDS

CAMPING/RV SITES

AREA RESORTS

NUMBER OF UNITS

PARK RAPIDS

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Camping/RV sites and wireless internet.

WALTER’S RESORT Lake Ida Tim and Deb Skadberg

20035 Grouse Road, Park Rapids, MN 56470 218-255-5707 719-849-9237 waltersresortmn.com

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1009 1st St. East, Park Rapids, MN 56470 218-732-1471 • 1-800-258-6891 stays@prcmoninn.com • cmoninn.com

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1501 1st St. East, Park Rapids, MN 218-732-1234 • 1-800-634-3444 parkrapids.mn@americinn • americinn.com

PARK RAPIDS

AMERICAN INN LODGE & SUITES Gail Lockrem

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21421 County 24 Park Rapids, MN 56470 218-732-4639 • whippoorwillresort.com

FISHING LICENSE

WHIPPOORWILL RESORT Upper Bottle Lake Jim & Jill Dillon

CONTINENTAL/FULL BREAKFAST

Easy Water Access to Big & Little Sand Lake. Pets allowed June, Sept & Oct in cabins 1, 2 & 3. Boat/Pontoon Rentals- Free Delivery within 30 Mile Radius.

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Large pool and hot tub. 42” plasma TV’s, refrigerators and microwaves in all rooms. Family friendly courtyard. Dogs welcome.

NO TEL MOTEL AT EMMAVILLE

RED BRIDGE INN Fish Hook River

28021 County Road 4 Park Rapids, MN 56470 218-732-8544 • emmavilleinn.com 118 Washington Ave. N. Park Rapids, MN 56470 218-237-77337 • 855-237-7337

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Includes access to 2 pontoon boats, 2 fishing boats & a paddle boat. We specialize in family reunions, bridal and wedding showers, and small weddings.

RIVERSIDE POINT RESORT Fish Hook River Dan and Cheryl Howland

700 Park Ave. North, Park Rapids, MN 56470 218-732-9711 • 1-800-733-9711 riversidepointresort.com

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Clean, comfortable, smoke-free, cable tv and wifi. Close to town, good shopping and restaurants nearby. Pets welcome. Email: riversidepoint@arvig.net.

SUPER 8 MOTEL

1020 1st. St. East Park Rapids, MN 56470 218-732-9704 • 1-887-274-3040 parkrapidssuper8.com

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www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 71

Travel the Road to the Source Explore charming shops, enjoy great dining and find family fun on your way to the Headwaters!

Itasca State Park

By The Numbers 500,000 people visit the park each year 32,690 acres spanned across three counties 2,552 miles spans the distance of the Mississippi River - Gulf of Mexico

1891 is the year the park was founded 1,558 feet above sea level (Data from ISP website) 1,077 acres of water is named Lake Itasca 405 camping sites 222 species of birds have been recorded to be seen in the park

49 miles of hiking trails 31 miles of snowmobile trails circle the park 16 miles of paved bike trails 13 miles of groomed cross country ski trails 9.6 miles of the North Country Trail pass through Itasca

2 - Itasca is the second oldest state park in the United States

1.5 Wheelchair Accessible miles of Trails

Jan.-April

Open by Appointment

Last Sat in April - Mid Sept

Mon.- Sat. 10am-5pm & Sundays 12pm-3 pm (Note:Sundays Start Memorial Day Weekend)

Mid Sept - Christmas

Pontoon, Canoe & Kayak Rentals, Bike Rentals, Sales & Repair Located on Lake Itasca in Itasca State Park!

218-266-2150 in-season

PAGE 72 | DESTINATIONS 2020

218-657-2420 off-season

Fri. & Sat. 10am-4pm. Also by Appointment

Souvenirs, Lake Art, Cabin Decor, Lodge Furniture.

Hickory, Pine, Cedar & More

North on Hwy. 71!

21697 US. 71, Park Rapids MN • 218-732-3860 www.utkescountrypinefurnishings.com

of the Mississippi River today!

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Discover Minnesota At The Logging Camp

• Stroll through nature trails brimming with wildlife • See the State Flower, the Lady Slipper in its natural surroundings, located along the scenic Fish Hook River.

• See the steam-powered engine Top Off Your Adventure With A • See our many antiques on display 65 Year Tradition... our souvenir shop ALL YOU CAN EAT •• Visit Roam freely about and enjoy All meals served family style this unique experience to assure the ol’ logging tradition.

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK Breakfast: 7:30 - 12 noon Dinner: 1:00 - 8:00 p.m.

MEMORIAL WEEKEND THRU LABOR DAY Open 7 Days A Week at 7:30 AM

218-732-3444

Hwy. 71 N. Turn on Co. Rd. 18. Follow Signs.

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THREE ESCAPE ROOMS

• Team Building • Problem Solving • Creative Thinking

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On Board Snack Bar

We have had over 10,000 participants in the past 5 years and were the second escape room open in Minnesota!

• Fine Gifts & Fudge • Snack Bar • Rock Climbing Wall

• Go Carts • Mini Golf • Laser Tag • Bumper Boats • Mineral Mining & More!

MAKE RESERVATIONS ONLINE!

EvergreenGiftsAndFun.com

10 mi. N. of Park Rapids on Hwy. 71 • (218) 732-9609

www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 73

JEWEL OF THE PARK RAPIDS AREA

ITASCA STATE PARK

SOURCE OF THE MISSISSIPPI RIVER

P

ark Rapids is the undisputed gateway to Itasca State Park.

The south park entrance is a 19-mile drive from Park Rapids north on U.S. Highway 71. The east entrance is only a couple miles farther north, near the junction of Highways 71 and 200.

Itasca State Park encompasses Lake Itasca, the official source of the Mississippi River, and is a scenic area of northern Minnesota that has remained relatively unchanged from its natural state.

Established in 1891, Itasca is Minnesota’s oldest state park.

Today, the park totals more than 32,000 acres and includes more than 100 lakes.

Stand under towering pines at Preacher’s Grove. Visit the Itasca Indian Cemetery or Wegmann’s Cabin, landmarks of centuries gone by. Camp under the stars, or stay the night at the historic

PAGE 74 | DESTINATIONS 2020

Douglas Lodge or cabins. Explore Wilderness Drive past the 2,000acre Wilderness Sanctuary, one of Minnesota’s seven National Natural Landmarks.

But the main attraction is walking across the headwaters of the Mississippi River on stones at the mouth of Lake Itasca.

There are plenty of other outdoor activities to do at the park, such as taking an excursion boat on Lake Itasca, exploring along Wilderness Drive, biking or hiking along more that 30 miles of designated trails, fishing in one of the many lakes, observing the wild flowers in season, or birding. Like the entire Park Rapids area, wildlife can be seen throughout the park.

For more information about events and schedules, call Itasca State Park headquarters at 218699-7251 or go to dnr.state.mn.us/ state_parks/itasca/Index.html.

