Historic and Cultural Hot Spots: Summer Itinerary Guide

historic and cultural hot spots

Summer itinerary Guide

historic and cultural hot spots

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.

More About Summer in Grand Rapids, MN

Forest History Center

historic and cultural hot spots

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.

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Judy Garland & Childrens Discovery Museum

historic and cultural hot spots
historic and cultural hot spots

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.

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MacRostie Art Center

historic and cultural hot spots
historic and cultural hot spots
historic and cultural hot spots

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. 

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The Reif Center

historic and cultural hot spots
Summer Concert Series

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.

Learn More

Itasca County Historical Society

Historic and cultural hot spots
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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. 

Learn More

Self-Guided Tour of Grand Rapids Art & Historic Sites

historic and cultural hot spots
historic and cultural hot spots

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.

View Map

About Grand Rapids, Minnesota

2025 Visitor Guide Cover
historic and cultural hot spots

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

Frigid weather things to do

cold weather things to do in grand rapids mN

frigid weather things to do in grand rapids minnesota

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

frigid weather things to do

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

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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

frigid things to do in grand rapids minnesota

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

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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

End of Summer Road Trip to Grand Rapids

end of summer

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

Top Summer Trails

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

End of summer Road Trip

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

end of summer road trip

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

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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?

rainy day activity 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

rainy day activity grand rapids mn

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

childrens discovery museum grand rapids mn

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

forest history center grand rapids mn

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

edge of 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

live music grand rapids mn

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

old central school grand rapids mn

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

boutique shops grand rapids mn

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

craft breweries Grand Rapids MN

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

lakeside dining grand rapids mn

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

Family friendly dining grand rapids mn

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

mexican restaurant grand rapids mn

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 summer vacation

Grand Rapids, MN Summer vacation

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!

Learn More

Lots of cozy lodging

summer vacation

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. 

View Places To Stay in Grand Rapids, MN

Lakes & fishing

Summer Vacation Grand Rapids MN

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!

Learn More About Lakes & Fishing in Grand Rapids, MN Area

trails & outdoor recreation

Tioga Recreation Area

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.

Explore The Outdoors

Golf

Grand Rapids Summer Vacation

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.

Learn More About The Grand Lakes of Golf

Public Art & Historic Sites

summer vacation

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.

View Itasca Area Attractions

Start Planning Your Summer Vacation To Grand Rapids

summer in 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!

Request a Grand Rapids Information Guide
2023 Grand Rapids Visitor Guide Cover

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.

View Interactive Grand Rapids Visitor Guide

Making Vacation Memories This Summer | Visit Grand Rapids

grand rapids summer vacation

Make Summer vacation Memories in Grand Rapids, MN

vacation memories

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.

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gather together at cozy lodging

Resort Cabin

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.

View Places To Stay in Grand Rapids, MN

1,000 Grand Lakes

Family Fishing

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.

Learn More About Lakes & Fishing in Grand Rapids, MN Area

trails & outdoor recreation

Tioga Recreation Area

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. 

Explore The Outdoors

Golf

Grand Rapids Summer Vacation

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.

Learn More About The Grand Lakes of Golf

Minnesota history & Art Attractions

Grand Rapids Summer Vacation

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.

Things To Do In The Grand Rapids, MN Area

fun places to eat & drink

vacation memories

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.

Fun Places To Eat & Drink In Grand Rapids, MN
vacation memories

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.

View Interactive Grand Rapids Visitor Guide

Top 10 Spring MN Adventures | Visit Grand Rapids

spring MN adventures

Grand Rapids is the perfect spring MN adventure location. Here is our Top 10 list of things to do, fun places to eat & drink and cozy lodging. Let’s be honest, winter has been great this year, but we all have a little cabin fever. That feeling of being cooped up inside is leaving all of us seeking spring adventures in Minnesota. Grand Rapids, Minnesota is the perfect up north spring road trip where you can get outside, seek adventure, and also enjoy a little rest and relaxation as well. Below is a list of Top 10 spring MN adventure you can find in Grand Rapids, Minnesota…

spring mn adventures 1. Hiking

Everyone gets a little, or a lot, of cabin fever around the transition from winter to spring. Grand Rapids, Minnesota offers over 1 million acres of public forest land made up of the Chippewa National Forest, UPM Blandin Foundation, George Washington State Forest, and the Scenic State Park. These are all great places to hike on well-maintained trails. We suggest the following: Simpson Creek (Easiest) is located in the Chippewa National Forest 45 miles northwest of Grand Rapids, Minnesota on the Avenue of the Pines Scenic Byway. This trail is a nice entry-level that is perfect for families of young children. Enjoy rolling topography through pines and along glacial eskers, with overlooks onto Cut Foot Sioux Lake and journeys into the cedar swamp. Legion Trail (Easy/Beginner to More Difficult Level) located north of town inside the City limits of Grand Rapids is a 7-mile hand-cut trail that is fun, flowy, and twisty in a mixed forest that wraps around Hale Lake. Suomi Hills (More Difficult Level) is a remotely located hiking and skiing trail located twenty-three miles north of Grand Rapids up the Edge of the Wilderness Scenic Byway. An interesting site is The Day Lake Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp remains, a prisoner of war camp during World War II is located on the north end of Suomi Hills. Learn more about places to Hike in the Grand Rapids, MN area.

