The Best Winter Getaway in Northern MN

Top Reasons why Grand Rapids is the best winter getaway in Minnesota

Grand Rapids is often hailed as the best winter getaway in Minnesota, thanks to its wonderful mix of outdoor recreation, cozy lodging, new places to eat & drink, and vibrant live music, theater, and cultural experiences. This winter, immerse yourself in the winter wonderland that is Grand Rapids, Minnesota. This charming small town in northern Minnesota boasts an abundance of outdoor activities. With over 1 million publicly accessible forest acres surrounding Grand Rapids, you’ll find more than 1,100 lakes and over 2,000 miles of designated trails. Just 15 minutes from downtown Grand Rapids, enjoy downhill skiing, snowboarding terrain, and snowtubing. Complementing the winter trails and ski hills are cozy lodging options, delightful eateries, boutique shops, historic sites, and cultural experiences, alongside live theater performances and music. This small town up north will surprise you with its big winter offerings, solidifying its reputation as the best winter getaway in Minnesota.

#1: Reason Why Grand Rapids is the Best Winter Getaway in Minnesota is the Abundance of Winter Wonderland Outdoor Recreation

The first reason that Grand Rapids is the best winter getaway in MInnesota is because of the abundance of outdoor recreation. Whatever type of outdoor recreation you enjoy, you can enjoy it here! There are 288 KM of cross-country ski trails, over 300 miles of snowmobile trails, over 25 miles of mountain bike trails, and lots of forests to snowshoe on. For cross-country ski trails we suggest viewing the Northern Lights Nordic Ski Club Trail Map. For snowmobiling we suggest viewing the Itasca County Snowmobile Map, and for Mountain Biking we suggest viewing the Grand Rapids and Itasca Mountain Bike Association (GRIMBA). There are not snowshoeing trails or a map, but where there is public lands like the Chippewa National Forest, you can snowshoe there. Just remember to stay off of the groomed snowmobile and cross-country ski trails, and cross these trails at a 90 degree angle. Located just 15 minutes from downtown Grand Rapids is Mt Itasca where you can enjoy downhill skiing, snowboarding terrain, snowtubing and cross-country skiing. The Grand Rapids, Minnesota is where you can get outdoors into a winter wonderland3

#2: Reason Why Grand Rapids is the Best Winter Getaway in Minnesota is the Cozy Lodging with Scenic Nature Views

The second reason why Grand Rapids is the best winter getaway in Minnesota is because of the Cozy lodging with scenic nature views. You will find an abundance of lodging options in the Grand Rapids, Minnesota area. The choice is yours from in town Hotels, Motels, Bed and Breakfasts, AirBnB’s and Vacation Rentals that are accessible to the snowmobile trails, cross-country ski trails, mountain bike trails, and just 15-minute drive to ski hills. Several of the in town lodging properties have on site amenities like a pool, hot tub, and continental breakfast. Then there are Resort Cabins and Vacation Rental Homes that are located on frozen lakes and on the snowmobile, cross-country ski trails, and mountain bike trails. These properties have full kitchens and places for the entire family to gather together. With all of these options, there is short term lodging option that is perfect for the entire family.

#3: Reason Why Grand Rapids is the Best Winter Getaway in Minnesota is the New and Fun Places to Eat & Drink

The third reason why Grand Rapids is the best winter getaway in Minnesota is because of the new and fun places to eat & drink. The splendor of the winter wonderland outdoors is enhanced by the wide variety of places to eat & drink like locally owned craft breweries, rustic to fine dining restaurants, and the bars located on the area trails and lakes. Many people believe that small towns don’t have many places to eat & drink. Well, that is not true in Grand Rapids. In the Grand Rapids, MN area there are over 50 places to eat & drink. In 2025 two new fine dining establishments opened, and two new American and bar food classic restaurants. Enjoy chef inspired homemade, wood fired oven, and award winning menu’s.

#4: Reason Why Grand Rapids is the Best Winter Getaway in Minnesota is the Locally Owned Boutique Style Shops

The fourth reason why Grand Rapids is the best winter getaway in Minnesota is because of the locally owned boutique style shops. Grand Rapids offers locally owned boutique style shops located downtown as well as stand-alone store fronts located in and around Grand Rapids. These locally owned shops sell unique and one-of-a-kind items like art, clothing, gifts, home décor, jewelry, vintage and more. These shops offer quality products and excellent customer service. There is something special about walking downtown from one brick store front to another with the glistening of the winter snow surrounding. And then there are the area vintage shops and other locally owned shops that are located in Grand Rapids, and the surrounding towns like Bigfork, Bovey, Coleraine, Deer River, Marcell, Nashwauk, and Pengilly. These shop owners take pride in working their businesses each and every day along side their employees to great customers, help them find the perfect gift, and to ensure each customer is satisfied. That is the definition of small town charm, and the benefits to shop local.

#5: Reason Why Grand Rapids is the Best Winter Getaway in Minnesota is the Cultural Experiences and Historic Attractions & Events

The fifth reason why Grand Rapids is the best winter getaway in Minnesota is because of the cultural experiences and historic attractions and events. The Grand Rapids, Minnesota area has a full events and festival calendar that offers a wide variety of things to do, events to attend, seasonal festivals year round, live music, live theater performances, cultural experiences, youth and adult classes, and more. This small town offers more things to do than most people would think. Grand Rapids has a state of the art performances art center, The Reif Center that showcases over 40 performances a year. The MacRostie Art Center offers monthly art exhibits, and the The Giinawind Creative Space is a gathering place for the creative community, an opportunity for cultural connections. And then there is the Grand Rapids Arts that hosts First Friday Art Walk and sponsored by downtown businesses each month.

After reading these top 5 reasons of why Grand Rapids is the best winter getaway in Minnesota, and you want to learn more: view the Winter Page for sample itineraries, discover outdoor adventure, .and to get inspired to BOOK A WINTER GETAWAY TO GRAND RAPIDS.

Fall MEA and Friends Getaway Itineraries | Grand Rapids Minnesota

getaway to remember

This blog article will highlight Fall MEA and Friends Getaway Itineraries in Grand Rapids Minnesota. Late fall, October and November, is a great time of year to getaway to Grand Rapids Minnesota. This time of the year is perfect for a mid-week or weekend getaway. Below are sample trip itineraries for families, girlfriends and a guys getaway to highlight things to do in Grand Rapids, Minnesota.

October and November Lodging Specials

There is a wide variety of lodging options in the Grand Rapids, MN area: Hotels/Motels, Bed and Breakfasts, Air BnB’s, Resort Cabins, Lodge Rooms, and Vacation Rentals. Visit Grand Rapids represents 37 of these properties, and many of them are offering late fall lodging specials.

Late Fall Grand Rapids MN Itinerary for Families

Once the kids go back to school it is hard to find time to getaway for a long weekend, but in October and November there are several days off from school for MEA, holiday breaks, and conferences. Below is a sample family trip itinerary for this time of the year in Grand Rapids, Minnesota, hoping it spurs enough inspiration for you to book a trip!

Day 1: Enjoy the continental breakfast at the Hotel or try Brewed Awakenings downtown Grand Rapids for a made from scratch muffin and a freshly brewed cup of coffee. Take a hike at Legion Trail (located at the Reif Center parking lot) and in the afternoon mountain bike at Tioga Recreation Area. Brewed Awakenings can pack you a lunch that you can enjoy at the pavilion overlooking Tioga Pit. Then for the evening dinner at Rapids Brewing and then back to the lodging property to let the kids swim in the pool and for the adults to relax in the hot tub with a nice cold beverage.

Day 2: Purchase admission for the kids to play and explore in the Children’s Discovery Museum (younger children) or purchase admission for the entire family to go through the Escape Room at the Historical Society. Lunch at Zorbaz, and then a pontoon ride on the Mississippi River or a Northern Trolley Tour pulled by Percheron horses at the Forest History Center. Order Sammy’s Pizza at Klockow Brewing Company, and then back to the hotel for the kids to swim and adults to soak in the hot tub.

Late Fall Grand Rapids MN Itinerary for Girlfriend Getaway

Late Fall is a great time of the year for a Girlfriend Getaway to northern Minnesota. Find cozy lodging, boutique style shops, fun places to try new bites and sips, unique cultural and historic attractions, and an opportunity to reconnect together. The below girlfriend getaway itinerary is mean to spur inspiration to book a girlfriend getaway in Grand Rapids, Minnesota.

Day 1: Enjoy the continental breakfast at the Hotel, or fix a homestyle breakfast together in your full kitchen at your Air BnB, Vacation Rental or Cabin. Then it is off for some new experiences like taking a horse drawn northern trolley tour at the Forest History Center that is drawn by a team of Percheron horses. After this grab lunch at Rapids Brewing Co to try a flight of local craft beer and wood fired oven menu specials. Then it is off to your pre-registered tickets to the VIP Stolen Ruby Red Slipper Tour at the Judy Garland Museum to learn all of the juicy details of really what happened to the ruby red slippers. Dinner can be at a location close and convenient to your Hotel, or you can grab a Sammy’s or Mad Dogs pizza to enjoy back at your Air BnB, Vacation Rental or Resort Cabin.