TAKE A BOAT CRUISE TO THE HEADWATERS Coborn’s Lake Itasca Tours offers narrated boat tours to the Mississippi River headwaters. Aboard the 141-passenger Chester Charles II, the boat cruise follows the same route taken by Ozawindib in 1832 when he guided Henry Rowe Schoolcraft to the headwaters of the Mississippi River, where they recorded the source of the greatest river in the U.S. as it begins its flow 2,552 miles to the Gulf of Mexico.

HOOF IT THROUGH AMERICA’S RUGGED HEARTLAND

From New York to North Dakota, hikers can find adventure along the North Country Trail.

Traversing through seven states, the trail is the longest national scenic trail in the U.S. It’s the only one in Minnesota.

The trail enters Minnesota near Jay Cooke State Park and winds toward the Chippewa National Forest, Hubbard County, the Paul Bunyan State Forest and the scenic Itasca Moraine landscape before heading further south through Maplewood State Park and on to the North Dakota border. Upon reaching Itasca State Park, the trail is in the neighborhood of the Mississippi headwaters before turning south and following the Laurentian Divide.

The trail path is natural, with roots and snags removed and overhanging limbs trimmed for unimpeded travel. Open to foot traffic only, the hikers, berry pickers, hunters, birdwatchers, geocachers, snowshoers and anyone else walking this trail are in for a treat: it meanders through forested hills and valleys interspersed with rivers, lakes, and numerous wetlands.

Short day hikes or overnight hikes are possible. Maps, events and suggested hikes are available at northcountrytrail.org/llc.

EXPLORE MULTIPLE STATE FORESTS...

Divided into north and south units, Paul Bunyan State Forest offers miles of hiking, off-road vehicle, ATV and off-road motorcycle trails as well as areas for snowmobiling, horseback riding and mountain biking. Its 105,113 acres feature a terrain that’s rough and hilly, with many tiny ponds and bogs.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources manages two outdoor recreational facilities in the forest: Mantrap Lake Campground and Gulch Lake Campground.

Mantrap Lake is a designated muskie lake. The campground and day use area offers 38 primitive campsites, swimming, water access, fishing, a dock, five picnic sites and nature trails.

Gulch Lake Campground is located near Nelson Lake, Lake 21 and Bass Lake. The campground serves as a great access point to hiking trails, water accesses and picnic sites.

The campground and day use area is located within a game refuge and a non-motorized recreation area.

Five campsites are found within Huntersville State Forest. All offer picnic tables, fire rings, firewood, toilets and well water. Most have nice swimming areas adjacent to the campground and canoe landing. A 23-mile horse trail, featuring two loops and a river crossing, starts at the Shell City Horse Campground. Located 12 miles southeast of Park Rapids, it also boasts trails for motorized and nonmotorized use.

Located 10 miles north of Park Rapids, Two Inlets State Forest provides more than 27 miles of snowmobile trail that connects to other area trails. Boat accesses are located on Hungry Man, Cedar and Two Inlets lakes. Two Inlets Lake offers good fishing for all species. This state forest is known for excellent hunting of deer, ruffed grouse and small game.

Smoky Hills State Forest is also known for exceptional hunting for deer and grouse during the fall season. Enjoy 30 miles of snowmobile trails in this

state forest, located 10 miles west of Park Rapids. North Smoky Hills Trail has 13 miles of trail and can be reached from Osage. Wolf Lake Trail has 17 miles of trail and is located 3.5 miles south of Osage. Both trails are marked, but not groomed.

...AND ONE NATIONAL FOREST, ALL CLOSE TO ITASCA

Chippewa National Forest is located five miles east of Akeley, along State Highway 34.

Nestled along the rolling hills of the Shingobee River Valley, the Shingobee Recreation Area inside the national forest provides a variety of summer and winter activities. The area offers six miles of trails for hiking, hunting, birdwatching, primitive camping, and cross-country skiing in the heart of Minnesota’s northwoods. A sliding hill and weekend warming chalet are also available for winter fun. www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 75

SPONSORED CONTENT

PADDLE OR FLOAT THE CROW WING CROW WING CANOE TRAIL CAMPSITES The beginning point of the original canoe trails is at the Blueberry Bridge northeast of Menahga. From here 13 public campsites are strung along the river at convenient intervals with no dams or portages to obstruct your trip.

No hardships here, but a quiet, restful trip that even small children will delight in, and the avid canoeist will appreciate. The beauty of the river scenery is entirely unspoiled. At each site there are toilet facilities, pumps and ample campgrounds (up to 800 acres). While you are on the river, supplies can be purchased at Nimrod and Wahoo Valley, and telephone calls can be made at these points also.

SHELL CITY CAMPSITE… This 609 acre campsite was once the location of a flourishing button factory. Buttons were fashioned from the shells of freshwater clams dug from the Shell River. Horse facilities. 6 miles to TREE FARM CAMPSITE...

A secluded campsite formerly a part of a surrounding 2,000 acre Northwest Paper Company Tree Farm, which is open to the public for recreational pursuits. Horse facilities. 3.5 miles to HUNTERSVILLE TOWNSHIP CAMPSITE..

A unique split-level campsite along the river. ¾ mile to BIG BEND CAMPSITE… A remote wilderness spot accessible by river only. 2.25 miles to HUNTERSVILLE FOREST CAMPSITE… This campsite is in the heart of the several thousand acre Huntersville State Forest, which

has miles of old logging trails - interesting hiking midst the pines. Horse facilities. 7 miles to ANDERSON’S CROSSING CAMPSITE… A pioneer settler homesteaded near this Indian crossing. Beginning at this 113 acre campsite at the Butterfield Rapids, which are not hazardous. You will enjoy hiking the trails leading from this site. 5 miles to STIGMAN’S MOUND CAMPSITE… Stigman’s Mound is a picnic area at the Nimrod Bridge. The little park was established by the Nimrod Grange and is named for former major league pitcher Dick Stigman, whose home was Nimrod. 1 mile to FRAME’S LANDING CAMPSITE… This 14 acre campsite is named for one of Nimrod’s first citizens. A CCC Camp was operated here in the early 1940’s. 2 miles to INDIAN MOUNDS...

You will find pre-historic Indian Mounds approximately 2 miles below Nimrod which are accessible by canoe or automobile. Camping and fires are not permitted at this site. 4 miles to

LITTLE WHITE DOG CAMPSITE… At this Indian lookout point you have a beautiful view of the river. The high banks above the site were used for Indian gatherings and ceremonies. Here sacrificial animals were killed honoring the Indian deities. 654 acre campsite. 5.5 miles to KNOB HILL CAMPSITE… The campsite, 105 acres, is set on a picturesque Jackpine plat. Fire damage on the trail leading south from this site reminds you to be careful with your campfires. 3 miles to COTTINGHAM PARK CAMPSITE… This country park is a popular picnicking and swimming spot. You will enjoy a nature hike on the trail leading south from the park. 5.5 miles to BULLARD BLUFF CAMPSITE...

This area was called Hog Haven in early Wadena County History because of the wild hogs running free. 4 miles to OLD WADENA...

