Minnesota Destinations 2019

Minnesota

DESTINATIONS WWW.MNDESTINATIONS.COM

2019

Explore lakes, rivers and woods in the areas of: ALEXANDRIA • DETROIT LAKES • PERHAM • WADENA/LITTLE FALLS BRAINERD • PARK RAPIDS • DULUTH • ELY • NORTH SHORE

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www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 3

W

elcome to Destinations – your ticket to fun, scenic and interesting vacation playlands throughout Minnesota. This publication is your guide on where to go and what to do as you explore the scenic lakes, rivers and woods of Alexandria, Detroit Lakes, Perham, Wadena, Brainerd, Park Rapids and Duluth.

There is no bad time for a visit to the Destinations area.

It’s a postcard-perfect world year-round. Come and visit the hundreds of fun places where you can hike, swim, golf, fish, hunt, bird watch, berry pick, ski, windsurf, play tennis, relax, skateboard, sunbathe, toboggan or sled, shop ‘til you drop or just see the sights.

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Destinations will lead you to theater, art and music produced by local talent. We’ll show you the annual citywide festivals that nearly every community in the area proudly presents.

If you already live in Destinations country, you’re bound to learn about things you didn’t even know were that close to home.

ALEXANDRIA 7 DETROIT LAKES 22

Design: Luanna Lake Destinations is published jointly by the following newspapers: Alexandria Echo Press, Brainerd Dispatch, Detroit Lakes Tribune, Duluth News Tribune, Park Rapids Enterprise, Perham Focus, Wadena Pioneer Journal.

WADENA/LITTLE FALLS 44

Creative Manager: Sara Leitheiser

PERHAM 39

Publisher: Jody Hanson For more information on Destinations call (320) 763-3133 or email jhanson@echopress.com

BRAINERD 53

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DULUTH 96

Pick up a few copies of Destinations. Keep one for yourself and pass a few copies around to your friends and neighbors.

And Destinations has an easy website to remember at mndestinations.com.

We’ve given you an overview of Destinations country and how this publication can guide your journey. Now we invite you to turn the page and take a closer look.

PARK RAPIDS 65

MAPS ON PAGES 6 AND 48-49

www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 5

Welcome to

DESTINATIONS COUNTRY

Quick reference for driving distance between these Minnesota cities. For a detailed map of the area, please see pages 60-61.

Fargo Moorhead

Grand Rapids Detroit Lakes Perham

Duluth Superior

Park Rapids Wadena Brainerd Little Falls

Alexandria

94

St. Cloud Twin Cities

Location Twin Cities to Alexandria Twin Cities to Detroit Lakes Twin Cities to Duluth Twin Cities to Park Rapids Brainerd to Detroit Lakes Fargo to Detroit Lakes Alexandria to Brainerd Alexandria to Detroit Lakes Alexandria to Perham St. Cloud to Brainerd

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Miles 139 206 155 193 93 46 87 80 59 64

Time 2:09 3:30 2:20 3:14 1:36 0:54 1:38 1:26 1:07 1:00

T

Bemidji he phrase, “Easy to get to – hard to leave,” isn’t just a Chamber of Commerce pitch line for the Alexandria lakes area. It’s true. People are having a hard time leaving because they’re having so much fun. Alexandria is conveniently located on Interstate 94 – 110 miles from Fargo, 68 miles from St. Cloud, 131 miles from Minneapolis and 142 miles from St. Paul.

Nestled in scenic rolling hills and trees where the prairie meets the forest, the Alexandria area is brimming with 375 glacier-formed, pristine lakes. That makes 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 outdoorsman or outdoorswoman, there’s still plenty of fun to enjoy while on vacation in the Alexandria lakes area: • 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 ninescreen movie theater near the mall.

• Get a workout at the Alexandria Area YMCA. • Tour a winery – the award winning Carlos Creek Winery is just three miles north of Alexandria.

• Catch an entertaining baseball game or college-level hockey game.

In addition, Alexandria lists several golf courses on its website (www. 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 much more – all in the Alexandria lakes area.

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.

Alexandria brims with lakes, history, trails, museums, arts

VIKING PLAZA

The Viking Plaza in Alexandria has more than 20 stores for customers to shop in comfort.

Many updates and improvements have been completed and more are on the horizon. 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. It’s the largest shopping mall in Douglas County.

Recent upgrades were made inside and out, including comfortable new furniture for shoppers to take a break, a creative playscape for children, a new entrance off South Broadway, new signs and free Wi-Fi access for shoppers.

There are events happening all year round at the Viking Plaza. It’s also a popular spot for walkers to get in some exercise, seven days a week.

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LEGACY OF THE LAKES MUSEUM

The Legacy of the Lakes Museum offers visitors a chance to experience the history of boating and resorts in the Alexandria lakes area and the entire state. The museum, located on Third Avenue West in Alexandria, 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 gaze-

bos, park benches, lush flower gardens, ornamental grasses, streams and waterfalls and an event stage with seating. Recent improvements include mobile audio tours, an expanded Gar Wood exhibit and an improved duck boat exhibit featuring rare decoys and unusual hunting memorabilia.

The museum hosts live music events on select Friday nights in the summer in the beautiful Legacy Gardens. The 2019 summer lineup will be announced this spring.

The Legacy of the Lakes Summer Showcase is a two day event, taking place on Friday, July 12 and Saturday, July 13, 2019. It will include a social for boat and car owners, live music, car and boat showings and more.

The museum also provides educational programs in the summer, such as sailing lessons, water safety and youth boat operation. The museum will open for the year in mid-May. For more information, visit its website at www.legacyofthelakes.org or call (320) 759-1114.

VIKINGLAND BAND FESTIVAL

Every year, on the last Sunday in June, the streets of Alexandria come alive with the sound of music.

The 35th annual Vikingland Band Festival is set for June 30, 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.

The Vikingland Band Festival parade begins at 1:30 p.m. Sunday and proceeds along Broadway from Fourth Avenue to 15th Avenue.

For more information about the band festival, visit the website www.marching.com/events/vbf.

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ALEXANDRIA

DESTINATION

Golf Courses

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 July 28-Aug. 3), a match-play competition that draws top-notch amateur golfers from throughout the Midwest.

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.

The museum is located in Fort Alexandria, a nearly exact replica of the stockade constructed in 1862 by order of the governor of Minnesota. It’s located at 206 Broadway.

Go to www.runestonemuseum. org for more information.

CARLOS CREEK WINERY RUNESTONE MUSEUM

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

No matter the season, there’s always something happening at Carlos Creek Winery.

Founded in 1997, the winery officially opened in July of 1999. It’s located on 160 acres with 25 acres

devoted to vines.

The winery will offer an exciting new addition this summer: a brewery called The 22 Northmen Brewing Company.

Inspired by Viking architecture from around 12th Century, the 22 Northmen Brewery will be a place for people to not only enjoy great beer, but to also experience Viking living.

The brewery, named after the 22 Norwegian explorers that were mentioned in the inscription on the Kensington Runestone, will not only be a great place to drink great brews, but also a warm place to enjoy family and friends by the fireplace, play bocce ball or host a private event. The brewery’s summer hours will be Monday-Thursday from noon to 9 p.m.; Friday-Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 8 p.m. Check the winery’s website for fall and

winter hours.

The brewery will also house a wood fired pizzeria called “Valkyrie’s” and will offer live music on Thursday evenings.

Carlos Creek Winery is the preferred wine of the Minnesota Wild and the “Official Wine of Minnesota Fun!” Visitors can sample a wide-range of the winery’s award-winning wine and hard cider.

CONTINUED ON PG. 10

Diversions indoors and out The Alexandria website lists numerous resorts, motels, and many B&Bs. There are also campgrounds, RV Parks and other lodging accommodations.

www.centrallakestrail.com for a full list of trail heads and information

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CENTRAL LAKES TRAIL

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, biking and walking 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.

The trailhead and parking area in Alexandria is located at the north end of Broadway in Big Ole Central Park. A “fix it” repair station for bicycles was recently added there and a new year-round heated restroom opened this year.

Other trailheads are available in the cities of Osakis, Garfield, Brandon and Evansville. These trailheads include a parking area, portable restrooms and a trailside shelter. A bike shelter is also available along the trail about one and one-half miles east of Nelson.

The Central Lakes Trail also connects to the Lake Wobegon trail, which runs from Osakis through Sauk Centre to St. Joseph.

Together, they make the longest paved bike trail in the state.

The Central Lakes Trail (www. centrallakestrail.com) is used as a snowmobile trail in the winter, however studs are not allowed.

Visit www.centrallakestrail.com.

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runs through the vineyards (held the Sunday of Memorial weekend).

The winery is also a favorite spot for destination weddings. It hosts more than 50 weddings each year, plus a number of corporate events.

It was recently nominated a “top three non-metro venue” by Minnesota Meetings and Events and was given the “Bride’s Choice Award” by Wedding Wire.

There is also a full venue of musical entertainment, mystery dinner theater and other fun activities.

Go to www.carloscreekwinery.com for more information or call (320) 846-5443.

The winery is owned and operated by the Bredeson family. A few years ago, the tasting room was expanded by 1,500 square feet, giving visitors plenty of room to sample wine and talk to the servers. They also added a self-guided cave tour – a kind of underground museum that showcases the history of the wine industry, its processes and products. A new demonstration vineyard offers details about the grapes that are being grown. Both are open daily.

Winery hours are: June through August from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.

September and May from noon to 6 p.m. daily. Winter hours will be posted on their website. Live music is offered every Saturday afternoon, year round plus Sunday afternoons in the summer. The winery offers free production and vineyard tours on Saturdays, June through Labor Day, at 1 and 3 p.m.

Yearly events include the extremely popular “Grape Stomp” (September 13-15, 2019) featuring 12 bands on four stages; “Apple Fest” (held October 19, 2019) featuring a pumpkin-throwing catapult; and “Awake the Grapes,” which includes 1K, 5K and 10K

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.

BIG SPLASH

Big Splash is a wet, wild waterpark wonder. One of the biggest indoor water parks in the state is at the Arrowwood Resort and Conference Center, located about four miles north of Alexandria on Lake Darling.

The 38,000-square-foot water park offers a wide variety of water

activities, including four-story waterslides, a “Lazy River” floating inner tube ride, a lily pad water walk and a tropical whirlpool spa and waterfall. There’s also a children’s play fort in a zero-inch-entry pool. Spectator passes are also available.

In 2016, it was voted as the Best Family Resort and Waterpark by readers of the SUN Media Group in the Twin Cities.

For more information, call (320) 762-1124 or visit the Big Splash website at www.arrowwoodresort. com.

STAR STORM

This Fourth of July – watch for a storm!

Although there are several fireworks displays around the area on the Fourth of July, one of the most spectacular is Star Storm. Those who go to Lake Darling near Alexandria on July 4 will enjoy a spectacular 20-minute fireworks display set to music.

The annual display, which is designed to be enjoyed either from land or from the lake, is organized

by Arrowwood Resort. Folks can watch the show from the front lawn

Big Splash Waterpark at Arrowwood Resort

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Snowmobile Trails

Theatre L’Homme Dieu has been offering professional summer-stock theater to the Alexandria area since 1961. This year’s theater series includes a to-be-announced season opener this spring, Shapeshift – Sharing Powerful Stories Through Dance (July 9-13), Til Death – a Marriage Musical (July 16-20), Kevin Kling – Author, Playwright, Teller of Tales (July 23-27), and The Church Basement Ladies in You Smell Barn (Aug. 6-10).

A concert series will also take place featuring tributes to Neil Diamond (July 5) and Glen Campbell (July 31), and performances by the Six Appeal Vocal Band (Aug. 14-15).

The theatre also has fun activities planned during the Kentucky Derby in May. Theatre L’Homme Dieu’ is located at 1875 County Road 120 NE. For more information, call (320) 846-3150 or visit the website www. tlhd.org.

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ANDES TOWER HILLS

Think you have to go to the mountains to have winter fun? If so, you haven’t been to Andes Tower Hills.

Located just 15 miles west of Alexandria, Andes Tower Hills has 16 downhill ski runs ranging from beginner to expert, as well as facilities for tubing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

More than a million skiers have visited the Andes Tower Hills in its 30-plus year history.

Ski and snowboard lessons, a racing program, lodging, a restaurant, equipment rentals and a pro shop are also available. The facility recently expanded and improvements were added including new expert terrain, new lighting and new banquet rooms. For more information, call 1-877-542-6337 (1-87-ski-andes), or visit www.andestowerhills.com.

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THEATRE L’HOMME DIEU

Minnesota has more than 20,000 miles of snowmobile trails that criss-cross its forests, prairies, hills and lakes.

Here in Douglas County, it’s just as wonderful for snowmobilers. There are breathtaking scenes on 368 miles of trails that wind throughout the county, connecting every community in the area.

Snowmobile trails also connect with 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 Area Calendar of Events APRIL 1 - 4-7 p.m. Foreign Film: “My Afternoons with Margueritte,” Grand Arbor Theatre, Alexandria 4-6 - 7:30 p.m. “Mamma Mia!” Andria Theatre, Alexandria 6 - 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Let’s Get Growing workshop, Discovery Middle School in Alexandria 6 - 10 a.m. 2nd Annual Holistic Healing and Psychic Expo, Holiday Inn, Alexandria 7 - 2 p.m. Live music, Alexandria Senior Center 7 - 2 p.m. “Mamma Mia!” Andria Theatre, Alexandria 7 - 5-8 p.m. Hollywood Nights Prom for adults with disabilities, Holiday Inn 11 - 5-7 p.m. Taste of Douglas County, Holiday Inn 11-13 - 7:30 p.m. “Mamma Mia!” Andria Theatre, Alexandria 12 - 5:30 p.m. and 8 p.m. “Beauty and the Beast,” Prairie Fire Children’s Theatre, Barrett 12 - 7-8 p.m. The Nick Files: “Author in the First” and “The Connoisseur,” Lakes Area Radio Theatre, Alexandria 14 - 2 p.m. Live music, Alexandria Senior Center 14 - 2 p.m. “Mamma Mia!” Andria Theatre, Alexandria 15 - 4-7 p.m. Documentary Film: “The Singing Revolution,” Grand Arbor Theatre, Alexandria 19 - 9 a.m. Easter Bake Sale, Runestone Museum Foundation, Alexandria

19 - 7-9 p.m. Quad Squad Improv Comedy Show, Andria Theatre, Alexandria 19-20 - 7:30 p.m. “9 Circles,” Fire Pit Productions play, 2214 Geneva Road NE, Alexandria 21 - 3-7 p.m. Ballroom Dancing, Lakeside Ballroom, Glenwood 23 - 7 p.m. EdTalk: Creating a More Connected World: The Impact of Facebook, Alexandria Area High School Performing Arts Center 25 - 6-8 p.m. Nordic Film and Folk Art Event, Andria Theatre and other locations, Alexandria 25 - 7 p.m. Dancing With the Alexandria Stars fundraiser, Alexandria Area High School Performing Arts Center 26 - 4 p.m. Lakes Area Battle of the Bakers, Gathered Oaks,Alexandria 28 - 2 p.m. Live music, Alexandria Senior Center, 414 Hawthorne St. MAY 3-4 - Single Moms Retreat, Lake Geneva Christian Center, Alexandria 4 - 10 a.m. Alexandria Spring Arts, Craft and Gift Show, Runestone Community Center, Alexandria 4 - 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Run for the Roses Derby Party & 5K, Legacy of the Lakes Museum, Alexandria 4 - 1 p.m. Just For Kix Spring Shows, Alexandria Area High School 5 - 10 a.m. Walk MS: Alexandria, Voyager Elementary 5 - 2 p.m. Live music, Alexandria Senior

Center 5 - 4:30-7 p.m. TLHD Run for the Roses Kentucky Derby Party, Carlos Creek Winery, Alexandria 6 - 4-7 p.m. Documentary Film: “22 July,” Grand Arbor Theatre, Alexandria 10 - 7 p.m. “Light Behind the Eyes” and Life of Riley: “Catalina,” Lakes Area Radio Theatre, Alexandria 12 - 2 p.m. Live music, Alexandria Senior Center 16 - 6:30-7:30 p.m. Beer & Hymns, Cozy Cup Cafe, Parkers Prairie 18-19 - Freedom First Riders - Bike Show, Runestone Community Center, Alexandria 19 - 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Mai Fest, Runestone Museum, Alexandria 19 - 2 p.m. Central Lakes Symphony Orchestra’s 10 Years of Music, Alexandria Area High School Performing Arts Center 20 - Noon-1 p.m. Chamber of Commerce Noontime Knowledge, Broadway Ballroom 20 - 4-7 p.m. Documentary Film: “Minnesota 13 from Grain to Glass,” Grand Arbor Theatre, Alexandria 23 - 7 p.m. Dana & The Bottle Rockets, Douglas County Courthouse Lawn, Alexandria 24-26 - Ole Oppe Fest, Big Ole Central Park, Alexandria 25 - Noon Memorial Day Tournament at Minnewaska Golf Club 26 - 9 a.m.-noon Awake the Grapes 5k & 10k Races, Carlos Creek Winery,

Alexandria 27 - 10 a.m. Memorial Day Parade, Broadway in Alexandria 30 - 7 p.m. Loose Change, Douglas County Courthouse Lawn, Alexandria JUNE 3 - 4-7 p.m. Foreign Film: “Slap the Monster on Page One,” Grand Arbor Theatre, Alexandria 6 - 7 p.m. Nathan’s Old-Time Band, Douglas County Courthouse Lawn, Alexandria 7 - 7 p.m. Quad Squad Improv Comedy Show, Andria Theatre, Alexandria 7 - 7 p.m. Killer Vees Concert, Carlos Creek Winery, Alexandria 10-18 State Trap Shooting Championship 13 - 7 p.m. Red Letter Band, Douglas County Courthouse Lawn, Alexandria 14-15 - 9 a.m. Art DeTour, juried studio tour 14 - 7 p.m. Buford & Nellie - “Rock the Boat” by Bob Sivers of Alexandria and “Soap Ringers Eternal” by Keri Mohror of Osakis, Lakes Area Radio Theatre, Alexandria 14-16 - Runestone Days, Kensington 16 - 4-8 p.m. Ballroom Dancing, Lakeside Ballroom, Glenwood 17 - Noon-1 p.m. Chamber of Commerce Noontime Knowledge, Broadway Ballroom 20 - 7 p.m. Green Lake Bluegrass Band, Douglas County Courthouse Lawn,

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19-21 - Millerville Butter Days 21 - 4-8 p.m. Ballroom Dancing, Lakeside Ballroom, Glenwood 23-27 - 7:30 p.m. Kevin Kling, Theatre L’Homme Dieu, Alexandria 25 - 7 p.m. Bob & Beachcombers, Douglas County Courthouse Lawn, Alexandria 25 - 1:30 p.m. Kevin Kling, Theatre L’Homme Dieu, Alexandria 26-27 - 6:30-9 p.m. “Mark Twains: The diaries of Adam and Eve,” Fire Pit Productions outdoor stage play, Lakes Area Theatre, Alexandria 27 - 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Art in the Park, City Park, Alexandria 28 - 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Art in the Park, City Park, Alexandria 28-31 - Resorters Golf Tournament, Alexandria 31 - 7:30 p.m. Jeff Dayton: A Salute to Glen Campbell, Theatre L’Homme Dieu, Alexandria 31 - SummerFest, Brandon

JULY 4 - 7 p.m. Patriotic concert, Douglas County Courthouse Lawn, Alexandria 4 - 7-11 p.m. Star Storm 2019 Fireworks, Arrowwood Resort & Conference Center, Alexandria 5 - 7:30 p.m. Matt Vee, Family & Friends: “I Am, He Said,” Theatre L’Homme Dieu, Alexandria 6 - 7 a.m. Shalom 5K/10K/1K run, Shalom Lutheran Church, Alexandria 9-13 - 7:30-9:30 p.m. Shapeshift, Theatre L’Homme Dieu, Alexandria 11 - 7 p.m. Billy D & the Crystals, Douglas County Courthouse Lawn, Alexandria 12-13 - 7 a.m.-6 p.m. Big Ole SUPathon, Alexandria lakes 12 - 7 p.m. “Ray & Iver” - Two new stories by Chuck Grussing of Alexandria, Lakes Area Radio Theatre, Alexandria 14 - 2 p.m. Spruce Hill Church Summer Song Fest, Spruce Hill 15 - Noon-1 p.m. Chamber of Commerce Noontime Knowledge, Broadway Ballroom 16-20 - 7:30 p.m. Til Death: A Marriage Musical, Theatre L’Homme Dieu, Alexandria 18 - 1:30 p.m. Til Death: A Marriage Musical, Theatre L’Homme Dieu, Alexandria 18 - 7 p.m. Cassie & the Bobs, Douglas County Courthouse Lawn, Alexandria 19 - 4-11 p.m. Party in the Street, downtown Alexandria 19-20 - 6:30-9 p.m. “Mark Twains: The diaries of Adam and Eve,” Fire Pit Productions outdoor stage play, Lakes Area Theatre, Alexandria 19-21 - Miltona Tornado Days

AUGUST 1-3 - Resorters Golf Tournament, Alexandria 1-3 - 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Crazy Days, downtown Alexandria 1 - 7 p.m. Stone Road, Douglas County Courthouse Lawn, Alexandria 1-4 - SummerFest, Brandon 2 - 7 p.m. “Peter Pan,” Prairie Fire Children’s Theatre, Barrett 2-4 - Fall Festival, Parkers Prairie 3 - 6 a.m.-6 p.m. Rail Trails 100 Bike Tour, Central Lakes Trail 3 - 7 p.m. Barbary Coast Dixieland Band, Mount Carmel Ministries, Alexandria 3 - 7 p.m. Alexandria Festival of the Lakes chamber music, Alexandria United Methodist Church 3-4 - 1 p.m. “Peter Pan,” Prairie Fire

Children’s Theatre, Barrett 6-10 - 7:30 p.m. The Church Basement Ladies: “You Smell Barn,” Theatre L’Homme Dieu, Alexandria 7-8 - 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Friends of the Library Annual Used Book Sale 7 - 7 p.m. Alexandria Festival of the Lakes chamber music, Bethesda Lutheran Church, Alexandria 8 - 1:30 p.m. The Church Basement Ladies: “You Smell Barn,” Theatre L’Homme Dieu, Alexandria 8 - 7 p.m. 70’s Magic Sunshine Band, Douglas County Courthouse Lawn, Alexandria 8 - 7 p.m. Alexandria Festival of the Lakes chamber music, Alexandria United Methodist Church 9 - 7 p.m. “The Adventure of Oliver Green,” and “Flywheel, Shyster and Flywheel - Vintage 3 stooges,” Lakes Area Radio Theatre, Alexandria 9-10 - Garfield Days 11 - 7 p.m. Alexandria Festival of the Lakes chamber music, Alexandria United Methodist Church 14 - 5 p.m. Steak Fry Fundraiser, Runestone Museum, Alexandria 14-15 - 7:30 p.m. Six Appeal, Theatre L’Homme Dieu, Alexandria 15 - 7 p.m. WoodPicks, Douglas County Courthouse Lawn, Alexandria 15-18 - Douglas County Fair, Douglas County Fairgrounds, Alexandria 16 - 5-7:30 p.m. Wine, Ale & Art Crawl, downtown Alexandria 17 - 7 p.m. Alexandria Festival of the Lakes chamber music, Alexandria United Methodist Church 18 - 4-8 p.m. Ballroom Dancing, Lakeside Ballroom, Glenwood 19 - Noon-1 p.m. Chamber of Commerce Noontime Knowledge, Broadway Ballroom

22 - 7 p.m. Cimarron, Douglas County Courthouse Lawn, Alexandria 23-24 - 6:30 p.m. “Praying for Rain,” Fire Pit Productions Outdoor Stage Play, Lakes Area Theatre, Alexandria 25 - 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Viking Sportsmen Youth Outdoor Activity Day, Alexandria Shooting Park, Alexandria 29 - 7 p.m. Pure Country, Douglas County Courthouse Lawn, Alexandria 30 - Fall-A-Palooza, Country Blossom Farm, Alexandria 30-31 - 6:30 p.m. “Praying for Rain,” Fire Pit Productions Outdoor Stage Play, Lakes Area Theatre, Alexandria SEPTEMBER 7 - Moonshine Madness, Downtown Osakis and Panther Distillery 13 - 7 p.m. “A Visit to the Doc,” “Johnny got his gun,” “Sam Spade:Flopsy, Mopsy and Cottontail Caper,” Lakes Area Radio Theatre, Alexandria 13-15 - 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Grape Stomp, Carlos Creek Winery, Alexandria 15 - 4-8 p.m. Ballroom Dancing, Lakeside Ballroom, Glenwood 16 - Noon-1 p.m. Chamber of Commerce Noontime Knowledge, Broadway Ballroom 19-21 - Fall Shop Hop, downtown Alexandria 20-22 - Oletoberfest, Copper Trail Brewing Company 20-21 - 7:30-10 p.m. “The Mercy Seat,” Fire Pit Productions Play, Lakes Area Theatre, Alexandria 21 - 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Museum Day, free admission, Runestone Museum, Alexandria 27-28 - 7:30-10 p.m. “The Mercy Seat,” Fire Pit Productions Play, Lakes Area Theatre, Alexandria

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ALEXANDRIA

Alexandria 21 - 5-7:30 p.m. Wine, Ale and Art Crawl 2019, downtown Alexandria 21-22 - 6:30-9 p.m. “Bleacher Bums,” Fire Pit Productions outdoor stage play, Lakes Area Theatre 22-23 - Osakis Festival Days 24 - Noon-7 p.m. Golf for a Cure! Tournament, Geneva Golf Club 27 - 7 p.m. Robbie Vee, Douglas County Courthouse Lawn, Alexandria 28-29 - 10 a.m.-5 p.m. History Live! at Fort Alexandria, Runestone Museum, Alexandria 28-29 - 6:30-9 p.m. “Bleacher Bums,” Fire Pit Productions outdoor stage play, Lakes Area Theatre, Alexandria 29 - 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Awake the Lakes Ribfest, Big Ole Central Park, Alexandria 29 - 7-9 p.m. Minnesota Drum Corps Premiere, Alexandria Area High School 29 - Ripple Festival, Alexandria 30 - 1:30-3:30 p.m. Vikingland Band Festival, downtown Alexandria

Alexandria Area Calendar of Events OCTOBER 3 - 6-9 p.m. Love INC Fall Fundraiser, Broadway Ballroom, Alexandria 11 - 7 p.m. “Autumn Wind: Two parts,” Lakes Area Radio Theatre, Alexandria 17-20 - MEA Fun Days at the Orchard, Country Blossom Farm, Alexandria 19 - 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Apple Fest at the Winery, Carlos Creek Winery, Alexandria 20 - 4-8 p.m. Ballroom Dancing, Lakeside Ballroom, Glenwood 21 - Noon-1 p.m. Chamber of Commerce Noontime Knowledge, Broadway Ballroom 25-26 - 7:30-10 p.m. “Unwrap Your Candy,” Fire Pit Productions, Lakes Area Theatre, Alexandria 31 - 2-5 p.m. Fall Fest in the Fort, Runestone Museum, Alexandria 31 - Trick-or-treating, downtown NOVEMBER 2 - 9 a.m. Kiwanis Arts & Crafts Bazaar, Broadway Ballroom, Alexandria 7-9 - 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 35th Annual Arts and Crafters Tour, Alexandria 8 - 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Hunting Widows Weekend, Alexandria, various locations 8 - 7 p.m. “My Friend Irma: Thanksgiving Turkey,” “Jewels of the 11th Generation,” Lakes Area Radio Theatre, Alexandria 8-10 - Moms on the Run Fall Retreat, Arrowwood Resort, Alexandria 8-10 - Shoppers on the Hunt, downtown Alexandria

18 - Noon-1 p.m. Chamber of Commerce Noontime Knowledge, Broadway Ballroom 29 - 3-6 p.m. Christmas at the Fort and Lighting Ceremony, Runestone Museum, Alexandria 29-30 - A Hometown Christmas Experience, downtown Alexandria DECEMBER 1-24 - A Hometown Christmas Experience, downtown Alexandria 5 - Noon-1 p.m. Alexandria Area Young Professionals Luncheon, Grand Arbor 10 - 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Donation Day, Runestone Museum, Alexandria 13 - 7 p.m. “It’s a Wonderful Life? and He Remembers it Well,” by Miltona playwright Kevin Lee, and “Gildersleeves: The Christmas Show,” Lakes Area Radio Theatre, Alexandria 15 - 2 p.m. Christmas Service and Hymn Sing, Spruce Hill Church in Spruce Hill 16 - Noon-1 p.m. Chamber of Commerce Noontime Knowledge, Broadway Ballroom 20 - 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Holiday Bake Sale Fundraiser, Runestone Museum, Alexandria 20-21 - 7:30-10 p.m. “Seven Santas,” Fire Pit Productions, Lakes Area Theatre, Alexandria 21 - 9-11 a.m. Runestone Museum Holiday Bake Sale Fundraiser at Grand Arbor, Alexandria

VISIT

O

sakis offers lakes, zoo, distillery, festival and more The charming town of Osakis is located along I-94 in Central Minnesota, just two hours west of the Twin Cities.