Day 2: Today for breakfast try one of the places the locals go for a cooked to order breakfast like at Dottie’s in Grand Rapids or the Sportsman in Deer River. And then take a stroll through downtown to enjoy the outdoors public art, and shop at the boutique shops, and the antique and vintage shops in downtown and around the Grand Rapids, MN area. For lunch, we suggest you try Pickled Loon or Zorbaz that are both located on Pokegama Lake in Grand Rapids. In the afternoon, relaxation and reconnecting is in order back at your lodging property where you can put on comfy clothes, catch up on each others lives, enjoy magazine, snacks and beverages of choice. Dinner can be made at your lodging property or you can order pickup at one of the many restaurants or you could get dressed up and dine at one of the new restaurants in downtown Grand Rapids – The Pines or the Ledger and Ladle. Both offer an amazing dining experience.

*Note: If you are looking to get pampered while you are in town, check out the Shopping button below to view Salons and Spas in Grand Rapids.

Late Fall Grand Rapids Minnesota for Guys Trip

Guys Trip

Day 1: Enjoy an early morning breakfast together at the resort cabin or vacation rental home, eating in town at Dottie’s or the Sportsman, or enjoying the continental breakfast at the Hotel. Then it is off to hunt ruffed grouse and woodcock in either the UPM Blandin Forest or the Chippewa National Forest. Then you can enjoy lunch at Harry’s in Hill City – if you are hunting in the Blandin Forest, or at the Gosh Dam Place if you are hunting up the Avenue of the Pines Scenic Byway in the Chippewa National Forest. Then take some time to relax after all of the walking with the dogs in the woods, and then it is time for dinner. There are many great places to eat in the Grand Rapids, MN area like Sammy’s, Timberlake Lodge Restaurant, or the Pickled Loon.

Day 2: Today can be a later start morning for the temps to warm up a little before you head out on one of many lakes to catch fish. With the cooler temperatures you will catch panfish like perch to trophy fish like walleyes and northern pike. There are over 1,100 area lakes to try. The MN DNR lake finder will help you find the perfect lake in Itasca County for the species of fish you are looking to catch. Or check out our Grand Rapids Fishing Page to find a area fishing guide that can get you on fish. Enjoy lunch on the boat, and then dinner at a local favorite like the Forest Lake Restaurant.

*Note: The Grand Rapids, MN area has over 1M publicly accessible forest acres to ATV, bike, hike, and hunt. There are 300 miles of designated ATV trails, and county and forest roads are open to ATV’s. And then there is the 25 mile multi-level mountain bike trail (Tioga Recreation Area) with a skills course in Cohasset. So there is a lot of fun things to do for a Guys Trip in Grand Rapids, Minnesota.

Grand Rapids, Minnesota Trip FAQ’s

Grand Rapids, Minnesota is a year-round vacation destination that is just far enough away to provide a real escape to northern Minnesota, but close enough to be convenient for a drive destination. Grand Rapids, Minnesota offers a wide variety of places to stay like in town Hotels, Motels, Bed and Breakfasts, Air BnB’s, Resort Cabins, and Vacation Rentals. This charming small town offers a wide variety of things to do like theater performances at The Reif Center, art and cultural experiences at MacRostie, downtown boutique shops, fun places to eat & drink, and historic area attractions that are open year round. Grand Rapids is a true hidden gem that offers a chance to relax, get outdoors, enjoy new things to do and see, and the opportunity to reconnect together and recharge in Minnesota’s nature.

Top 10 Fall Things To Do | Visit Grand Rapids

Why You Should Getaway to Grand Rapids, MN This fall

Here are the top10 fall things to do in Grand Rapids, MN that will inspire you to book a getaway. When the kids go back to school and the temperatures cool off, the stunning fall colors are just one of the reasons that Grand Rapids, Minnesota has become a premiere up north getaway in the fall. From a wide variety of cozy lodging, beautiful fall colors, fall festivals, an abundance of outdoor recreation, hunting and fishing, live music and entertainment, beautiful art, historic sites and attractions, apple orchards and a pumpkin patch, and fun places to eat & drink.

Cozy Lodging

Grand Rapids, MN area offers a wide variety of cozy lodging with beautiful views. You will find in town Hotels, Motels, Bed and Breakfasts, and AirBnB’s. These lodging options are located in town and close to the places to shop, area trails, breweries and restaurants. Then there are the Resorts and Vacation Rental Properties that are located outside of the city center, located on area lakes and offer lodge rooms to full cabins. Being a little bit more remote at these locations allow you to untap and reconnect with nature. Wither the wide variety of lodging types in Grand Rapids, MN there is one for everyone.

Fall Leaves Color Tour

Discover the best fall colors by taking one or all the four Fall Colors Drive Tour during the fall. This will give you the best options to experience the fall colors in the Grand Rapids, MN area. In addition to the four fall color tours on the map: Avenue of Pines Tour (86 miles), Hundred Lakes Tour (89 miles), Off the Beaten Path (127 miles), Southern Ramble (108 miles); there are also three designated Scenic Byways: Edge of the Wilderness, Avenue of the Pines and the Great River Road.

The Edge of the Wilderness Scenic Byway which is a 47 mile scenic drive from Grand Rapids to Effie, Minnesota. Along this scenic route you will discover mixed hardwood and pine forests, hundreds of crystal clear lakes,14 historic sites, outdoor recreational trails, and many places to eat, drink & shop. Then the Great River Road comes into Grand Rapids from the west out of the Chippewa National Forest from Cohasset and then onto Hwy 2 and Hwy 169 intersection, and then east out the River Road to Jacobson, Palisade and then south to Aitkin.

These sections of the mighty Mississippi River is the Crossings to the Scenic. And then the Avenue of the Pines Scenic Byway is the scenic byway that runs 46 miles from Deer River to Northome, Minnesota. The most famous parts of the byway are the 200+ year old pine trees that tower along the byway over several sections of the byway. There is also sections of mixed hardwood and pine forests that are located in the Chippewa National Forest. Along this route you will find many places to eat & drink, ATV, biking and hiking, and horseback riding trails, and access to Lake Winnibigoshish. Lake Winnie is know for great fall fishing for crappies, walleyes and perch. Tour

Fall Festivals & Events

It is Minnesota tradition in the fall to gather together to celebrate harvest festivals, outdoor music festivals, Oktoberfests and more. In the Grand Rapids, MN area, there is the Bovey Farmers Day, Grand Rapids Riverfest, Bargains are Great on Hwy 38, Reif Center Outdoor Concert Series and indoor theater performances, Klocktoberfest, Oktoberfest at Rapids Brewing, and more. The weather is cooler in the fall which makes it the perfect time of year to have fun at these festivals and events.

Outdoor Recreation

With over 1M publicly accessible forest acres surrounding the Grand Rapids, MN area is the perfect place to enjoy whatever kind of outdoor recreation you like to enjoy. Over 2,000 miles of trails and over 1,100 area lakes, many rivers, and a lot of reclaimed mining areas to enjoy whatever outdoor recreation you enjoy, or would like to try. You can get outdoors into Minnesota’s nature here in the Grand Rapids, MN area.

There is over 300 miles of ATV Trails that go through the UPM Blandin Forest Land, in the Chippewa National Forest, and on Itasca Public and Private Land. There are thousands of trails for hiking including in the Chippewa National Forest; famous trails include the Lost Forty, Joyce Estates, Suomi Hills, Simpson Creek, just to name a few. Then there are hundreds of bicycling trails on both paved and dirt roads and sidewalks, including the Mesabi Trail which is the longest paved bicycle trail in Minnesota that runs all the way to Ely, Minnesota. There is over 30 miles of mountain bike trails at the Tioga Recreation Area which is a multi-level trail plus a skills course. Tioga is a part of a 4-regional mountain bike trail collaborative called Ride The Range where you can ride over 100 miles of mountain bike trails all within an hour and a half of one another. Then there are over 20 miles of horse trails in the Chippewa National Forest Cut Foot Sioux Camp.

Fall Fishing & Hunting

Come to Grand Rapids, Minnesota to discover premiere fall hunting and fishing. Surrounding Grand Rapids is over 1M of publicly accessible forest acres, and over 1,100 area lakes that provide premiere fall hunting and fishing opportunities. Below are highlighted sections that provide additional information resources about Fall Fishing and Hunting in the Grand Rapids, Minnesota area.

Fall walleye fishing is a tradition of the fall and it can be some of the best opportunities of the season to catch numbers and a trophy. The cooler water drives walleyes to feeding more often and shallower. Baitfish are also feeding on plankton and they are schooled up in masses. In additional to walleye, fall is a great time of year to fish for bass, crappies, perch and trout, just to name a few.