Between the mouth of the Leaf and Partridge Rivers in the Old Wadena Historical Site. The name “Wadena” is derived from the Chippewa word meaning “little round hill”. Picnic table and campsites are available. 1.5 miles to McGIVERN PARK… This park is the ending point of the organized Wadena County Crow Wing Canoe Trail. Picnic tables available. However, you may continue further to Motley, Pillager or Crow Wing State Park near Brainerd if you wish.

CROW WING RIVER COUNTRY CANOES • KAYAKS • TUBES • CAMPING GEAR SHUTTLE SERVICE

Open Every Day at 11 am

• Gas • Ice on the Crow Wing • Camping/RV Sites River • Tubing, Canoeing, Kayaking • Trail Systems for Horses, ATV’s, Snowmobiles, & Motocross • Appetizers, Burgers, Dinners, Salad Bar • Adult Beverages • Meat Raffle Every Friday & Saturday night

Toll-free: 1-800-279-6588 • 218-564-4279

23269 380th St., Menahga, MN www.huntersvillecanoeoutfitters.com • Email: hotdk2@wcta.net

W WING RO

BEAUTIFUL VIEW OF THE CROW WING RIVER! eer and RIVER Stop in for oafB one the ound! ers ar Four Seasons of Fun! Best Burg C

BEST BURGERS

- Seasonal outdoor seating available! –

Open 5 Days a Week - Wed. -Sun. at 11am Closed - Mon. & Tues.

23115 Old Bridge Road Huntersville, MN • (218) 564-9585 PAGE 76 | DESTINATIONS 2020

(218) 894-1691

• American Cuisine, Burgers • Full Service Bar • On/Off Sale

Located on Cty Rd 7 Staples, MN - right on the Crow Wing River 19680 WAHOO VALLEY DRIVE • STAPLES, MN

PARK RAPIDS PARK RAPIDS

MAY 1: Hubbard County Historical Museum opens 1: Nemeth Art Center opens 3: Park Rapids Area Community Band spring concert JUNE 6: Take Flight! Spotting Spring Birds, Itasca State Park 11: Rich Mattson and the Northstars, 2nd Street Stage 20: Author Fest 18: Everett Smithson Band, 2nd Street Stage 25: Boss Mama and the Jebberhooch, 2nd Street Stage JULY 2-4: Headwaters PRCA Xtreme Bull Ride and Pro Rodeo 3: 4onthefloor, 2nd Street Stage

4: Firecracker Footrace, Heartland Park 4: Fourth of July parade 4: John Michael Lerma Pie Contest 4: Park Rapids Area Community Band prefireworks concert 4: Park Rapids Rotary Fourth of July fireworks 9: 32 Below, 2nd Street Stage 15-20: Hubbard County Fair, Shell Prairie Agricultural Association 16: Jacob Mahon & the Salty Dogs, 2nd Street Stage 23: Charlie Parr, 2nd Street Stage 23-24: Crazy Days 24-26: Lake George Blueberry Festival

EVENTS CALENDAR

30: Mae Simpson Music, 2nd Street Stage 31-Aug. 15: Big Fish, Northern Light Opera Company AUGUST 1-2: Field Days, Park Rapids Antique Tractor & Engine Club’s East 40 Grounds 6: Corey Medina & Brothers, 2nd Street Stage 8: Legends and Logging Days, Park Rapids Antique Tractor & Engine Club’s East 40 Grounds 8: Run to the Rapids classic car show 13: The Joyann Parker Band, 2nd Street Stage 14-16: Lake Itasca Region Pioneer Farmer Show

15-16: Art Fair at the Winery, Forestedge Winery, Laporte 22: Veterans Tribute Program, Howard Maninga’s home, Ponsford SEPTEMBER 26: Headwaters 100 Bike Ride 26-27: Art Leap 2020 OCTOBER 1-31: Shoptoberfest, downtown 31: Trick or Treat Downtown Park Rapids NOVEMBER 26: Turkey Trot and 5K Walk/Run 27: Community Tree Lighting Ceremony and Yuletide Sampler

www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 77

DESTINATION BEMIDJI THE FIRST CITY ON THE MISSISSIPPI

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t doesn’t get much more Minnesotan than this little city of tall timber, tall tales, lots of plaid, and Paul Bunyan.

Folk tales claim the giant lumberjack created the Mississippi River with his massive footsteps, along with all the area’s lakes. Today, in a nod to these tales, an 18-foot statue of Paul Bunyan stands next to a 5-ton statue of his beloved blue ox, Babe, on the shores of Lake Bemidji. They are believed to be the second-most photographed roadside attraction in the nation, behind only Mount Rushmore.

Breath-taking natural beauty surrounds Bemidji, with over 400 crystal clear fishing lakes in the region. Fishing, boating, swimming and other water activities are a big draw for visitors, as are the area’s extensive trail systems, golf courses, hunting opportunities and more.

There are area parks to enjoy and public beaches maintained at Diamond Point and Cameron parks. Winter recreation is provided by a curling arena, two municipal skating rinks and Buena Vista Ski Area.

PAGE 78 | DESTINATIONS 2020

LOCALS LOVE IT:

THE LAKE BEMI DJI DRAGON BOAT FESTIVA L Dragon boat racing is the fastest growing water sp ort in the nation, and thousands of pe Lake Bemidji water ople come to the front every year to enjoy the action.

The annual festiv al, happening this Jul y 29-August 1, features great foo d, music, kids’ activities, a parad e of tea cultural performan ms , ces and more.

HOW BEMIDJI GOT ITS NAME Considered “the first city on the Mississippi River,” Bemidji’s name derives from its connection to the great river. The Anishinaabe people, who were the first residents of the area, named the city “Bemejigamaug,” which means “a lake with water flowing through it” in the Ojibwe language. The name refers to the Mississippi, which flows across Lake Bemidji before turning south.

To learn more about Bemidji’s rich history, visit the Bemidji County History Center, located in the Great Northern Depot downtown. Check out more than 105,000 pieces of American Indian and settlement artifacts there, along with old maps, newspapers and photographs.

EXPLORE THE HEADWATERS SCIENCE CENTER The Headwaters Science Center’s exhibit floor is 7,500-square-feet, with more than 70 self-guided, interactive exhibits that help children of all ages better understand and appreciate scientific principles and concepts.

Make a hot air balloon fly, hold a snake and much more at this familyfriendly destination, located downtown.

CELEBRATE AT THE WATER CARNIVAL The 76th Annual Bemidji Jaycees Water Carnival will be held July 1-5.

A “Red White and Boom” fireworks spectacular will start at dusk on July 4, with the best viewing at the southwest end of Lake Bemidji. A grand parade will be Sunday at 1 p.m.

BEMIDJI A CITY OF ARTS •

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Creativity flourishes in galleries along downtown streets and events held throughout the year, including the Bemidji Sculpture Walk, which features 12 statues designed by well-known artists.

Founded in 1951, the Paul Bunyan Playhouse is the longest continuously-running summer stock theater company in Minnesota.

The Water Art Center displays national, regional and local artists in group exhibits, solo shows and installations.

Admission is free. The gallery sponsors the First Friday Art Walk as well as Art in the Park.

Other arts organizations in the area include the Bemidji Symphony Orchestra, Bemidji Community Theater and the Headwaters School of Music and the Arts.