Oakis 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 relaxing summer afternoons and 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.

PAGE 14 | DESTINATIONS 2019

27 - 7 p.m. “Pride and Prejudice,” Lakes Area Radio Theatre, Alexandria ONGOING EVENTS Blizzard Hockey: September-March Runestone Community Center, Alexandria www.alexandriablizzard.com WISSOTA Car Racing: Saturdays, May-August, 6:45 p.m.

Additional specials on other dates.

Viking Speedway, Alexandria (320) 762-1559, www.vikingspeedway. net GoKart Racing: Fridays, May-Aug., 7 p.m.

Additional specials on other dates.

Douglas County Fairgrounds, Alexandria (320) 491-2618, www.runestonegokart. com Photography Workshops: First Thursday of each month, 7 p.m.

Evansville Arts Center www.evansvilleartcenter.com Red Willow Arts Coalition Summer Concert Series: Thursdays, May 23-Sept. 5, 7 p.m.

Douglas County Courthouse lawn, Alexandria www.redwillowartscoalition.org Open Mic Nights: Third Thursday of each month, 6:30 to 9 p.m.

Evansville Arts Center

Osakis

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

Those looking for off-the-water options should definitely check out downtown Osakis featuring several antique and specialty shops and cozy dining options. If you’re planning a getaway with the young ones, venture over to the local parks and stop by the local petting zoo. And be sure to bring your bikes – Osakis is at the heart of the Central Lakes Trail and Lake Wobegon Trail.

Please check out the website at www.visitosakis.com. You will find a

detailed list of lodging and accommodations, shopping and entertainment options, as well as a calendar of events.

ERICKSON’S 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. It’s open weekends in April and May from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays and 1 to 4 p.m. on Sundays; and Monday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sundays from 1 to 4 p.m. from Memorial Day through Sep-

www.evansvilleartcenter.com First Friday Concerts: First Friday of each month March-Dec., 7 to 9 p.m.

Evansville Arts Center www.evansvilleartcenter.com Live music at winery: Memorial to Labor Day weekend: Saturdays, 2:30 p.m.

Sundays, 1 p.m.

Labor Day to Memorial Day: Saturdays, 2 p.m.

Carlos Creek Winery, Alexandria (320) 846-5443, www.carloscreekwinery.com Vikingland Corvette Club’s Sunday cruise and dinner: Sundays, May-Sept., 5 p.m.

All classic and muscle cars included on first Sunday of each month Alexandria Clinic parking lot www.vikinglandcorvetteclub.com Alexandria Farmers Market: Saturdays, May 11-Oct. 26, 9 a.m. to noon.

Thursdays, June 20-October 24, 3 to 6 p.m.

Tuesdays, June 25-October 22, 9 a.m. to noon.

Big Ole Central Park, Alexandria Holmes City Farmers Market: Saturdays, May-Oct., 8:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Trinity Lutheran Church parking lot, Holmes City

tember 29. From there, the petting zoo is open weekends from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays and noon to 5 p.m. on Sundays through October 31. In the winter, Erickson’s is open by appointment.

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, call (320) 762-0184 or check out its website, www.ericksonspettingzoo.com.

Panther Distillery Osakis is home to Minnesota’s first legal whiskey distillery, Panther Distillery, which opened in 2011.

Take a tour and learn how the company makes the best tasting whiskey by hand. Then enjoy a sample of the distillery’s products and check out the gift store.

Located at 300 East Pike Street, Panther Distillery uses hand-selected Minnesota-grown ingredients, American white oak barrels, and three 500-gallon Kentucky-built stills.

Tours are available daily and are led every half

hour. The last tour of the day will be led one half hour before the closing time. No reservations are necessary, but if you have a large group, it is advisable to call ahead.

Tour hours are from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. It is closed Sunday.

In September, watch for an annual event called Moonshine Madness – a citywide celebration with a theme going back to the Prohibition

Sauk Centre

Visit Sauk Centre VISIT

I

f you’re in the Alexandria area, take a halfhour drive on Interstate 94 to the historic town of Sauk Centre and its original “Main Street.”

It’s the home of Nobel Prize winner and author Sinclair Lewis.

Some suggestions: Visit Lewis’ boyhood home; hike or bike the Lake Wobegon Trail;

visit quaint shops and restaurants, including a ghost tour; enjoy Sauk Lake with fishing and canoe trips; go on garden tours; visit a winery, zoo, distillery and farmers’ markets. The Glacial Lakes Trail is also nearby.

The Convention and Visitors Bureau

The boyhood home of Sinclair Lewis

Information Center has moved downtown at 308 Oak St. So. and is open Mon-Fri. 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for brochures, information and maps.

For more visitors’ information, call 855444-SAUK (7285) or go to the website, www. visitsaukcentre.org.

Explore

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

800.422.0785 PAGE 15 | DESTINATIONS 2019

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

DESTINATION

Detroit Lakes AREA

G

et to know why everybody loves Detroit Lakes.

From the hottest days of summer to the coldest days of winter, this recreational hub in northwestern Minnesota is known for its neverending assortment of places to visit, people to see and things to do. Entertaining shows, activities, festivals and other fun events fill the calendar, year-round.

With more than 400 lakes within 25 miles of Detroit Lakes, there’s a plethora of opportunities for fishing, swimming, camping, boating, vacationing and more. The city

PAGE 16 | DESTINATIONS 2019

boasts a popular mile-long beach, the Detroit Mountain Recreation Area (for skiing, tubing, biking and other outdoor activities), a community center with the area’s largest indoor kids’ playland, several parks, a myriad of resorts and hotels, a wide variety of shops and restaurants, a historic theatre, museum and much more.

Detroit Lakes is also recognized as the home of the annual WE Fest Country Music Festival, Pine to Palm Golf Tournament, Becker County Fair, Northwest Water Carnival, Polar Fest, Shady Hollow Flea & Artisan Market and a long list

of other fun events. It is the county seat of Becker County, and has a population of roughly 9,000.

Read on to discover more about what Detroit Lakes has to offer, all year long.

SPRING

Fishing is one of the most popular things to do around Detroit Lakes, and that’s perhaps never more true than in May, with the annual Minnesota walleye and bass fishing openers. After the ice thaws and the winter fish houses come down, the spring openers draw boatloads of eager anglers to

Detroit Lakes — pun intended — and get the locals back out on the water, as well.

May is also the month when birders from all over the United States flock to the area for the annual Festival of Birds. Detroit Lakes is known as a “birders’ paradise” for its location in a transition zone of tall grass prairie, northern hardwood and coniferous ecosystems. Becker County is home to 250 species of birds, and the Detroit Lakes area is considered a migration hotspot. The festival offers birders the chance to see and hear many of these birds in action.

DETROIT LAKES

Cruise DL Nights

PAGE 17 | DESTINATIONS 2019

Dunton Locks County Park

www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 17

Becker County Fair

Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge, located about 15 minutes northeast of Detroit Lakes, is 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 and Itasca State Parks — all within easy driving distance of Detroit Lakes.

Furry friends will want to get outdoors to stretch, play and sniff all the spring smells, too. Let your dog have his day at the Detroit Lakes City Dog Park, located at 1023 10th Avenue Southeast.

SUMMER

The population doubles in Detroit Lakes in the summertime. Seasonal residents return to their lake cabins, and the resorts fill up with

Northwest Water Carnival This is the always-highly-anticipated summer event that has it all; a weeklong community celebration of summer that took root in Detroit Lakes 84 years ago.

This year’s carnival, going on July 12-21, will feature water fights, kids’ games, music and food, a sand castle competition, chili cook-off, Miss Northwest pageant, geocaching, more food, a Bash on the Beach, the iconic Parade of the Northwest, and other fun.

PAGE 18 | DESTINATIONS 2019

Zorbaz Dog Run

warm-weather visitors. The community responds by making sure there’s never a shortage of fun things for people to do. The local calendar of events is always jampacked every June, July and August.

A major highlight of the summer is the 80-plus-year-old Northwest Water Carnival, a weeklong community extravaganza complete with competitions, contests, kids’ games, live music and the iconic Parade of the Northwest.

The Becker County Fair is another iconic celebration in Detroit Lakes, offering all the classic fair foods, rides, games, entertainment, animals and exhibits that crowds have come to expect and love. The fair is celebrating its 128th anniversary this year.

Experience Detroit Lakes 001821692r1

Detroit Mountain Recreational Area

Double S Rodeo/Arena

Excellent Service & Stellar Selection.

O O W D E R P O U H S Est. 1973 B Shorewood Pub

Lakes Liquor Detroit Mountain Recreational Area

FUN, FOOD, AND SHOPPING ALL YEAR LONG PAGE 19 | DESTINATIONS 2019

Double S Rodeo/Arena

Shorewood Pub

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 2019!

Family friendly rodeo held in Detroit Lakes, MN. Aug. 16 & 17, 2019 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 DJ Trey Windhorst!!

Family owned and operated by the Cervenkas for over 40 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, or just some of the...very best...HOMEMADE SANDWICHES and BURGERS IN TOWN! 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

Double S also holds a summer barrel league which starts June 5th and runs through august. Almost every Wednesday a barrel jackpot is held.

Check us out at our facebook page ‘Double S Arena Barrel Shows’ for updates.

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.

www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 19

Bleachers Bar & Grill

Detroit Lakes Community and Cultural Center

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Detroit Lakes Northwest Water Carnival

Forest Hills

Seven Sisters Spirits

J & K Marine

Detroit Lakes Community and Cultural Center

Bleachers Bar & Grill

Detroit Lakes Northwest Water Carnival

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 3:00-7:00 p.m. 2-4-1 burgers every Sunday 5:00-8:00 p.m.

We look forward to seeing you at BLEACHERS in 2019!

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. Free kickoff Party Friday, July 12 featuring Tripwire. Some other events of the 84th 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 19th with One Metalica cover band & Hairball. This year’s Bash on the Beach, Saturday, July 20th, features Eve 6 & Smashmouth.

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

PAGE 20 | DESTINATIONS 2019

P.O. Box 456, Detroit Lakes, MN Brian 763-438-9745 Matt 218-850-2017

Forest Hills Located in the Heart of the Lakes Country in Detroit Lakes, MN, Forest Hills Golf & RV Resort is surrounded by over 400 of Minnesota’s 10,000 lakes within a 25-mile radius. Izzos Sports Bar and Grill, overlooking the 18th green on our Championship Golf Course, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a meal and refreshments.

Hwy. 10 West Detroit Lakes, MN 218-439-6033

Seven Sisters Spirits 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.

Located just three minutes from WE Fest, Seven Sisters caters to the customer, regardless of what they’re looking for. Once through the doors, customers 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, picking a variety to test.

25275 S. Melissa Dr. Detroit Lakes, MN 218-847-BEER (2337) 218-846-WINE (9463)

J & K Marine 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 or 121 West Lake Drive Detroit Lakes, MN 218-847-0324

Stop in today and support an American Tradition Main Street Restaurant

The American Legion Post 15 001821701r1

Becker County Museum

Recreations Salvage

e new Come meet th ra & owners Tand s Brian Parson

Street Faire at the Lakes Main Street Restaurant

The American Legion Post 15

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.

Stop in for great food, good conversation and a cold beverage when you visit the lakes! Located just across from Legion Beach on Big Detroit Lake, you will be welcomed with local hospitality. Enjoy homemade meals, hearty breakfasts, juicy burgers and grilled steaks. Don’t forget to ask about happy hour and daily specials! When you visit the Legion, You support our vets and their mission to better our community!

Banquet space available for rent.

Restaurant Hours Breakfast M-F 6-1pm Sat & Sun 8am-Noon Lunch M-F 11am-1pm Lounge Hours M-F 4pm-Close Sat 2pm-Close

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

810 W Lake Dr Detroit Lakes, MN 56501-3816 218-847-8533

PAGE 21 | DESTINATIONS 2019

Ice Cracking Lodge Recreations Salvage Recreationalsalvage.com builds and 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!

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

Ice Cracking Lodge

Friday, May 31 & Saturday, June 1, 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 19th Annual Street Faire at the Lakes.

When your activities for the day have ended, join us in the lodge for food, spirits, games, Sarsaparilla, frosty mugs of beer and regaling the events of the day. You might want to come try out our world famous Thunderburger! Our lodge offers arcade games and class II gambling if the day is rainy and your activities were canceled. We also have off highway gas and off sale! We are open year round. Call or visit our facebook page for our hours of operation. Closed on Tuesdays.

Like us on Facebook!

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

30389 County Hwy. 35 Detroit Lakes, MN 218-573-3631 www.facebook.com/ icecrackinglodge

www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 21

DRIVING CUSTOMERS TO YOUR BUSINESS SINCE 2006 Minnesota

DESTINATIONS ALEXANDRIA BRAINERD DETROIT LAKES DULUTH PARK RAPIDS PERHAM WADENA

2019

WWW.MNDESTINATIONS.COM

For information on how your business can be a part of Destinations magazine, contact Jody Hanson at jhanson@echopress.com or t 320-763-3133.

PAGE 22 | DESTINATIONS 2019

DETROIT LAKES

Shakespeare in the Park The Pine to Palm Amateur Golf Tournament is another major event of summer. One of Minnesota’s so-called “resort circuit” tourneys, the week-long event has been held at Detroit Country Club every August since 1932.

Of course, no list of Detroit Lakes summer highlights would be complete without WE Fest, one of the nation’s leading country music festivals. Every August, about 50,000 country music fans descend on Soo Pass Ranch to whoop it up as celebrity singers rock their socks off. At the time this magazine went to press, Chris Stapleton, Keith Urban, Brooks & Dunn and LeAnn Rimes were all scheduled to appear this year, among nearly a dozen others.

For those looking for something a little lower-key, Detroit Lakes has plenty to offer on that end, as well.

There are endless hiking, biking, swimming, boating, golfing and other outdoor opportunities available for visitors at any time. The city’s mile-long beach is a go-to spot for swimmers and sunbathers, and more than a half dozen golf courses lie within Becker County,

most of those within a 20-minute drive to Detroit Lakes. Dunton Locks County Park, Sucker Creek Preserve, Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge, and Maplewood and Itasca State Parks provide opportunities for some at-your-own-pace exploring.

History buffs may choose to stroll through Veterans Memorial Park (at the junction of Washington Avenue and Highway 10 downtown), the Grand Army of the Republic Park (one of the few GAR parks still in existence in the U.S., on Washington Avenue a couple blocks north

Big Elbow Lake w w w. j o l l y f i s h e r m a n . co m

1-800-927-2262 Close to Itasca State Park

001378058r1

HATFIELD’S ISLAND VIEW RESORT

WE Fest

001541348r1

on Beautiful Island Lake, Detroit Lakes, MN

218-847-8704

email: pahat4x8@aol.com www.hatfieldsislandviewresort.com

PAGE 23 | DESTINATIONS 2019

Detroit Lakes Antique & Classic Boat Show

Great Fishing & Family Resort 11 Cabins - Reserve On-line

www.tamaracbayresort.com

218.847.7096

001829182r1

WE Fest is one of the nation’s leading country music festivals. An estimated 50,000 country music fans will descend on Soo Pass Ranch in Detroit Lakes this August 1-3 to whoop it up as A-list country stars rock their socks off. Chris Stapleton, Keith Urban and LeAnn Rimes are among this year’s headliners, with nearly a dozen others set to perform, as well. www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 23

Crazy Days of Highway 10), and Oak Grove Cemetery (just north of town on Highway 59, which boasts a Civil War monument erected more than a century ago). The Becker County Museum is also a “don’t miss” spot.

It’s located across the parking lot from the Detroit Lakes Community and Cultural Center, on Summit Avenue.

All summer long, the Lakes Area Farmers Market sets up shop at Peoples Park on Tuesdays and Saturdays, and the Shady Hollow Flea & Artisan Market draws bargain-hunters to its location just south of town on County Highway 17. There are also community concerts at the City Park Bandshell every Tuesday evening, and Thursday concerts at the Lodge on Lake Detroit.

Labor Day weekend brings two unique events to the area, with the Laddies Loppet Mountain Bike

Races at Maplelag, a popular event now entering its 29th year, and the Western Minnesota Steam Threshers Reunion, which has been bringing steam engine lovers and oldschool farming enthusiasts to the tiny community of Rollag for 65 years.

Just north of Detroit Lakes, by about 17 miles, is Richwood Winery, where guests can sample a variety of vintage wines while relaxing in the bucolic setting. The winery has live music every Saturday through the summer, as well as a handful of other fun events.

FALL

Anywhere you go in Minnesota, fall is the season of orange, red and yellow. Pumpkin festivals and fall color tours are always on everybody’s autumn to-do lists, and the same is true in the Detroit Lakes area.

Western Minnesota Steam Threshers Reunion

White Earth Pow Wow

This year will mark the 151st anniversary of the annual White Earth Pow Wow, a beloved tradition and celebration of the White Earth Nation. Events will take place on the White Earth Pow Wow Grounds, about 30 minutes north of Detroit Lakes, June 14-16.

PAGE 24 | DESTINATIONS 2019

Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge

Tamarac, located about a 15-minute drive northeast of Detroit Lakes, is known as a “birder’s paradise.” It was established as a refuge and breeding ground for migratory birds and other wildlife in 1938.

The landscape is characterized by rolling forested hills interspersed with shallow lakes, rivers, marshes and shrub swamps. A Visitor’s Center features a large screen theatre, observation deck and exhibits of local wildlife, history and habitats. Interpretive trails wind through the refuge, which also harbors a sanctuary area, picnic area, cross-country ski trail, educational programs, fishing opportunities and more.

Lakes Area Young Life Kids Run

PAGE 25 | DESTINATIONS 2019

at this educational facility.

Leaf Days at Maplewood State Park offers another fantastic opportunity to see and celebrate the seasonal changing of the leaves. The park has more than 9,000 acres filled with sugar maple trees, which provide excellent fall colors.

Fall in Detroit Lakes also brings the annual Dick Beardsley Run, complete with live music, crazy cheering fans and a rocking finish line, as well as the Damien Society Fall Home Tour, a fundraiser for

Great services • Unique shopping • Casual dining • Fun entertainment

MALL HOURS: MONDAY-FRIDAY 10AM-8PM SATURDAY 9:30AM-5:30PM SUNDAY NOON-5PM 808 Washington Avenue Downtown Detroit Lakes, 218-847-1679 Email: wsm@arvig.net washingtonsquaremallDL.com

001829227r1

One of the best places around for viewing the fall colors is Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge, which hosts an annual fall festival inviting the public to explore the refuge by bus, car or on foot. There are also organized, environmentally-themed activities for the family, all free of charge. While you’re there, stop in to the Discovery Center, which opened to the public in 2015. Experienced staff and volunteers from the Friends of Tamarac lead indoor and outdoor learning opportunities

www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 25

Four-legged fun on Detroit Lake

The lakes area dining destination

Outdoor seating

Muscatell Ojibwe Forests Rally local charities.There’s also a Lakes Trail Run at Detroit Mountain Recreation Area.

Nearby communities host their own fun festivals, like Frazee and Pelican Rapids, which each put on an annual Oktoberfest, and Lake Park, which has a popular Pumpkin Fest. In Richwood, the Richwood Winery hosts its annual Grape Stomp.

PAGE 26 | DESTINATIONS 2019

Spanky’s offers a locally sourced, Minnesota inspired menu with distinctive dishes that are complemented by our classic wines, craft beer and featured cocktails. We invite you in, and look forward to serving you.

Reservations accepted VOTED BEST RESTAURANT IN THE LAKES AREA

34785 co. hwy. 4 • vergas, mn • on the shores of rose lake 218-334-3555 • spankysstonehearth.com

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GOLDEN EAGLE 42488 480th Ave RV VILLAGE Perham, MN 56573

Big Pine Lake Owners: Mike & Connie Cumings Owners: 218-346-4386 Mike & Connie Cumings goldeneaglervvillage.com

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SUPERVISED CHILD ACTIVITY

BAIT AVAILABLE

BOAT/MOTOR RENTAL/PONTOON

WINTER ACTIVITIES

GASOLINE

PET ALLOWED

BOAT LAUNCH

GRILL

PLAYGROUND

FIREPLACES

SWIMMING AREA

SAUNA/WHIRLPOOL/JACUZZI

INDOOR POOL/OUTDOOR POOL

SCREENED PORCH

RECREATION ROOM

TENNIS/NEAR/ON

GOLF/NEAR/ON

CONVENIENCE STORE

LAUNDRY FACILITIES

HOUSEKEEPING

TELEVISION

AIR CONDITIONING

TUBS/SHOWERS/BOTH

SHORT STAYS/ALL SEASONS

HANDICAP FACILITIES

ACCEPT CREDIT CARDS

AREA RESORTS AND CAMPGROUNDS

FISHING LICENSE

DETROIT LAKES

DETROIT LAKES

Stock ownership available.

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

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Island Lake • Hatfield’s www.hatfieldsislandviewresort.com

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

THE HIDEAWAY 25574 E. Island Lake Road • Detroit Lakes, RESORT MN Island Lake 218-847-6886 • 800-363-7122 Al & Marg Chirpich www.detroitlakes.com/hideaway

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

JOLLY FISHERMAN 39126 Jolly Fisherman Road RESORT Waubun, MN 56589

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

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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 1743 Long Bridge Road PUB Detroit Lakes MN 56501

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218-847-3206

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

TAMARAC BAY 40728 County Rd. 126 • Rochert, MN 56578 RESORT 218-847-7096 • 218-847-7096 Island Lake tamaracbay@gmail.com www.tamaracbayresort.com

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11 cabins • Great fishing & family resort. Nice swim area. Pontoon & boat rentals. Canoes, Fun Bugs, kayaks & paddle boats. Fall duck hunting & excellent walleye fishing

Island Lake 1-888-702-0653 • 218-847-8753 www.valhallaislandlake.com

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8 cabins • Fish, swim and relax at Valhalla.

PAGE 27 | DESTINATIONS 2019

www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 27

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VALHALLA 24218 Ease Island Lake Rd, RESORT Detroit Lakes, MN 56501-8105

Polar Fest This is the pinnacle winter event of the area. A multi-day celebration of the season that takes place every February, Polar Fest gives people good reason to get out of their warm homes and into the thrill of the cold outdoors. Events and attractions include ice structures, snow sculptures and a winter playland for kids at the City Beach and Park, “Ice Tee” golfing on the frozen lake, a Polar Fest Plunge fundraiser, the famous Poles ‘N Holes Fishing Derby, and much, much more.

PAGE 28 | DESTINATIONS 2019

Historic Holmes Theatre This art-deco style performing arts theatre seats more than 800 people, and hosts a diverse array of live performances throughout the year. On any given night, the spotlight might be shining on a local choir or concert band, a professional dance troupe, a children’s theatre company, celebrity singer, or traveling ensemble (such as the Big Bad Voodoo Daddies, pictured here). If you’re planning a trip to Detroit Lakes, be sure to check and see what’s playing at the Holmes.

WINTER

When the waters freeze, a village of fish houses takes over Big and Little Detroit Lakes, and ice fishers take their places over the holes.

When the snow falls, snowmobilers enjoy more than 250 miles of groomed trails winding their way through the woods and fields of Becker County.

At the 200-acre Detroit Mountain

Recreation Area, guests can enjoy a full range of winter activities, from downhill and cross country skiing to tubing, snowboarding, and Fat Bike trail riding.

In Peoples Park, an outdoor skating rink is open, with warming house hours in January and February.

Maplelag Resort, located north of Detroit Lakes between Calla-

way and Richwood, offers nearly 45 miles of cross country skiing and snowshoeing trails, an ice skating rink and sliding hill, and is also home to the Moosejaw Old-Time Dance, Clogging & Music Weekend.

Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge, as well as Maplewood and Itasca State Parks, also offer trails and activities for folks looking for some winter fun.

Detroit Lakes’ biggest event of the winter is its annual Polar Fest, a multi-day celebration of the season that takes place every February.