Live Music and Entertainment

Grand Rapids, MN might be a small town, but it boasts lots of charm and a lot of live music, entertainment and nightlife. From live theater, concerts, comedy and family performances at The Reif Center to live music at the craft breweries and area restaurants and bars. In addition many businesses host events like canvas and paint, second Saturday Family Create classes, and area attractions hosting special programming like Be A Lumberjack Day. The Itasca Area Events Calendar is always full of things to do for singles, couples and families.

Beautiful Art

Downtown Grand Rapids is a wonderful place to shop in boutique style shops, eat & drink at craft breweries, bars and restaurants, and enjoy beautiful public art and historic sites. Visit Grand Rapids, MacRostie, Reif Center, and the Grand Rapids Arts came together to create a ArcGIS story map that is a self-guided Grand Rapids Art and Historic Sites tour that is a wonderful way to get outside to enjoy a fall day, and check out the Mississippi River.

Historic Sites & Attractions

In addition to the downtown historic sites there are additional area historic attractions you will want to check out like the Forest History Center, the Judy Garland and Children’s Discover Museum, and the Itasca County Historical Museum and Escape Room.

These historic sites are fun for adults and kids alike. All of these attractions also host special programming and events like Be A Lumberjack Day, VIP Stolen Ruby Red Slipper Tour, and seasonal Escape Room themes.

Apple Orchards and a Pumpkin Patch

In Grand Rapids there are two apple orchards and a pumpkin patch to enjoy the fall harvest. Both adults and kids alike will enjoy the pumpkin patch, tractor drawn hay rides, hay mound, and a corn stalk maze. Rasmussun’s Cowhorn Crossing Farm opens once the pumpkins start turning orange, and the guards and squash are ready to pick. They offer group rates, and are open extra days and hours over MEA weekend.

In addition to the local Farmer’s Markets that are open through the October time of year; there is also two apple orchards where you can pick apples or purchase pre-picked apples. Lavalier’s Orchard and Farm offers strawberries in mid-July, apples at the end of the summer and early September, and pumpkins, guords, squash and brussels sprouts in the fall. Timbersweet Orchard & Maple Syrup has blueberries in August, apples in September and maple syrup in late winter/early spring. Both locations are family friendly.

Fun Places to Eat & Drink

Going out to eat at new places and trying new beverages is a large part of going on vacation. In Grand Rapids, there are a wide variety of places to eat & drink, and several new places. From craft breweries to fine dining, and ethnic restaurants, fast-food, and the place that the locals like to go. There is more places to eat & drink than people think, when they think of small towns like Grand Rapids. At Visit Grand Rapids we are fond of the locally owned establishments that are family friendly and specialize in made from scratch and work with local farmers to purchase meat, vegetables, eggs, and more to create local and fresh food. These owners live, work and raise their families here; they play here too.

Now that you have had a chance to read Visit Grand Rapids Top 10 Fall Things To Do, we bet you want to learn more about the Grand Rapids, Minnesota area and BOOK your Fall Getaway. Check out our Fall Page that will help you plan your trip, book your trip, check out fall itineraries for inspiration, and get outdoors to relax, reconnect with loved ones, and recharge your soul in Minnesota’s nature. Welcome to Grand Rapids, Minnesota.

Top 5 August Summer Vacation Ideas | Visit Grand Rapids

End of summer vacation ideas for the grand rapids, mn area

We hope that these Top 5 August Summer Vacation Ideas will spur inspiration for you to book a summer vacation in the Grand Rapids, MN area. Summer isn’t over yet! There is still time to take a last minute summer vacation up north with loved one’s. The Grand Rapids, MN area is a premiere up north, going to the lake destination that is perfect for all ages.

There are some last minute openings still available at Grand Rapids area resorts, vacation rentals, hotels and motels, and Bed and Breakfasts. Check out the Grand Rapids Last Minute Openings and get your overnight lodging booked.

You can expect for the opportunity to relax by a lake (we have over 1,400 area lakes), to get outdoors (with over 2,000 miles of area trails – whatever type of outdoor recreation you are interested in – you can do it here – ATV, bike, hike, horseback ride, and more), enjoy new bites and sips (over 50 area restaurants and bars), shop at one of a kind boutique style shops, discover beautiful public art, and historic attractions, and take in fun events, festivals and live music. Grand Rapids, Minnesota is the perfect place for an end of summer vacation to reconnect with loved ones, recharge and relax in Minnesota’s nature.

1. Relax Up North

We choose RELAX to be the #1 of the Top 5 August Summer Vacation Ideas because all of us are over-scheduled and over-booked. As you will see from the below list, there is lots of things you can do and places to visit, the Grand Rapids, MN area offers you the opportunity to RELAX and RECONNECT with loved one’s. Even kids need down time to just be kids; swim in the lake, play yard games, ride a bike, and have no specific plans.

Being in Minnesota’s nature gives you the opportunity to untap and unplug from the busy hectic schedules, endless emails, and mobile voicemails and texts. Itasca County has worked hard to increase cell coverage and WiFi service, but if you want to untap and unplug this is the perfect place to do so. So, bring a book, a deck of cards, board games, s’mores to enjoy by a campfire, and enjoy a simple summer vacation up north in the Grand Rapids, Minnesota area.

2. Get Outdoors

Grand Rapids, Minnesota is surrounded over 1 million acres of publicly accessible forest acres. The Chippewa National Forest, UPM Blandin Forest, Rajala Forest Land, George Washington State Forest, and Itasca County Forfeit land make up these public acres. Whatever type of outdoor recreation you enjoy, you will be able to do it here. You can ATV, bike, boat, fish, float, hike, horseback ride, paddle and swim here. Here are a couple of recommendations:

ATV/OHV/OHM

UPM Blandin ATV Trail is located 9 miles south of Grand Rapids on Hwy 169. It connects with the Rabey Line ATV Trail that takes riders into Hill City, Minnesota where riders will find restaurants, gas stations, a grocery store, and places to overnight lodge. This trail goes through mixed hardwood and pine forests, over tamarack bog boardwalks, and several picnic areas to pull over for a shelter break.

BICYCLING

Then the Mesabi Trail is a 100+ mile paved bicycle trail that is perfect for the entire family. A great place for EV bicycles. The Grand Rapids to Keewatin, Minnesota section is full of hills and curves that go through old mine areas, over a swinging bog bridge, and through mixed hardwoods and pine forests. If you need bicycling equipment you can rent from Ardent Bicycles or Mesabi Excursions.

FISHING

There are over 1,400 area lakes and many rivers in the Grand Rapids, MN area. If you are looking to catch fish, you have come to the right area! All area resorts offer boat rentals and some offer fishing equipment rentals. R&R Rental and Grand Rapids Marine rent fishing boats and pontoons as well. The Grand Rapids, MN area lakes are known for many species of fish like walleye, northern pike, musky, panfish (crappies, bluegills, sunfish), bass and also trout.

HIKING

Suomi Trail located 18 miles north of Grand Rapids is a wonderful 20+ mile trail that has hills and curves that wrap around several small lakes. The Legion Trail offers great hiking and single track mountain bike trails that is located in the city limits of Grand Rapids. It is a 7 mile loop that has a couple of overlooks to Hale Lake. A good place to access is at the Reif Center.

HORSEBACK RIDING

The Chippewa National Forest at Cut Foot Sioux Horse Camp is locationed northesast of Lake Winnibigoshish. Over 120 miles of forest roads and recreation trails surround this scenic campground, making it a favorite location of campers with horses. The campground is first come, first serve.

MOUNTAIN BIKING

T ioga Recreation Area for mountain biking. Enjoy 25 miles of single track trails that are scored from beginner to double black diamond level. Trails for the entire family. Two lakes surround the trails: Tioga & Pokegama that are great for swimming, fishing, paddling and boating. If you need bicycling equipment you can rent from Ardent Bicycles or Mesabi Excursions. If you need paddling rental equipment, check out Paddle Hoppers.

PADDLING

The mighty Mississippi River runs right through Cohasset and Grand Rapids, Minnesota. You can launch your own kayak, canoe or stand up paddle board at the Pokegama Dam, Steamboat Landing (downtown Grand Rapids). If you don’t want to bring your own or don’t own paddling equipment you can take a guided Mississippi River kayak tour at the Forest History Center, or you can rent equipment from Paddle Hoppers and launch right from their location onto the Mississippi River. Another great place that you can bring your own or take rental equipment is Tioga Recreation Area on Tioga Pit or Pokegama Lake.

3. Discover Beautiful Art & Historic Sites

MINNESOTA ART & CULTURE

Grand Rapids, Minnesota has become a regional hub for art & culture. The public art that is located throughout the downtown has been provided by the Grand Rapids Arts and Culture Commission and the Grand Rapids Arts. MacRostie Art Center is a place where you can view and purchase local and Minnesota art. They are located downtown across from the historic and open to the public Old Central School. The Reif Performance Center offers over 50 performances each season in their two theaters that seat a total of 900 people. The Reif Center brings Broadway style theater to Grand Rapids. All seats are perfect to get an up close and personal live theater experience.