The community also hosts the First City of Arts Studio Cruise each fall. www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 79

DESTINATION ASKOV RUTABAGA CAPITAL OF THE WORLD

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he spirit of Askov’s early 20th-century origins are still celebrated today, at the town’s annual Rutabaga Festival and Fair. The little city — population 400, tops — was founded in 1906 after a mass immigration of Danish residents. A few years later, the townspeople began sharing their vegetables and crops in an annual fair-type gathering, and over time that evolved into the Rutabaga Festival.

Always held the fourth weekend in August, the festival features crafters, food stands, exhibits, kids games, a cupcake walk, bingo, music and dancing, a 5K, the coronation of Miss Askov, and both a kiddie parade and larger festival parade.

The Askov Midsummer Aebleskiver Breakfast, set for June 20, celebrates the summer solstice as a fundraiser for the Rutabaga Festival.

For more information, visit askovrutabagafestival.com.

WHAT THE HECK’S A RUTABAGA, YOU SAY? It’s a root vegetable; a cross between a turnip and a wild cabbage. The leaves are edible, but it’s usually the root that gets cooked and eaten.

Denser and sweeter than a potato, a rutabaga can be prepared pretty much any way a potato can. Its low cost and hardiness in cold climates made it a popular choice for early Minnesota settlers.

Just west of Askov, this park stretches along 10 miles of the Kettle River, which boasts 1.5 miles of rapids, up to Class IV, for kayakers and canoers.

There’s a 33-site campground, and hikers can enjoy 17 miles of trails while marveling at pink-colored sandstone.

Be sure to visit the historic Banning Sandstone Quarry.

The Pine County Historical Museum, open since 2012, features exhibits from the town’s former railroad depot, farm museum and other local artifacts, the new museum offers exhibits, classes and lectures, and hosts concerts, dances and dinners. For more information, visit pinecountyhistorical society.org.

ASKOV RUTABAGA FESTIVAL VISIT US!

August 28-30, 2020

320-838-1561 askovrutabagafestival.com PAGE 80 | DESTINATIONS 2020

MuseuM | LittLe MerMaid Café antique & Gift shop

•Research library •Model railroad project • woodworking & railroad club •Event Centers & banquet rooms for meetings, conferences, private parties,dining, dances & concerts Many museum rooms & displays: •Cars •Church •Dolls & Doll Houses •Home & Family •Industry •Logging • Military •Native American •Pine County Cities •Quarry •Textiles • Many more! • Seasonal Thrift Store HOURS: Museum Tues.-Sat. 9am-4pm • Sun.12-4pm • Closed Monday Cafe Hours: Tues.-Sat. 7:30 to 2:30pm • Sun.9-2:30pm • Closed Monday 6333 H C Andersen Alle, PO Box 123, Askov, MN 55704 | 320-838-1607

www.pinecountyhistoricalsociety.org

001829087r1

DON’T MISS THE MUSEUM

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BANNING STATE PARK

STEP BACK IN TIME WITH VISITS TO THESE SPOTS IN CARLTON COUNTY

ALL OF THEM ARE ON THE NATIONAL REGISTER OF HISTORIC PLACES Frank Lloyd Wright Gas Station: The only operating service station designed by internationally-known architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Located on the corner of Highway 33 and Cloquet Avenue, Cloquet.

Northeastern Hotel & Saloon: Established in 1885 and thought to be the oldest saloon in Minnesota, the Northeastern survived a fire in 1918, serving as a makeshift hospital. See a 1936 moose head, with a story you’ll want to hear. Open daily for drinks and lodging at 115 St Louis Ave, Cloquet.

DESTINATION CLOQUET CITY OF WOOD INDUSTRIES

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loquet offers the best of both small town living and urban excitement. Located 22 miles west of Duluth, on the banks of the St. Louis River, the community was nearly destroyed by historic 1918 fires, but was methodically rebuilt and is now home to several major businesses, including Sappi Fine Paper, USG Interiors, Boldt Construction and more.

Because it flows into Lake Superior, the St. Louis River was an important waterway during the fur trade era of the mid-1700s, and then contributed to the city’s successful sawmills, a paper company and railroad service by the turn of the 20th century. A portion of the city lies within the reservation of the Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa.

Cloquet’s parks and trail system draw visitors from all over, and the city is a destination for adventurous bikers, hikers, cross-country skiers and ski jumpers. Cloquet is home to two of the last remaining ski jumps in Minnesota, and is surrounded by more than 500 miles of snowmobile trails. The region is the only place in Minnesota to go whitewater rafting.

Carlton County Historical Society: The 1919 Shaw Memorial Library building was built on the 1901 foundation of the previous library building, destroyed by a 1918 fire. In 1987 the library moved out and the Carlton County Historical Society moved in, creating a museum.

Visit the Historical Society at 406 Cloquet Ave., Cloquet.

Jay Cooke State Park: Their park features winding two-lane roads and 50 miles of hiking trails. Be sure to visit the River Inn Visitor Center, constructed in the 1940s by the Civilian Conservation Corps using local rocks. The park is located on Highway 210, Carlton.

Henry C. Oldenburg House: This 1894 home is located at 604 Chestnut Ave. in Carlton and is operated by proprietors Glenn and Emily Swanson. Enjoy their bed and breakfast, or consider renting space for special events and weddings.

FUN FACT:

Actress Jessica Lange and NHL hockey players Jamie Langenbrunner, Derek Plante and Corey Millen were all born in Cloquet!

www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 81

PLACES TO PLAY •

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Pine Valley Park: Hiking, mountain biking, crosscountry skiing, chalet, ski jumping Pinehurst Park: Sandbottom swimming pond, picnic shelter with tables, playground, tennis courts, softball field, basketball court, warming house, outdoor hockey rink, sliding hill Braun Park: Baseball, softball, basketball, picnic shelter, playground, sand volleyball Dunlap Island: Playground, picnic shelter/ tables, warming house, fire pit, ice skating ribbon Hilltop Park: Disc golf course, playground, soccer fields Campgrounds: Spafford Park, Cloquet/Duluth KOA, Knife Island, Lounge on Big Lake Shores, Jay Cooke State Park, Buffalo Valley Golf Courses: Cloquet Country Club, Black Bear Golf Course, Pine Hill Golf Course, Big Lake Golf Club

CLOQUET CLOQUET MARCH 13-14: Home, Business & Sport Show APRIL 11: Easter Egg Hunt JULY 4: July 4th Celebration TBD: Carlton Daze AUGUST 13-16: Carlton County Fair 21-23: Lakehead Harvest

EVENTS CALENDAR

Reunion Steam & Tractor Show TBD: Wood City Music Festival SEPTEMBER 7: Carlton County Labor Day Celebration OCTOBER 9-10: Cloquet Chamber Craft, Art & Vendor Fair

Bergquist

GIFT SHOP

Featuring

Scandinavian giFts

1412 Hwy 33 South • Cloquet www.bergquistimports.com 218-879-1142

For more Cloquet area information, please visit our website. www.visitcloquet.com

Cloquet Office of Tourism PAGE 82 | DESTINATIONS 2020

DECEMBER 2-5: Santa’s Home for the Holidays Celebration 5: Alumni Hockey Game, Cloquet vs. Duluth East FEBRUARY 2021 8: Carlton Winterfest

Visit Today!