From “Ice Tee” golfing on the frozen lake to the famous Polar Fest Plunge fundraiser and Poles ‘N Holes Fishing Derby, Polar Fest encourages people to get out and enjoy the cold.

Around the holidays, Detroit

It’s a Jungle Out there!

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

50622 CO. HWY 17 VERGAS, MN (Between Vergas & Hwy 59)

(218) 731-8711 www.trowbridgecreekzoo.com PAGE 29 | DESTINATIONS 2019

www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 29

Detroit Mountain 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, but particularly shines in winter.

Tubing during Polar Fest

PAGE 30 | DESTINATIONS 2019

Pond racing Lakes is home to a series of Light Up the Lakes events throughout November and December. Holy Rosary Church hosts an annual Thanksgiving Feast for the community, while other local churches open their doors to the public for Christmas shows and other events. Santa’s Grand Parade of Lights marches through downtown the Monday evening after Thanksgiving, and the Detroit Lakes Community & Cultural Center hosts a New Year’s Eve Bash.

DETROIT LAKES

Snow sculpture competitions, during Polar Fest

Open at 11am Seven Days a Week 218-439-3028 Hwy 10 W

Open April - October

18 Hole

Park Model Dealership

with new sites available for lease!

Championship Course

TO

O TH PE EP N UB L

IC!

22931 185th St • Detroit Lakes, MN • 800-482-3441 • 218-439-6033 PAGE 31 | DESTINATIONS 2019

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www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 31

Detroit Lakes Area Calendar of Events MARCH 1: Economic Development Summit, M State, Detroit Lakes 2-3: 48th Annual Sno-Deo at Pinehurst Resort, Naytahwaush 8: “Twilight Hours,” Historic Holmes Theatre, Detroit Lakes 8: 38 Special concert, Shooting Star Casino, Mahnomen 8-10: Moosejaw Old-Time Dance, Clogging & Music Weekend, Maplelag Resort, Callaway 13: Family Day Robotics, Becker County Museum, Detroit Lakes 13: Brown Bag Lunch Series, Becker County Museum, Detroit Lakes 16: Murder Mystery Dinner, Lodge on Lake Detroit 16: Spring Splash and Pond Skim, Detroit Mountain Recreation Area, Detroit Lakes 23-24: Lake Region Builders Association Home & Sport Show, Kent Freeman Arena 30: “Abbey Road,” Historic Holmes Theatre, Detroit Lakes APRIL 2: Classical Music Nights concert, Historic Holmes Theatre, Detroit Lakes 4: Church Basement Ladies present, “Rise, O Men,” Historic Holmes Theatre, Detroit Lakes 6: Spring Interlude, Holy Rosary Catholic Church, Detroit Lakes 6: Deb Jenkins Band, Live at the Lodge concert, Lodge on Lake Detroit 7: Lakes Area Chorale Spring Concert, Historic Holmes Theatre, Detroit Lakes 9: “Dragons Love Tacos” musical, Historic Holmes Theatre, Detroit Lakes 9: Circle Time Under the Pines, “N is for Nest,” Itasca State Park 10: Brown Bag Lunch Series, Becker County Museum, Detroit Lakes 11-13: Spring Art Crawl, downtown Detroit Lakes 13: Maple Syrup Day, Vergas 13: Popovich Comedy Pet Theater, Historic Holmes Theatre, Detroit Lakes 13: Family Day Fish Hatchery Tour hosted by the Becker County Museum, Dunton Locks, Detroit Lakes 17: Eric Bergeson presentation, Becker County Museum, Detroit Lakes 25: United Way Celebration of Heroes, Holiday Inn, Detroit Lakes 27: Heart O’Lakes Harmony Spring Concert, Historic Holmes Theatre, Detroit Lakes 28: Lakes Area Community Concert Band Spring Concert, Historic Holmes Theatre MAY 3: I Am, He Said concert, Historic Holmes Theatre, Detroit Lakes 4: Big Bad Voodoo Daddy concert, Historic Holmes Theatre, Detroit Lakes 8: Brown Bag Lunch Series, Becker County Museum, Detroit Lakes 11: Walleye and Bass Fishing Opener 11: Family Day Pots & Plants, Becker County Museum, Detroit Lakes 11: Celebrate Mom, Lodge on Lake Detroit

PAGE 32 | DESTINATIONS 2019

12: “We Are the Willows,” Historic Holmes Theatre, Detroit Lakes 16-19: 22nd Annual Festival of Birds, Detroit Lakes 24-27: Avenue of Flags/Memorial Walk, Oak Grove Cemetery, Detroit Lakes 31-June 1: 19th Annual Street Faire at the Lakes, downtown Detroit Lakes JUNE Every Saturday & Sunday: Shady Hollow Flea & Artisan Market, 12672 Cty. Hwy. 17 Every Sunday: Wildlife Movies, 2 p.m. start, Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge Every Tuesday & Saturday: Lakes Area Farmers Market, Peoples Park, Detroit Lakes Every Tuesday: Tuesdays in the Park Community Concert Series, City Park Bandshell Every Wednesday: Wild Wednesdays, Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge Every Thursday: Summer Thursday Concerts, Lodge on Lake Detroit Every Saturday: Live Music, Richwood Winery, Richwood Every Saturday & Sunday: Discovery Dives, Tri-State Diving 1: 19th Annual Street Faire at the Lakes, downtown Detroit Lakes 1: Muskie Fishing Opener 1: Breakfast on the Farm, Hawley 2: Cowboy Church Service and Benefit Horse Show, Hawley 2-8: Rodeo Fest, Hawley 4-6: Robotics Camp, Becker County museum, Detroit Lakes 6: Becker County Relay for Life, Detroit Lakes Pavilion 7-8: Hawley Rodeo 8: Family Day Ceramic Mugs, Becker County Museum, Detroit Lakes 8-10: 150th Annual White Earth Pow Wow, on the White Earth Pow Wow Grounds 12: Brown Bag Lunch Series, Becker County Museum, Detroit Lakes 12: Cruise DL Night, West Lake Drive 14-16: 151st Annual White Earth Powwow 19: Butterfly Hike, Itasca State Park 20: Stories and Stones, Holy Rosary Cemetery, Detroit Lakes 22: 5th Annual Summer Solstice Festival, Richwood Winery, Richwood 25-27: Nature Camp, Becker County Museum, Detroit Lakes 27-30: Shakespeare in the Park, “As You Like It,” City Park Bandshell JULY Every Saturday & Sunday: Shady Hollow Flea & Artisan Market, 12672 Cty. Hwy. 17 Every Sunday: Wildlife Movies, 2 p.m. start, Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge Every Tuesday & Saturday: Lakes Area Farmers Market, Peoples Park, Detroit Lakes Every Tuesday: Tuesdays in the Park Community Concert Series, City Park Bandshell Every Wednesday: Wild Wednesdays, Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge Every Thursday: Summer Thursday

Concerts, Lodge on Lake Detroit Every Saturday: Live Music, Richwood Winery, Richwood Every Saturday & Sunday: Discovery Dives, Tri-State Diving 4: Fireworks at the City Beach 5-7: Shakespeare in the Park, “As You Like It,” City Park Bandshell 10: Brown Bag Lunch Series, Becker County Museum, Detroit Lakes 10: Cruise DL Night, West Lake Drive, Detroit Lakes 12-21: 84th Annual Northwest Water Carnival, Detroit Lakes 13: Midsummer Bike Tour, Detroit Lakes Community & Cultural Center 13: Fly-in/Drive-in Breakfast, Detroit Lakes Airport 16-18: Art Camp, Becker County Museum, Detroit Lakes 18: Smokey Bear Day, Itasca State Park 21: Parade of the Northwest, Detroit Lakes 25: Stories & Stones, Becker County Museum, Detroit Lakes 26-28: 65th Annual Turkey Days, Frazee 28: 41st Annual Arts & Crafts in the Park, Detroit Lakes City Park 30-Aug. 1: Robotics Camp, Becker County Museum, Detroit Lakes AUGUST Every Saturday & Sunday: Shady Hollow Flea & Artisan Market, 12672 Cty. Hwy. 17 Every Sunday: Wildlife Movies, 2 p.m. start, Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge Every Tuesday & Saturday: Lakes Area Farmers Market, Peoples Park, Detroit Lakes Every Tuesday: Tuesdays in the Park Community Concert Series, City Park Bandshell Every Wednesday: Wild Wednesdays, Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge Every Thursday: Summer Thursday Concerts, Lodge on Lake Detroit Every Saturday: Live Music, Richwood Winery, Richwood Every Saturday & Sunday: Discovery Dives, Tri-State Diving 1-3: WE Fest 37th Anniversary Celebration, Soo Pass Ranch, Detroit Lakes 5-11: 88th Annual Pine to Palm Golf Tournament, Detroit Country Club, Detroit Lakes 6: Crazy Daze, downtown Detroit Lakes 7-10: Becker County Fair, Detroit Lakes 8-11: Looney Days, Vergas 10: 5th Annual Antique & Classic Boat Show, Detroit Lakes 10-11: 13th Annual Quake the Lake Powerboat Races, Detroit Lakes 10-11: Pine Point Powwow 11: Parish Festival, Holy Rosary Catholic Church, Detroit Lakes 14: Cruise DL Night, West Lake Drive, Detroit Lakes 16: Young Life Family Fun Night, Detroit Lakes City Park 17: Young Life Triathlon, Detroit Lakes City Park 20-22: Computer Coding Camp, Becker County Museum, Detroit Lakes

20-22: Art Camp, Becker County Museum, Detroit Lakes 22-24: Muscatell Ojibwe Forests Rally Racing, Detroit Lakes 23: Macaws for Paws, Detroit Lakes 24: 14th Annual Boats & Bars, Detroit Lakes 30-Sept. 2: Western Minnesota Steam Threshers 65th Annual Reunion, Rollag SEPTEMBER Every Sunday: Wildlife Movies, 2 p.m. start, Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge Every Tuesday & Saturday: Lakes Area Farmers Market, Peoples Park, Detroit Lakes Every Saturday: Live Music, Richwood Winery, Richwood 1-2: Western Minnesota Steam Threshers 65th Annual Reunion, Rollag 1-2: 29th Annual Laddies Loppet Mountain Bike Races, Maplelag 1-2: Shady Hollow Flea Market, Detroit Lakes 6: Toast to Tamarac, Richwood Winery, Richwood 7: Dick Beardsley Run, Detroit Lakes 8: Grape Stomp, Richwood Winery, Richwood 11: Cruise DL Night, West lake Drive 12: Lakes Area Women’s Expo, Kent Freeman Arena, Detroit Lakes 13: Fire & Ice Fundraiser for Essentia Health St. Mary’s Foundation, Detroit Lakes 21: Fall Festival, Hawley 29: Pumpkin Fest, Lake Park 29: Fall Festival, Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge OCTOBER Every Tuesday & Saturday: Lakes Aea Farmers Market, Peoples Park, Detroit Lakes 5: “I Outran the Hairy Man” 5K, Vergas 6: Damien Society Fall Home Tours, Detroit Lakes NOVEMBER 1-30: Light Up the Lakes Events, Detroit Lakes 28: Thanksgiving Feast, Holy Rosary Church, Detroit Lakes 28-Dec. 1: Parade of Trees, American Legion, Lake Park 29: White Friday Ski Season Opener, Detroit Mountain Recreation Area, Detroit Lakes DECEMBER 1-31: Light Up the Lakes Events, Detroit Lakes 2: Santa’s Grand Parade of Lights, downtown Detroit Lakes 15: Candles & Carols, Trinity Lutheran Church, Detroit Lakes 25: Christmas At Our House, First Lutheran Church, Detroit Lakes 31: New Year’s Eve Bash, Detroit Lakes Community & Cultural Center This information provided by the Detroit Lakes Regional Chamber of Commerce.

Dates subject to change. Visit www.visitdetroitlakes.com for more information.

GOLDEN EAGLE RV VILLAGE ON THE SHORES OF BIG PINE LAKE - PERHAM, MN NT

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001822440r1

PAGE 33 | DESTINATIONS 2019

www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 33

VISIT

P

Perham

erham is a small but sparkling “hidden gem” in the heart of Minnesota’s Lakes Country, with a charming downtown full of unique boutiques and restaurants, fun and family-friendly community festivals all year long, and boundless opportunities for outdoor recreation,

Seated in the northeastern corner of Otter Tail County, along Highway 10 between Wadena and Detroit Lakes, Perham has made a name for itself as a progressive little city with a big heart.

The city’s year-round 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 in Perham, especially between June and August, the community calendar is packed with things to do. Events and festivals such as Perham’s International Turtle Races, the East Otter Tail County

Fair, Turtle Fest, Pioneer Fest and many others provide entertainment for kids and adults alike.

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 single-screen movie theater, a community pool and fitness center, and public library. Walking paths and recreational trails wind through town, connecting with the city’s parks, schools and athletic fields.

Downtown, Perham’s shopping corridor is a consistent hit with visitors, boasting a unique variety of specialty shops, clothing stores, eateries and more. Local business owners always greet their customers with a smile.

In addition, outdoors enthusiasts have endless opportunities to get out and explore around Perham, all year long. The area’s mix of prairie, wetlands and forests, along with its record number of lakes and other waterways, cre-

AND THE SURROUNDING AREA

ates a diverse ecosystem fit for wildlife watching, fishing, hunting, birding, swimming, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, hiking, camping, and the list could go on. Dozens of resort owners have taken root in the area to cater to sportsmen, families and anyone with an appreciation for the great outdoors.

MUSEUMS

Perham is home to two renowned museums – the History Museum of East Otter Tail County and the In Their Own Words Veterans Museum, or ITOW. ITOW is an internationally recognized, one-of-a-kind museum that turns the recorded oral stories of veterans into multimedia exhibits, preserving their war stories for others to hear, for years to come.

The History Museum of East Otter Tail County tells the stories of the people, places and events of the area through interpretive exhibits, photographic displays and orig-

inal motion picture footage. It is housed in a historic stone building constructed in 1887. A genealogy lab is open to visiting researchers.

For more information on either museum, visit www.historymuseumeot.com.

STATE PARKS

There are two state parks within easy driving distance to and from Perham.

Maplewood State Park, approximately 16 miles away on Highway 108, is a heavily wooded and hilly, moderate-sized park featuring scenic walking and horseback trails, campsites, fishing, hiking, swimming and more. Eight major lakes and many ponds offer water lovers places to swim, fish, boat and relax.

Lake Lida has a sandy beach and large picnic areas for visitors.

Glendalough State Park, south of Perham near Battle Lake, was a playground for the wealthy at one time, even hosting Presidents Dwight Eisenhower and Richard

Turtle Fest and Turtle Races

Now in its 35th year, Perham’s Turtle Fest is the highlight of the summer for local kids and families as well as visitors from all over the world.

Built around the community’s weekly International Turtle Races, which take place every Wednesday in June, July and August at Turtle Race Park in downtown Perham, Turtle Fest is a multi-day summer celebration featuring food, family-friendly events and plenty of fun. Events typically include a grand parade, town tours on the Turtle Trolley, prize giveaways, an arts and crafts fair, kids’ activities, live music, comedy performances and much more.

This year’s Turtle Fest will be held June 12-16. For a complete schedule of festival events and more information on the weekly races, visit the Perham Chamber of Commerce website at www.perham.com.

PAGE 34 | DESTINATIONS 2019

East Otter Tail County Fair

For more than 100 years, the fair has been a summer highlight in Perham. Offering family fun with a small-town feel, the fair features a carnival, concerts, a petting zoo for kids, exhibits, livestock competitions, live entertainment and much more.

The 2019 fair is set for July 25-28. For more information, visit www.eotcountyfair.org.

Just east of Perham, down Highway 10, is New York Mills. This little community is the home of the Cultural Center, and it hosts a handful of events and festivals throughout the year.

One of the best recognized of those events is the annual Great American Think-Off, a public debate that solicits the opinions of armchair philosophers from across the country. This year, debaters

SUMMER FESTIVALS IN NEW YORK MILLS

Also in New York Mills, the annual Lund Mania and Summer Celebration offer a variety of fun events for all ages, including a parade, a fishing tournament and the beloved “boatville drags” — miniature pedal boat races through the heart of town. It’s all happening this year on July 5.

On August 16, the community’s annual Corn Feed, with well over 1,000 ears of corn served, will precede the Cultural Center’s traditional Puppet Pageant. The pageant features handmade, larger-than-life puppets telling the epic Finnish story of the Kalevala.

New York Mills is home to an extensive Finnish population and celebrates that heritage every August with its Finnish Folk Festi-

PHELPS MILL FESTIVAL

The Phelps Mill Festival is the area’s largest art and craft event of the summer. On July 13 and 14 of this year, Phelps Mill County Park will host hundreds of art vendors, food booths, performers and kids’ activities. Visitors can shop, walk the park grounds, tour the old mill, listen to music and try out the variety of ethnic and American foods served.

OTTER FEST

Otter Fest, featuring kids’ games, a parade and other community celebrations, will take place August 9-10 in Ottertail.

Located about 12 miles south of

EX IN PA 20 ND 19 ED !

Pizzeria, Pub and Resort

val. Held at the Finn Creek Open Air Museum over the last weekend of the month, the festival features Finnish foods, heritage talks, historical demonstrations, entertainment, kids’ activities and more. For more information, visit finncreek. org.

Perham along Highway 78, Ottertail is situated on the eastern shores of Otter Tail Lake, the largest lake in Otter Tail County. The city’s ‘pet’ otter – a 10-foot high, 14-foot long statue made from 1,200 pieces of welded steel – is a prominent and popular landmark that sits along the city’s bike path, at the corner of Highways 78 and 108.

The community also hosts an annual Polka Fest in September, a Pumpkin Festival every October, and the Otter Dazzle winter festival around the holidays.

DENT DAZE

For a tiny town of less than 200 people, Dent knows how to put on a big party. Its annual summer festival, Dent Daze, always offers loads of family fun. Events typically include a parade, bed races, 5K and 1K run, kids’ games and tractor pull, and much more, taking place over a weekend in mid-July. Dent is located on Highway 108, about 10 miles southeast of Perham.

DEAD LAKE RESORT VACATIONS 001823585r1

THE GREAT AMERICAN THINK-OFF

will decide, “To vote or not to vote: does it matter?”

The 2019 Think-Off is scheduled to take place June 8.

Sunset Bay Resort -

Richville, MN • 8 10 Cabins with fire pits, Adirondack chairs, picnic tables, charcoal grills • 4 7 Campsites with water and electric hookups, restrooms/showers • On site boat launch and laundry • 550 feet of clean soft sand beach with swim platform and water sports • Exceptional fishing

A Minnesota Rustic Resort RELAXATION • FISHING FUN • MEMORIES 218-346-3480

www.bigpinelodgemn.com joeharlow43606@gmail.com

PAGE 35 | DESTINATIONS 2019

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43606 Mosquito Heights Rd. Perham, MN 56573

PERHAM

Nixon. Today, it’s a serene little place to escape, with lakes and wooded areas dotting the prairie landscape. Annie Battle Lake, a non-motorized “heritage fishery,” provides a tranquil fishing experience for all; several canoe-in and cart-in campsites line the shore of this 335-acre crystal clear lake.

The park rents kayaks and canoes for a noise-free experience. There are also interpretive trails that follow the lakeshores.

Check our website www.sunsbay.com, e mail us at info@sunsbay.com or call 1-800-786-7229 for reservations

On Dead Lake, Richville, MN. Clean, Fun, Family Resort with 10 modern a/c cabins and 8 campsites with water/electric. Hookups some lakeside. Pets allowed. Sandy beach with water tramp, kayaks, SUP etc. Brand New: 11 Seasonal sites. Check our website for details. www.northernlightsresort.com. email info@northernlightsresort.com Reservations: 218-758-2343.

www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 35

Perham Area Calendar of Events MARCH 8-9: Home and Cabin Show, Perham Area Community Center 16: Horticulture Day, Prairie Wind Middle School in Perham 30: Trade Show, New York Mills School APRIL 11: Perham Area Chamber Choice Awards Banquet 11: Perham Area Boys and Girls Club Spring Bash, Thumper Pond in Ottertail 13: Maple Syrup Fest, Vergas 13-14: The Gathering Sporting Collectible Show, Perham Area Community Center 20: Easter Egg Hunt, Smith Park in New York Mills MAY 9: Red River Valley Veterans Concert Band, Perham Center for the Arts 11: Opening Walleye and Bass Fishing 18: Perham MS Bike/Hike Event, Perham Pioneer Grounds TBD: 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 8: Great American Think-Off, New York Mills School Auditorium 8: 18th Annual Ronald McDonald House Ride, New York Mills VFW 12-16: Perham Turtle Fest 14: Perham Turtle Fest Grand Parade, 6:30 p.m.

29: 16th Annual Average Joe Triathlon, Arvig Park 29: Rib Cook-Off, downtown Perham TBD: Highway 10 Baseball Classic, Perham and New York Mills TBD: BBQ Rib Cookoff, downtown Perham JULY 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 4: Fireworks, Krueger Field/East Otter Tail County Fairgrounds in Perham, 10 p.m.

5: Lund Mania Summer Celebration and Fishing Tournament, New York Mills 12: Relay for Life of East Otter Tail County, Perham High School Track 13-14: Phelps Mill Arts Festival 25-28: East Otter Tail County Fair TBD: Calvary Pie & Ice Cream Social,

26: Kids Halloween Party, New York Mills 31: Trunk or Treat, Perham TBD: Uncle Ray’s Pumpkin Patch, New York Mills

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 2-3: Perham Crazy Days 7-12: Vergas Looney Daze & Parade 9-10: Otter Fest in Ottertail, Friday night Demo Derby, Saturday Parade 16: Corn Feed and Puppet Pageant Festival, New York Mills 16-18: Pioneer Days and Black Powder Rendezvous, Perham Pioneer Grounds 24-25: Finn Creek Summer Folk Festival, New York Mills Aug 30-Sept 2: Labor Day Weekend Sidewalk Sales in Perham

NOVEMBER 2: Women of FOCUS Annual Christmas Plus Bazaar 29: Holiday Parade of Lights, Perham 29-Dec 7: Christmas Tree Festival, New York Mills TBD: Community Carnival, New York Mills TBD: Perham Area Community Musical DECEMBER Nov. 29-Dec. 7: Christmas Tree Festival, New York Mills 1-24: Perham Christmas Promotion 5: Angel of Hope Candlelight Vigil, Angel of Hope Park, 7 p.m.

7: Community Christmas Party, New York Mills City Hall Ballroom 7: Otter Dazzle, Ottertail 21: Longest Night Music Festival, New York Mills TBD: Perham Giving Tree

SEPTEMBER Aug 30-Sept 2: Labor Day Weekend Sidewalk Sales in Perham 7: Dreams for Kids Ride, Perham 7: Polka Daze, Ottertail 28: Lakes Area Home Tour, Perham OCTOBER 4-5: Harvest Fest, Perham 19: Pumpkin Festival, Ottertail

WINTER ACTIVITIES

GASOLINE

BAIT AVAILABLE

BOAT/MOTOR RENTAL/PONTOON

BOAT LAUNCH

GRILL

SAUNA/WHIRLPOOL

GOLF/NEAR/ON

TENNIS/NEAR/ON

PLAYGROUND

SWIMMING AREA

RECREATION ROOM

SCREENED PORCH

CONVENIENCE STORE

TELEVISION

PETS ALLOWED

LAUNDRY FACILITIES

INTERNET/WIFI

HOUSEKEEPING CABINS

AIR CONDITIONING

TUBS/SHOWERS/BOTH

HANDICAP ACCESSIBLE

SHORT STAYS/ALL SEASON

ACCEPT CREDIT CARDS

CAMPING/RV SITES

NUMBER OF UNITS

CONTACT

FISHING LICENSE

EAST OTTER TAIL RESORTS

001828861r1

BUSINESS

Calvary Lutheran Church of Perham TBD: Dent Daze, Dent

PERHAM/RICHVILLE/DENT/ BATTLE LAKE RESORTS KIMP'S KAMP RESORT 38267 White Haven Rd. Dent, MN 56528

218-758-2555 218-298-2716 www.kimpskamp.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 800-758-3121 www.northernlightsresort.com nlr@northernlightsresort.com Vince & Cheryl Prososki

10

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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.

POCAHONTAS RESORT, LLC 38034 Co. Hwy. 35 Dent, MN 56528

218-758-2598 summer 701-293-5718 winter www.pocahontasresort.com pocahntsresort@aol.com The Barnicks

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Dead Lake. Modern, air conditioned, paddle boat, canoe and campfire rings. 2 bedroom cabins on beautiful Dead Lake. One of Otter Tail County’s best all around fishing lakes.

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!!

PAGE 36 | DESTINATIONS 2019

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DESTINATION:

Wadena

AREA

Where the prairie meets the woodland

U

niquely situated in central Minnesota as a gateway to outdoor recreation in the North Country, Wadena is known as the place, “Where the prairie meets the woodland.”

With more than 200 acres of playgrounds and parks, plus a 3.5mile paved recreational trail that winds through a wetland, visitors have every opportunity to enjoy the outdoors.

The city’s unique downtown shopping corridor has a well-preserved art deco style, perhaps best evidenced by the community’s beloved, longtime movie theatre, the Cozy Theatre. Gift shops, restaurants and unique clothing options line the streets. Throughout town, restaurants and bars and grills abound to suit every taste — even authentic German cuisine — and travelers have several lodging options to choose from.

With all this and more, Wadena offers a little something for everyone.

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.

Learn about the early settlers, the logging industry, how natural resources impacted economic development, unique historical figures, and more.

Stop by the Wadena Chamber of Commerce on Aldrich Ave. for a map to start the tour.

MURALS OF MINNESOTA

The back alleys of downtown Wadena may seem like strange places for tourists to hang out, but there’s PAGE 38 | DESTINATIONS 2019

HISTORIC WADENA DEPOT

The restored, historic Wadena Depot hosts a number of community and arts events throughout the year, as well as wedding receptions and other private affairs. It is located at Burlington Northern Park near the intersections of U.S. Highway 10 and 71 and shares the history of the railroad in the region. For more information, visit www.thedepotwadena.org.

WHITETAIL RUN GOLF COURSE

Golfers will want to experience this champion-caliber course north

of town. The Whitetail Run Golf Course is a Joel Goldstand 18-hole course that captures the beauty and challenge suggested by Wadena’s motto: “Where the prairie meets the woodland.” For more information, call 218-631-7718.