MINNESOTA HISTORIC SITES

The Old Central School is a Romesque Style architecture building that was built in 1894. The school is now a commerce site for business and art suites for several artists. You can take a self guided tour of Downtown Public Art and Historic Sites HERE. This interactive map will guide you to and from each site. At the bottom of each art and historic site, you will click navigate here which will bring up a Google Map directions that you can get from your mobile device. There are historic area attractions that you can purchase admission to tour the Judy Garland Museum and Children’s Discovery Center which share a building that has children’s interactive exhibits, and the largest exhibit of Judy Garland memorabilia displays. Judy Garland was born in Grand Rapids. The Forest History Center is another great historic site that includes a 1900’s reinacted logging camp where interpreters in period costumes lead visitors in the logging camp retelling the story of what life would have been like in the early 1900’s winter. There are over 200 acres in the Forest History Center with trails that lead to the Mississippi River.

4. Places to Enjoy New Bites & Sips

For a small town, Grand Rapids has a wide variety of places to eat & drink. There are the local favorites like Sammy’s Pizza, Zorbaz, Forest Lake Restaurant, and Timberlake Lodge Restaurants. The eclectic coffee houses like Brewed Awakening and NoPo. Then the boat in favorites like Pickled Loon Saloon, Pokegama Grill and Otis’s Restaurant. And then there are place to sample local brew and Minnesota wines. Unwined Up North serves Minnesota craft beer and Minnesota wines. Rapids Brewing Company brews on site and then utilizes their brewery grains to create unique cuisine menu items. Klockow Brewing Co brews onsite and hosts a variety of food trucks and offers weekly live music. Click HERE to find a full list of places to eat and drink in the greater Grand Rapids area.

5. Boutique Style Shopping

And rounding out out Top 5 August Summer Vacation Ideas are the unique boutique style shops that offer one of a kind items for you to bring home one or more mementos of your summer vacation in the Grand Rapids, MN area.

In downtown Grand Rapids you will find several blocks of historic brick storefronts that offer a wide variety of clothing, jewelry, furniture, home decor, souvenir items, and much more! And then there are many shops that offer antique and vintage items in Grand Rapids, Deer River, and Bovey.

Grand Rapids, MN also offers big box stores as well, but the small locally owned boutique style shops are known for great customer service, one of a kind items, and souvenir style items like sweatshirts, t-shirts and more.

Be Sure To Book Your Lodging!

Because the Grand Rapids, MN area is a premiere up north, going to the lake destination, you will want to BOOK YOUR LODGING as soon as you can. Make sure to check out LAST MINUTE LODGING OPENINGS for vacation rentals, resort cabins, Hotels, Motels and Bed and Breakfast openings. Not all lodging properties post on this site, so you will also want to check out the Grand Rapids, MN Stay page, and visit their sites, and call them to see if they have openings. The Grand Rapids, MN area offers a wide variety of lodging options so you will be sure to find something that fits your needs.

Historic and Cultural Hot Spots: Summer Itinerary Guide

Summer itinerary Guide

In the Grand Rapids, Minnesota area you will find many Historic and Cultural Hot Spots to discover. Visit Grand Rapids created this summer itinerary guide that highlights the historic and cultural area attractions that you will want to add to your Grand Rapids Summer Vacation. These are perfect for the entire family. Some are self-guided, some are FREE, and some offer a variety of programming so there is something for everyone. Minnesota has rich history, and these historic and cultural hot spots will offer diverse opportunities to learn, be entertained, create, and be inspired. Visit Grand Rapids welcomes you to relax, reconnect with loved one’s, and recharge in Minnesota’s nature this summer.

Forest History Center

The Forest History Center is located within the city limits of Grand Rapids, Minnesota. It is a Minnesota
Historical Society site that explores the historical relationship between people and the forests of Minnesota. It features a recreated 1900s logging camp, a forest history interpretive center with exhibits, a 100-foot fire tower, many nature
trails, and special programming offered throughout the year. Visitors can learn about the lives of lumberjacks, the logging industry, and forest conservation through interactive exhibits, demonstrations, and tours. Several special program admission available are: Guided Kayak of the Mississippi River, Pontoon Tour on the Mississippi River, and the Great Northern Forest History Tour. Special Events that occur in the summer: Be A Lumberjack, Be A Naturalist, and Real Horsepower Day.

Judy Garland & Childrens Discovery Museum

The Judy Garland Museum in Grand Rapids, Minnesota, is a museum dedicated to the life and career of Judy Garland, the iconic actress and singer best known for her role as Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz. The museum features a wide array of exhibits, including Judy Garland’s restored childhood home, a large collection of Wizard of Oz memorabilia, and personal artifacts from Garland’s life and career. The museum houses a vast collection of Wizard of Oz artifacts, including the original carriage used in the film and a Dorothy Gale test dress worn by Garland.

Adjacent to the Judy Garland Museum is the Children’s Discovery Museum, offering interactive exhibits for children of all ages. The Children’s Discovery Museum in Grand Rapids, Minnesota, offers a hands-on, interactive learning
environment where children can explore various exhibits and engage in imaginative play. The museum features a kid-sized town with different areas like a grocery store, pizza parlor, fire station, and more. It also includes exhibits like a water table with locks and levees, a “Lake Life” area with a fishing pier, yurt, and stage. NEW exhibits this year are Hometown, the Makwa’s Waaka’igan! (Bear’s Den) where you can watch the stars, and the tornado simulator located at the front entrance.

MacRostie Art Center

The MacRostie Art Center, located in Grand Rapids, Minnesota, is a nonprofit community art center focused on fostering a creative community through the arts in northern Minnesota. It serves as a regional art center, showcasing the work of artists from northern Minnesota and beyond, with a focus on both local and diverse artists. The center offers a variety of programs and services, including gallery exhibitions, an art shop, studio spaces, artist residencies, and educational opportunities.

Exhibitions:

The MAC hosts rotating exhibitions in three gallery spaces, featuring a diverse range of regional artists. They also participate in satellite galleries throughout the area.

Art Shop:

The art shop features the work of over 90 local and regional artists, offering a space for artists to display and sell their work.

Classes and Workshops:

The center provides studio spaces for classes and workshops for artists of all ages and skill levels, including woodworking, pottery, and watercolor.

Community Gathering Space:

The MAC offers a space for community members to gather, connect, and experience art.

Giinawind Creative Space:

The center includes the Giinawind Creative Space, which centers Indigenous art and artists and welcomes the entire community.

The Reif Center

The Reif Center, officially known as the Reif Performing Arts Center, is a regional attraction in Grand Rapids, Minnesota, offering a wide array of artistic experiences. It features live music, theater, and dance performances, as well as an art gallery. The Reif Center also houses a dance program and a theater arts program for students of all ages.

Two stages:

The Wilcox Theater (700 seats) and the Mary Ives Studio Theater (200 seats).

Diverse performances:

The Reif hosts over 50 national and international touring performances annually, including music, dance, theater, and comedy. In the Summer the Reif Center partners with off site organizations to showcase their summer concert series. This summer the concerts take place at the Miner Pavilion located at Yanmar Arena.

Art gallery:

The Reif Center partners with MacRostie Art Center to showcase mostly local and regional artists through regular featured art exhibits in their lobby.

Itasca County Historical Society

The Itasca County Historical Society, located in Grand Rapids, Minnesota, is a museum and research center dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of Itasca County. It features exhibits on local history, including logging, mining, Native American heritage, and the story of Frances Ethel Gumm (Judy Garland). The society also operates the Karjala Research Genealogy and History Center and the “Picture of Grace” exhibit, which tells the story behind Minnesota’s state photograph. Current special feature exhibits include the Picture Grace, CCC Camp, River Room, Itasca Veterans, Trains and Mining, the story of Judy Garland, and Schools of Itasca County.

The Itasca County Historical Society has an Escape Room which offers a fun, family-friendly way to learn about local history while solving puzzles and riddles within a 60-minute time limit.

Gameplay:

Players work together to find clues, crack codes, and solve puzzles to escape the room within the allotted hour.

Learning Experience:

The escape room is designed to be educational, providing a unique and engaging way to learn about Itasca County’s history.

Family-Friendly:

The escape room is suitable for families and is promoted as a fun activity for all ages.

Self-Guided Tour of Grand Rapids Art & Historic Sites

Take a self-guided tour of downtown Grand Rapids, Minnesota Art & Historic Sites by pulling up an interactive and mobile friendly Arc/GIS Map that was created by ARDC located in Duluth, Minnesota. This story map showcases the public art and historic sites located in downtown Grand Rapids and along the Mississippi River.

While you are downtown taking the self-guided walking tour, make sure that you walk down to the Mississippi River located at the Grand Rapids Area Public Library and KAXE Northern Community Radio to enjoy the Music Park, Book Walk, and walk across the Mississippi River Walking and Biking Bridge.

On the walking art and historic site tour, you will enjoy both indoor and outdoor art. There are murals, statutes, sculptures, beautiful flowers, and historic sites. Also located downtown are boutique shops, bars, restaurants, and coffeehouses.