DESTINATION DULUTH FIND IT ALL AT THE HEAD OF THE LAKE

LOCALS LOVE IT:

Y

ou may know it was vital to the fur trade, railroad, shipping and lumber industries.

You probably know it’s that city “up north” on the western tip of Lake Superior.

You may even describe it as “super hilly” with that cool bridge and, isn’t it always cold there?

Yes, it’s all true (mostly), but locals know it as a beautiful and scenic hometown, complete with big city opportunities in business, entertainment, arts and culture, and as a gigantic outdoor adventure playground where it’s easy to get away from it all.

Folks come from near and far to view Duluth’s famous aerial lift bridge, but there’s so much more….

BAYFRONT BLUE S FESTIVAL This is one of the lar outdoor music eve gest annual nts in the upper Midwest. Each yea r, nearly 20,000 fans are treated to more than 30 different acts on two stages at one of the region’s mo st beautiful open-air venues.

www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 83

DOWNTOWN Brimming with restaurants, brew pubs and great shopping, downtown Duluth has become the place to be. Meander along Superior Street to find treasures at Hucklebeary Gifts, Duluth Trading Company or Lester River Trading Company, specialty coffee and candy shops, antiques, or grab a bite at Pizza Luce or 7West Taphouse. If the weather is uncooperative, stroll through the skywalk system and Holiday Center and dine at the Lyric Kitchen and Bar. Downtown Duluth is also a treasure for historians. The Depot is a restored and repurposed train station, home to the St. Louis County Historical Society, the Veterans’ Memorial Hall, the Duluth Playhouse, the Lake Superior Railroad Museum, the North Shore Railroad and the Duluth Art Institute.

Want to play a different way? Get your thrills at two escape room venues: Zero Hour Escape Rooms and Solve Entertainment, or check out Zeitgeist, home to the Renegade Theater Company, where you can try your hand at improv. They also offer a cafe, zinema and teatro. Roll the dice at Fond-du-Luth Casino or bowl a round at the Incline Station.

When you’re ready to tip back a cold brew, you may have a hard time deciding where. Among the many taverns downtown, there are also a few microbreweries and brew pubs: the historic Fitger’s Brewhouse, Carmody Irish Pub, Blacklist Brewing Company, or Dubh Linn Irish Brew Pub (check out their comedy night).

Duluth’s historic NorShor Theater, originally opened in 1910 when it was known as The Orpheum, features productions from the Duluth Playhouse, as well.

Need a good book for your vacation reading? Check out Amazing Alonzo, offering a wide selection of used books and handmade gifts.

Short drive from Duluth

Outdoor Concerts July - August www.lwmusic.org

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PAGE 84 | DESTINATIONS 2020

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T H I N K LO C A L • S H O P L A K E S I D E • S U P E R I O R S T R E E T ’ S G E M

WEST DULUTH West Duluth is showing a resurgence, with the introduction of unique eateries, businesses and entertainment in this “craft district.”

You’ll find the mainstays — Duluth Children’s Museum, Wade Stadium (home of the Duluth Huskies), Essentia Health Duluth Heritage Sports Center, Keene Creek Dog Park and the Lake Superior Zoo. If you go “up the hill,” you’ll find Spirit Mountain Recreation Area and campground, where you can enjoy disc golf, a ride on the zip line, minigolf and mountain biking. Check out the panoramic views from the Thompson Hill Observation/Information Center, or enjoy a scenic drive along Skyline Parkway. Along the way, visit the historic Enger Tower and enjoy a peaceful lunch near the Japanese Peace Bell and gardens.

DAR EVENTS CALEN APRIL 1-5: Arrowhead Home & Builder Show, DECC 18: Fitger’s 5K Run & Walk, Fitger’s 28-May 5: Homegrown Music Festival, Various Venues MAY 1-2: Duluth Junk Hunt, DECC 13-Sept. 9: Wednesday Night Sailboat Races, Lake Superior 16-24: Duluth Dylan Fest, Various Venues JUNE 3-7: The Duluth Superior Film Festival, Various Venues 6: Walk for Animals & Furry 5K, Bayfront Festival Park 19: Whipper Snapper Races, Bayfront Festival Park 20: Grandma’s Marathon, Two Harbors to Duluth 20: Lincoln Park District Walleye Open, St. Louis River 27: CHUM Rhubarb Festival, First Lutheran Church 27-28: Park Point Art Fair, Park Point JULY 2: Bayfront Country Jam, Bayfront Festival Park 3: Hairball, Bayfront Festival Park 4: Duluth Fourth Fest, Bayfront Festival Park 8-10: Downtown Duluth Sidewalk Days, Downtown Duluth 10-Aug. 28: Movies in the Park, Leif Erikson Park 18: Reggae and World Music Festival, Bayfront Festival Park 18-19: Duluth Air & Aviation Expo, Duluth International Airport PAGE 86 | DESTINATIONS 2020

19: Honor the Earth Festival, Bayfront Festival Park 25: Taste of Duluth, Bayfront Festival Park 29-Aug. 2: South St. Louis County Fair, Proctor Fairgrounds AUGUST 1: All Pints North Summer Brew Fest, Bayfront Festival Park 7-8: City on the Hill Music Festival, Bayfront Festival Park 7-9: Kraus-Anderson Bike Duluth Festival, Spirit Mountain 14-16: Bayfront Blues Festival, Bayfront Festival Park 21-22: Lake Superior Dragon Boat Festival, Barker’s Island Festival Park 22-23: Art in Bayfront Park Art Fair, Bayfront Festival Park 27-29: The Tribute Fest, Bayfront Festival Park TBD: Spirit Valley Days, West Duluth SEPTEMBER 5: Duluth Superior Pride Festival, Bayfront Festival Park 12: Lake Superior Harvest Festival, Bayfront Festival Park 12-13: Duluth Drag Races and Car Show, Garfield Ave., Lincoln Park 18-19: Duluth Oktoberfestival, Bayfront Festival Park 18-19: NorthShore Inline Marathon, Bayfront Festival Park 18-20: Hawk Weekend Festival, Hawk Ridge Nature Reserve 19: Chester Bowl Fall Fest, Chester Bowl 25-27: Lake Superior 20/20

Studio Art Tour, Bayfront Festival Park 30-Oct. 5: Catalyst Content Festival, Duluth Arts District OCTOBER Weekends: William A. Irvin Haunted Ship Tours, William A. Irvin Museum TBD: Boo at the Zoo, Lake Superior Zoo NOVEMBER 6-7: Duluth Junk Hunt, DECC 6-7: Gales of November, DECC 20: Christmas City of the North Parade, Superior Street 21-Dec. 26: Bentleyville Tour of Lights, Bayfront Festival Park 27-29: Amsoil Snocross National, Spirit Mountain DECEMBER 11-13: Arrowhead Ice Fishing &Winter Show, DECC JANUARY 22-23: Lake Superior Ice Festival: Various Venues, Superior 24: John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon, Duluth to Grand Portage TBD: Duluth Ice & Mixed Fest, Quarry Park FEBRUARY 6: Cold Front February, Bayfront Festival Park 10-14: Duluth Boat, Sports, Travel & RV Show, DECC 10-14: Northland Outdoors Duluth Deer Classic, DECC 27: Duluth Women’s Expo, DECC

CANAL PARK Canal Park is the hub of the waterfront district, featuring the Aerial Lift Bridge, Great Lakes Aquarium, Bayfront Festival Park and Duluth Entertainment and Convention Center.