WADENA COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Located at 603 North Jefferson Street in Wadena, the Wadena County Museum features multiple exhibit areas with artifacts representative of early pioneers. It has a Two Nations Indian Village, as well as a large collection of photographs related to Wadena County.

Outdoors, enjoy the Memorial Garden and original 1886 Courthouse Tower. In addition, there is a Historical/Genealogy Research Center on site, where families can find information on local citizens past and present.

CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL

This annual festival has brought artists and art lovers together the weekend after Thanksgiving for the past 30-plus years. It’s held at Wadena Memorial Auditorium and Wadena-Deer Creek Elementary

School. Shop til you drop and land in a chair in the auditorium, where you can listen to selections of music and entertainment.

FARMERS MARKET

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. People can 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 open May 15-Oct. 1.

On the other side of town, 2 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 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 basket-

ball, 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 historic 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.

All parks and playgrounds close at 10 p.m.

Maslowski Wellness and Research Center Serving the Wadena area and beyond, ‘The Mas’ has something for anyone interested in fun and fitness. The 57,000-square-foot facility contains a six-lane lap swimming pool, zero-entry recreational pool, water slide and other water features, as well as a sauna/ steam room, whirlpool and warm water therapy pool. There’s also a state-of-the-art fitness facility with a walking track, racquetball courts and a multipurpose gym that can accommodate volleyball, basketball, tennis and pickleball. Fitness classes, swimming lessons and other programs are available for all ages and levels. Day passes are available.

PAGE 39 | DESTINATIONS 2019

www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 39

WADENA/LITTLE FALLS

The Wadena Farmers Market includes about 15 vendors that sell a variety of produce, including cucumbers, raspberries, beets, kale, potatoes, peppers, zucchini and more. Baked goods, maple and birch syrups, meats, salves and teas are also available, along with some freshpicked flowers. Located on the Wesley Lawn next to Tri County Health Care’s Wesley Hospital building, the market runs from 2-5:30 p.m. each Friday during the growing season.

PARKS

Wadena Area Events MAY 3-5 and 10-12: Wadena Madhatter’s production of Marjorie Prime 10: M-State Wadena campus graduation, 5:30 p.m.

11: David Durenberger and Lori Sturdevant, authors, “When Republicans Were Progressive,” Robertson Theatre at Wadena-Deer Creek High School, 11 a.m.

17: England Prairie Pioneer Club pancake supper fundraiser, 4:30-7:30 p.m., England Prairie Pioneer Grounds 24: Wadena-Deer Creek High School Graduation JUNE 8: Lin Enger, author, “The High Divide,” The Uptown, 11 a.m.

14: Lion’s Burger Cookout, Corner of Dayton & Jefferson TBD: June Jubilee TBD: City Wide Garage Sales TBD: Family Fun Day, SunnyBrook Park 20-23: Wadena County Fair, Wadena County Fairgrounds 29: Wings & Wheels Over

Wadena, Wadena Airport, 7 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

JULY 16: Tri-County Health Care Block Party, Wesley Lawn 18: Wadena Lions Summer BBQ, Burlington Northern Park AUGUST 8: Rotary Chicken Feed, Burlington Northern Park 10: Pig N Wing Challenge, Wadena County Fairgrounds 12: Tri-County Health Care Golf Scramble, 11 a.m., Whitetail Run Golf Course 17: Kruzin 4 Kidz motorcycle charity ride, Wadena Elks Lodge 23-25: England Prairie Pioneer Club Show Days, England Prairie Pioneer grounds SEPTEMBER 19: Minnesota Voices, “Celebrating the Fur Trade Era in Wadena County,” Noon, Wadena County Historical Society 20: Pancake supper fund-

raiser for England Prairie Pioneer Club, 4:30 to 7:30 p.m.

27: Fall Legacy, “The Sandy Lake Tragedy of 1850,” Robertson Theatre at Wadena-Deer Creek High School, 7 p.m.

28: Princess Warrior 5K. Registration at 8:30 a.m. event starts at 10 a.m. More information at www.princesswarriorwadena.com.

OCTOBER 12: Annual Zombie Run at Black’s Grove Park 19: Black’s Grove River Crossing Mountain Bike and Trail Races, Black’s Grove Park NOVEMBER 28: Community Thanksgiving Dinner 29-Jan. 1: Christmas in Wadena, light and music show; see christmasinwadena.com for more info 30: Annual Christmas in Wadena event at the WDC Elementary School and Memorial auditorium. Food, shopping and entertainment for all.

Madhatters Community Theatre

Wadena’s Madhatters Community Theatre group has entertained local audiences for many years. The group regularly produces musicals, dinner theatres, plays and lab theatres, and also sponsors a summer drama camp for kids. For information on the latest productions, visit www.madhattersinc.org.

PAGE 40 | DESTINATIONS 2019

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DESTINATION:

L

Staples AREA

eave the chaos behind. Satisfy your craving for hometown goodness, play outside, walk to dinner, and wonder at the stars above.

Conveniently located off Highway 10 between Little Falls and Wadena, Staples is a smart choice for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation. Close to larger lakes and cities, along with its own lengthy list of activities and outdoor resources, this small town is anything but sleepy.

Bike trails, river tubing, water sports and lakeside camping ensure you get a healthy dose of fresh air.

Relax with fine art and music performances in all seasons. Run off

some energy, marvel at nature, and gather with family in one of Staples’ many parks and recreational facilities. Follow the Central Minnesota Barn Quilt Trail that winds through town.

Staples is proud to the home of the amateur baseball team, the Lumberbats, as well as the Joel Goldstrand-designed golf course, The Vintage, CLC’s beautiful Living Legacy Gardens, and Minnesota’s longest fishing pier, located at Dower Lake Recreation Area.

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

Staples Area Calendar of Events MAY TBD: Lumberbats, Amateur Baseball Season Opener, Pine Grove Park 27: Memorial Day Ceremony, Evergreen Hill Cemetery 31: Host Lions Par 3 Challenge, The Vintage, Staples JUNE 16: Father’s Day Best Ball, The Vintage, Staples 21: Lamplighter Community Theatre

performance, The Eve After, 7 p.m. Centennial Auditorium 22: Motley June Fest, Motley Fairgrounds JULY 7: Music in the Park, Staples-Motley Area Arts Council, Northern Pacific Park, 7 p.m.

13: Izzy Cup Invitational, The Vintage, Staples 14: Music in the Park, Staples-Motley

PAGE 42 | DESTINATIONS 2019

Area Arts Council, Northern Pacific Park, 7 p.m.

21: Music in the Park, Staples-Motley Area Arts Council, Northern Pacific Park, 7 p.m.

28: Music in the Park, Staples-Motley Area Arts Council, Northern Pacific Park, 7 p.m.

AUGUST 4: Music in the Park, Staples-Motley Area Arts Council, Northern Pacific Park,

7 p.m.

6: National Night Out 10-11: Old Wadena Rendezvous Days, Old Wadena Park 11: Music in the Park, Staples-Motley Area Arts Council, Northern Pacific Park, 7 p.m.

22-25: Staples Railroad Days 22: Little Red Caboose Variety Show, Centennial Auditorium, 7 p.m.

22: Lakewood Health System Foundation Tournament, The Vintage Golf Course, Staples

PAGE 43 | DESTINATIONS 2019

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Brainerd LAKES AREA

DESTINATION:

A

s the name suggests, the Brainerd lakes area is known for its lakes - - hundreds of 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 or scuba dive, plenty of water for anglers 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 and a zip line. Or camp and see the glorious Milky Way away from city lights.

While nature and the outdoor experience is the star here, it isn’t the only attraction. Visit historic homesteads in area parks from early settlements to the nearby boyhood home of famed aviator Charles Lindbergh along with local history museums or art galleries.

But the area offers so much PAGE 44 | DESTINATIONS 2019

more, from Brainerd-Baxter to Pine River, Pequot Lakes to Crosslake, Crosby to Pillager there are unique experiences available while walking on a nature trail or along main street. With numerous festivals and events in winter and summer, a visitor can be as active as they want to be or simply relax with a book at the beach.

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

So no matter what the interest is, the Brainerd lakes area has plenty to do and see.

A PEACEFUL PADDLE

Whether by canoe or kayak, the Brainerd lakes area has a lot of options. 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.

Take an historic Mississippi River trek to the Crow Wing State Park or enjoy the calm, deep, turquoise-colored 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.

For silent sports enthusiasts there is no better way to see the area from quiet, small lakes to large, bustling waterways. Bring your own

kayak or canoe, or rent one from area establishments, which 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.

GOLF COURSES

The Brainerd lakes area, known for its recreational lakes popular for fishing and boating, is also 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 lakes area.

CUYUNA MOUNTAIN BIKE TRAILS

CROW WING STATE PARK

Crow Wing State Park, south of Brainerd on Highway 371, is a nature lover’s delight. Explore prairie, pine and hardwood forests.

View the Mississippi River from historic and picturesque “Chippewa Lookout.” Novice canoeists can paddle the calm waters of the Crow Wing and Mississippi rivers.

Crow Wing is a park rich in cultural history. In this area, a frontier town emerged to serve the needs of travelers and traders. The town died when the railroad chose to cross the river at Brainerd. Walk through the site of the Old Crow Wing Village for a sense of history. The park still has a section of the famous Woods Trail, which served ox cart traffic carrying supplies between St. Paul and the Red River settlements.

Camping and lodging are available at the park. More information can be found at http://www. dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/ crow_wing/index.html or by calling 218-825-3075.

MOUNT SKI GULL

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 beauty on a zip line that opened two years ago. The Brainerd Zip Line Tour boasts seven zip lines of varying length, with bridges and tree platforms connecting lines. The daring rider can jump off the edge into a

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cross-country skiing, 1.2 miles of hiking, 27 miles of horseback riding trails and 27 miles of mountain biking in addition to canoe/kayak or fishing and swimming opportunities.

PILLSBURY STATE FOREST

The Paul Bunyan State Trail boasts 123 miles of continuously paved trail from Crow Wing State Park south of Brainerd to Bemidji State Park in Bemidji. The 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,

The trails at Pillsbury State Forest, north of Pillager and west of Gull Lake, meander through a heavily forested area consisting of a variety of deciduous and coniferous trees. The woods are dotted with small lakes and ponds where you’re likely to see evidence of beavers and other wildlife. You may also find several varieties of wildflowers, including the yellow lady’s-slipper.

The trail system in this state

forest is especially popular with equestrians and mountain bikers during the summer and cross-country skiers in the winter. Land ownership within this forest includes state, county, municipal and private holdings. Trespass laws are enforced. Please be aware and respect these lands.

Grouse hunters find good bird hunting in the fall. The forest is closed to off-highway vehicles so bird hunters are assured they will not be disturbed by ATV traffic while walking the old logging roads.

Recreational facilities in the forest include the Walter E. Stark Horse Assembly Area, Shafer Lake and Green Bass Lake. Rock Lake Campground and Day-Use Area can serve as a great alternative to the more developed and heavily used Crow Wing State Park.

The forest has 3 miles of

PAUL BUNYAN STATE TRAIL

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 providers in area communities.

PAUL BUNYAN SCENIC BYWAY

The Paul Bunyan Scenic Byway is a 54-mile driving route made up entirely of county roads that take travelers through 14 jurisdictions and two counties (Crow Wing and Cass). There are hiking and walking trails, recreational parks and lakes, wildlife management areas, and historical artifacts. The route has a nonprofit organization, the Paul Bunyan Scenic Byway Association, that manages the projects, programs and events along the

www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 45

BRAINERD

Enjoy heart-pumping action with tight turns and scenic vistas with more than 25 miles of mountain bike trails spread across 800 acres of the Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area. Trails wind around mine pits and lakes with breathtaking overlooks. With more than 30 purpose-built routes to choose from, everyone from beginner to pro can enjoy the beautiful rides and overlooks.

Trails, the Cuyuna Lakes Mountain Bike Crew calls ribbons of red gold, range from beginner to expert. The mountain bike trails in the Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area have grown into a world-class attraction. When taking a break from the exhilarating descents, mountain bikers can watch for bald eagles, red-tailed hawks, beavers and other wildlife.

But don’t think the scenery or the trails are only for summer. About 40 miles of packed multi-use trails are available for fat-tire biking and 20 miles of trail are groomed specifically for a fat-tire biking experience.

And don’t forget the yeti. Some 300 cyclists come from across the United States and Canada to compete in the annual 45NRTH Whiteout FatBike Race in February, giving spectators a chance to see the bikes up close and encourage racers on with -- what else? -- cowbells! Not to mention a chance to see the Whiteout yeti mascot. Top off the experience with a selfie with the Cuyuna yeti.

Find maps, tips and upcoming competitions at www.cuyunalakesmtb.com.

50-foot free fall. The longest zip line will be more than 950 feet long.

Capture the adventure with GoPro, available for rent.

For more information, call 218-963-4353.

Market Place and Man Cave Fairs draw more than 100,000 people during the two-day event. In its 47th year, the fair includes a car show and swap meet during the event Sept. 8-9.

RELAX ON THE BEACH

route. Crow Wing County Highway 16 is the spine of the byway. At the intersection with Highway 66, the route travels both north around the Whitefish Chain and south along the north side of Pelican Lake.

BRAINERD INTERNATIONAL RACEWAY

Brainerd International Raceway is best known for hosting the Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals each August, but what many fans don’t know is how diverse BIR’s racing schedule has become.

BIR’s 2019 schedule is jampacked with a wide variety of racing, including drag racing, road racing, Superbike racing, endurance racing, Aussie-style cruising events and two weekends for imports and sport compacts that feature drifting, autocross and open lapping events.

There’s even racing called watercross that features snowmobiles racing on open water.

Most weekends include two or more events taking place simultaneously. Fans need to only buy a single ticket to enjoy all the events

PAGE 46 | DESTINATIONS 2019

going on inside BIR that day. And for every event on the schedule, including NHRA Nationals, kids who are 12 and younger get in free.

In addition to being great spectator events, BIR’s racing action usually includes opportunities for fans to get behind the wheel and try their hand at competitive racing.

As long as their car, truck or bike meet safety requirements, they can usually register to race. Check out BIR’s website for more details and a list of events: www.BrainerdRaceway.com. BIR is located 5 miles north of Baxter on Highway 371.

TAKE A CRUISE

See Gull Lake aboard the Destiny Cruise luxury yacht, the North Star. Day and evening public cruises combine cuisine and beverages with the lake landscape, available from the comfort of an indoor saloon or an outdoor observation deck.

Tour Pelican Lake aboard the Breezy Belle, the paddle wheel boat at Breezy Point Resort. Each season more than 4,000 people see

Pelican Lake from the decks of the Belle. Both the North Star and the Breezy Belle offer public and private cruises.

TRY A BREWERIES TOUR

The lakes 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 and Starry Eyed Brewing Co. in Little Falls.

Also venture to the Dennis Drummond Wine Co. near Brainerd with wine tasting, retail, bistro and wedding venue.

ARTS AND CRAFT FESTIVALS

More than 150 artisans are expected for the Spring Arts and Craft Festival from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 11, at Brainerd High School, 702 S. Fifth St., Brainerd. Go to http://isd181.org for more information.

The Little Falls Arts and Crafts,

The lakes area has a number of sand beaches to enjoy listening to the lapping waves while reading a hot bestseller or to enjoy the water.

Whipple Beach is considered a jewel of Baxter with extensive sand beach, playground, fishing dock, kitchen facilities, picnic tables, trails and bathrooms. In Brainerd, Lum Park’s 38 acres include a beach on Rice Lake, RV campsites, playground, boat landing, fishing pier, disc golf, sand volleyball, pavilions and restrooms.

Pelican Beach near Nisswa offers a shallow, sugar sand beach and swimming area, making it a great place for young kids to swim.

There are picnic tables, as well as restrooms and changing facilities.

From Nisswa, take County Highway 18 to County Highway 4. Go right on County Highway 4 to County Road 118 and turn left. Turn left again at the Public Water Access.

Follow past boat access to the beach area parking.

On Gull Lake, you can find a public sandy beach and boat launch area near the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Gull Lake Recreation Area. The beach offers a shaded picnic area, grills, shelter and fishing pier. There is a playground and fishing area at the campground. A small fee is required. From Nisswa, take Highway 371 south to County Road 125 (Gull Lake Dam Road). Go right and follow to the campground, park and beach on Gull Lake.

In Crosslake, located at the Pine

PAGE 47 | DESTINATIONS 2019

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Destinations Country!

Explore

NORTH

DULUTHSUPERIOR AREA PAGE 49 | DESTINATIONS 2019

River Dam, you’ll find the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Cross Lake Recreation Area. Onsite beaches offer swimming near a playground, camping area and boat launch.

Located 22 miles north of Brainerd on Crow Wing County Highway 3, the campground entrance is across from the intersection of County Highways 3 and 66.

NORTHLAND ARBORETUM

Northland Arboretum is a nonprofit organization dedicated to getting the community involved in and aware of nature. The Arb, located on 14250 Conservation Drive, behind the Westgate Mall in Brainerd, has a wide, beautiful area for you and your family to explore. Take a peaceful walk on the nature trails.

Winter time? You can cross-country ski on groomed, snow-covered trails. Snowshoe or winter hike on non-groomed trails.

The Arb also offers classes or workshops throughout the year, including hosting fascinating raptors. Past raptor event participants have been able to see the majesty of a mature bald eagle close up.

Looking for an outdoor fitness trail?

The Arb added an accessible wellness fitness trail in 2015, complete with exercise stations for stretching, cardio, balance and strength training. Using a downloadable app, users will be able to interact with the fitness stations for instructions on equipment use, to track their progress or share their outing on social media.

For more information on the Arb, go to http://northlandarb.org.

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.

Feeding the animals at Safari North Wildlife Park is a thrill for any

PAGE 50 | DESTINATIONS 2019

age. While you enjoy your stay at Safari North take a walk on the wild side as you hand-feed the whitetailed deer, or step up high and feed a giraffe from the comforts of a feeding station.

PAUL BUNYAN LAND/THIS OLD FARM AND PIONEER VILLAGE

Paul Bunyan Land is an amusement park located 6 miles east of Brainerd on Highway 18. Its trademark is the 26-foot-tall animated and talking statue of Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox. As children enter, Paul welcomes them by name. The amusement park has about 30 rides for children. This Old Farm surrounds Paul Bunyan Land with 40 buildings decorated with authentic antiques in original settings. Paul Bunyan was voted the No. 1 local celebrity in the Best of the Brainerd Lakes 2018.

For more information, go to http:// www.paulbunyanland.com.

PLAY IN A PARK

Fritz Loven Park in Lake Shore is an 80-acre park featuring a babbling brook, tall trees and wildlife.

Stony Brook, a state-designated trout stream, winds through the park, which offers benches for viewing, a picnic pavilion with electrical outlets, a playground, restrooms and trails for hiking, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Go west on County Highway 77 through Lake Shore, then right on Cass County Highway 78 at Bar Harbor, and right on Ridge Road.

Nisswa City Park is on the north end of downtown Nisswa and has children’s playground. It is near the Paul Bunyan State Trail and has skating rinks and a warming house, ball field and community center.

Access the city’s newest park, Nisswa Lake Park, by walking through the tunnel under Highway 371 from downtown Nisswa. The park offers walking paths, water garden, pavilion, picnic tables, benches and garbage cans, along with beautiful views of Nisswa Lake. Boaters can tie up at public dock slips and follow signs to the park and downtown Nisswa.

Pequot Lakes offers a playground for children in the heart of downtown in Trailside Park on the

20th annual Susan G. Komen Brainerd Lakes Race for the Cure on June 29. This event will be held at Pequot Lakes High School in 2019.

The Dru Sjodin Purple Elephant 5K/10K run/walk Aug. 10 in Pequot Lakes celebrates the life of the former Pequot Lakes woman who was murdered and raises awareness of violence against women and children.

Join the Warrior Homecoming

Run 5K/10K and 1K run/walk on Oct. 5, or add a tradition to Thanksgiving Day with a pre-feast run dressed as a pilgrim in the annual Turkey Run 5K fun run and 1-mile walk to benefit Shriners Hospitals for Children at 9 a.m. Nov. 28 at the Brainerd Armory.

There are numerous additional options to be active and assist charities with walks and runs throughout the year.

D

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’S

FAV

O R I T E FA M

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

ILY

AC TI O N

Looking for a new 5K challenge, or a maybe a marathon? The lakes area has it covered. Whether it’s a 5K for a charity or 26.2 miles, there are multiple options, or combine them all in one event with the annual Run for the Lakes Marathon on April 26-27 in Nisswa.

Save the date for the 18th annual Sour Grapes half & half run June 8 in Brainerd. The races include a half-marathon run, a 10.55K run/ walk, a kids mile run, and a kids half-mile run.

Celebrate the Fourth with the Nisswa Firecracker Run Up North on July 6, or the 21st annual community-wide Grandpa’s Run for the Walleye in Crosslake on July 6, a 5K race sponsored by the Whitefish Area Property Owners Association to raise money for walleye habitat.

Run for a cause by joining the

TR AT

Foot Hills State Forest is about 12 miles west of Pine River and offers a trail system that’s used for hiking and off-highway vehicle riding in the summer and cross-country skiing and snowmobiling in the winter. Camping sites are also available.

The Spider Lake Trails travel 29 miles throughout Foot Hills State Forest. From smooth and sandy to

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FOOT HILLS STATE FOREST

rough and rocky, the trails provide a challenging ride as they curve around lakes and ponds, follow ridges, and traverse several hills and slopes throughout the forest.

Trails are open year-round, except on groomed, signed snowmobile trails.

The forest has 8.6 miles of cross-country skiing, hiking and mountain biking. 80 miles of ATV trails, 40 miles of off-highway motorcycle trails and 11 miles of off-road vehicle trails. Recreation includes dispersed camping, canoe/ kayak options, picnic shelters and swimming.

BRAIN

Paul Bunyan Trail. Venture to Bobber Park under the bobber water tower to find Paul Bunyan’s lumberjack chair and Babe the Blue Ox for photo opportunities. Visit Gildner Park at the corner of South Oak and Pillsbury streets and find playground equipment for young children, benches and picnic tables.

Mayo Lake Nature Preserve is less than five minutes from Highway 371. Take County Road 168 to Hurtig Road to 69th Street Southwest and find this park that features 67 acres of land in Crow Wing and Cass counties that surrounds the southern portion of Mayo Lake.

There are trails for recreational activities. And Sibley Lake Park, on Sibley Lake between West Grove and West Sibley streets on Pequot Boulevard, offers a fishing pier, playground, picnic tables, charcoal grill and a picnic shelter. There is a boat access on North Oak Street.

In Pine River, visit the Dam Park, which offers a swimming beach, large playground area, grill areas, picnic tables, and fishing pier.

This Place is a MUST stop for the Families – it’s so much more than what you see from the Highway!

THANK YOU FOR Gemstone mining MAKING US YOUR mine for real gemstones!

#1 FAMILY FUN SPOT

IN THE LAKES AREA OPEN MAY 11 - SEPTEMBER 29, 2019

New for 2019 Otters

8493 Hwy 371, Brainerd, MN 56401

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

218-454-1662 • SafariNorth.com

PAGE 51 | DESTINATIONS 2019

www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 51

Brainerd Area Calendar of Events CROSSLAKE ST. PATRICK’S DAY CELEBRATION Crosslake celebrates St. Patrick’s Day in style with the area’s largest parade at 2 p.m. Saturday, March 16. Other festivities include the Clover Dash 5K race that morning and other day-long events at area establishments. Be sure to take part in the Pot O’ Gold Treasure Hunt with the first of three daily clues released at 9 a.m. March 14 at crosslake.com and at chamber member businesses.

It’s the Year of the “Lucky Leprechaun” at the 45th annual event with more than 15,000 people who come out to enjoy the activities. Dig out your lawn chairs, load up the family and arrive early. Lace up your running shoes and take part in the sixth annual Clover Dash 5K or start your day at the Crosslake Firefighters Pancake Breakfast.

Check out a variety of family activities including RE/MAX Hot Air Balloon tether rides before choosing your spot to watch the parade. More than 100 entries will keep you entertained and establishments and retailers will serve up deals and discounts all day long. Games, face painting, food, book walk and prizes are part of the Crosslake Community School event with Knights of Columbus Food, Maucieri’s beverage cart and warming tent with live music featuring ZZ Ace. You’ll want to dress the part too, as costumes are encouraged as we all become Irish, for at least this day.

DOWNTOWN BRAINERD ST. PATRICK’S DAY CELEBRATION The 10th annual Downtown Brainerd St. Patrick’s Day Celebration is 11:30 a.m to 3 p.m. March 16, with a kids’ costume contest from 11:30 a.m.-noon at the Brainerd Veterans of Foreign Wars. The first 30 participants get a goodie bag, and first place for the top boy and girl get a bicycle. Second-place finishers for boy and girl receive a special prize package.

The parade through downtown Brainerd begins at 1 p.m.

Medallion Hunt - Look for clues in the Brainerd Dispatch March 12-16 awarded to the successful seeker of the medallion.

AGATE AND MINERAL SHOW Rockhounds will delight in the annual Cuyuna Rock, Gem and Mineral Society’s agate and mineral show May 11-12 at the

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Crow Wing County Fairgrounds, 2000 SE 13th St., in Brainerd.

The show offers an opportunity to look at agates from across the globe or buy and trade stones. Vendors provide stones, jewelry and gifts. Organizers report all are willing to share their knowledge and fascination with agates, gems, rocks and minerals. The event includes special displays and demonstrations, as well as activities for children. A Wizard of Rocks will be roaming the show to answer questions about rocks.

In addition, Sample’s Fourth Annual Agate, Gem and Mineral Shop’s show with vendors, food, door prizes and a chance to buy, sell and trade gems and minerals is the first Saturday in 2020.

NISSWA TURTLE RACES The 56th season of Nisswa Turtle Races kicks off Wednesday, June 5, at the official turtle track located behind the Welcome Center Building along the Paul Bunyan State Trail in downtown Nisswa.

Rain or shine, races start at 2 p.m. each Wednesday through Aug. 21, attracting huge crowds each week. Registration starts at 1 p.m., and participants pay a nominal fee to race a turtle. Winners of each heat race again to determine the grand champion. There are special races for grandparents, visitors staying at resorts, tiny tots and those from out of state as well.

NISSWA-STÄMMAN SCANDINAVIAN FOLK MUSIC FESTIVAL The 20th annual Nisswa-stämman Scandinavian Folk Music and Dance Festival takes place Friday and Saturday, June 7-8, at the Nisswa Pioneer Village and other Nisswa venues, celebrating Scandinavian and Scandinavian/American folk music in the northwoods. Performers come from Norway, Sweden, Denmark and Finland, as well as various parts of the United States and the local area.