About Grand Rapids, Minnesota

Now that you have learned more about the Historic and Cultural Hot Spots in Grand Rapids, Minnesota, here is a little bit more information about the Grand Rapids, Minnesota area. This up north vacation destination is a place where visitors can relax by the lake or in the forests, reconnect with loved ones, and recharge by getting outdoors. There are over 1M publicly accessible forest acres surrounding Grand Rapids, Minnesota. Some notable public forests: Chippewa National Forest, George Washington State Forest, and the UPM Blandin Forests. Within these forests are 2,000 miles of designated recreation trails, and 1,400 area lakes. And then the outdoor splendor is enhanced by the indoor things to do and see. There is a wide variety of short-term lodging options: Hotels, Motel, Air BnB’s, Bed and Breakfasts, Resorts and Vacation Rentals. There are many fun places to try new sips and bites, and several with beautiful views on area lakes. And then there are the historic sites, beautiful public art, cultural experiences, summer festivals, and live music weekly events. Grand Rapids, Minnesota is a small up north charming town that is welcoming and inviting to all.

Here are some resources to check out to learn more about the Grand Rapids, Minnesota area:

Grand Rapids Visitor Guide: https://visitgrandrapids.com/visitor-guide/

Places to Stay: https://visitgrandrapids.com/stay

Events Calendar: https://visitgrandrapids.com/events/calendar

Frigid Weather Things To Do In Grand Rapids Minnesota

cold weather things to do in grand rapids mN

There are many frigid weather things to do in Grand Rapids Minnesota. When the weather outside is frightful, people head to indoor things to do. Here is our Top 10 Frigid Weather Things To Do in Grand Rapids Minnesota:

Get Warm inside

In Grand Rapids there are SO many indoor places where you can come in from the COLD winter and warm up, relax, enjoy live music, let the kids play and interact, be entertained, participate in an interactive exhibit or program, view beautiful art, be a part of a cultural experience, and support local businesses.

Here are some warm indoors things to do in frigid weather in Grand Rapids Minnesota:

The Judy Garland Museum and the Children’s Discovery Museum are under one roof and with one admission you can view two museums full of exhibitions that are fun for the entire family. From the largest collection of Judy Garland memorabilia, tour Judy’s childhood home, and let the kids play and interact with the children’s exhibits.

The Itasca County Historical Society has many different exhibits to enjoy and discover the history of the Grand Rapids and Itasca County area. Visit the River Room to discover about the Mighty Mississippi that flows right through downtown Grand Rapids. Schedule an appointment for the Escape Room. Every season they change the Escape Room theme, so if you have been there before, try it again.

MacRostie Art Center is located downtown across from Old Central School. MacRostie has a wide variety of youth and adult classes that they offer in their art room. Check out their art exhibitions in their three galleries: Minnesota, MacRostie and Ginnawind. The Ginnawind Gallery was created as a creative space for native american art. MacRostie also has an art shop where you can purchase local and Minnesota made artwork.

Old Central School is a late 1800’s historic building that is located in the center of downtown Grand Rapids. This building once served as the main schoolhouse for ages K-12. Now this building is home to shops, businesses and artists (on the 3rd floor). Take a self-guided tour of the building. The building is handicap friendly with an elevator located on the ground floor from the north parking lot entrance. View and read the exhibits about the schools history located on the second floor.

Reif Center is a great place to be entertained and also view beautiful art. This performing arts center has two theaters where people can purchase tickets to concerts, plays, comedy acts, and more. The Reif Center brings Broadway style performances to northern Minnesota in a state of the art theater experience. They offer several performances a month, and several family friendly performances throughout the year. MacRostie and the Reif work together to create regular aryt exhibits in the lobby of The Reif Center. You can view the art exhibit schedule at MacRostie’s website.

ThunderAlley Bowling & Arcade is another warm place indoors during frigid weather where you can have fun with the entire family. For younger children they have bumpers and special bowling balls available upon request to assist them so they can bowl along with the adults. The arcade space has brought back the old pac man and wack a mole style games. You purchase tickets to play and them win tickets that you can trade in for prizes. They offer bar style pizzas, snacks and beverages to enjoy while you play.

Mann’s Cinnema 8 offers another great place to come inside and warm up. Enjoy the latest big screen movies in reclining comfort. Mann’s offers theater seating so all seats are great! The concessions offers a wide variety of snacks and beverages to enjoy while you watch the movie. With 8 theaters there is always a wide selection to choose from so that there is something for all ages.

Ravenstone Abbey is located in Coleraine that is a repurposed historic church that has been recreated into a axe throwing, pub style environment bar/restaurant and place for the community to gather. A great opportunity to try axe throwing in a dungeon atmosphere. You don’t need to be a professional to try this, and fun for all ages!

Blueberry Bowl is a three lane bowling ally and arcade event space that some people would say offers the best pizza homestyle pizza. Blueberry Bowl is a locally owned bowling ally that provides a fun place for families to come inside in the frigid weather that is reasonably priced.

Fun Places to Eat & Drink

Come inside to warm up inside at locally owned restaurants, craft breweries and other establishments that serve beverage and food. For a small town Grand Rapids has a wide variety of restaurants to choose from. There is the places where you can get the best bar burgers, and then there is the place to get the best pizza in Minnesota. Or there are two locally owned craft breweries, and a winery located in Coleraine (the next town down the road – 10 minutes away). Then you will find locally owned restaurants that offer a variety of ethnic food menu’s. There is fast to go food, sit down, and a craft brewery that allow you to order in from the local restaurants. View the Grand Rapids, MN Restaurant List for more information.

Shopping

Shopping is always a great frigid weather thing to do in Grand Rapids, Minnesota. Shopping in the Grand Rapids, Minnesota area is a mix of locally owned boutique style shops to big box type of franchises. The locally owned boutique style shops offer a wide variety of one of a kind items from art, clothing, home decor, jewelry and so much more. These boutiques are typically located in repurposed historic buildings that have been repurposed into shopping spaces that offer locally created items.

Book An Overnight

When the weather outside is frightful, booking an overnight at a Grand Rapids, Minnesota area Hote/Motel, Resort Cabin, Vacation Rental, or Bed and Breakfast. Maybe a romantic getaway for two or a family-friendly lodging property that offers space for everyone to spread out or come together to make a meal together, play old fashion board games, or cuddling by a fireplace. Maybe a place with a pool, hot tub or sauna is what you seek. Maybe a lake place that offers lake access for ice fishing or access to the winter trails. Let’s be honest, a change on environment can change the winter cabin fever perspective. View the Grand Rapids, MN Lodging Properties and book an overnight today.

End of Summer Road Trip Ideas

End of Summer Road Trip to Grand Rapids

Summer isn’t over yet; it’s only the third week of August. There is still time to take a last minute summer road trip with loved one’s. Grand Rapids is an northern Minnesota destination that is perfect for a summer road trip. There are some last minute openings still available at Grand Rapids area resorts, vacation rentals, hotels and motels. Check out the Grand Rapids Last Minute Openings and get your overnight lodging booked. Grand Rapids is an outdoor recreation mecca of the north with over 2,000 miles of trails and over 1,400 lakes in the area. Grand Rapids also offers a historic downtown with boutique style shops, craft brewery, a wine bar and charming coffee shops. You will also find an abundance of public art, art and historic attractions, and live theater performances and live music. Grand Rapids, Minnesota is the perfect place for an end of summer road trip to reconnect with loved ones, recharge and relax in Minnesota’s nature.

Outdoor Recreation Mecca of the North

Grand Rapids, Minnesota is surrounded by public forest land; over 1 million acres to be exact. The Chippewa National Forest, UPM Blandin Forest, Rajala Forest Land, and George Washington State Forest make up these public acres. Whatever type of outdoor recreation you enjoy, you will be able to do it here. There are biking, hiking, hunting, ATV, snowmobile and cross country ski trails. Here are a couple of trails we recommend:

MOUNTAIN BIKING

Tioga Recreation Area for mountain biking. Enjoy 25 miles of single track trails that are beginner to double black diamond level. Trails for the entire family. Two lakes surround the trails: Tioga & Pokegama that are great for swimming, fishing, paddling and boating.

HIKING

Suomi Trail located 18 miles north of Grand Rapids is a wonderful 20+ mile trail that has hills and curves that wrap around several small lakes. The Legion Trail offers great hiking and single track mountain bike trails that is located in the city limits of Grand Rapids. It is a 7 mile loop that has a couple of overlooks to Hale Lake. A good place to access is at the Reif Center.

ATV/OHV/OHM

UPM Blandin ATV Trail is located 9 miles south of Grand Rapids on Hwy 169. It connects with the Rabey Line ATV Trail that takes riders into Hill City, Minnesota where riders will find restaurants, gas stations, a grocery store, and places to overnight lodge. This trail goes through mixed hardwood and pine forests, over tamarack bog boardwalks, and several picnic areas to pull over for a shelter break.