Be sure to visit the Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center, which showcases films on the Great Lakes and model ships and exhibits.

It’s also a great viewing area to watch a ship come in.

Take a tour of the William A. Irvin ship, sail on a Vista Fleet sightseeing cruise, take a ride in a horse-drawn carriage along Canal Park, hop on the North Shore Scenic Railroad and ride the

train, or soar above the lake in a helicopter tour!

Canal Park Drive and the DeWitt Seitz building are filled with fascinating gift shops, antiques, art, restaurants, brewpubs and lodging. Enjoy a bowl of wild rice soup at Grandma’s or a “Cajun Finn” at Northern Waters Smokehaus. Grab a pastry at Amazing Grace, a caramel apple from Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory or a chocolate ore boat from Hepzibah’s. Take the kids and your dogs to Vitta Pizza, where your wood-fired pizza cooks in 97 seconds so you can get out and enjoy your day in Duluth.

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Right off the Blatnik Bridge!

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Across Woodland Avenue • 4 Blocks from UMD Located in the Mount Royal Shopping Center

• Caribou Coffee Kiosk • Fresh Sushi Daily Free WiFi in Seated Area • Red Box Outstanding Produce & Organic Produce Section Largest Salad Bar in the Twin Ports Best Seafood North of the Twin Cities

www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 87

LOCALS LOVE IT:

DESTINATION ELY GATEWAY TO THE BOUNDARY WATERS

I

f you’re looking to get away from it all, then Ely’s your go-to destination.

As a hub city to the western end of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW), Ely is located in the heart of the Superior National Forest, one of the most wild and remote areas left in the continental United States. From taking wilderness adventures to experiencing that quaint vibe of a thriving small community, Ely has something for everyone.

A STAY AT THE GRAND ELY LO DGE Located on the sho res of beautiful Shagawa Lake in Ely has been voted Ely , this resort ’s destination, and als No. 1 getaway o made the list of Best 15 Romantic Weekend Getaways Minnesota by the in crazytourist.com in 2017.

It features lakeview lodging, a restaurant and ba r, resort adventur es, and can accomm odate special events.

MOTHER NATURE’S NORTHERN BACKYARD

SUPERIOR NATIONAL FOREST The Superior National Forest, established in 1909, offers the outdoor enthusiast a variety of recreation activities: hiking, bicycling, canoeing, climbing, fishing, horse riding, hunting, OHV riding, nature viewing, scenic driving, and plenty of winter activities like snowmobiling, cross-country skiing and ice fishing as well. With over 2,000 miles of trails covering 695 square miles, there’s plenty to explore in Mother Nature’s northern backyard. Visit fs.usda.gov/superior for details.

Nestled between two lakes...

Deluxe Rooms & Suites • Indoor Pool • Sauna Evergreen Restaurant • Antler’s Lounge

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PAGE 88 | DESTINATIONS 2020

400 N. Pioneer Road • Ely, MN 55761 • 218.365.6565

LOON CALLS AND CRACKLING CAMPFIRES THE BOUNDARY WATERS

Remember the last time you watched the sunrise in the quiet of the morning or caught that big fish? How about sitting next to a crackling campfire on a summer night and hearing the call of a loon across the lake? Recreate your memories and create new ones in one of the best wilderness areas in the world — the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness & Quetico Park.

More than one million acres in size, the BWCAW contains more than 1,200 miles of water trails, 12 hiking trails and more than 2,000 designated campsites.

Because this area was set aside in 1926

to preserve its natural state and was made part of the National Wilderness Preservation System in 1964, the BWCAW allows visitors to experience canoeing, portaging and camping as the French Voyageurs of 200 years ago did.

To help you plan your trip, Canoe Country Outfitters is conveniently located in downtown Ely, offering canoe trip outfitting, cabins, campgrounds, shuttles and permits, plus they have a private canoe base on Moose Lake about 20 miles east of Ely. Find more at canoecountryoutfitters.com.

GO UNDERGROUND SOUDAN UNDERGROUND

MINE TOUR TRAVELS A HALF-MILE BELOW THE EARTH The Soudan Underground Mine, part of Lake Vermilion-Soudan Underground Mine State Park, is Minnesota’s oldest iron ore mine. Visitors can learn how mining shaped the history and culture of the Iron Range. Take an underground mine tour and travel a half-mile beneath the earth to the deepest area that was mined. Explore the dry house, drill shop, crusher house and engine house, and take the boardwalk past one of the deepest open mine pits. Don’t miss the hiking trails that take you through a northern hardwood conifer forest. For more information, visit mndnr.gov/vermilionsoudan.

Serving the canoeist since 1946

1.800.752.2306 629 East Sheridan Street - Ely, MN www.canoecountryoutfitters.com Like us on

•BWCA/Quetico Canoe Trips •Complete & partial ultra-light weight outfitting •Wenonah Kevlar, Alumacraft, Grumman & Souris River Canoes •Lodging before & after trip •Towboat shuttles •RV & tent campground •Cabin Rentals •Free trip orientation by experienced staff •Family-owned & operated for three generations

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www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 89

NORTH AMERICAN BEAR CENTER

THE ONLY NATURE MUSEUM OF ITS KIND No visit to Ely is complete without a visit to the North American Bear Center.

The center is the only science/nature museum of its kind. Dedicated to replacing old myths with facts, it lets people learn about bear traits, ecology, and bears’ relationship with humans. The Bear Center is also home to ambassador black bears living in a naturally forested enclosure, complete with a pond and waterfalls. The bears forage on a variety of wild foods in the enclosures and they live as natural a life as possible. Visitors can watch the bears interact, play, forage, swim, vocalize, climb trees and hibernate. Visit bear.org for more information.

DAR EVENTS CALEN 11-13: Harvest Moon Festival, all day 26: Chocoholic Frolic, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

OCTOBER 17: Jake Forsman Memorial Car Show and Burnout Competition, all day NOVEMBER 26: Thanksgiving Night Shopping, 6-9 p.m.

26-Dec. 6: Festival of Trees, all day 28: Small Town Christmas Celebration, Parade & Tree Lighting, all day FEBRUARY 2021 TBD: Ely 10-Day Winter Festival, Medallion Hunt & ArtWalk

INTERNATIONAL WOLF CENTER ADVANCING THE SURVIVAL OF WOLVES

The International Wolf Center was established in 1989 as a temporary facility until the 17,000-square-foot facility opened in June 1993, featuring unique triangular observation windows that look out onto a 1.25-acre wolf enclosure. The Center was established to advance the survival of wolf populations by educating folks about wolves. Visit wolf.org for program and exhibit details.