The event also offers singing and dancing workshops, a children’s activity area and Scandinavian foods. On Saturday, June 8, a fiddler’s parade on the Paul Bunyan State Trail in Nisswa will kick off the all-day folk music festival at the Pioneer Village, which culminates with a smorgasbord feast. Special events are in the works to celebrate the festival’s milestone year.

CLASSIC BOAT SHOWS The Brainerd lakes area is home to two classic wood boat shows. The annual Whitefish Chain Antique and Classic Wood Boat Rendezvous is Saturday, June 15, on the docks at Moonlite Bay Family Restaurant & Bar in Crosslake.

This tradition started out more than 30 years ago as a simple gathering of 12 or fewer owners/skippers who shared a love for these antique and classic boats. Over the years this gathering of boat lovers has grown to become a special community event in Crosslake. These days more than 50 antique boats with values as high as $1 million participate in the annual show.

The 11th annual Gull Lake Classic Boat Show is Saturday, Aug. 24, on the docks at Bar Harbor Supper Club in Lake Shore.

This show also offers a rare opportunity to witness and appreciate the amazing beauty and craftsmanship of some of the world’s most unique vintage and classic wood boats. The Classic Boat Tour of Gull Lake and shoreline parade will depart around 4:30 p.m. (weather permitting).

LAKES JAM Founded in 2012, Lakes Jam is an annual event that unites rock and country music fans from all walks of life and brings them to Brainerd International Raceway for a weekend of live music and camping.

Lakes Jam will be June 27-29, featuring country stars Justin Moore, Scotty McCreery, Tim Hurley, Eric Chesser and Gary Allan. McCreery will perform before headliner Moore takes the Bud Light Main Stage at 10 p.m. on country night June 28. Hurley will also perform on country night at 2 p.m. Chesser is scheduled to perform at 4 p.m. June 27, the first day of the music fest, with Allan as the headliner that night. Other acts already announced are 3 Doors Down, Collective Soul, Fuel, The Crown Jewels: A Tribute to Queen -- all performing June 29, on rock night; and Sawyer Brown, Little Texas, Lauren Alaina and Jackie Lee performing on the first two nights.

For more information, go to http://www. lakesjam.com. Rain or shine, the show goes on.

FOURTH OF JULY The Brainerd lakes area is the place to be for Fourth of July festivities from Brainerd to Nisswa to Pequot Lakes to

Crosslake.

Visit Nisswa on Wednesday, July 3, for the annual Freedom Days Celebration, featuring a full schedule of activities all day, including a parade at 7 p.m.

Then head 6 miles north to Trailside Park in Pequot Lakes to listen to music and watch fireworks at 10:10 p.m. that night.

The Pequot Lakes Stars & Stripes Days parade will be at noon Thursday, July 4, with a kiddie parade and bed races at 11 a.m. at the Trailside Park North. Start your Independence Day with breakfast at the Pequot Lakes Fire Hall where a pancake fundraiser will be held.

The American Celebration in Brainerd includes Arts in the Park on June 30 in Gregory Park. And the Fourth of July includes a parade at 4 p.m., entertainment from 6:30-10 p.m. at Don Adamson Field with the 70’s Magic Sunshine Band followed by state-of-the-art pyrotechnics at 10:15 p.m.

Festivities continue over the weekend with two runs Saturday, July 6: the Nisswa Firecracker Run at 8 a.m. in downtown Nisswa and Grandpa’s Run for the Walleye at 8:30 a.m. at the Crosslake Community Center. The 49th annual Crosslake fireworks display will be at dusk July 6 over Sand Island on Cross Lake.

BEAN HOLE DAYS Pequot Lakes hosts Bean Hole Days on Tuesday and Wednesday, July 16-17. The annual community celebration includes preparing, burying, cooking and serving beans baked underground overnight in Trailside Park to thousands of attendees; crowning the Bean Hole King and Queen; and an arts and crafts fair with more than 100 vendors. The bean recipe is top secret, and beans, a bun and beverage are served for free at noon July 17. The event also features a community picnic the evening of July 16 when various people are honored and the beans are lowered into the ground.

PINE RIVER SUMMERFEST Pine River Summerfest is an annual event to celebrate summer July 24-28.

The many events throughout Pine River include an art show, arts and crafts displays, merchant sidewalk sales, flea market, library book sale, Duck Races, farmers and crafters market, music and food, along with kids activities, a classic car and

WORLD FAMOUS FISH HOUSE PARADE Welcome the holiday season with the World Famous Fish House Parade in Aitkin on Black Friday, Nov. 29. The event, which includes a craft fair, draws some 3,000 parade-goers from across the U.S. BRAINERD JAYCEES ICE FISHING EXTRAVAGANZA The 30th annual Brainerd Jaycees Ice Fishing Extravaganza takes place from noon to 3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 25, 2020,

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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

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

FISHING LICENSE

CONTACT

Gull Four Seasons Resort 4132 St. Columbo Road Brainerd, MN 56401

CAMPING/RV SITES

BUSINESS

NUMBER OF UNITS

BRAINERD LAKES AREA

GASOLINE

LAKES BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL The 14th annual Lakes Bluegrass Festival features more than 40 shows Wednesday-Sunday, Aug. 21-25, at the Cass County Fairgrounds in Pine River.

Bluegrass bands, along with camping, jamming, workshops and food are included.

This festival features the best in national touring and Minnesota bluegrass bands,

NISSWA FALL FESTIVAL The 46th annual Nisswa Fall Festival is Saturday, Sept. 21, along with the 14th annual Smokin’ Hot BBQ Challenge in downtown Nisswa. This longtime fall tradition includes a firefighters’ pancake breakfast, medallion hunt, Kidzone featuring bounce houses and slides along the Paul Bunyan State Trail, and live music.

Smell the barbecued ribs cooking all day and taste them after they are judged in the afternoon. The day begins with Bridges of Hope’s Run for Hope 5K, 10K and kids run.

NISSWA CITY OF LIGHTS CELEBRATION The Nisswa City of Lights Celebration takes place annually the day after Thanksgiving – Friday, Nov. 29. Festivities for the 38th annual event will begin in the afternoon with horse-drawn wagon rides, storytelling, food vendors, bonfires, holiday carolers and live reindeer. The Pioneer Village is the setting for the live Nativity and the Love Lights a Tree program. At 5:30 p.m., the lights come on throughout town, and Santa Claus greets the children in the gazebo. The event culminates with a rare winter fireworks display that lights up the crisp night sky.

BAIT AVAILABLE

LAKES AREA MUSIC FESTIVAL The 11th annual musical enrichment event occurs the first three weeks of August, though various concerts are set in the area year-round. Every summer, the lakes area hosts the World’s finest classical musicians, in seven free-of-charge concerts. The festival was established during the summer of 2009.

The festival brings world-class classical music performances to Brainerd for three weeks each summer to provide classical music performance, including chamber music, symphonic orchestra and semistaged opera. Musicians from the Minnesota Orchestra, Cleveland Orchestra, St. Paul Chamber Orchestra, and Hong Kong Symphony join young professionals from the Juilliard School, Eastman School of Music, and Yale University to collaborate on chamber music, orchestral repertoire, and even an opera and ballet.

LUCAS OIL NHRA NATIONALS The Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals run Thursday-Sunday, Aug. 15-18, at Brainerd International Raceway, featuring Top Fuel dragsters, Funny Cars, Pro Stock cars and motorcycles. BIR reports fans can camp and see close up how teams tear down race cars and get them ready to roll again. There are interactive displays, 24-hour food, live bands, and fireworks display, places for bonfires and a restricted family camping area for those looking for quiet time.

LAKES COUNTRY TRIATHLON The race begins with a 1/4-mile swim in Whipple Lake in Baxter (known for its calm waters), then switches to a 14-mile bike ride through the rolling hills surrounding the Baxter/Brainerd lakes area, and ends with a very flat 3.2-mile run through a quiet residential area. The Lakes Country Triathlon is a great race, be it your first or 50th.

Proceeds go to supporting youth and community programming. The race is set 8:30 a.m. Aug. 25. Go to http://lakescountrytriathlon.com/ for more information.

CROSSLAKE DAYS Crosslake welcomes fall with Crosslake Days the last Saturday of September each year – Sept. 26-28 – offering an abundance of activities for all ages, including a classic car and motorcycle show, arts and crafts fair, chili cook-off, kids’ activities, live music and more. There are 4,000 participants expected to see what the Crosslake Days artisans and crafters have to offer amid the fall colors of the lakes area.

BOAT/MOTOR RENTAL/PONTOON

PAUL BUNYAN EXTREME 5K The Paul Bunyan Extreme Race is Saturday, July 27, at Mount Ski Gull. This friends and family event is designed to promote a healthy physical and mental lifestyle. The 2.9-mile course will challenge people of all ages and abilities, featuring 20 obstacles including mud pits, rope swings, water slides and more. Teams and costumes are encouraged. Register as a team or individual.

Alongside its thrilling performance calendar, LAMF provides educational opportunities for students of all ages, including a weeklong kids’ day camp, pre-concert lectures, adult education seminars, and master classes for local musicians.

But the music doesn’t stop with summer. The LAMF offers a winter concert series as well. And the music isn’t limited to the concert hall. The LAMF’s community outreach projects aimed at making the music more accessible to everyone have combined music with yoga on the high school athletic field in Brainerd and beyond.

including national bands The Malpass Brothers, The Clay Hess Band, Joe Mullins and the Radio Ramblers, Nightflyer, The Baker Family, and The Kody Norris Show. Minnesota performers include The High 48’s, Sara Mae and the Birkeland Boys, The Tony Rook Band, Shaffers Lost 40, and Tim and Cindy & Friends.

The event offers professional emcees, a top-notch sound system, a beautiful stage and a big tent for shade and rain protection (bring lawn chairs). Plus, learn to play or brush up your skills at one of the free bluegrass workshops on banjo, fiddle, mandolin, guitar, bass, dobro and harmony singing.

Stroll the grounds and listen to the impromptu jam sessions, sample food from the food vendors, take a short walk into Pine River, or just relax and visit with friends.

BOAT LAUNCH

tractor show and fire department open house. The Summerfest Parade takes place Saturday, July 27, and festivities conclude with softball tournament finals Sunday, July 28.

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Indoor and Outdoor Pool.

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on Gull Lake’s Hole-in-the-Day Bay in Nisswa. The event attracts more than 10,000 anglers who compete for more than $150,000 in cash and prizes. Billed as the world’s largest charitable ice fishing contest, it generates more than $150,000 for area charities annually. There are 150 spots on the prize board and the prize values are distributed throughout the list. For more information, visit www.icefishing.org.

45NRTH WHITEOUT The 45NRTH Whiteout is raced in February on the Cuyuna Lakes Mountain Bike Trails, located in the Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area near Crosby and Ironton, featuring 20 miles of groomed singletrack mountain bike trails. The Whiteout is unique in Great Lakes Fat Bike Series because the race route is a single “great loop” that is majority singletrack.

The 45NRTH Whiteout has three different races and rides, depending on your mood: 30k Race, 20k Race and the 10k Race/ Ride. So grab a fat bike and join in.

Go to http://www.cuyunalakesmtb.com/ whiteout.html for more.

CROSSLAKE WINTERFEST Crosslake celebrates winter with WinterFest each February with numerous outdoor and indoor activities at area establishments. A key event is SoupFest, where

people can sample soups throughout town and vote for their favorite.

CROSBY’S ICE FISHING CONTEST The Cuyuna Lakes Chamber holds the annual ice-fishing event in February on Serpent Lake. Prizes go to the top catch. In 2019, the tournament reported more than $1,000 in prizes and noted prizes are awarded to fish of all sizes during the three-hour contest. The event is in conjunction with the annual Scorpion Homecoming.

on display. The event is devoted exclusively to the memory of Trail-A-Sled Inc. and Scorpion Inc. creators and manufacturers of the legendary Scorpion snowmobile and noting a time when the Cuyuna Lakes was among the largest snowmobile manufacturers in the world.

Incorporated in 1959, Trail-A-Sled, Inc. quickly grew to elite status among snowmobile manufacturers during the 1960s when rising public demand for these innovative little machines was creating an entirely new industry. Along the way, TrailA-Sled Inc. and its subsequent firm Scorpion Inc. built an industry-leading reputation for quality, dependability and design, becoming the second largest domestic manufacturer of snowmobiles and a leading employer in central Minnesota’s Cuyuna Lakes region. Scorpion Online is dedicated to the memory of that amazing time and the men and women of the Cuyuna Lakes who made it happen.

SCORPION HOMECOMING In February, classic snowmobiles grace the ice on Serpent Lake in Crosby. The Scorpion Homecoming in 2019 featured the Scorpion Stingerette (1972-1974) in hot pink and the Cuyuna Lakes Chamber of Commerce annual Ice Fishing Contest.

There are races and vintage snowmobiles

NISSWA WINTER JUBILEE The annual Nisswa Winter Jubilee celebrates winter in mid-February each year with a snow sculpture contest, live music, games for children, food, medallion hunt and more. Festivities cap off with the Nisswa Fire Department’s annual family friendly fishing derby on Nisswa Lake.

GULL LAKE FROZEN FORE The Gull Lake Frozen Fore, a winter golf and snowmobile charity event, takes place at the end of February each year at establishments around Gull Lake. The outdoor weekend festival begins on a Friday night on Hole-in-the-Day Bay with the Frozen Flop where people plunge into the lake for charity. Saturday, participants take shuttles or drive snowmobiles and play nine holes of winter golf. Sunday features the Gull Lake Food Fest on Holein-the-day Bay.

MIND-BLOWING MOTORSPORTS! BRAINERD INTERNATIONAL RACEWAY 2019 Major Races May 24-26 .......Street Car Showdown May 31-Jun 2 ....Wet & Wild Weekend June 7-9 ..............MAP Proving Grounds July 5-7 .................PleasureLand RV Show & Go Aug 9-11 ................Thunder at the Lakes

Aug 15-18 ......... Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals Aug 30- Sep 1 .........GSTA Muscle Car Shootout Sept 13-15 ...............MAP Proving Grounds 2.0 Sept 20-22 ...............Wet & Wild Weekend Visit our website for a current and complete schedule.

www.BrainerdRaceway.com Local: 218-824-RACE (7223) Toll free: 866-444-4455

PAGE 54 | DESTINATIONS 2019

DESTINATION:

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

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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

BALSAM BAY RESORT Big Sand Lake Bob and Su Ugstad

CAMPING/RV SITES

AREA RESORTS

On Aug. 9-10, Remer celebrates its 72nd annual Harvest Festival with one of the largest parades in the north country, fireworks, music, food, games. This event is a hit every year.

Remer hosts Fall Has It All on Sept. 12-28th. The fourth annual Bigfoot Music Festival is slated for Sept. 14-15, with professional musicians, great food, craft beer and more. Enjoy the activities and maybe even dance a jig with Bigfoot!

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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

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At Itasca Sandy beach.

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

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PARK RAPIDS

REMER

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The Home of Bigfoot

into the woods, whether “Squatching,” hiking, biking or riding on your OHV. The Eagle Country ATV/ Snowmobile club prides itself in having some of the best maintained trails in the state.

Bigfoot Days is July 5-6 and offers great family fun. The third annual event features 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.

vast expanses of forest, the area provides an unparalleled setting for year-round outdoor activities, abundant wildlife and nature.

The area has a rich history of logging and farming. The SOO Line Railway brought further economic vitality in the early 1900’s.

With over 100 lakes this area is great for fishing. Drop a canoe in one of the area rivers and do some exploring. Thousands of acres of public land with hundreds of miles of trails creates opportunity to get

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elcome to Eagle Country. Remer is conveniently 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. Watching eagles soar over the lake or above the tree-line while enjoying the many outdoor activities, is truly a breathtaking and majestic event. Surrounded by hundreds of lakes, streams, rivers and

Remer

Remer...a place to belong.

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!

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remerchamber.com

Remer - Home of Bigfoot

45 Main St. E. Remer, Minnesota

Member FDIC

WWW.FNBNORTH.COM

REMER MUNI On/Off Sale

Quality Antiques, Coins, Collectibles, Furniture, Old Native American Turquoise Jewelry

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

Fuel • Snacks • Drinks 218-566-2913 Main Street • Remer, MN

Antiques & Coins “Coolest Deals Around”

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

“Home of Bigfoot” Gifts

Icecube

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

Bar Hours:

218-566-2646

Mon. – Thurs. 9am – Midnight Fri & Sat. 9am – 1am Sundays Noon-8pm

(Downtown Remer)

12 Main St. E., Remer, MN 56672

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Historical depot, caboose & museum 24-hour restrooms • Tourist info Library • Pavillion with picnic area

Fun-Family-Fishing Vacation Destination Cooperative Services

Stop in and try our Bigfoot Sandwiches!

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Live Bait, Fishing & Camping Supplies, Ammo, Ice, Tobacco Products, Hot Stuff Deli, Sub Sandwiches, Fresh Scooped Ice Cream, F’Real Shakes & Smoothies, Novelties.

GAS & DIESEL, OPEN 5 AM EVERY DAY REMER JUNCTION CENEX • OPEN 365 DAYS A YEAR COUPON

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

$3 OFF Any Large Pizza Expires: 12/31/19

PAGE 56 | DESTINATIONS 2019

218-566-2390 COUPON

Bring coupon in for a FREE kids cone!

Expires: 12/31/19

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REMER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 2019 CALENDAR OF EVENTS The Remer Chamber meets monthly on the 3rd Tuesday of every month at the Depot

FEBRUARY: 9th: Festival of the Falling Snowflakes Mid-Minnesota 150 Sled Dog races, chili cook-off, kids games, bonfire APRIL: 13th: Easter Eggsplosion at Northland Community Schools, sponsored by Harvest Church - Easter Bunny, egg hunt, candy and more!

20th: Easter Egg Hunt at the Remer Depot, sponsored by the Remer Centennial Library MAY: 3rd: First National Bank plant sale 26th: Remer Volunteer Fire Department pancake breakfast JUNE: TBD: Garden Club’s annual perennial flower sale 15th: Library open house, book sale, picnic lunch served JULY: 5th & 6th: Bigfoot Days - pancake breakfast, food vendors, BINGO, BBQ contest, 5K run, flea market & more!

AUGUST: 9th & 10th: Remer Harvest Festival Friday - Entertainment, food, games, live music and fireworks Saturday - parade at 11 and all day activities SEPTEMBER: 1st: Remer Volunteer Fire Department pancake breakfast 12th-28th: Fall Has It All 14th: Remer Centennial Library - author talk & book sale 14th & 15th: Bigfoot Music Festival OCTOBER: 5th: Remer Volunteer Fire Department’s Annual “Outdoorsman Night” 15th: Annual Chamber dinner 31st: Trunk or Treat at Northland Community School’s parking lot NOVEMBER: 24th: Turkey BINGO - Remer Village Hall DECEMBER: 6th: First National Bank Christmas Open House 7th: Santa comes to the Remer Centennial Library 13th: Christmas Crawl

ALL DATES AND TIMES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE

VISIT WWW.REMERCHAMBER.COM FOR UPDATES

Lakeside Cabins, RV Park Campground, Heated Pool, Boat & Pontoon Rentals

001828315r1

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Big Sand Lake in the Chippewa National Forest

Proudly Serving You For Over 25 Years Family, Vacation, Lakeshore, Acreage & Commercial Properties

(218) 566-2346

www.balsambayresort.com

6231 72nd St. NE • Remer, MN 56672 The

Woodsman Cafe

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

Breakfast Anytime!

218-566-2080 Downtown Remer

Open 7 Days A Week At 6 AM PAGE 57 | DESTINATIONS 2019

Kerry Ruyak, Realtor/Owner

Shem Daugherty, Realtor

218-838-7538 kerrythunderlake@gmail.com

218-341-9542 shemthunderlake@gmail.com

Denise Green, Associate Broker

Marc Ruyak, Broker/Owner, GRI, SFR

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

218-244-1015 denisegreenacres@gmail.com

218-838-1862 mypieceofmn@gmail.com

“We are a Veteran Owned and Operated Business” 218-566-3100 115 Main Street - Remer, MN 56672 www.thunderlakerealty.com - thunderlakerealty@gmail.com

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DESTINATION:

Walker AREA

W

3. Activities include a 5K walk/run, Big Dig, pow wow, strolling magician, games and a water ski team show.

alker, located on the shores of Leech Lake and the Chippewa National Forest, is busy throughout the year with celebrations, musical events and unique shopping opportunities. The Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe operates Northern Lights Casino, near Walker.

A land of stories and rich history, tourists can learn more about the area by visiting the Cass County Museum. A commuanity center holds a fitness center, meeting rooms and space for community events, such as flea markets.

Visitors flock to the annual Moondance Jammin’ Country Fest to hear some of the world’s greatest country artists. This year’s festival is set for June 21-24, 2019.

Moondance Jam, celebrating its 28th anniversary, attracts thousands. Held July 18-20 at

This 48th annual event is slated for August 9-12, 2019. Enjoy sailing, campfires, music and camaraderie. There are three race segments.

ETHNIC FEST

the 300-acre Moondance Events campground and concert area east of Walker, Minnesota’s largest rock-n-roll concert will have something for every fan.

WALKER BAY DAY

A family-fun event, Walker Bay Day is Aug.

Welcome to

Walker, MN Crazy Days: June 27, July 25, Aug.8 Moondance Jammin’ Country: June 20-22 Moondance Jam: July 18-20 Cajun Fest: August 16-17

This kid-friendly festival on Sept. 7 features ethnic music, crafts and cuisine from around the world.

INTERNATIONAL EELPOUT FEST

Heralded as Minnesota’s finest display of sportsmanship and ice antics, the Eelpout Festival is an experience not to be missed. It’s held each February.

“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

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MOONDANCE

LEECH LAKE REGATTA

Full menu at www.cafezonarosa.com

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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 58 | DESTINATIONS 2019

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

218.547.7777

WWW.CHASEONTHELAKE.COM

LAKESIDE PATIO BAR & DINING

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DESTINATION:

AkeleyAREA riders through the network of trails in the Paul Bunyan State Forest.

PAUL BUNYAN DAYS

The 71st annual Paul Bunyan Days is June 28-30, 2019. For more than six decades, Akeley has celebrated the legendary lumberjack.

The event features a parade, food, refreshment garden, flea market, live music and more.

Nearby, the Paul Bunyan Museum contains the logging history of Akeley.

AUDREY’S PURPLE DREAM

Audrey’s Purple Dream is held each February. Hardy Minnesotans brave the cold waters of 11th Crow Wing to take the “Purple Plunge.”

Plungers raise money for local residents who are battling cancer.

There is also a fishing tournament with many prizes.

Abigail’s Antiques & Gifts

Welcome to

IMPRESSIVE COLLECTION OF ANTIQUES,GARDEN ART, PRIMITIVES, GLASSWARE & MUCH MORE!

AKELEY, MN

CHARMING SHOP FULL OF TREASURES

Open May thru Mid-November Tuesday-Saturday 9:30 am Most Sunday afternoons & Mondays Seasonal hours beginning October 1

BIRTHPLACE OF PAUL BUNYAN. SEE PAUL’S CRADLE AND SIT IN PAUL’S HAND FOR A GREAT PHOTO OP.

Join Us June 28 - 30, 2019 For Our 71st Annual Akeley Paul Bunyan Days. A huge, small town celebration where everyone is welcome. Visit the Winery in the Woods

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 Restaurant Open Daily • Full Bar • OFF SALE

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

www.stompingroundslodge.com PAGE 59 | DESTINATIONS 2019

PARK RAPIDS

STOMPIN’ GROUNDS LODGE & CAMPING

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Akeley’s Paul Bunyan statue in the center of town can’t be missed.

His huge hand outstretched, the 31-foot statue has welcomed visitors for more than 25 years.

There is a picnic area, covered pavilion and city park close to the statue. The Heartland Trail travels behind the pavilion, and during warmer weather, you might find music, barbecues, parties and all kinds of activities going on around the town’s favorite icon.

®

Visit the Winery in the Woods Art Fair at the Winery Aug. 17 & 18, 2019

30+ ARTISTS • FOOD • MUSIC

218-224-3535

14 miles North of Akeley on Hwy. 64 forestedgewinery.com

Open May-December

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A

keley offers many outdoor activities and attractions for tourists. It is located right on the corridor of the Lake Country Scenic Byway, 10 miles west of Walker and five miles east of Nevis.

The many resorts around the lake-rich area offer amenities and shopping for a vacation to remember.

The city beach and campground in Akeley offer public access to 11th Crow Wing Lake, picnic shelter, fishing, boat landing and camping.

Several organized events throughout the summer lead ATV

www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 59

DESTINATION:

Nevis AREA

N

evis is a great, little town on the shores of Lake Belle Taine.

It is located on Highway 34 between Park Rapids and

Walker.

The quaint village is home to several restaurants, small shops, a grocery store and more. It claims to be home of the world’s largest tiger muskie, and its trademark statue resides in the city’s Muskie Park.

Nevis is 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 famous 27-mile Heartland Trail also runs through Nevis.

MUSKIE DAYS

Nevis will celebrate it annual Muskie Days July 26-27. Geared for young and old, the event features a parade, food, games and music.

NEVIS PIG RACES

Plan a trip to Nevis on July 7 to witness divine swine. Young piglets racing around a track bring squeals of joy. Races times are 1:05 and 3:05 p.m.

NORTHWOODS TRIATHLON

On Aug. 10, the popular Northwoods Triathlon sends contestants into the waters of Lake Belle Taine, over 14 miles of scenic countryside aboard a bike and down the Heartland Trail on a 5K run.

001829294r1

VISIT NEVIS THIS SUMMER!

Full Bar Open Mon.-Sat. 9 am-1 am

••Happy HappyHour: Hour: Monday3-8 3-8pm pm Monday Tues.-Fri. 3-6 pm Tues.-Fri. 3-6 pm • Pizza & Snacks • Pizza & Snacks • Pull Tabs • Pull Tabs • Tuesday Trivia • Tuesday Trivia • Friday Meat Raffle ••Wednesday Bingo Karaoke every • Friday Meat Raffle other Saturday

• Great Selection of Beer, Wine & Spirits • Beer Specials & In-House Wine Specials • Off Sale 10% Off: Military Mondays, Wine Wednesdays, Senior Discount Thursdays.