BICYCLING

Then the Mesabi Trail is a 100+ mile paved bicycle trail that is perfect for the entire family. A great place for EV bicycles. The Grand Rapids to Keewatin, Minnesota section is full of hills and curves that go through old mine areas, over a swinging bog bridge, and through mixed hardwoods and pine forests.

Minnesota Art & History

MINNESOTA ART & CULTURE

Grand Rapids, Minnesota has become a regional hub for art & culture. The public art that is located throughout the downtown has been provided by the Grand Rapids Arts and Culture Commission and the Grand Rapids Arts. MacRostie Art Center is a place where you can view and purchase local and Minnesota art. They are located downtown across from the historic and open to the public Old Central School. The Reif Performance Center offers over 50 performances each season in their two theaters that seat a total of 900 people. The Reif Center brings Broadway style theater to Grand Rapids. All seats are perfect to get an up close and personal live theater experience.

MINNESOTA HISTORIC SITES

The Old Central School is a Romesque Style architecture building that was built in 1894. The school is now a commerce site for business and art suites for several artists. You can take a self guided tour of Downtown Public Art and Historic Sites HERE. This interactive map will guide you to and from each site. At the bottom of each art and historic site, you will click navigate here which will bring up a Google Map directions that you can get from your mobile device. There are historic area attractions that you can purchase admission to tour the Judy Garland Museum and Children’s Discovery Center which share a building that has children’s interactive exhibits, and the largest exhibit of Judy Garland memorabilia displays. Judy Garland was born in Grand Rapids. The Forest History Center is another great historic site that includes a 1900’s reinacted logging camp where interpreters in period costumes lead visitors in the logging camp retelling the story of what life would have been like in the early 1900’s winter. There are over 200 acres in the Forest History Center with trails that lead to the Mississippi River.

Local Places to Eat & Drink

For a small town, Grand Rapids has a wide variety of places to eat & drink. There are the local favorites like Sammy’s Pizza, Zorbaz, Forest Lake Restaurant, and Timberlake Lodge Restaurants. The eclectic coffee houses like Brewed Awakening and NoPo. Then the boat in favorites like Pickled Loon Saloon, Pokegama Grill and Otis’s Restaurant. And then there are place to sample local brew and Minnesota wines. Unwined Up North serves Minnesota craft beer and Minnesota wines. Rapids Brewing Company brews on site and then utilizes their brewery grains to create unique cuisine menu items. Klockow Brewing Co brews onsite and hosts a variety of food trucks and offers weekly live music. Click HERE to find a full list of places to eat and drink in the greater Grand Rapids area.

Cozy Places To Stay

For an end of the summer road trip, you will find lots of cozy places to stay. From in town and conveniently located to shops, breweries and trails you will find Hotels, Motels, a Bed and Breakfast, and Vacation Rentals. You will also find Minnesota Lake Resorts, Vacation Lake Rentals, and campgrounds. We suggest by starting with Last Minute Openings and then check out our STAY page that has our full listings of short-term overnight lodging establishments. There is such a wide variety that we are sure there is an overnight lodging property to meet everyone’s needs.

What To Do On A Rainy Day In Grand Rapids, MN?

Grand Rapids, MN area attractions

Not all days can be sunshine, so this blog article highlights things to do on a rainy day in Grand Rapids, MN. We bet there is way more things to do than you ever thought!

Itasca County Historical Society & Escape Room

The Itasca County Historical Society Museum is a great place to tour on a rainy day in downtown Grand Rapids, MN. The museum is FREE to tour; they do request a free will donation. Historic and educational exhibits that they feature right now is the River Room that highlights actifacts that have been found along the Mississippi River, Native American jingle dress display and cultural pieces on display, and a beautiful hand painted river mural that showcases life along the river. Additional exhibits that you can discover are: Itasca area Veterans, Itasca Train Club Trains Villages, Itasca County History panels, and a gift shop. Itasca County Historical Society and Escape Room

Judy Garland & Children's Discovery Museums

The Judy Garland Museum is an eclectic Judy Garland and Wizard of Oz collection. The Museum hosts thoughtfully curated exhibits and artifacts, including the original carriage featured in the Wizard of Oz (once owned by President Lincoln), a Dorothy Gale test dress from the Wizard of Oz, and many personal Judy Garland items collected over 40 years. The Children’s Discovery Museum is located in the same building and is a great place for children to run off some steam by interacting at the kid friendly exhibits. It is the only Children’s Museums located in a MN rural towns (fewer than 10,000 population). The Children’s Discovery Museum is perfect for children age 1-12 years of age. Highlight of some of the exhibits: river water table, dino play, Teresa the talking tree, Lake life, Rivertown, Tot Park, Wind tunnel, and much more. Judy Garland Museum and Children’s Discovery Museum

Forest History Center

A hidden gem of Grand Rapids, Minnesota is the Forest History Center. This is a perfect place to tour on a rainy day in Grand Rapids, MN. Tour the interactive forestry and science interpretive center, climb the fire tower, walk the river trails to the Mississippi, tour the wanagan, and step back in time to life in the early 1800’s at the logging camp. The Forest History Center is open Wednesday-Saturday middle of June through Labor Day. A new feature is the kayak tours of the Mississippi River. There is an additional charge for this tour, but it is a bucket list for sure! A perfect Grand Rapids area attraction to enjoy the environmental learning center where all ages can connect and discover Minnesota’s history together. Forest History Center

Edge of the Wilderness Discovery Center

The Edge of the Wilderness Discovery Center is a great place to tour on a rainy day. The Discovery Center is located in Marcell, MN; and is worth the 40 minute drive north from Grand Rapids. This environmental learning center offers over 20 native Minnesota wildlife mounts and exhibits that highlight native species that can be found in Minnesota’s nature. The Discovery Center is one of fourteen discovery sites along the Edge of the Wilderness Scenic Byway that runs 47 miles from Grand Rapids to Effie, Minnesota. The Discovery Center also offers Naturalist Programs on several Saturdays in the summer. Their Facebook page highlights these program dates and subject themes. These are offered at no cost to everyone. For nicer days, you can rent a kayak or canoe to paddle at Lake Ranier (located right at the Discovery Center). You can also fish off of the floating pier. There are also walking trails that will take you around a portion of Lake Ranier. You can have a picnic lunch at one of the many picnic tables or under the covered pavilion that overlooks the lake. A wonderful place for all ages to learn about Minnesota’s wildlife and Edge of the Wilderness history. Edge of the Wilderness Discovery Center Facebook Page

Bowling, Movies and Live Music

Additional indoor things to do on a rainy day in Grand Rapids, Minnesota are, bowling, go to a matinee, and enjoy live music. Thunder Alley XL offers bowling, an kid/adult arcade area, limited bar/grille, and an outdoor batting case and mini golf center. Mann’s Grand Rapids Cinema 8 offers eight small theater recliner style seating that features the latest big screen movies. And then there is live music at the craft breweries, wine bar and local bars in the area. Check out the the Grand Rapids, MN area Events Calendar for more details of who has nightly live music offerings.

Self-Guided Tours & Boutique Style Shops

Self Guided Historic Buildings & Public Art Tours

Between the rain drops, while you are already downtown, you should take a self-guided historic building and public art tour. Grand Rapids is a very historic community with many existing buildings, being built in the late 1800’s. You can take a self-guided Grand Rapids History and Public Art Tour where you can walk around downtown Grand Rapids and discover all of the historic buildings and public art that features Native American culture and heritage, the Mississippi River, the forestry and papermaking industries, and wildlife in Minnesota’s nature. Old Central School is one of the historic buildings on the self-guided tour that was built in1895. The three story building is the tallest building in Grand Rapids. This Romanesque style architecture is prominent throughout the building. The center staircase has hosted many events like community gatherings, events and even a few weddings. Even if you visit on a rainy day, make sure that you step outside to view the yellow brick road and the beautiful flower beds the wrap along it. The other famous yellow brick road can be viewed at the Judy Garland Museum (located on Hwy 169 S in Grand Rapids).