Ely Steak House Home of the Black & Bleu Spanked “Kick Butt” Steak!

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AND WORLD FAMOUS BUCKY BURGER

PAGE 90 | DESTINATIONS 2020

Open Daily 11AM - 1AM 216 E. Sheridan St, Ely 218.365.7412 | elysteakhouse.com

ELY INDOORS RESTAURANTS, SHOPS AND OTHER STOPS

If you need to stock up for a long adventure in the wilderness, or even just grab some snacks before a day hike, Zup’s Food Market will have all the food supplies you need. They’re famous for their homemade sausage and beef jerky, but also offer allthings-wild-rice and their own seasonings and jams — delish!

After coming back from those adventures, spend some time shopping the quaint local shops of Ely, and cap it off with a stop at one of the many fine dining establishments in town. Enjoy a sizzling steak, a wild rice dish or walleye fillet cooked to perfection. The Ely Steakhouse offers fabulous, fresh homemade northwoods food, and genuinely great service.

Try their famous “Bucky” burger and one of over 50 different bottled beers.

If you prefer boutiques, galleries and fine dining instead of dirt trails and hiking paths, then Ely’s got you covered there, too. The friendly folks in this small town of 3,400 invite you to browse their quaint streets and visit the businesses that thrive here with their handcrafted wares made by local artists.

Vermilion The Boundary Waters College

Environmental Science | Natural Resources Liberal Arts | Animal Sciences

www.vcc.edu

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MAY 16: 9th Annual City Wide Rummage & Business Crazy Day Sale, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

JUNE 23-Aug. 25: Tuesday Nite Live. See www.ely.org for a weekly listing.

JULY 4: Parade & Fireworks. Parade 1 p.m., fireworks 10 p.m.

24-26: 40th Annual Blueberry/Arts Festival, all day SEPTEMBER 4-6: 20th Annual Boundary Waters Blues Festival & Dog Jam Sunday, all day

LOCALS LOVE IT:

SUPERIOR HIKING TRAIL miles Route stretches 310 to the nn., from Wrenshall, Mi re info Mo Canadian border. rg. at superiorhiking.o

DESTINATION NORTH SHORE YOUR OUTDOOR ADVENTURE IS CALLING

M

innesota’s North Shore is the scenic and breathtaking landscape along Lake Superior that stretches from Duluth to Thunder Bay, Ontario.

Offering a rich history of mining, logging, fishing, shipping and railroad industries, it also boasts a myriad of year-round recreational activities. You can camp and hike on the 300-plus-mile Superior Hiking Trail, bike or inline skate on the Gitchi Gami paved trail, or go fishing, kayaking, golfing, swimming and more throughout the area. Don’t let the winter stop you! Go crosscountry skiing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, dog sledding, fat biking and more on the

hundreds of miles of trails.

The entire drive along Highway 61, or North Shore Scenic Drive, winds through state parks, national and state forests and charming communities, offering scenic waterfalls and views of Lake Superior. It’s a favorite destination to see the rushing spring waterfalls and the breathtaking fall colors of the Northwoods.

Outdoors not your thing?

There are myriad local history museums, unique shops and art galleries, and lots of great foods to try in the many small towns that dot the shoreline.

Plan your trip around a festival, find a quaint place to stay and relax, and enjoy everything the North Shore has to offer! www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 91

SIFT THROUGH HISTORY

VISIT THESE MUSEUMS AND HISTORICAL SITES

EXPERIENCE THE ROARING WATERS

• •

OF GOOSEBERRY FALLS

Dramatic waterfalls and scenic overlooks define Gooseberry Falls State Park.

Considered the gateway to the North Shore, the park is known for its five thunderous waterfalls as well as river gorge, Lake Superior shoreline, Civilian Conservation Corps log and stone structures, and abundant northwoods wildlife.

The park features trails and areas for hiking, camping, picnicking, trout fishing, crosscountry skiing, snowmobiling, and more. The 2.5-mile segment of the Gitchi-Gami State Trail that runs through the park is paved and great for biking. There is a continuous paved trail from Gooseberry to the town Open Year Round of Silver Bay, with access to the Gooseberry Visitor Center, RUSS KENDALL’S campground and the shores of SMOKEHOUSE Lake Superior.

To see Gooseberry in all her glory, visit during spring runoff “We Smoke Our Own” in April and early May. The park can get busy, however; you’ll Sugar Cured Trout & Salmon find lighter traffic on weekdays Homemade Beef Jerky • Sausages or in early mornings. The park Salmon Spread • Cheese is open from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Wild Rice • Gift Shop • Tavern daily, though the visitor center usually closes by 6 p.m.

Knife River, MN 55609 • 218-834-5995

Smoked Fish & Cheese OUR SPECIALTY

• • • • •

Edna G. Tugboat tours Duluth and Iron Range Depot Museum Lake County Historical Society 3M Birthplace Museum Two Harbors Light Station North Shore Commercial Fishing Museum Cross River Heritage Center

Your Ticket To History Lakecountyhistoricalsociety.org

520 South Ave, Two Harbors 888-832-5606

15 miles north of Duluth on Scenic North Shore Drive - 1945 -

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PAGE 92 | DESTINATIONS 2020

Climb the tower of Two Harbors historic lighthouse, visit the birthplace of 3M, and explore exhibits at the Depot Museum.

3M and Lighthouse open Mid may through Mid October, Depot Museum Open Saturdays 11AM -4PM Year Round

MORE AWESOME STOPS ALONG THE NORTH SHORE ▶The Adventure Park on the North Shore: For ages 7 and up, this aerial forest in Silver Bay features 10 zip lines and six trails that are suitable for all experience levels.

MARVEL AT SPLIT ROCK LIGHTHOUSE

ONE OF MINNESOTA’S BEST-KNOWN LANDMARKS A picture-perfect structure in a spectacular natural setting, Split Rock Lighthouse is a can’t-miss stop on your journey up the North Shore.

Anchored on a rocky cliff overlooking Lake Superior, Split Rock was built by the U.S. Lighthouse Service in 1910, a project prompted by shipwrecks during a 1905 November gale. Today it stands as a National Historic Landmark and Minnesota’s most iconic lighthouse.

The lighthouse is best visited in early May through October, when the visitor center, grounds, and interiors of Split Rock and other historic buildings on site are all open to the public, seven days a week, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. There are tours, recreational trails, camping and picnic areas, and occasional special events scheduled. For more information, visit mnhs.org/splitrock.

GO NORTHWOODS WILD

IN THE BOUNDARY WATERS CANOE AREA WILDERNESS A paradise for kayakers, canoers, campers and anyone else who likes to get up close and personal with the nature of the Northwoods, this 1 million-plus acre wilderness area is situated in the northern third of the Superior National Forest, along nearly 150 miles of the international boundary with Canada.