Off Sale Open: Mon.-Sat. 9 am-10 pm

On & Off Sale

Main Street, Nevis • (218)652-9910

PAGE 60 | DESTINATIONS 2019

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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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Experience the small town charm!

Imagine yourself here!

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June 9 - Sites & Bites July 7 Pig Races - July 26-27 Muskie Days August 3 - Citywide Garage Sale August 10 - Northwoods Triathlon June 23, July 13, Aug. 4 - Water Ski Shows Halvorson Beach, Lake Belle Taine

DESTINATION:

Park Rapids P

AREA

ark Rapids is the ultimate tourist destination with its 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 ‘around.

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

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

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

Visit Dorset La Pasta Italian Eatery

Dorset, MN

Lunches, & Full Italian Dinner Menu

www.dorset-lapasta.com

Dorset has become known for its annual Taste of Dorset festival held the first Sunday in August. Folks walk the boardwalk while nibbling all kinds of tasty cuisine from outdoor vendors.

Many travelers bicycle to Dorset by starting on the Heartland Trail in Park Rapids, Nevis, Akeley or Walker.

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

218-732-0275 001829389r1

PAGE 61 | DESTINATIONS 2019

www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 61

PARK RAPIDS

SPRING-FALL Serving delicious breakfasts,

Hugo’s Online Shopping

CHARMING MAIN STREET

decorative light poles, along with kids’ entertainment, too.

The extra-wide Main Street is The old-fashioned Main Street, unique benches, trash cans and with center parking, is like no other. bicycle racks. Although downtown the perfect place for the Run to Choose Home Choose main- theConvenient Rapids classic car show, Aug. Downtown Parkor Rapids offers has modern features, it also Office Delivery 10 this Pickup year. Car buffs will see a variety of unique stores, restau- tains its small-town charm. Curbside Available allshops locations Available at all locations* beautifully restored classic cars rantsatand that are filled with *(Grand Forks/EGF at our and truckspickup and can meet with their fun items.

FAMILY-FRIENDLY Rd. location) proud owners.

Visitors are welcomed with DOWNTOWN ACTIVITIES 1315 S. Columbia On Halloween, hundreds of blooming flowers and several Crazy Days on July 25-26 makes quaint characteristics, including finding bargains fun. Businesses go princesses, Ninja turtles, goblins customized,Hugo's granite on street GuideallAdout with side-walk staff in and other cute costumed charac- Parkinlays Rapids Destinations - 2018.pdf 1 2/2/2018 sales, 4:19:33 PM corners depicting our area lakes, crazy costumes, and live music and ters come downtown for Trick or

Shop online at gohugos.com/online-shopping

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

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

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

¦¡ ¢ ¡ £ ª be delivered to your door.

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 62 | DESTINATIONS 2019

Spend more time with family Š £န

to lighting the beautifully decorated tree on Main Street. The annual event is best described as “a Norman Rockwell moment.”

Visit www.parkrapidsdowntown. com to see the webcam on Main and others on area lakes and at the Mississippi headwaters. The website also provides updates on events, promotions, a member directory and much more.

FOURTH OF JULY

The Fourth of July has become Park Rapids’ signature event. The

celebration include a large parade through town, the Firecracker 5K Foot Race in Heartland Park, 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.

THE HUBBARD COUNTY FAIR

The 2019 fair, organized by the Shell Prairie Agriculture Association, will be held July 17-21 in Park Rapids.

2nd Street Stage

Join the great community get-together for the summer music series, 2nd Street Stage, held Thursday nights June 13 through Aug. 15. Each week brings a new band, social hour, beer garden, cornhole tournaments, kids’ activities and more.

41ST ANNUAL PARK RAPIDS

PRCA XTREME BULL RIDE & PRCA RODEO

JULY 4&5

JULY 6

RAIN OR SHINE!

ALL

3 DAYS PARK RAPIDS

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

SAVE $$$ Online Click & Print YOUR TICKET!

parkrapidsbullride.com

7 PM GATES 0PEN AT 5:00 PM

ING NOW ACCEPTS VENDOR ONLINE

DISCOUNTED ADVANCE TICKETS

MINNESOTA’S

LARGEST RODEO EVENT 001829311r1

PAGE 63 | DESTINATIONS 2019

www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 63

itors from the world over. It’s one of northern Minnesota’s premiere summer attractions.

Nightly popular features include the Women’s Professional Barrel Racers Association, plus an exciting aerial show by Freestyle Moto X cycles from the X Games competition and the hottest rodeo dances under the log pavilion. Kids sheep-riding and other entertainment to be announced.

The rodeo and bull ride take place rain or shine. Go to www. parkrapidsbullride.com for updates, details and ticket info.

FIELD DAYS

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

The midway carnival rides will be open from Wednesday evening through Saturday.

The motocross event will kick off the fair events on Wednesday. The talent contest is one of the highlights Thursday, as brave youngsters take the stage.

Friday will be Senior Day. Other events planned for the fair include Kids’ Day, baja racing and tractor pulls.

The fair concludes Sunday with “Cowboy Church” and the ever-popular demolition derby.

The 4-H Exhibit Hall features livestock, poultry, horses, rabbits, a dog show, 4-H vendors and open class exhibits and vendors throughout the fair.

And don’t forget the fair food!

Stop on over for cheese curds, corn dogs, fresh French fries, pork burgers, ice cream and other mouth-watering delicacies.

PROFESSIONAL BULL RIDE & RODEO

The road to Las Vegas and National Finals Rodeo features a major stop at the 41st annual HeadPAGE 64 | DESTINATIONS 2019

waters PRCA Xtreme Bull Ride and Pro Rodeo.

The three-day event in Park Rapids features two days of bull riding competition on Thursday, July 4 and Friday, July 5. The exciting pro bull ride pits tough cowboys on the back of hulking 1,500- to 2,000­ -pound beasts for eight excruciatingly long seconds.

A professional PRCA Rodeo, showcasing all seven major events, follows on Saturday, July 6. The

PRCA features highly skilled and top paid rodeo competitors setting a new bar for athletic ability and professionalism annually. Several top livestock contractors from a five-state area will be brought in to Park Rapids to provide champion bucking stock tough enough for these cowboys.

The highly attended show is the largest professional rodeo event in Minnesota, drawing hundreds of top professional PRCA compet-

The Park Rapids Antique Tractor and Engine Club will have its annual Field Days show Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 3-4.

Field Days activities bring 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 is a petting zoo, miniature railroad train rides and collectibles.

Square dancing, gospel music and a church service Sunday morning are part of the events.

Breakfast and lunch are served both days and a light supper is available Saturday evening. Ice cream is plentiful and available all weekend.

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 Hwy. 34 on the east side of Park Rapids.

LEGENDS AND LOGGING DAYS

Park Rapids Legends and Logging Day celebrates the area’s logging and lumberjack heritage.

The festivities start with Water Wars at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 8 on Main Avenue in downtown Park Rapids. Teams sign up to battle it out for bragging rights and possession of the coveted Loony Traveling Trophy. Live music on 2nd Street Stage follows the competition.

On Saturday, Aug. 10, Legends and Logging Day continues at the East 40 Park Rapids Antique Tractor Grounds at 1008 Eighth St. E., just west of County Road 6 and 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. Visitors can watch as logs take shape as beautiful works of art before their eyes.

Produced by the Park Rapids Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce, Legends and Logging Days is the definitive summer festival for Park Rapids.

ART LEAP

Art Leap 2019 is Sept. 28-29 in lakes country. Enjoy the fall colors on a driving tour of artists’ studios and other cultural destinations throughout our. Meet artists and artisans in their studios and workshops. Enjoy live performances of music. Maps are available at the Park Rapids Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center and the event is free to the public.

Highlights of Art Leap include outdoor music, hors d’oeuvres and seeing fall colors at their peak while driving from studio to studio.

Artists utilize this event to educate people about their art.

Park Rapids American Legion Ice Fishing Contest 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 $150,000 in prizes were given away, including a $45,000 gift certificate to Thielen Motors and a fish house.

PAGE 65 | DESTINATIONS 2019

www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 65

Parks Galore Park Rapids has numerous public parks that are well-used by visitors as well as residents. Red Bridge Park and Heartland Park are located on Fish Hook River and are at the start of the Heartland Trail, which is a popular destination for cyclists.

Depot Park near downtown Park Rap-

ids welcomes all to its playground and tennis courts.

The All-Veterans Memorial Park is located on U.S. Hwy. 71 south, 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. Construction has begun on the All Veterans Memorial Interpretive and Educational Center.

THEATRE

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 and is located in Hubbard on the south end of Long Lake.

Jasper’s Theater on Hwy. 34, east of Park Rapids, provides comedy and musical theater for area residents and visitors alike.

And the Heartland Concert Association series, Park Rapids Area Community Band and ClassicChorale provide entertainment throughout the year.

PAGE 66 | DESTINATIONS 2019

Welcome to Park Rapids

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

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001829816r1

We invite you to visit Park Rapids soon.

218-237-3333

You’ll be glad you did !

AffinityRealEstate .com 600 PARK AVE S • PARK RAPIDS

Your Lakes Area Specialists

Jack Brann

Broker, CRS, ABR Jack@AffinityRealEstate.com • (218) 252-8882

Lou Eischens

Broker, CRS Lou@AffinityRealEstate.com • (218) 820-5285

Candy Gulsvig

Broker, CRS, SRES Candy@AffinityRealEstate.com • (218) 255-0631

Large Parking Lot For Boats & RVs

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

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 e r at I O n

PAGE 67 | DESTINATIONS 2019

Something fun for everyone! www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 67

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Park Rapids

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.

Check our website for more information! www.WolffSimonRealEstate.com “Small enough to know you, Large enough to SERVE you!”

001829213r1

218-237-7770

Located in Park Rapids at 1217 1st St. East (Hwy. 34 East, just before L&M Fleet Supply)

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

We can cater your special event.

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

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209 1st St. West, Park Rapids

732-0182

www.coborns.com

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

Call To Order 001829449r1

PAGE 68 | DESTINATIONS 2019

Pas ta • Seafood • Steak

NEW! OUTDOOR SEATING!!

AUTHENTIC ITALIAN CUISINE

Park Rapids

AUTHENTIC ITALIAN CUISINE 311 Main Avenue 218.237.4625 • www.necces.net

Let us entertain you! Main street offers superb shopping, delicious dining, outdoor summer concerts at 2nd Street Stage every Thursday evening June 13 - August 15.

Open Daily at 4 pm

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Join your friends at The Royal Bar

Seasonal Italian fare made fresh daily by our certified Italian chef!

Vegan, lactose/ gluten-free options

001829450r1

Call for winter/spring hours

“Park Rapids” Original Sports Bar & Grill

homes@parkrapidsfirstchoice.com

218-732-1191

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

Certificate of Excellence!

or 866-732-2800

Hand-Crafted Cocktails • Premium Spirits • Imported Wines • Craft Tap Beers

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

Dine In or Carry Out Full Service Catering

First Choice

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

DOWNTOWN PARK RAPIDS 732-9443

Fall PumPkin

PARTIES September 28, October 5, 12, 17, 18, 19 & 26

SeaSonal Home Grown

FRUITS & VEGETABLES

Happy Hour Specials Mon.-Fri. 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM

OVER 30 WINES BY THE GLASS

From Carter’s Red Wagon Farm

U-PICK STRAWBERRIES Late June to Mid-July (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.

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Amaze-ing Mazes, Wagon Rides, Great Food and Family Fun

parkrapidsfirstchoice.com

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

PAGE 69 | DESTINATIONS 2019

Like us on Facebook

Open seasonally, Mon-Sat 10:00 - 5:30 001830748r1

www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 69

PUMPKIN FESTIVAL

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. Tony and Linda Carter are the masterminds behind the merriment. Tony creates a new, 6.5-acre maze, incorporating a historical theme. The farm is located southwest of Park Rapids.

LAKE GEORGE

The community of Lake George is perhaps best known for its three-day blueberry festival and the spring-fed lake’s great source for panfish, walleye, northern pike and bass. The town is located six miles east of Itasca State park on Hwy. 71.

This year’s blueberry festival is scheduled for July 26-28. Activities include a blueberry pancake breakfast, pie sale, gospel concert, kiddie tractor pull, kids carnival, fireman’s bean feed and parade.

PUMPKIN FESTIVAL

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. Tony and Linda Carter are the masterminds behind the merriment. Tony creates a new, 6.5-acre maze, incorporating a historical theme. The farm is located southwest of Park Rapids.

LAKE GEORGE

The community of Lake George is perhaps best known for its three-day blueberry festival and the spring-fed lake’s great source for panfish, walleye, northern pike and bass. The town is located six miles east of Itasca State park on Hwy. 71.

This year’s blueberry festival is scheduled for July 26-28. Activities include a blueberry pancake breakfast, pie sale, gospel concert, kiddie tractor pull, kids carnival, fireman’s bean feed and parade.

A Rich History

Located at the intersection of Highways 71 and 34, Park Rapids was established in 1879 when C.O. Todd filed the original town site. The railroad arrived in 1884 and the city was named as the county seat of Hubbard County in 1887.

The local economy is based on tourism, agriculture, logging and light manufacturing with a strong service sector.

Tourism in the area was a thriving industry starting in the late 1880s.

Most came to the area via the railroad with the resorters picking up their guests at the train depot and transporting them to their respective resorts. The resorters would use roadways as well as waterways to the resorts.

To this day, there are plenty of quality resorts, motels, private campgrounds and bed-and- breakfasts to provide a quality stay in the Park Rapids area.

PAGE 70 | DESTINATIONS 2019

Welcome to the Park Rapids Lakes Area...

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

www.norwayhills.com

frankpat@norwayhills.com

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!

00137

(218) 255-0200

THE BEST OF TWO WORLDS ~

Good Fishing AND Great Shopping & Dining

Welcome to

001829795r1

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

PAGE 71 | DESTINATIONS 2019

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

We specialize in families and fun!

Golf and tennis, pool and rec room, skiing and boating, Lodge and snack bar, playgrounds and activities, and more!

On Two Inlets Lake

800-247-1615

brookside-resort.com brooksideresort@gmail.com www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 71

park rapids lakes area

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

Hoot Owl Resort

001376061r1

16 miles North of Park Rapids on Hwy. 71 and 16 miles West on Hwy. 113

Relax in the Northwoods On LOng Lake

East of Park Rapids, So. on Co. Rd. 20 (to Day Spring Drive)

800-662-0262

Deluxe accommodations nestled among The Pines Informality & Hospitality For Golf Balls Individuals, Families & Groups Special Rates May, June For Sale ~ and September Great Prices!

•• Fishing Swimming Fishing •• Swimming • Basketball CourtCourt • Tennis • Basketball Titleist Pro V-1 • Whirlpool • Sauna • Tennis • Game Room • Game• Room • AndMore!

Much More!

And Much

PAGE 72 | DESTINATIONS 2019

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

001829517r1

This 9 hole championship par 36 course features a practice range & putting green.

001829388r1

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

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

jkschupp@q.com

Boating, biking, swimming, hiking, fishing...

001374181r1

001829800r1

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

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

Family and Large Group Friendly

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

Your Hosts:

Cary and Shelley Brzinski

218-652-3821

www.RoyalStarrResort.com • Relax@RoyalStarrResort.com

Plan your Stay in the Heart of the Paul Bunyan Forest

RV & Tent Sites • ATV Trails

Restaurant Open Daily • Full Bar • OFF SALE 001829518r1

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3 miles North of Hwy. 64

Akeley, MN 218-652-2964 800-725-1579

www.stompingroundslodge.com PAGE 73 | DESTINATIONS 2019

QUALITY FAMILY RESORT nestled in the Pines on crystal clear Boot Lake!

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Great fishing 13 spacious vacation homes 60+ acres of forest trails Great family vacations Sugar sand beach Availability - book on line

34243 Co. Hwy. 46, Park Rapids, MN 56470 · 218-732-4650 info@evergreenbayresort.com · www.evergreenbayresort.com

www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 73

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STOMPIN’ GROUNDS LODGE & CAMPING

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EVERGREEN BAY RESORT Boot Lake Bill & Dawn Williams

34243 MN 46, Park Rapids, MN 56470 218-732-4650 • evergreenbayresort.com

Wireless Wifi, Walking Trails Through Our 60 Acres Of Woods. Primitive tenting HOOT OWL LODGE AND RESORT 10449 Hoot Owl Lake Road Hoot Owl/Pickerel Lake Waubun, MN 56589 Bill and Shirley Frite 218-734-2245 • hootowllodge.com

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LITTLE NORWAY RESORT 32016 Little Mantrap Drive Little Mantrap Lake Park Rapids, MN 56470 Ben & Steph Brandon 218-732-5480 • littlenorwayresort.com

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JOLLY FISHERMAN RESORT 39126 Jolly Fisherman Road Big Elbow Lake Waubun, MN 56470 15 0 Anne Buelow 701-388-8042 • jolleyfisherman.com

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

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STOMPIN’ GROUNDS 26993 Hwy. 64 Paul Bunyan State Forest Park Rapids, MN 56470 0 24 Steve and Connie Werner 218-652-2964 • stompingroundslodge.com 32152 Co. Hwy. 35, Ponsford, MN 56575 218-573-3262 • 800-611-8258 tamaracresortmn.com

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Best of both worlds - fishing & boating, shopping & dining. Free High Speed Wi-Fi. Ask us about our value-added packages. E-mail: riversidepoint@arvig.net ROYAL STARR RESORT 19222 Echo Ridge Drive, Nevis, MN 56467 6th Crow Wing Lake 218-652-3821 13 0 • • • • • • • • Cary and Shelley Brzinski RoyalStarrResort.com

TAMARAC RESORT & CAMPGRD, LLC Round Lake Randy & Sheila Blanford

POOL/SAUNA/WHIRLPOOL

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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 16 2 • • • • • • • • • N Jonathan and Kelly Schupp 218-732-5103 • northernpinelodge.com

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

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MANTRAP LODGE 20725 Jewel Drive Big Mantrap Lake Park Rapids, MN 56470 15 0 • • Mike, Diane and Jeff Roy 1-800-424-0901 • mantraplodge.com

18 hole mini-golf, free use of bikes.

NORWAY HILLS RESORT 20503 Jade Lane Big Mantrap Lake Park Rapids, MN 56470 Frank & Pat Hoffman 218-255-0200 • norwayhills.com

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LONG LAKE PARK AND 213 Main Avenue North CAMPGROUND Long Lake Bagley, MN 56621 0 90 • Clearwater County 218-657-2275 • longlakepark.com Paddle boats.

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

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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.

END-OF-TRAIL RESORT 48883 Marilou Drive Bass Lake Ponsford, MN 56575 John and Patricia Kubat 218-573-3791 • end-of-trail-resort.com

RECREATION ROOM

SCREENED PORCH

CONVENIENCE STORE

TELEVISION

PETS ALLOWED

LAUNDRY FACILITIES

FIREPLACES

AIR CONDITIONING

HOUSEKEEPING CABINS

TUBS/SHOWERS/BOTH

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THE WILDS RESORT & CAMPGROUND Shell Lake Barry and Kristy Wilde

45120 Maple Lane Osage, MN 56520 218-573-3515 • thewildsresort.com

PAGE 74 | DESTINATIONS 2019

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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.

BROOKSIDE RESORT 31671 Co Hwy 50, Two Inlets Lake Park Rapids, MN 56470 Kellers & Wallenbergs 218-732-4093 • brookside-resort.com

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

INTERNET/WIFI

VAGABOND VILLAGE CAMPGROUND Potato Lake • The Nelsons

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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

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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 RESROT Upper Bottle Lake Jim & Jill Dillon

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

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PARK RAPIDS

PAGE 75 | DESTINATIONS 2019

www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 75

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 218-732-9609

Jan.-April

Open by Appointment

Last Sat. in April - Mid-Sept.

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

Mid Sept. Christmas

North on Hwy. 71!

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

Souvenirs, Lake Art, Cabin Decor, Lodge Furniture.

Hickory, Pine, Cedar & More 21697 US 71, Park Rapids MN • 218-732-3860 www.utkescountrypinefurnishings.com

PAGE 76 | DESTINATIONS 2019

10 mi. N. of Park Rapids on Hwy. 71

Fine Gifts & Fudge, Go Carts, Mini Golf, Escape Rooms, Laser Tag, Bumper Boats, Rock Climbing Wall, Mineral Mining & More!

Open 7 Days a Week All Summer!

www.EvergreenGiftsAndFun.com 001830749r1

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 64 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

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

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Naturalist Narrated History & Wildlife Tour

Our Most Popular Daytime Tour

Narrated History/ Wildlife Cruise to the Mississippi’s Source. See and learn about the real Itasca. History about the Schoolcraft expedition, Native Americans, logging, civilian conservation corp and Jacob Browers founding of the Park in 1891.

1 3/4 HOUR - 10 MILE

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Private Charters

New Bike Trails!

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

218-266-2150 in-season

PAGE 77 | DESTINATIONS 2019

218-657-2420 off-season

On Board Snack Bar

You have the exclusive private use of the entire boat and crew for your event. Full capacity of the boat is 141 passengers including crew and other staff required. 1 hour and 1 3/4 hour charters available.

ALL OCCASIONS & CELEBRATIONS

Business Groups • Reunions • Weddings • Birthdays

Located in Itasca State Park www.lakeitascatours.com

218-266-3660 Office • 218-573-2216 *Off Season

Public & Private Cruises

ON LAKE ITASCA - SOURCE OF THE MISSISSIPPI RIVER www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 77

PARK RAPIDS 65

ADULTS: $17.5O KIDS Ages 4-12: $9.00 • (3 & under FREE)

DESTINATION:

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. Hwy. 71. The east entrance is only a couple miles farther north, near the junction of Hwy. 71 and Hwy. 200.

Itasca State Park encompasses Lake Itasca, the official source of the Mississippi River, and 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 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 will continue to be 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 PAGE 78 | DESTINATIONS 2019

Itasca AREA

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 the park events and schedules, call Itasca State Park headquarters at 218-699-7251 or go to www.dnr. state.mn.us/state_parks/itasca/ index.html.

MORE GREAT OUTDOORS IN THE PARK RAPIDS AREA NORTH COUNTRY TRAIL

The North Country Trail (NCT) wanders 4,600 miles through America’s rugged northern Heartland.

From New York to North Dakota, hikers can find adventure.

Traversing through seven states, the NCT is the longest national sce-

nic trail in the U.S. It’s the only one in Minnesota.

NCT 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 the Maplewood State Park and on to the North Dakota border.

Upon reaching Itasca State Park, NCT is in the neighborhood of the Mississippi headwaters before turn-

ing south and following the Laurentian Divide.

The trail path is natural, with roots and snags removed and and overhanging limbs trimmed for unimpeded hiking.

Being open to foot traffic only, hikers, berry pickers, hunters, birdwatchers, geocachers and snowshoes and/or HOK skis. have miles of trails to explore.

Anyone walking this trail is in for a treat as 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 and northcountrytrail.org/itm.

CANOEING

Canoeing is popular along the rivers throughout the Park Rapids area. Fishing, swimming, camping and photography enthusiasts will especially enjoy a serene river excursion.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) recommends planning a canoe trip. The Park Rapids DNR Forestry Office, along Hwy. 34 west, and the Park Rapids Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce on U.S. Hwy. 71 south have free maps available. Most people paddle two to three river miles per hour.

In addition to sunscreen and bottled water, don’t forget to bring life jackets – state law requires that every person on board have a personal flotation device.

Tubing is also prevalent on the riverways.

CROW WING RIVER TRAIL

HEADWATERS RIVER TRAIL

After exploring Itasca State Park,

LAKE COUNTRY SCENIC BYWAY

The Lake Country Scenic Byway is an 88-mile corridor along State Hwy. 34 between Detroit Lakes and Walker with a spur north from Park Rapids on U.S. Hwy. 71 to Itasca State Park.

Following the scenic byway, visitors discover many places to explore: Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge, Itasca State Park and Leech Lake. Autumn leaves are especially vibrant along this route.

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 49-mile, 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.

PAGE 79 | DESTINATIONS 2019

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

PAUL BUNYAN STATE TRAIL

At 115 miles long, the Paul Bunyan State Trail is the longest of Minnesota’s state trails and the longest continuously paved rail-trail in the country. Extending all the the way from Crow Wing State Park to Lake Bemidji State Park, it is an ideal bike and snowmobile trail.

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. Hwy. 71, eight miles north of Park Rapids and across from the Eagle View Golf Course.

Visitor 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. The club purchased equipment and some was donated by 3M Wonewok.

They also have experienced skiers to help beginners get started in the sport – and serve a cup of hot cocoa to warm up.

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

HEARTLAND 100

The Itascatur Outdoor Activity Club’s premier event – the Headwaters 100 – attracts hundreds of bicyclists every year.

Kickstands go up on the fourth Saturday of September.

The Headwaters 100 is a casual, non-competitive and family-friendly ride to witness the spectacular fall colors. Participants can choose between a 45-, 75- or 100-mile route.

Proceeds from the Headwaters 100 are used by the club to build and maintain cross-country ski trails at Soaring Eagle, plus acquire ski equipment for public use. The club also purchases youth bike helmets to distribute at the Minnesota Bike Opener, held annually in Park Rapids.

PAUL BUNYAN STATE FOREST

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) manages state forestlands for all types of outdoor recreation, including camping, hunting, fishing, trapping and picking berries or mushrooms.

The DNR is only one of many landowners in these areas. Be aware of private property boundaries while enjoying the scenic beauty.

Divided into a north and south unit, the 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.

www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 79

PARK RAPIDS

The Crow Wing River is an excellent choice for canoeing or tubing. The nearly 115-mile river is perfect for family excursions. Quieter stretches of the Crow Wing River make excellent swimming and fishing spots. Numerous campsites dot the forested riverbanks on the journey southward.

The river flows between a chain of 11 interconnected lakes, which begins near Nevis and Akeley. The river joins the Mississippi River at Crow Wing River Park, just south of Brainerd.

paddle on the Mississippi at the Headwaters River Trail. In its first 90 miles, the river winds through ancient lake beds, glacial hills, wetlands, nine large lakes and narrow valleys of spruce. Rapids dot the entire river, which offers great walleye, northern pike and muskie fishing.

Coborn’s Lake Itasca Tours

Coborn’s Lake Itasca Tours offers naturalist-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.

Its 105,113 acres feature a terrain that’s rough and hilly, with many tiny ponds and bogs.

The DNR manages two outdoor recreational facilities in the Paul Bunyan State 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 dayuse area is located within a game refuge and a non-motorized recreation area.

HUNTERSVILLE STATE FOREST

Five campsites are found within Huntersville State Forest.