View More About: Itasca Area Attractions

Shopping

There are many places to shop in the Grand Rapids, MN area. Downtown by walking the boutique style shops along 1st Avenue N (Bender’s, Stained Glass, Briers Clothing, Stoke(s, MacRostie Art Center, and then the shops inside Old Central School), shops on 3rd Street Shaw Florists, Evergreen, Mississippi Diamond, Wings & Willows, Lake + Co), and the shops on 1st Avenue S (Frame Up and North in Bloom) are all great places to start. Then swing into the Central Square Mall and shop the many retail and vintage shops including Clara’s Cupboard & Closet. And then there are the home décor and vintage shops that are located all across the greater Grand Rapids, MN area. To name a few: 218 Style (located just a few blocks east of downtown on 4th Street), Red Willow Co. (located south of downtown east of Target), The Antique Company in Coleraine and Annabella’s in Bovey. For more shopping opportunities, check out the Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce and the Deer River Chamber of Commerce.

unique and fun places to eat & drink

Craft Breweries, Wine Bar & Winery

Going out to eat is a wonderful part of being on vacation – not having to cook! On a rainy day there are great places to Eat & Drink. Grand Rapids, Minnesota is home to two craft breweries and one wine bar. Klockow Brewing Company was the first to open. They are a production brewery that distributes their craft beer throughout Minnesota liquor stores. They offer clean classics and complex experiments from the Northwoods of Minnesota! They also offer live music and events at the brewery. Each week they feature a variety of food trucks. You can bring food in or order food to be delivered to the brewery. They offer non-alcoholic beer and Northern Soda’s. Rapids Brewing Co. is located downtown in the historic Rialto Theater. They brew and sell only onsite. They specialize in locally sourced products for their beer and wood fired oven menu. They offer non-alcoholic options as well. You can enjoy live music and events every week. Then, Unwined Up North is a wine bar that features Minnesota craft beer (including Klockow Beer) and Minnesota wines. Their menu offers charcuterie boards, panini sandwiches, salads and other small plates. They offer live music and events each week as well. And then the newest wine and cider facility called Smoke on the Water that also has a wood fired kitchen and crafted bar. Take a short drive 15 minutes east of Grand Rapids to Trout Lake in downtown Coleraine. They are hosting summer outdoor music every week. Find more places to Eat & Drink at the Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce and the Deer River Chamber of Commerce.

Other Local Favorite Places To Eat & Drink

Restaurants on the Lake

Despite Grand Rapids being a small town, there are many fun places to eat & drink. Zorbaz on Pokegama Lake is one of them. A franchised restaurant specializes in pizza, spaghetti, tacos and burritos. The eclectic environment showcases going to the lake themes of boats, motors, water skis and more hanging from the walls and ceiling. Kids enjoy the free popcorn, kiddie cocktails and kiddie arcade area. Pickled Loon Saloon offers views of Pokegama Lake from their harbor location. Their large menu offers everything from italian nachos, burgers, nightly chef specials, and steak tips and shrimp. There is something special about boating to your restaurant. The Pokegama Grille is another great place to drive to or boat to restaurant in Grand Rapids. Pokegama Grill is located at the Pokegama Golf Course that offers a covered outdoor patio as well as indoor dining with stunning views of Pokegama Lake. Enjoy burger baskets, fresh handcrafted salads and more.

Places Where the Locals Eat & Drink

Every town has the favorite places where locals like to eat & drink. Boulder Tap House is one of those places. They offer over 20 different beers on tap, and are known for their burger, cheese curds and handmade ice cream shakes. If you are looking for local favorites then you will want to go to Forest Lake Restaurant and get a burger and a cup of their chicken wild rice soup. Timberlake Restaurant offers an endless fresh salad bar, soup, wings and breadstick lunch that is a fantastic deal. And they also offer chef inspired dinners like cedar plank salmon, Walleye Ala Ritz, and walleye cakes. And then there is the Italian favorite Sammy’s Pizza. They specialize in thin crust hand-tossed pizza’s where all of the ingredients are from fresh vegetables, meats and cheeses. Additional cultural experiences are: Fuji Japanese sushi and hibachi grill and El Potro authentic Mexican restaurant that are both great places to eat & drink.

Additional Places To Eat & Drink

There are places that are located just a little bit outside of downtown Grand Rapids that are all worth the drive. Heading to the east of Grand Rapids you will find several places to get a great bar burger like The Locker Room in downtown Coleraine, Wizards in downtown Nashwauk. Then there is authentic Mexican at Mucho Si in downtown Nashwauk. Florio’s Grill & Tavern is located in downtown Cohasset right on Hwy 2 that is known for their burger, shrimp and fish baskets and Saturday night prime rib. Then there is Cedar Creek Grille that offers American cuisine made from scratch recipes and hand-cut steaks. Blueberry Bowl is located north of Deer River where you can bowl and get awesome thin crust pizza made to order. Drive a little further north along the Avenue of the Pines Scenic Byway and you will find the Gosh Dam Place that will cook your freshly caught fish and include made from scratch tartar sauce and sides to make a meal. Fish Tales, Leino’s Pub, and Hoot N Holler Bar are located in Squaw Lake and Alvwood area. These are great options if you are interested in driving up for a hike at the Lost Forty (definitely a bucket list item). All of these establishments offer signature drinks and menu items.

There was probably way more than you thought there was to do on a rainy day in the Grand Rapids, MN area, right?! If you are still looking for MORE, check out the Visit Grand Rapids website that showcases all things to do and see in the greater Grand Rapids, MN area within 50 miles! www.visitgrandrapids.com.

What To Expect In A Grand Rapids Summer Vacation

Grand Rapids, MN Summer vacation

A Grand Rapids, MN Summer Vacation is one where you can reconnect with loved ones, recharge your batteries, and relax in Minnesota’s nature. Going on vacation with your loved one’s is about the deeper connections you make, the memories you make, and the stories that you will always share. This up north vacation destination is a small and charming northern Minnesota town that boasts amenities of a much large community. You will find a wide variety of short-term lodging options, boutique style shops, fun places to eat & drink, public art & historic sites, events and festivals, and a lot of outdoor recreation opportunities!

Lots of cozy lodging

You can do as much or as little as you would like on a Grand Rapids , MN Summer Vacation. You will find a wide variety of places to stay in Grand Rapids. There are conveniently located in town Hotels and Motels that offer a variety of on-site amenities like a pool, restaurants, continental breakfast, walkable shops and restaurants, and in town trails. You will also find in town Air B&B’s that are located above downtown shops that have room to spread out, kitchens, dining areas and living room spaces to gather together. Then there are vacation rentals in town and on area lakes, and Minnesota family resorts on area lakes; located on a lake, offer full kitchens, living room areas, screened in porches, firepits, dock slips, and sometimes . The choice is yours.

Lakes & fishing

Summer Vacations are best spent up north at the lake! In the greater Grand Rapids, MN area you will find over 1,400 lakes. These lakes range in size from less than a hundred acres to over 4,000 acres. On these lakes you can paddle, fish, swim, boat, ski, tube, and just float. “Going to the Lake” in the summer is the number one favorite summer vacation memory that kids share about their Grand Rapids, Minnesota vacation. “Fishing” is an activity that most resort guests say they enjoyed while on their Grand Rapids, MN Summer Vacation. From panfish to trophy fish like walleye, northern and musky; we have a lake to catch them on. All of our Minnesota Family Resorts offer boat rentals, but you can fish from the dock, shore or a fishing pier too. There is something special about watching a child catch their first fish. All you need is a fishing pole, a hook and some bait. The Grand Rapids Library lends out fishing poles and tackle where you can fish from their fishing pier on the Mississippi River. Fun for the entire family!

trails & outdoor recreation

Grand Rapids, Minnesota is becoming to be known as the outdoor recreation mecca of the north. Whatever type of outdoor recreation that you enjoy, you will find a trail or lake to do it on. You will find over 2,000 miles of trails in the greater Grand Rapids, MN area. Many of these trails are in the Chippewa National Forest and George Washington State Forest. From ATVing, biking, hiking, mountain biking, paddling, fishing, and boating. Enjoy yourself in Minnesota’s nature. Take in the fresh air in our mixed forests of tall hardwood and pine trees, pristine clear lakes, or mighty Mississippi River. So many new outdoor recreation trails to make memories.

Golf

Grand Rapids is home to three championship level golf courses known as the Grand Lakes of Golf Courses; Sugarbrooke Golf Course, Pokegama Golf Course, Eagle Ridge Golf Course. Each course is beautifully manicured with different degrees of difficulty. All have cart rentals and restaurants on site. In addition to the three-championship courses, there is also several smaller 9-hole courses located in the greater Grand Rapids, Minnesota area.

Public Art & Historic Sites

The greater Grand Rapids, MN area offers a wide variety of public art and historic sites that are fun for all ages! This summer head north to Grand Rapids for an awesome Summer Vacation! In downtown Grand Rapids you can take a Self-guided Art and Historic Site Tour.

There are several places to view art in the greater Grand Rapids, MN area. MacRostie Art Center is located downtown Grand Rapids and offers three galleries to view monthly exhibits. The Reif Center offers their main season performances September-May in their theater, but during the summer they take the show on the road and lakes. Check out their Boat in Concerts and MN Discovery Center Ampitheater performances that are on the Events Calendar this summer.

There are several area attractions that showcase Minnesota history and historic places like the Itasca County Historical Society that offers a free will museum and an escape room that features bigfoot. The Judy Garland and Children’s Museum are under one roof that showcases both art, history, and an opportunity for kids to use their imaginations through the kid friendly exhibits. The Forest History Center is an environmental learning center located right in the city limits of Grand Rapids. The 1900’s logging camp and interpretive center is open Wednesday-Saturday and it is perfect for all ages. They even offer guided kayaking on the Mississippi River. there are many more fun area attractions and sites to discover in the greater Grand Rapids, MN area this summer.