With 12 hiking trails, more than 2,000 backcountry campsites, private campgrounds and resorts, and over 1,200 miles of canoe routes, this wild expanse was set aside in 1926 to preserve its primitive character: rugged cliffs and crags, canyons, forest-covered hills, towering rock formations, rocky shores, beaches and thousands of lakes and streams, interspersed with islands.

Outfitters and guides are available. Permits are required to visit. For more info, visit fs.usda.gov.

▶North Shore Scenic Cruises: On select days of the week when weather permits in spring, summer and fall, these interpretive 2-hour ship cruises depart from the Iron Ore loading dock in Silver Bay and head to either Split Rock Lighthouse or the monoliths at Shovel Point and Palisade Head. Information on Lake Superior, its shoreline, its shipwrecks and more is shared by tour guides along the way. ▶Silver Bay Marina: Managed by the city of Silver Bay, this marina and refuge was the first on the North Shore of Lake Superior. Charter fishing is available. For more info, visit silverbay-marina.com. ▶Red Dot ATV Trail System: Accessible in Silver Bay, the 30mile Red Dot Trail runs through Tettegouche State Park and connects to the Moose Walk and Moose Run trails. ▶Temperance River State Park: Located just south of Tofte, this park offers rock climbing, fishing, hiking, camping, a beach and picnic area, and more. ▶Sugarloaf Cove Nature Center: Known for its 1.1 billion-year-old lava flows and cobblestone beach, the Cove also offers nature-themed learning opportunities and activities. It’s located just a few miles south of Schroeder. ▶Heartbreak Ridge: This 18-mile fall color tour drive is sometimes on paved roads, sometimes not, but it’s always 100% gorgeous. Find a map of this and other Superior National Forest fall color driving tour routes at fs.usda.gov.

www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 93

LET LUTSEN TAKE YOUR BREATH AWAY

BE THE ULTIMATE TOURIST IN GRAND MARAIS At the far end of the shore, you’ll find yourself in Grand Marais — a picturesque, breathtaking village of artists, boutiques and fine dining. With Lake Superior stretched out to the south and towering pine forests climbing the ridge line to the north, this is the quintessential North Shore town.

Well-equipped for tourism, Grand Marais has no shortage of art showings, live music, plays, happy hours, and bed-andbreakfasts, cabins, resorts and other lodging.

Be sure to check out Artist Point, the island that makes up the east side of the harbor and leads to the Grand Marais Lighthouse. Follow the beach around the harbor and through the covered bridge, then wind your way up along Lake Superior to Sweetheart’s Bluff — a scenic overlook that’s the perfect spot for pictures.

The Gunflint Trail (officially County State-Aid Highway 12) begins in Grand Marais, on the north side of the highway near the library. A 57-mile paved roadway and National Scenic Byway, the trail snakes up into the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.

Visit Minnesota’s first resort, and largest and tallest ski area, in Lutsen.

Lutsen Mountains offers the only true mountain ski area experience in the Midwest, with 92 runs over four interconnected peaks that overlook Lake Superior. Alpine skiing, cross-country skiing and snowboarding are all popular there in the winter, while an alpine slide, gondola rides and hiking/ biking trails keep visitors entertained all year long.

From Lutsen Mountains, hop on one of two trails that lead to nearby mountains: The 3-mile Oberg Trail extends to the top of Obert Mountain, while the less-used 3.3-mile Leveaux Trail leads to Leveaux Mountain. Oberg rises 1,000 feet above Lake Superior. Both trails offer scenic overlooks and are especially popular in the fall.

At Lutsen Resort, which dates back to 1881, take a stroll (and a photo or two) on the covered bridge over the Poplar River; it’s open to everyone.

Lutsen is also home to a stunning 27-hole golf course, Superior National. Dubbed “The Cadillac of Minnesota Golf Courses” by Explore Minnesota magazine, the course follows the base of Moose Mountain and the Poplar River flows through right LOCALS LOVE IT: through it.

LA

CHALLENGE YOURSELF IN TETTEGOUCHE STATE PARK This rugged, rocky park in Silver Bay is known for its high cliffs, giant pines and dramatic views of Lake Superior. Popular with rock climbers, Tettegouche is also beloved by shoreline agate hunters, hikers, cross-country skiers, mountain bikers, snowmobilers and other fans of the Great Outdoors.

The park contains 23 miles of trails, camping is available year-round, canoe rentals and naturalist programs are offered, and there’s a fishing pier, picnic area and warming house. Birding is big here, too, with more than 140 species of birds found within the park’s 8,000 acres.

Tettegouche is popular with extended-stay campers as well as folks who just take an hour or two to pop in and see the main sites: a short hike along the lakeside cliffs from the visitor center lead to soaring views over Lake Superior, and the well-traveled Cascade Trail rewards hikers with the beautiful sight and sound of the rushing waters of Cascades Waterfall.

KE SUPERIOR WATER TRAIL Kayak route on La ke Superior from the St. Louis River to the Pigeon River. Mo re info at dnr.state .mn.us/ watertrails.

DAR EVENTS CALEN APRIL 2-4: Sweetwater Shakedown Music & Ski Festival, Lutsen MAY 23-24: Art Along the Lake Spring Gallery Tour, Cook County JUNE 6-7: Grand Marais Block Party PAGE 94 | DESTINATIONS 2020

JULY 9-12: Heritage Days, Two Harbors 10-12: Bay Days, Silver Bay 11-12: 30th Annual Grand Marais Arts Festival 17-19: North Shore Water Festival, Grand Marais 30-Aug. 2: Fisherman’s Picnic Weekend, Grand Marais

AUGUST 7-9: Grand Portage Rendezvous Days & Celebration Powwow, Grand Marais SEPTEMBER 11-13: 13th Annual Radio Waves Music Festival, Grand Marais 26-27: Art Along the Lake Fall Studio Tour, Cook County

OCTOBER 17-18: Moose Madness Festival, Grand Marais FEBRUARY 2021 7-9: Two Harbors Winter Frolic TBD: Hygge Festival, Grand Marais TBD: Pincushion Winter Festival

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See our ad inside.

700 Park Ave. North, Park Rapids, MN 56470 218-732-9711 • 800-733-9711

Pet Friendly • Hot Tub • Pool • Free WiFi Conference & Party Room • Relaxing Courtyard Hot Continental Breakfast • Jacuzzi Suites Easy Access to Trail • Trailer Parking

www.riversidepointresort.com Your morning begins with a delicious, home-cooked breakfast.

And after a busy day, wind down on the deck as you watch the river go by.

Red Bridge Inn Seven non-smoking rooms with breathtaking views of Fish Hook River.

Open Year Round 118 North Washington, Park Rapids, MN 56470

218-237-7337 855-237-7337 www.redbridgeinn.com

Cozy country lobby with stone fireplace, handcrafted Amish furniture and Beaver chew lamps Indoor Pool • Spa • Sauna Try our king spa, two room king suites or our two room grand suite w/spa!

Welcome to the end of the day.

Hwy. 34 East, Park Rapids, MN 56470

218-732-1234 • 800-634-3444

Continental Plus Breakfast (Including Hot Belgian Waffles) Direct Snowmobile Trail Access FREE wireless high-speed Internet & 32” TVs