All offer picnic tables, fire rings, firewood, toilets and well water.

PAGE 80 | DESTINATIONS 2019

Most have nice swimming area 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.

Huntersville State Forest, located 12 miles southeast of Park Rapids, also boasts trails for motorized and non-motorized use.

TWO INLETS STATE FOREST

Located 10 miles north of Park Rapids, the 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

This state forest is also known for exceptional hunting for deer and grouse during the

fall season.

Enjoy 30 miles of snowmobile trails in the Smoky Hills State Forest, located 10 miles west of Park Rapids. North Smoky Hills Trail has 13 miles of trail and can be reached from Osage, three miles west on Highway 34. Wolf Lake Trail has 17 miles of trail and is located 3.5 miles south of Osage on County Road 42.

Both trails are marked, but not groomed.

CHIPPEWA NATIONAL FOREST

Nestled along the rolling hills of the Shingobee River Valley, the Shingobee Recreation Area provides a variety of summer and winter activities. The area offers 6 miles of trails for hiking, hunting, birdwatching, primitive camping, and cross-country skiing in the heart of Minnesota’s Northwoods. A sliding hill and a weekend warming chalet are also available for winter fun. It’s part of the Chippewa National Forest, located five miles east of Akeley, along State Hwy. 34.

Park Rapids Area Calendar of Events MARCH 5 – Headwaters Center for Lifelong Learning program, “Native American Stories and Songs” 6 – Park Rapids Enterprise Food Shelf Chili Challenge Benefit, Park Rapids American Legion 12 – Lysander Piano Trio, Heartland Concert Association Series, Park Rapids 12 – Headwaters Center for Lifelong Learning program, “Finding Loren” 19 – Headwaters Center for Lifelong Learning program, “Life of a Nature Photographer” 22 – Minnesota State Band concert 26 – Headwaters Center for Lifelong Learning program, “Women at the Very Heart of the Great War” APRIL 2 – Headwaters Center for Lifelong Learning program, “Preserving South Africa’s Wildlife.”

9 – Headwaters Center for Lifelong Learning program, “Ole’s Trunk” 14 – “Brassfire,” Heartland Concert Association Series, Park Rapids 16 – Headwaters Center for Lifelong Learning program, “Sleep and Health: Dream Your Way to a Better Brain” 20 – Easter Egg Hunt, Muskie Park, Nevis 26 – Spring Hike, Itasca State Park MAY 1 – Hubbard County Historical Museum opens 3 – Park Rapids Classic Chorale spring concert 4 – Park Rapids Area Community Band spring concert 5 – Park Rapids Classic Chorale spring concert 11 – Minnesota Fishing Opener 18 – Minnesota Bike Opener 18 – Take Flight! Spotting Spring Birds, Itasca State Park 24 – Take Flight! Spotting Spring Birds, Itasca State Park 26– Wildflower Walk, Itasca State Park

JULY 3-6 – PRCA Pro Rodeo/PBR Xtreme Bulls and Broncs Ride 4 – Firecracker Footrace, Heartland Park, Park Rapids 4 – Fourth of July parade 4 – John Michael Lerma Pie Contest, Park Rapids 4 – Park Rapids Area Community Band pre-fireworks concert 4 – Park Rapids Rotary Fourth of July fireworks 5 – 2nd Street Stage, Park Rapids 5-6 – Bigfoot Days, Remer 7 – Nevis Pig Races 11 – Dorset Crazy Days 17-21 – Hubbard County Fair, Shell Prairie Agricultural Association 11 – 2nd Street Stage, Park Rapids 13 – Water Ski Show, Halverson Beach, Nevis, 18 – Moondance Jam ROCK, Walker 18 – 2nd Street Stage, Park Rapids 18 – Smokey Bear Day, Itasca State Park 20 – Mid-summer’s Eve Festival, Dorset

25 - 2nd Street Stage, Park Rapids 25-26 – Crazy Days, Park Rapids 26-Aug. 3 – Northern Light Opera Company, “The Drowsy Chaperone” 26-27 – Nevis Muskie Days 26-28 – Lake George Blueberry Festival AUGUST 1 – 2nd Street Stage, Park Rapids 3 – Nevis City Wide Garage Sale 4 – Water Ski Show, Halverson Beach, Nevis, 3-4 – Field Days, Park Rapids Antique Tractor & Engine Club’s East 40 Grounds 4 – Taste of Dorset 4 – Water Ski Show, Halverson Beach, Nevis 8 – 2nd Street Stage, downtown Park Rapids 8 – Wet and Wild Mississippi River Day, Itasca State Park 8-10 – Legends and Logging Days, Park Rapids Antique Tractor & Engine Club’s East 40 Grounds 10 – Northwoods Triathlon, Nevis 10 Audrey’s Purple Dream Motorcycle Fund Run(218-252-9333) 9-10 – Remer Harvest Festival 9-10 – Run to the Rapids classic car show, Park Rapids 15 – 2nd Street Stage, Park Rapids 17– Tour de Pines Bike Ride, Itasca State Park 17-18 – Art Fair at the Winery, Forestedge Winery 24 – North Country Trail Hiking Fest, Itasca State Park 24 – Veterans Tribute Program at Howard Maninga’s home 30-31– Nimrod Labor Day Bull Bash 30-31– Art by the Lake, Walker

30-31 – Nimrod Jubilee Days SEPTEMBER 8 – Dorset Garage Sale 14-15 – Bigfoot Music Festival, Remer 25 – Hike to Bear Paw Point, Itasca State Park 28 – Great American Story, Park Rapids 28 – Headwaters 100 Bike Ride, Park Rapids 28 – Harvest Moon Festival, Walker 28 – Autumn Harvest Festival, Lantern Lit Hike, Itasca State Park 28-29 – Art Leap OCTOBER 1-31 – Shoptoberfest, downtown Park Rapids 31 – Trick or Treat Downtown Park Rapids NOVEMBER 11 – Minnesota Firearms Deer Season Opener 9-10– Winter Wonderland Snowflakes & Candy Canes Holiday Show 28 – Turkey Trot and 5K Walk/Run, Park Rapids 28 – Community Thank Meal, Riverside United Methodist Church 29 – Community Tree Lighting Ceremony and Yuletide Sampler 30 – Small Business Saturday DECEMBER 16 – Itasca State Park Winter Bird Count 25 – American Legion Community Christmas Dinner

www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 81

PARK RAPIDS

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JUNE 1 – Take Flight! Spotting Spring Birds, Itasca State Park 13 – 2nd Street Stage, Park Rapids 15 – Ribbon-cutting ceremony, Red Bridge Park Sculpture Trail 15 – Author Fest, Park Rapids American Legion 19 – Nevis Sites & Bites 19 – Butterfly Hike, Itasca State Park 20-22 – Moondance Jammin’ Country, Walker 20 – 2nd Street Stage, Park Rapids 22 – Ladyslippers of Itasca: Exploring the North Country and Itasca’s Orchids, Itasca State Park 22 – Dorset Boardwalk Art Festival 23 – Water Ski Show, Halverson Beach, Nevis, 27 – 2nd Street Stage, Park Rapids 28-30 – Paul Bunyan Days 29 – Audrey’s Purple Dream 5K Run, Akeley

DESTINATION:

Cloquet

AskovAREA T Society has had its physical home in Askov since sometime in the 1960s when it made its home on Askov’s Main Street in the building now known as Lena’s. The Burlington Northern Railroad gave the Askov Depot to the Society, which then became known as the Depot Museum. Subsequently the Society acquired the old service station that came to be known as the Farm Museum and the Presbyterian Church which was renamed the Pine County History Center. In 2011 BNRR requested the Society relocate the depot and the acquisition of the old Askov high school building became a reality. Consolidation of all the artifacts from the three sites began in the school in spring of 2012 and the new Pine County Historical Museum opened its doors. The museum offers exhibits, classes and lectures, and has hosted concerts, dances and dinners for the public. For more information visit pinecountyhistoricalsociety.org.

PINE COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY

August 23-25, 2019

Founded in 1948 with charter members from throughout the county, the Pine County Historical

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ASKOV RUTABAGA FESTIVAL VISIT US!

320-838-1561 askovrutabagafestival.com

O DA PE ILY N

W

elcome to the Rutabaga Capital of the World!

Be sure to mark your calendar for August 23-24, 2019 when a festival celebrating the region’s history draws hundreds of folks to the community. Join in the Rutabaga Cupcake Walk, Hike to Rutabaga Falls, or simply enjoy live music, food, parade, kids games, coronation of Miss Askov and so much fun!

In addition, the Askov Midsummer Aebleskiver Breakfast, a celebration of the longest day of the year (June 21), is an all day celebration held on the third Saturday in June, as a fundraiser for the Rutabaga Festival.

The City of Askov was founded in 1906 following a mass immigration of Danish residents. The town was largely a logging settlement, formerly named Partridge, but the Danes changed the name to Askov to honor their homeland, which is the name of a small city in Denmark. A town festival was organized in 1910 where the townspeople shared their vegetables and crops in a fair-type of gathering. The spirit of its origins are celebrated each year at Rutabaga Festival!

Askov is located in Pine County, near Finlayson, Banning State Park and Nemadji State Park.

he natural beauty of the land surrounding the Cloquet area makes a majestic statement about the quality of life its residents enjoy. The rural lifestyle is greatly enhanced by equal access to both the Northwoods and lively urban centers. The diversity of recreational opportunities and educational and community activities give its neighborhoods their special flavor. Adjacent to the St. Louis River, Cloquet has everything for the outdoor enthusiast to enjoy – wildlife, water and recreation, plus the only whitewater rafting in Minnesota. Whatever your preference, it’s all here with Minnesota small-town hospitality to boot.

The St. Louis River played an important role in the City of Cloquet’s history, as the waterway supported an entire industry during the fur trade era beginning in the mid-1700s. Later, rivers served as lifelines of the lumber industry beginning in the 1870s.

The City of Cloquet grew on the

AREA

banks of the St. Louis River, which continues to be a centerpiece for recreation and industry.

With the sawmills, paper company and railroads in operation by the turn of the 20th century, Cloquet grew quickly. By 1890 the population was 2,530 and within two decades it had grown to 7,031. On October 12, 1918, devastating forest fires destroyed six towns and villages in the region, including Moose Lake and Cloquet. More than 550 people lost their lives in the fires. The City of Cloquet was almost completely burned, only to rise again from the ashes to become a changed, yet stronger community. And today, 100 years later, the communities thrive and the region is a hub of activity, offering four seasons of fun for residents and visitors alike. For more information, visit cloquet.com.

SPRING/SUMMER

Biking and Mountain Biking – Enjoy a long season on the Willard Munger State Trail, one

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

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DESTINATION:

head-on into excitement – and the St. Louis River. Whitewater rafting and kayaking are for anyone with adventure and excitement in their blood. Seasoned guides help even those with no rafting experience face rumbling, tumbling rapids that roar through a rugged granite gorge.

FALL/WINTER

Fall Colors – Take a leisurely drive through nearby Jay Cooke State Park on a winding two-lane road and catch some of the region’s most scenic colors. Or hike and bike along the park’s 50 miles of trails. In the city of Cloquet, there are miles of hiking options on unmarked trails along the banks of the St. Louis River, and Pine Valley Park offers six kilometers of hiking on scenic wooded trails. The nearby Willard Munger Trail offers 15 miles of local trails through some of the region’s most spectacular scenery as well.

Snowmobiling – There are 500 miles of beautiful, uncrowded, groomed trails in Carlton County along with connections to Wisconsin and Aitkin and Pine County trails.

Snowshoeing – From traditional to modern snowshoes, there are a wide range of styles to fit any body, and Minnesota State Parks offer programs throughout the winter focusing on the fun of snowshoe hikes, offering snowshoe rentals.

Candlelight walks, moonlight walks, GPS hikes and winter fun can be found across the state.

Tubing – Enjoy snow tubing at Pine Valley Park in Cloquet. There are two hills to tube down, with a tow rope to pull you back up to the top. Concessions are available in the chalet. Cost is $5 per person and the tubing hill is open on the weekends, late December through early March, weather permitting.

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PAGE 83 | DESTINATIONS 2019

VISIT CARLTON COUNTY’S NATIONAL REGISTER OF HISTORIC PLACES SITES FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT GAS STATION

The Frank Lloyd Wright gas station is the only operating service station designed by internationally known architect Frank Lloyd Wright.

See the cantilevered copper canopy, which extends 32 feet, the glass-walled observation lounge

and the towering pylon that reaches 60 feet above the polygonal roof.

This unique architectural structure was listed on the National Register in 1984.

NORTHEASTERN HOTEL & SALOON

The Northeastern Hotel & Saloon was established in 1885 and is thought to be the oldest saloon in Minnesota. The Northeastern survived the 1918 fire, serving as a makeshift hospital. See the original African mahogany bar, a 1936 hand-painted mirror, and a 1936 moose head with a story you’ll want to hear! Open daily for drinks and lodging.

CARLTON COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY

The 1919 Shaw Memorial Library building, now housing the Carlton County Historical Society, was built on the 1901 foundation of the previous library building, destroyed by the 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.

www.Minnesotawhitewater.coM

(218) 522-4446

www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 83

CLOQUET

• Convenient Virginia/Mt. Iron Location • Free, Hot Breakfast Buffet • Indoor Pool and Whirlpool • Fitness Center • High-Speed Wireless Internet • Microwave & Fridge in every room • Just 20 minutes to Giants Ridge

Downhill & Cross-Country Skiing – Cloquet’s location provides easy access to the area’s best skiing opportunities. Go cross-country skiing in Pine Valley Ski Area, offering 2.5K, 3K and 5K loops, or the 3K Spring Lake Road Ski Trail. For downhill skiing, visit nearly Spirit Mountain or Mont du Lac Ski Area.

Skating – Enjoy outdoor hockey rinks at Sunnyside Park, Pinehurst Park and Pine Valley, or outdoor pleasure skating at Sunnyside Park, Athletic Park and Pinehurst Park.

Sather Park in Scanlon has both a pleasure rink and a hockey rink, or try out the newly constructed skating ribbon at Voyageur’s Park for free!

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of Minnesota’s most extensive trail systems. You’ll pass right through the heart of some of this region’s most spectacular and memorable scenery along more than 50 miles of well-maintained asphalt trails. In Cloquet, there are no trail fees, and entry points are just minutes away.

In addition, the Pine Valley Single Track Mountain Bike Trail, newly built in 2018 in the heart of Cloquet, includes 2.1 miles of mountain biking trail, designed as a stacked loop layout that includes both beginner and intermediate skill level trails.

Swimming Beach – Pinehurst Park in Cloquet is a great place to go for a swim with filtered, chlorinated water and a sand bottom. The clean, cool water is refreshing on a hot summer day and sunbathers and children will love the sandy beach.

Golf – Link up with some of the best golf around. Cloquet area courses are on par with the best in the region, so you’re guaranteed challenging rounds of golf and excellent service. Reasonable green fees and special arrangements for tournaments and other groups leave you free to focus on your game-winning drive!

Camping – Here’s the pitch: come camp in Cloquet! Four area campgrounds cater to every camping enthusiast who can’t wait to get out and enjoy the great outdoors.

Canoeing & Boating – Stream flow usually peaks in late April and falls throughout the summer. The St. Louis River’s flow is affected by the regulation of reservoirs on tributaries, particularly the Whiteface and Cloquet rivers. From U.S. Highway 53 to Cloquet the river falls 136 feet, an average of 1.5 feet per mile. The river varies in width from 75 to 600 feet.

Whitewater Rafting – Plunge

Cloquet Events March 15-16, 2019 – Home, Business & Sport Show March 30, 2019 – Easter Egg Hunt July 4, 2019– July 4th Celebration July 4, 2019– Sawdust 5K July 15, 2019 - Cloquet Color Run August 10, 2019 - Wood City Music Festival September 1-2, 2019 – Labor Day Celebration

JAY COOKE STATE PARK

The Cloquet area is also one of the best places to enjoy the fall colors, with Jay Cooke State Park’s winding two-lane roads and 50 miles of trails to take you on this spectacular journey. There are also trails on the banks of the St. Louis River within the city limits and miles of scenic wooded trails in Pine Valley Park on the southern edge of Cloquet.

HENRY C. OLDENBURG HOUSE

This 1894 home is located at 604 Chestnut Ave., Carlton, and operated by proprietors Glenn and Emily Swanson. Enjoy some time away in their bed and breakfast, or consider renting space for special events and weddings. The Carlton Room is a performance space with a nightclub atmosphere, where you’ll often find jazz and blues weekends.

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

Cloquet Office of Tourism PAGE 84 | DESTINATIONS 2019

September 22-23, 2019 - River Run October 11-12, 2019 – Craft, Art & Vendor Fair November 27-30, 2019 – Santa’s Home for the Holiday’s Celebration November 31, 2019 – Alumni Hockey Game, Cloquet vs. Duluth East

Visit Today!

Duluth AREA

DESTINATION:

F

eaturing panoramic vistas of Lake Superior, plenty of opportunity for outdoor adventure, amazing food and drink, and much more, Duluth has long claimed the hearts of residents and visitors alike. This laketo-hilltop gem of a city was voted the winner of Outside Magazine’s Best Town contest in 2014, beating out 64 other remarkable cities to rise to the top.

Duluth’s Parks and Recreation Department boasts no fewer than 132 parks in Duluth (to find them, visit duluthmn.gov); most sporting a backdrop of the magnificent Lake Superior. Duluth is also the recipient of the 2016 Fittest City award, named by Fitbit, and one of America’s 20 Best Mountain Bike Towns in 2017, named by National Geographic. For these reasons and plenty more, many people visit Duluth for a weekend and wind up relocating here … permanently.

CANAL PARK

NORTH SHORE SCENIC RAILROAD

To dip your toes into Lake Superior, the greatest freshwater lake in the world, your best bets are Park Point or Brighton Beach. To access Park Point, you’ll need to cross the Aerial Lift Bridge, which is a treat in and of itself.

If you’d rather catch a ride on your sightseeing trip, however, hop on the North Shore Scenic Railroad and ride the train! The elegant Dinner Train and the Murder Mystery Train are two of the most popular outings. Take the Fall Colors Tour through the magnificent autumn leaves or hop onto the Beer Tast-

PAGE 85 | DESTINATIONS 2019

ing Tour to sample amazing local brews. For more information, visit northshorescenicrailroad.org.

WILLIAM A. IRVIN

In the heart of Canal Park, set against the backdrop of the majestic Aerial Lift Bridge and resting contentedly in Lake Superior’s harbor, is the William A. Irvin – a Great Lakes vessel you can’t miss … and won’t want to. Despite carrying iron ore and coal for 40 years, through plenty of bright sunny days and treacherous storms, this massive ship remains in pristine condition today. Don’t miss your chance to tour the proud flagship of U.S. Steel’s Great Lakes Fleet. The Halloween season brings some spookiness onboard the great vessel with its “Haunted Ship tours.” Schedule a group visit, get ticketing information or discover its rich history at decc.org/william-a-irvin.

DOWNTOWN

If you haven’t been to downtown Duluth lately, well, you simply haven’t been downtown at all!

Brimming with new and established restaurants, brew pubs, and great shopping, it’s become the place to be.

Not only is Duluth’s downtown a shopping and dining destination, but also a treasure for historians.

The Depot is a restored and repurposed train station, home to several organizations including 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.

While downtown, catch a classic movie at the Zinema 2 and enjoy a drink and an appetizer at Zeitgeist Arts Café. Roll the dice at the Fond-du-Luth Casino or tip back a cold brew at one of our local microbreweries and brew pubs: the historic Fitger’s Brewery, Carmody Irish Pub, Blacklist Artisan Ales, or Dubh Linn Irish Brew Pub. Duluth’s historic NorShor Theater, originally opened in 1910 when it was known as The Orpheum, features productions from the Duluth Playhouse.

After hitting all the hotspots downtown, head back to your room with a great book. You must visit the Amazing Alonzo book exchange on Superior Street. It’s a true treasure!

WEST DULUTH

The heart of Duluth doesn’t just beat in its city center. Head west to visit the Essentia Health Duluth Heritage Sports Center, the historic Clyde Iron Works restaurant and Wade Stadium. If it’s adventure you’re seeking, head to Spirit Mountain and enjoy disc golf, a ride on the zip line, mini-golf and mountain biking. Mont du Lac Resort also offers an abundance of outdoor fun. After your adventures, enjoy an icy-cold craft beer at Lake Superior Brewing.

While “out West,” be sure to visit the Lake Superior Zoo. The zoo is home to large carnivores, playful primates and cool cats that will keep the kids entertained for hours.

Friendly zookeepers will answer all your questions and, if you’re lucky,

www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 85

DULUTH

Jump on the Lakewalk in Canal Park to enjoy one of the most majestic strolls in America, while watching ships from all over the world come in. Canal Park is anchored by world-class dining establishments and a rich history. Check out the Duluth Entertainment and Convention Center (DECC), the Great Lakes Aquarium, Bayfront Festival Park and the Aerial Lift Bridge.

Be sure to visit the Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center when in Canal Park. The center showcases films on the Great Lakes and model

ships and exhibits. It’s also a great viewing area to watch your ship come in. For a schedule of arrivals and departures, visit lsmma.com.

The DeWitt Seitz building is a treasure trove of fascinating shops, delicious dining, and art. And you’ll want to be sure to grab a bite at the historic Grandma’s Saloon as well. Famous for its wild rice soup, you’ll put this on your musteat list for every visit to the city. If you love locally-made craft beverages, check out Hoops Brewing, Canal Park Brewing, or Vikre Distillery. Canal Park offers plenty of niche shops, including Duluth Pack, restaurants and lodging. Find a complete list at www.canalparkduluth.com.

At the other end of the Lakewalk, you’ll find Leif Erikson Park and the Rose Garden – one of only a few traditional English gardens in the United States.

SKYLINE PARKWAY

If you’re looking for the most spectacular view of the area, you’ll want to make your way to Skyline Parkway, featuring hairpin turns along a ridge overlooking the city, the Big Lake, and the St. Louis River. Along the way, visit the historic Enger Tower and enjoy a peaceful lunch near the Japanese Peace Bell and gardens.

As you travel east on Skyline, you’ll come upon Hawk Ridge, a renowned site for observation of raptor migration. Visitors come from all over the world to visit each year.

Hawk Ridge’s guest register sports entries from thousands of visitors who have come from all 50 states and from more than 40 other countries. For more information, visit hawkridge.org.

Travel all the way east along Skyline to check out Seven Bridges Road. Yes, there really are seven bridges!

Be sure to visit skylineparkway.

org for a full history of Skyline, including a comprehensive list of stops.

MUST-SEE: GLENSHEEN MANSION

An absolute must-see while in Duluth is Glensheen Mansion on London Road. Steeped in history and mystery, this stunning architectural wonder is perched on the shore of Lake Superior and is the most visited historic home in Minnesota. The seven-acre estate features gardens, bridges and of course the famous 39-­room mansion built with remarkable 20th century craftsmanship.

Glensheen was the home to Chester and Clara Congdon, who built Glensheen between 1905 and 1908 as their family home. This influential family is known for opening up iron mining in the region and setting aside land for public use, such as the North Shore Scenic Highway and Congdon Park.

The holiday season is a magical time at Glensheen. The home is decorated with 25 glowing Christmas trees, appearing just how the Congdons would have decorated it themselves over 100 years ago. A new wintertime detail Glensheen has added for kids is an elf hunt.

Children are tasked with locating the 25 elves, which are strategically hidden throughout the mansion.

Glensheen is a wonderland in the summertime, too. Guests can stroll the grounds, walk down

by Lake Superior, and visit Glensheen’s expansive gardens. The Wednesday evening Concerts on

UNIQUELY DULUTH EVENTS HIGHLIGHTED

Whatever you’re looking for – fine dining, outdoor recreation, culture or art, you’ll find it right here in Duluth!

July 4th: Visit Duluth presents Minnesota’s largest fireworks extravaganza. The aerial display begins at 10:10 p.m. in Bayfront Park. The region’s most spectacular fireworks display.

August: Bayfront Blues Festival.

Welcome to the Bayfront Blues

Festival, one of the largest annual outdoor music events in the upper Midwest. Each year nearly 20,000 fans are treated to more than 30 different acts on two stages at one of the region’s most beautiful openair venues.

September: Head to Duluth’s Garfield Avenue to check out the Kia of Duluth Drag Races. Don’t miss North America’s only 1/8-mile legalized drag racing on a public street! Come out and witness more than 100 drag racing vehicles over two days of energized fun!

November-December: Bentleyville is America’s largest free walk-through lighting display! Stroll under the glow of over 5 million lights in a 20-acre park situated on the shores of Lake Superior, while enjoying complimentary hot cocoa, cookies, popcorn and roasted marshmallows! Fireworks cap off the final night December 26.

DULUTH – YEAR-ROUND

Visitors and locals alike can always find a reason to explore Duluth to enjoy music, theatre, the arts, entertainment and a remarkable variety of international and uniquely local fare.

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Liquor Store Open Till Midnight 7 Days a Week

Right off the Blatnik Bridge!

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www.CaddyShackDuluth.com (218) 624-7768

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you might get to hold a snake or a cockroach! Visit lszoo.org for hours and a schedule of daily events.

Another must-see neighborhood is Duluth’s Lincoln Park Craft District. With an ongoing revitalization happening here as we speak, there’s something for everyone.

Find great eats and drinks at Duluth’s famous Bent Paddle Brewing and OMC Smokehouse. Frost River Trading Company is a great place to check out Duluth’s “utilitarian chic” style, and Aerostitch is an option for the bikers in your crew.

the Pier are a great opportunity for families to get out for a fun evening together. Featuring live Minnesota bands, food trucks, and ice cream vendors, the kids can run and play while their parents enjoy live music and an icy cold beer.

And, last but not least, Glensheen offers a bit of the macabre.

On June 27, 1977, Elisabeth Congdon and her nurse Velma Pietila were found murdered in the mansion. Two riveting novels were written on the famous murder, “Glensheen’s Daughter” and “A Will to Murder.” For more information on visiting the mansion, go to glensheen.org.