Start Planning Your Summer Vacation To Grand Rapids

Grand Rapids, Minnesota is the perfect location for an up north Summer Vacation. There is an abundance of outdoor recreation, interesting area attractions for the entire family, boutique style shops, fun places to eat & drink, cozy lodging, and entertaining events. Start your planning now by downloading the official interactive Grand Rapids Visitor Guide. This guide will give you seasonal itinerary ideas, outdoor recreation trail information, fishing tips, fun places to eat & drink, and cozy lodging broken down by amenities.

This Summer come relax, reconnect and recharge in Minnesota’s nature!

This Northern town offers BIG charm through its welcoming shops, restaurants, unique attractions, public art, live music, and cozy lodging. Grand Rapids is a going to the lake community that is an outdoor recreation mecca of the north. Enjoy time on our lakes and trails and take in the fresh air of the Minnesota forests. The official Visitor Guide has lots of information to help you plan your Grand Rapids, MN Summer Vacation. Read articles that highlight outdoor recreation, public art, historic places, fun places to eat. Review the lodging options based on the amenities they offer. Learn more about downtown, living here, and other seasonal trip ideas and itineraries.

Grand Rapids, Minnesota is the perfect road trip destination for any season vacation where there is something for everyone in the family.

Making Vacation Memories This Summer | Visit Grand Rapids

Make Summer vacation Memories in Grand Rapids, MN

Making summer memories on vacation is all about reconnecting with loved ones, recharging your batteries, and relaxing in Minnesota’s nature. A summer vacation up north with your loved one’s is about the deeper connections you make and the stories that you will always share. Grand Rapids, Minnesota is the perfect up north summer vacation destination. You will find a wide variety of short-term lodging options to gather together in, charming boutique style shops, fun places to eat & drink, beautiful public art & historic sites, summer events and festivals, and a lot of outdoor recreation opportunities! This summer make memories in Grand Rapids, Minnesota.

gather together at cozy lodging

A summer vacation in Grand Rapids allows you to do as little or as much as you want. In Grand Rapids, Minnesota, there is a wide variety of places to stay in Grand Rapids. There are conveniently located in town Hotels and Motels that offer a variety of on-site amenities like a pool, restaurants, continental breakfast, walkable shops and restaurants, and in town trails. There are two charming Bed and Breakfasts where the host provides a clean and comfortable bedroom, access to the home gathering spaces, and breakfast each morning. You will also find in town Air B&B’s that are located above downtown shops that have room to spread out, kitchens, and separate bedrooms. The Vacation Rentals are in town and on area lakes that offer you kitchens, living rooms, separate bedrooms. Minnesota Family Resorts are located on one of of 1,400 pristine lakes, offer full kitchens, living room areas, screened in porches, firepits, dock slips, and water toys. The choice is yours.

1,000 Grand Lakes

Minnesota Summer vacations are best spent up north at the lake! In the greater Grand Rapids, MN area you will find over 1,400 lakes. These lakes range in size from less than a hundred acres to over 4,000 acres. On thousand grand lakes you can paddle, fish, swim, boat, ski, tube, and just float. “Going to the Lake” in the number one summer vacation memory. “Fishing” is a main activity that most resort guests say they enjoyed while on their Grand Rapids, MN Summer Vacation. From panfish to trophy fish like walleye, northern and musky; we have a lake to catch them on. All of our Minnesota Family Resorts offer boat rentals, but you can fish from the dock, shore or a fishing pier too. There is something special about watching a child catch their first fish. All you need is a fishing pole, a hook and some bait. The Grand Rapids Library lends out fishing poles and tackle where you can fish from their fishing pier on the Mississippi River. Fun for the entire family! Learn more about Lakes and Fishing in the Grand Rapids area.

trails & outdoor recreation

Grand Rapids, Minnesota is known as the outdoor recreation mecca of the north. Whatever type of outdoor recreation that you enjoy, you will find a trail or lake to do it on. You will find over 2,000 miles of trails in the greater Grand Rapids, MN area. Many of these trails are in the Chippewa National Forest and George Washington State Forest. From ATVing, biking, hiking, mountain biking, paddling, fishing, and boating. Enjoy yourself in Minnesota’s nature. Take in the fresh air in our mixed forests of tall hardwood and pine trees, pristine clear lakes, or mighty Mississippi River. So many new outdoor recreation trails to make memories.

Golf

Grand Rapids is home to three championship level golf courses known as the Grand Lakes of Golf Courses; Sugarbrooke Golf Course, Pokegama Golf Course, Eagle Ridge Golf Course. Each course is beautifully manicured with different degrees of difficulty. All have cart rentals and restaurants on site. In addition to the three-championship courses, there is also several smaller 9-hole courses located in the greater Grand Rapids, Minnesota.

Minnesota history & Art Attractions

Around the Grand Rapids, MN area there are several places to enjoy beautiful public art and historic sites. Tour a historic museum, 1900’s logging camp, Children’s Museum, or an art gallery. Take a self-guided public art tour in downtown Grand Rapids, walk across the Mississippi, or take in a live performance or concert at The Reif Center. There is probably way more to do than you would think in a small northern town. Grand Rapids boosts historic and art attractions that draw people from across the country.

fun places to eat & drink

Going out to eat while on vacation is a must. In Grand Rapids you will find a large selection of fun places to eat & drink from craft breweries, boat in options, a Minnesota wine bar, locally owned restaurants, places to get juicy bar burgers, fine dining, Mexican, Sushi, and more! This small town has locally owned restaurants that offer made from scratch and restaurants that work with local farmers for fresh and seasonal menu items. So, when you work up an appetite on the lakes and trails, sit down for a homemade meal from the places the locals like to eat and drink at.

This Northern Minnesota town offers BIG charm which is a perfect place to make vacation memories this summer. Grand Rapids is a going to the lake community that is an outdoor recreation mecca of the north. Enjoy time on our lakes and trails and take in the fresh air of the Minnesota forests. The official Visitor Guide has lots of information to help you plan your Grand Rapids, MN Summer Vacation.

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Top Reasons why Grand Rapids is the best winter getaway in Minnesota

#1: Reason Why Grand Rapids is the Best Winter Getaway in Minnesota is the Abundance of Winter Wonderland Outdoor Recreation

#2: Reason Why Grand Rapids is the Best Winter Getaway in Minnesota is the Cozy Lodging with Scenic Nature Views

#3: Reason Why Grand Rapids is the Best Winter Getaway in Minnesota is the New and Fun Places to Eat & Drink

#4: Reason Why Grand Rapids is the Best Winter Getaway in Minnesota is the Locally Owned Boutique Style Shops

#5: Reason Why Grand Rapids is the Best Winter Getaway in Minnesota is the Cultural Experiences and Historic Attractions & Events

getaway to remember

October and November Lodging Specials

Late Fall Grand Rapids MN Itinerary for Families

Late Fall Grand Rapids MN Itinerary for Girlfriend Getaway

Late Fall Grand Rapids Minnesota for Guys Trip

Why You Should Getaway to Grand Rapids, MN This fall

Cozy Lodging

Fall Leaves Color Tour

Fall Festivals & Events

Outdoor Recreation

Fall Fishing & Hunting

Live Music and Entertainment

Beautiful Art

Historic Sites & Attractions

Apple Orchards and a Pumpkin Patch

Fun Places to Eat & Drink

End of summer vacation ideas for the grand rapids, mn area

1. Relax Up North

2. Get Outdoors

3. Discover Beautiful Art & Historic Sites

4. Places to Enjoy New Bites & Sips

5. Boutique Style Shopping

Be Sure To Book Your Lodging!

Summer itinerary Guide

Forest History Center

Judy Garland & Childrens Discovery Museum

MacRostie Art Center

The Reif Center

Itasca County Historical Society

Self-Guided Tour of Grand Rapids Art & Historic Sites

About Grand Rapids, Minnesota

cold weather things to do in grand rapids mN

Get Warm inside

Fun Places to Eat & Drink

Shopping

Book An Overnight

End of Summer Road Trip to Grand Rapids

Outdoor Recreation Mecca of the North

Minnesota Art & History

Local Places to Eat & Drink

Cozy Places To Stay

Grand Rapids, MN area attractions

Itasca County Historical Society & Escape Room

Judy Garland & Children's Discovery Museums

Forest History Center

Edge of the Wilderness Discovery Center

Bowling, Movies and Live Music

Self-Guided Tours & Boutique Style Shops

Self Guided Historic Buildings & Public Art Tours

Shopping

unique and fun places to eat & drink

Craft Breweries, Wine Bar & Winery

Other Local Favorite Places To Eat & Drink

Restaurants on the Lake

Places Where the Locals Eat & Drink

Additional Places To Eat & Drink

Grand Rapids, MN Summer vacation

Lots of cozy lodging

Lakes & fishing

trails & outdoor recreation

Golf

Public Art & Historic Sites

Start Planning Your Summer Vacation To Grand Rapids

Make Summer vacation Memories in Grand Rapids, MN

gather together at cozy lodging

1,000 Grand Lakes

trails & outdoor recreation

Golf

Minnesota history & Art Attractions

fun places to eat & drink

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