Duluth Events SPRING Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra Minnesota Ballet The Duluth Playhouse Annual Duluth Boat, Sports, Travel & RV Show Annual Arrowhead Home & Builder Show Annual Homegrown Music Festival Duluth Dylan Fest Northland Outdoors Duluth Deer Classic Fitger’s 5K Run & Walk Duluth Lion’s Club Pancake Day Duluth Junk Hunt

KIA of Duluth Garfield Avenue Drag Races and Car Show Hawk Weekend Festival NorthShore Inline Marathon Fall Fest at Chester Bowl Lake Superior 20/20 Studio Art Tour Oktoberfest Duluth William A. Irvin Haunted Ship Tours Boo at the Zoo Duluth Hot Air Balloon Festival Gales of November Rides on the North Shore Scenic Railroad Bentleyville

SUMMER The Duluth Superior Film Festival Grandma’s Marathon Chum Rhubarb Festival Annual Lincoln Park District Walleye Open Duluth Fourth Fest Annual Park Point Art Fair The Duluth Playhouse Rides on the North Shore Scenic Railroad Downtown Duluth Sidewalk Days Annual Bayfront Reggae and World Music Festival All Pints North Summer Brew Fest Twin Ports Bridge Festival Spirit Valley Days Annual Brewhouse Triathlon Annual Bayfront Blues Festival Art in Bayfront Park Art Fair South St. Louis County Fair Movies in the Park Kraus-Anderson Bike Duluth Festival Wednesday Night Sailboat Races Walk for Animals The Tribute Fest Lake Superior Dragon Boat Festival Duluth Air and Aviation Expo Annual Duluth Superior Pride Festival Festival of Sail Duluth FALL Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra Minnesota Ballet The Duluth Playhouse

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DULUTH

Corner of Superior St.& 19th Ave. East Duluth 218-724-3431 Open: Tues.-Sat. 10-5

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Established 1982

Celebrating 37 Years!

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Expires September 22, 2019.

www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 87

PAGE 88 | DESTINATIONS 2019

DESTINATION:

J

ust a few minutes outside of Duluth beginning on Highway 61 stretching all the way up to the lakefront in Two Harbors and beyond to the Canadian border is a breathtakingly beautiful route designated a National Scenic Byway, and it’s a trip not to be missed. The area is rich in history – fishing, mining, lighthouses, shipping, logging and trains. The entire drive winds through state parks, national and state forests, charming communities, and trails galore all within a stone’s throw of Lake Superior. For avid anglers, the Lester, French, Sucker, and Stewart Rivers all have spring steelhead runs. The Sucker River also has an abundant spring sucker run. Be sure to get out of the car at the Gooseberry River.

Two waterfalls are visible from the bridge and three more are a short hike away. The three lower falls drop more than 100 feet and the river path is stunningly beautiful.

NorthShore

To see Gooseberry in all her glory, visit during spring runoff in April and early May.

SPLIT ROCK

On your way up the shore you’ll want to stop at Split Rock River, where you can access the river from the trailhead in the parking lot on the west side, or at an old road turnoff about a quarter mile east of the river on the lake side.

Three miles upstream the west and east branches of the Split Rock join, beginning a 400-­ foot tumble over cascades and rapids terminating in a high falls about one mile from the mouth. At Split Rock Canyon, the river spreads into a wide flat valley before discharging into Lake Superior. And don’t miss Split Rock Lighthouse on your leisurely journey up the shore. Shipwrecks from a mighty 1905 November gale prompted this rugged landmark’s construction.

Completed by the U.S. Lighthouse

Service in 1910, it soon became one of Minnesota’s best known landmarks. Restored to its 1920s appearance, the light station offers a glimpse of lighthouse life in this remote and spectacular setting.

Split Rock Lighthouse is a National Historic Landmark.

TEMPERANCE STATE PARK

For the most dramatic views of the North Shore’s rivers, head to the Temperance. A mere quarter mile upstream, the Temperance River takes a spectacular last drop into a gorge so narrow you can’t always see where the river lands.

Upstream a few yards more are roaring cascades. Just below Highway 61 is a footbridge showcasing the river’s mouth, for which the river was named. Temperance was credited as the only river along the North Shore without a sandbar at its mouth (though in some years it actually has a bar). The headwaters of the Temperance include Brule Lake, which is also the headwater for the Brule River.

KENDALL’S SMOKEHOUSE

GRAND MARAIS

At the far end of the shore you’ll find yourself in Grand Marais –

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EVENTS TO NOTE:

Each September the annual NorthShore Inline Marathon draws more than 3,000 skaters in the country’s largest inline skate marathon. Enjoy the country’s most scenic and exciting inline skating event along the beautiful North Shore of Lake Superior. The 26.2-­mile marathon begins just south of Two Harbors and continues along Scenic Highway 61, rolling through the I­-35 tunnels and finishing at the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center.

For more information or to register, visit northshoreinline.com.

For more information on the North Shore and a full schedule of events, go to northshoreguide.com.

www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 89

NORTH SHORE

No trip up the North Shore is complete without a stop at the legendary Russ Kendall’s Smokehouse in Knife River. Smoked salmon dip, smoked lake trout, sugar-cured smoked lake trout, smoked whitefish and smoked herring anyone? Russ Kendall’s is the real deal in smoked fish, and the cheese isn’t bad either!

a breathtaking, sleepy village of artists, fine dining and unique shops. The town is picturesque North Shore, with Lake Superior stretched out to the south and the pine forests climbing the ridge line to the north. There’s no shortage of open mic nights, art showings, live music, folk school classes, plays, readings, happy hours, quaint cottages and outdoor activities. A side trip out of Grand Marais will lead you up the Gunflint Trail National Scenic Byway, winding 57 paved wilderness miles northwest near the border of Canada. It’s the gateway to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW), named one of the world’s “50 Places of a Lifetime” by National Geographic. Make sure you stop by the Lake Superior Trading Post. If you need it or want it, you’ll find it here!

For more information visit lakesuperiortradingpost.com.

LAKE SUPERIOR TRADING POST 10 S. 1st Ave W. | Grand Marais, MN 55604

Open year round, 7 days a week • www.LSTP.com 218-387-2020 | A Grand Marais tradition since 1971 001820926r1

Follow us on Twitter @TradingPostLSTP

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE! • SOUVENIRS • GAMES • SNACKS • PUZZLES

LUTSEN: Sweetwater Shakedown Music & Ski Festival — April 4-6, 2019 (www. lutsen.com/sweetwater)

PAGE 90 | DESTINATIONS 2019

TWO HARBORS: Heritage Days — July 11-14, 2019 (www.twoharborsmn.gov) Two Harbors Winter Frolic — February 6-8, 2020

Your Ticket To History Lakecountyhistoricalsociety.org

520 South Ave, Two Harbors 888-832-5606

SILVER BAY: Bay Days — July 12-14, 2019 (www. bay-days.org) SCHROEDER: Holidays in Schroeder — November 2019 (www.northshorevisitor.com)

Open Year Round

RUSS KENDALL’S SMOKEHOUSE

Smoked Fish & Cheese “We Smoke Our Own”

OUR SPECIALTY

Sugar Cured Trout & King Salmon Homemade Beef Jerky • Sausages Salmon Spread • Cheese Wild Rice • Gift Shop • Tavern Knife River, MN 55609 • 218-834-5995

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GRAND MARAIS: Grand Marais Block Party — June 8, 2019 (www.visitcookcounty.com/ blockparty) Boundary Waters Expo — June 8-9, 2019 (www.bwcaexpo.com) Voyage North 5K/10K — June 8, 2019 (www.raceentry.com/voyage-north/ race-information) 29th Annual Grand Marais Arts Festival — July 13-14, 2019 (www.grandmaraisartcolony.org) North Shore Water Festival — July 20-21, 2019 (www.visitcookcounty.com/ event/north-shore-water-festival) Fisherman’s Picnic Weekend — July 31-August 4, 2019 (www.visitcookcounty.com) Grand Portage Rendezvous Days & Celebration Powwow — August 9-11, 2019 (www.visitcookcounty. com) 12th Annual Radio Waves Music Festival — September 6-8,2019 (www. wtip.org) Moose Madness Festival — October 18-20,2019 (www.visitcookcounty. com) Lake Superior Storm Festival — November 8-10, 2019 (www.visitcookcounty.com)

610 1st Avenue • Two Harbors, MN • 218-834-2222

5th Annual Midwest Extreme Snowmobile Challenge — April 27-28, 2019 (www.lutsen.com/ lodging/ski-stay-packages/ package-detail/14) Lutsen 99er Mountain Biking Ultramarathon — June 29, 2019 (www.lutsen99er.com)

15 miles north of Duluth on Scenic North Shore Drive

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COOK COUNTY Art Along the Lake: Spring Gallery Tour — May 23-26, 2019 Art Along the Lake: Fall Studio Tour — September 27-October 6, 2019 (www.visitcookcounty.com/event/ art-along-lake-fall-studio-tour)

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North Shore Events

LARGEST HARDWARE STORE ON THE NORTH SHORE!

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

DESTINATION:

Ely AREA

I

f you’re looking to get away from it all, then Ely must be at the top of your go-to destinations. From taking wilderness adventures to experiencing that quaint vibe of a thriving small community, Ely has something for everyone.

GATEWAY TO THE BOUNDARY WATERS AND SO MUCH MORE

PAGE 91 | DESTINATIONS 2019

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.

A popular gathering spot to hang with locals is the Front Porch Coffee & Tea Co., host of Tuesday Night Live music events in June, July and August. Located at Fourth and Sheridan, the Front Porch is a wifi hotspot where you can stay connected. See www.elysfrontporch.com.

DINING:

If you’re coming in from a nineday paddle, spent the day shopping the quaint local shops, or you’ve been stomping through the Blueberry Arts Festival, cap it off with stop at one of the many fine dining establishments and enjoy a sizzling steak, a wild rice dish or walleye fillet cooked to perfection.

The Ely Steak House offers fabulous, fresh homemade northwoods food, and genuinely great service. Try their famous “Bucky” burger and one of over 50 different bottled beers. Visit elysteakhouse. com for details.

Sir G’s Italian Restaurant offers great Italian food, pizze, wine and beer, all in a family dining atmosphere. Located at 520 E. Sheridan St., Ely, they offer dine-in, carry out or seasonal (winter) delivery; call 218-365-3688.

There are plenty of dining options in Ely, with Insula (145 E. Sheridan St.), Britton’s Cafe (5 E. Chapman St.), Boathouse Brewery (47 E. Sheridan St.) and Chocolate Moose (101 N. Central Ave.) getting the nod for favorite local cuisine.

LODGING:

Ely offers something for everyone when it comes to dreamland: modern hotels, motels, resorts and lodges, rustic campgrounds and cabins, cozy bed-and-breakfast inns, and even houseboats. Visit www.ely.org/lodging for a complete listing.

Grand Ely Lodge is located on the shores of beautiful Shagawa Lake in Ely. Voted Ely’s No. 1 get-away destination, Grand Ely Lodge made the list of Best 15 Romantic Weekend Getaways in Minnesota by thecrazytourist.com in 2017. It features lakeview lodging, a restaurant and bar, resort adventure, and can accomodate meetings, retreats, weddings and special events. For more details, visit www.grandelylodge.com.

Lakeland Motel has been in business for over 65 years, serving the Ely community with clean and comfortable rooms for reasonable rates.

The rooms have a Northwoods feel that a lot of people expect from the area. For more information, visit elylakelandmotel.com.

PLACES TO SEE: SOUDAN UNDERGROUND MINE

While in the area be sure to visit the Soudan Underground Mine.

The mine, part of Lake Vermilion– Soudan Underground Mine State Park, is Minnesota’s oldest iron ore mine, where 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

www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 91

ELY

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.

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.

Several canoe outfitters are available to help you plan your trip into the wilderness area.

Spirit of the Wilderness in Ely is your one-stop location for all your wilderness travel needs. A full-service outfitter providing complete and partial outfitting, canoe/ kayak & SUP board rental, bunkhouse lodging, guide service, permit issuing, ground and towboat transportation to entry points and more. Their retail store includes live bait, fishing tackle (they talk fishing), outdoor clothing and footwear, camping gear and canoe accessories. They’re open 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily May through October. Call 800-950-2709 or visit

www.elycanoetrips.com to start planning a trip of a lifetime.

Voyageur North Outfitters can assist you with a customized guide trip, outfitting services and group expeditions in the BWCAW and Quetico Provincial Park. Visit www. vnorth.com. Canoe Country Outfitters is conveniently located in downtown Ely, plus they have a private canoe base on Moose Lake about 20 miles east of Ely. Find more at www.canoecountryoutfitters.com. Wilderness Outfitters is the oldest established outfitter in Ely, operating since 1921. Visit wildernessoutfitters.com to plan your next trip.

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 www.fs.usda.gov/superior for details.

Zup’s Food Market will have all the food supplies you need, whether your adventure takes you deep into the wilderness for a week, or you’ve just got a day hike planned and you need some snacks. They’re famous for their homemade sausage and beef jerky, but also offer all-thingswild-rice and their own seasonings and jams - delish!

If you prefer boutiques, galleries and fine dining instead of dirt trails and hiking paths, then Ely’s got you covered. The folks in the small

shows and classes throughout the year and is located alongside the Trezona Trail, overlooking Miners Lake, a designated trout lake for fishing. Visit www.elygreenstone. org for more information.

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.

NORTH AMERICAN BEAR CENTER

DOROTHY MOLTER MUSEUM

Built to preserve the legacy and memory of one of the Northwoods most celebrated residents, the Dorothy Molter Museum sits nestled

DOGSLED IN ELY

in a grove of pines, representing an era that is now gone. Some remember her fondly as the “Root Beer Lady” while others recall her as the “Nightingale of the Wilderness” or, simply, Dorothy. Regardless, Dorothy Molter’s inspiring story of resiliency and fortitude is a gem in Minnesota’s history. With exhibits housed within Dorothy’s own historic log cabins, this Ely museum strives to inspire the next generation of Northwoods stewards through the lens of Dorothy’s incredible life as the last non-indigenous resident of the Boundary Waters.

INTERNATIONAL WOLF CENTER

The International Wolf Center was established in 1989 as a tempo-

Serving the canoeist since 1946

1.800.752.2306 629 East Sheridan Street - Ely, MN www.canoecountryoutfitters.com Like us on

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•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

rary facility until the 17,000-squarefoot 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 education folks about wolves.

Visit www.wolf.org for program and exhibit details.

ARTS & HERITAGE CENTER

The Ely Arts & Heritage Center features the Pioneer Mine complex, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Shaft House features photos and artifacts from the underground mine which closed in 1967. Visitors are welcome free of charge. The Miners Dry House features events, art

For a unique winter adventure, nothing compares to the breathtaking experience of dogsledding!

Drive a dog team or just ride along on your mushing adventure through the remote trails. Ely offers more sled dog trip providers than anywhere else in the world. Find them at www.ely.org.

THE BOUNDARY WATERS

More than one million acres in size, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness 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.

Great Italian Food, Pizza, Wine & Beer, all in a family friendly atmosphere!

•Dine-In & Take-Out •Pasta & Pizza - Made from Scratch •Gluten Free Options Available

520 East Sheridan St., Ely

218.365.3688•WWW.SIRGS.COM Take a step back...

...to a remote wilderness and a simpler time OPEN DAILY 10am-5pm May 25-Sept 8 Events, Kid's Camp & Root Beer Making!

MEMBER, MILITARY & GROUP DISCOUNTS 218.365.4451 info@rootbeerlady.com WWW.ROOTBEERLADY.COM

PAGE 92 | DESTINATIONS 2019

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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.

Ely Events

A true small town parade kicks off at 1 pm. View a variety of floats, vehicles, music and more! After sunset, join the town at 10 pm in celebrating July 4th with festive fireworks at Miners Lake. Additional events scheduled throughout the day.

MAY Ely’s 8th Annual City Wide Rummage & Business Crazy Day Sale Saturday, May 18, 2019 — 8 am to 4 pm Location: Throughout Ely, MN This great Minnesota pastime takes on an entirely new meaning when the whole city of Ely turns out on the same weekend for Ely’s Eighth Annual City Wide Rummage & Business Crazy Day Sale. Join us for your chance to scoop up bargains throughout the city of Ely! Many Ely businesses will be offering great Crazy Day bargains.

JUNE Walleye Whamma Fishing Contest on Birch Lake June 8, 2019 Peter Mitchell Days in Babbitt June 14-16, 2019 Tuesday Nite Live Starts June 18 and runs through August 20 Location: Downtown Ely, MN Enjoy Live music at various venues throughout Ely. Times vary depending on venue. Visit www.ely.org for a weekly listing.

JULY July 4th Parade & Fireworks July 4, 2019 — Parade 1 pm, Fireworks 10 pm Location: Downtown Ely, Whiteside Park & Miners Lake, Ely, MN

Janet Gensler Memorial 4 on the 4th Walk/Run July 4, 2019 — 8 am Location: Trezona Trailhead, Ely, MN Race day registration is from 6:40-7:40 am. Run or walk on the bike path around scenic Miners Lake. Pre-register to guarantee yourself a T-shirt. Refreshments will be available after the race. Proceeds benefit the Ely High School track team.

Blueberry/Arts Festival July 26-28, 2019 — All day Location: Whiteside Park, Ely, MN The Blueberry/Art Festival, Ely’s signature summer event, features more than 260 artists and crafters, 30 food vendors and local musicians. The Ely Chamber of Commerce sponsors this event, which celebrates its 39th year in 2019. It draws some 40,000 people over a three-day period to enjoy fine art, quality crafts and great ethnic food.

The festival is held in Ely’s beautiful Whiteside Park where you can find wood and leather products, metal art, photography, paintings, jewelry and pottery, and many other unique hand-crafted items.

Start your morning with a blueberry pancake breakfast. While you are shopping for that special one of a kind original piece of art you may want to take a break and listen to one of the musical acts that are scheduled every day. There are activities for the children and other amusements.

Make sure you visit the food court with all kinds of tempting food.

The stores and restaurants in town join in the festivities offering specials and tasty concoctions featuring a blueberry theme such as blueberry banana smoothies, tea,

muffins, lemonade and scones to name a few. Make it a weekend and take in all Ely has to offer including hiking, day canoe trips, museums and other attractions. Refresh and relax in one of Ely’s beautiful lodging facilities after a fun day of shopping, dining and other activities. Don’t forget to book early!

AUGUST Loony Day August 6, 2019 — 2:30 pm Location: Chocolate Moose Courtyard, Ely, MN For the 34th year, kids and adults alike will compete with their best imitations of the loon, and prizes are awarded to the best loon caller. The event is free. Spectators also have a chance to win!

Ely Watercross Race August 10-11, 2019 Location: Longbranch Event Center, Winton, MN The Ely round of the International Watercross Association (IWA) Season is sponsored by the Ely Watercross Association, a group of dedicated individuals interested in promoting the sport of snowmobile watercross racing. This is the 14th annual event, covering two days and featuring a live outdoor concert at 8 pm Saturday.

80th Annual Embarrass Region Fair August 23-25, 2019 — All day Enjoy three days filled with fun, food, festivities and rides.

19th Annual Boundary Waters Blues Festival August 29-September 1 — All day Location: Longbranch, Winton, MN Enjoy this three-day event filled with some of the finest blues musicians around on the edge of the BWCAW. Camp on-site or stay in a variety of Ely area lodging facilities.

SEPTEMBER Dog Jam Sunday September 1, 2018 — All Day Location: Longbranch, Winton, MN Dog Jam provides a wide range of music for a diverse group of listeners. Visit www.elyblues.com for more details. Camp on-site or stay in a variety of Ely area lodging facilities. Visit www.elyblues.com for more details.

Labor Day Weekend Trezona Run September 2, 2019 — 9 am Location: Trezona Trail, Ely, MN Race day registration is from 8-8:50 am for the 4-mile run or 4-mile walk around scenic Miners Lake. There is also a 1-mile kids’ race. All pre-registered runners are guaranteed a T-shirt.

Proceeds benefit the Ely High School track team.

Harvest Moon Festival September 6-8, 2019 — All day Location: Whiteside Park, Ely, MN Shop a delightful mix of original art and crafts from over 125 local and regional artists and craftsmen. Select from functional and decorative pottery, hand turned wooden bowls, Native American art and beadwork, paintings, leather and lots more!

Enjoy demonstrations by some of the artists, book signing by local authors and pony rides and petting zoo for children.

Family entertainment will be provided by the All American Stunt Dog Challenge, or enjoy daily music by Timmy Haus, the Singing Slovenes and new additions.

Enjoy songs from the voyageurs and logging camps as you weave through the booths to find that perfect piece for your home or that unique gift for a loved one.

Feast your eyes on a delightful combination of orange pumpkins, purple chrysanthemums, yellow corn, juicy red tomatoes, and tasty artisan breads from the Saturday Farm Market. Tempt your palate with a variety tasty treats from our incred-

Ely Steak House Home of the Black & Bleu Spanked “Kick Butt” Steak!

AND WORLD FAMOUS BUCKY BURGER

Your One-Stop Outfitter for

BWCA Trips Ely Minnesota

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Open Daily 11AM - 1AM 216 E. Sheridan St, Ely 218.365.7412 | elysteakhouse.com

14th Annual

• Quetico Provincial Park • Complete Outfitting • Canoe & Kayak Rentals • Fishing Tackle • Live Bait

AUGUST 10 & 11, 2019

ELY WATERCROSS RACE WINTON - MN

ILY RACING STARTS AT 10AM DA LIVE

OUTDOOR CONCERT

218.365.3149

ELY

ADMISSION: $25 Weekend Pass • $15 Daily Pass Kids ages 10-16: $10 Weekend Pass Kids 9 and under Free

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HOSTED BY THE LONGBRANCH EVENT CENTER

LONGBRANCH EVENT CENTER

www.elycanoetrips.com

Saturday, August 11 at 8:00 PM 001828119r1

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www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 93

ible food vendors. Top it off with a cup of latte and a piece of blueberry pie made fresh the day before the festival.

Northern Lights 5K Glow Run September 20, 2019 — 7 pm Location: Vermilion Community College, Ely, MN Race-day registration is noon to 5:45 pm. This light-filled race, beginning at 7pm, takes you through glow zones as the sun sets. It’s a race for all ages and abilities (competitive racers, walkers, wheel chairs, families with a stroller) as a fundraiser for Northern Lights Clubhouse.

Ely Marathon & Boundary Waters Bank Half Marathon September 20-21, 2019 — 7:30 am (full marathon) 8 am (half marathon) Marathon adventure Ely style. Full marathon is 26.2 miles long and starts at Camp du Nord. Half marathon is 13.1 miles and starts at Echo Shores Resort.

Both races finish at Ely’s Whiteside Park.

Chocoholic Frolic September 21, 2019 — 9 am - 5 pm Location: Ely Area Merchants, Ely, MN If you love shopping and chocolate, then this is the event for you. Businesses will have in-store drawings for their own door prize and then everyone is entered into a Grand Prize drawing for $250 in Chamber Bucks. Follow on Facebook @ElyChamberOfCommerce for event updates and reminders.

OCTOBER Jake Forsman Memorial Car Show and Burnout Competition October 19, 2019 — All Day Location: Ely Public Library Everyone is invited to this event in the heart of the city. It’s the last big event of the year for car enthusiasts.

NOVEMBER Festival of Trees

Thanksgiving Night Shopping November 28, 2019 — 6-9 pm Location: Ely Area Merchants, Ely, MN After you’re enjoyed a wonderful Thanksgiving dinner, bundle up and head on downtown Ely. Merchants open their doors and welcome you in for some Christ-

ZUP’S

Vermilion

FOOD MARKET FAMOUS FOR

The Boundary Waters College

HOMEMADE SAUSAGES,

Environmental Science | Natural Resources Liberal Arts | Animal Sciences

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BEEF JERKY & FRESH

www.vcc.edu 001824284r1

November 21 - December 1, 2019 — All Day Location: Grand Ely Lodge, Ely, MN Holiday magic transforms the lobby of the Grand Ely Lodge into a winter wonderland, complete with beautifully decorated Christmas trees, wreaths and a holiday boutique. The 17th Annual Festival of Trees opens at 5 pm Thanksgiving evening with the Lighting Ceremony. The community is invited for refreshments and entertainment. The Silent Auction for decorated trees and wreaths begins Thanksgiving night and continues until noon Sunday, December 1. The Festival also includes a Christmas Boutique with a wonderful selection of handmade gift items.

FRESH MEATS!

mas cheer and goodies, and also some special deals for your holiday shopping.

Small Town Christmas Celebration November 30, 2019 — All day Location: Ely Area Merchants, Ely, MN Shop local! Support our fantastic downtown merchants. Find a wide variety of gifts for everyone on your shopping list.

Register for great prizes!

Ely’s Christmas Parade & City Tree Lighting November 30, 2019 — 5 pm Location: Downtown Ely & Whiteside Park, Ely, MN After a fun-filled day of shopping, join residents in Ely’s annual Holiday Parade.

Santa will be there too! After the parade, join us in Whiteside Park for hot cocoa, cider, cookies, carolers and the City Tree Lighting ceremony.

DECEMBER No scheduled events at this time

WORLD FAMOUS HOMEMADE SAUERKRAUT!

STOP IN AND CHECK US OUT! 303 E Sheridan St Ely, MN 55731

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Voyageur North Outfitters Wilderness Canoe Trips into the Boundary Waters Canoe Area and Quetico Provincial park · Complete and Partial Outfitting · Special Rates for Groups · Ultra Lightweight Equipment · Fly-in Trips and Tow Service · Specializing in Canoe and Fishing Trips · Solo Canoes & Sea Kayaks · Only Outfitter in Town with a Live Bait and Tackle Shop · Deluxe Bunkhouse Accommodations

CALL TOLL FREE 1-800-848-5530 OR 218-365-3251 John & Lynn O’Kane, 1829 E. Sheridan St. Ely, MN 55731 · www.vnorth.com · vno@vnorth.com Open Daily 5 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Nestled between two lakes...

Deluxe Rooms & Suites • Indoor Pool • Sauna Evergreen Restaurant • Antler’s Lounge

Explore more at grandelylodge.com

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400 N. Pioneer Road • Ely, MN 55761 • 218.365.6565

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www.mndestinations.com | PAGE 95

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The Source of Memories

Call to book your next stay 800-847-0054 or email www.parkrapids.com

1020 East 1st Street (Hwy. 34 East) Park Rapids, MN 56470

218-732-9704 • 1-877-274-3040 www.parkrapidssuper8.com prmnsuper8@aol.com

• Free Breakfast, including hot waffles • Free Cable TV with HBO • Free High Speed Internet • Jacuzzi Suites • Kings, Queens & Double Beds

• Guest Laundry • Truck Parking • Outside Outlets • AARP & Senior Discounts

Cozy cabins nestled in tall pines on the Fish Hook River. Good fishing and good shopping, the best of both worlds.

See our ad inside.

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

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