spring MN adventures 2. Explore Minnesota’s History

Grand Rapids, Minnesota was established in 1872 and has rich forestry, logging, and mining history to learn about. You will want to check out the Itasca County Historical Society Museum.  The Museum is FREE, houses a lot of interesting Minnesota artifacts, and houses a genealogy center, gift shop, and escape room. The Judy Garland Museum and Children’s Discovery Museum are two museums under one roof where you can learn about the life of Judy Garland, born as Frances Ethel Gumm on June 10, 1922, in Grand Rapids, Minnesota. Find the largest Judy Garland and Wizard of Oz artifacts in the nation. Walkthrough the home Judy grew up in. The Children’s Discovery Museum offers hands-on educational exhibits, activities & programs for kids, plus a gift store. Learn more about Grand Rapids, MN area Historic Attractions. 

spring mn adventures 3. Four Wheel Forest Adventures

Grand Rapids, Minnesota has over 300 miles of ATV trails to ride in the Spring. ATV/OHV trails open April -middle of May. The ATV trails that are located on old railroad beds open first (Alborn-Pengilly (39 miles), Blue Ox (74 miles), and Thistledew (25 miles). With Alvwood/Squaw Lake (159) and Island Lake Connection Trail (2 miles) opening May 2nd. The rest of the Itasca County ATV/OHV trails open middle of May (UPM-Blandin (21 miles), Balsam to Bigfork (33 miles), Little Moose (18 miles), and Northwoods Regional Trail (19 miles). All of these trails are well maintained and offer a wide variety of easy to moderate riding levels. All of these trails will take you through mixed forest, tamarack bogs, across boardwalks, and around lakes, rivers and streams. ATV/OHV is a wonderful opportunity for spring MN adventures. Download the Itasca County ATV Map.

spring mn adventures 4. Explore Grand Rapids Public Art & History Tour

Take a walking tour around Grand Rapids and visit different murals, sculptures, and historic buildings. The art and history around Grand Rapids represent what Grand Rapids was founded on and you can find different art pieces that represent the Ojibwa culture, forestry, logging, and mining history, and the splendor of surrounding Minnesota’s nature. Also on the tour is MacRostie Art Center and The Reif Center which have rotating art exhibits and galleries. The new walking bridge across the Mississippi River is a wonderful place to start this self-guided tour. Download the Grand Rapids Public Art & History Tour.

spring MN adventures 5. Indoor Water Fun

Many Grand Rapids lodging properties like Timberlake Lodge Hotel, AmericInn, Country Inn & Suites, and Best Western all offer pools and/or hot tubs. This allows kids of all ages to enjoy pool time while the parents relax in the hot tub. Timberlake Lodge Hotel has a Grand Splash waterpark, which offers a 98-foot slide, 20-person hot tub, and kiddie pool. A wonderful way for the kids and adults alike to burn off some energy and the parents to relax in comfort. Find Grand Rapids, MN places to Stay with pools and hot tubs.

 

spring MN adventures 6. Bike the Mississippi to Boundary Waters

The Mesabi Trail is 145 miles of mostly paved bicycle trail that runs from the Mississippi River in Grand Rapids to the Boundry Waters in Ely. Cutting through the forests of northeast Minnesota, your adventure will take you past lakes, creeks, and ponds, by vast red pits of old iron ore mines now filled with emerald, green water.  Learn more about the Mesabi Trail and purchase a wheel pass. The Tioga Recreation Area is a 25-mile single-track trail that was created for mountain biking and fat-tire biking. Playground Pathfinder will also be officially opening sometime in the Spring of 2022. Learn more about the Tioga Recreation Area.

spring MN adventures 7. Be Entertained

Mother Nature sometimes brings showers so our spring flowers can bloom. If this is the case, don’t fret, we have several indoor locations that can keep everyone entertained. The Reif Center is our hidden gem of a theater that brings the stars to northern Minnesota. Another place to relax and be entertained indoors is Mann’s Cinema Theater. Take in an afternoon matinee or evening show. They offer comfortable theater-style seating and a full-service concession stand. Thunder Alley XL offers a bowling and indoor adult-style arcade game area, an onsite bar that serves great pizza and other concession snacks. Find Grand Rapids, MN Area Attractions.

spring MN adventures 8. Eat, Drink & Shop Local

Check out the two craft breweries and Minnesota wine bar. At Klockow Brewing Company you can order or bring your own food in and enjoy live music every week. Rapids Brewing Company located in historic downtown offers wood-fired oven cuisine and live music and events occurring weekly. Unwined Up North is also located in historic downtown and serves Minnesota wine and craft beer, charcuterie boards, flatbreads, salads, and sandwiches. In Grand Rapids, you will find many locally-owned restaurants, bars, and grills that offer one-of-a-kind up north cuisine like hearty wild rice soup and juicy bar burgers. Find Places to Eat & Drink in Grand Rapids, MN. Downtown Grand Rapids is best known for boutique-style shops that offer one-of-a-kind gifts, home decor, clothing, shoes, jewelry, local art, and Northwood memorabilia to take home with you as a memento of your visit to Grand Rapids. Grand Rapids, Minnesota area has several other retail shops and vintage boutique-style shops where you can shop to your heart’s delight.

spring MN adventures 9. Grand Lakes of Golf

Three 18-hole championship golf courses make up the Grand Lakes of Golf: Eagle Ridge Golf Course, Pokegama Golf Course, and Sugar Brooke Golf Course. Each course is beautifully manicured with different degrees of difficulty. All have cart rentals and restaurants on-site. Whether you want 18 or 9 holes, to take an extended vacation, long weekend, or just get in a few holes after work, Grand Rapids has many options, and won’t disappoint. There are four additional 9-hole courses located in the Grand Rapids, MN area as well that are perfect for entry-level golfers and families. Find more information and book a tee time for Grand Rapids, MN area Golf Courses.

spring MN adventures 10. Seek Rest and Relaxation

Grand Rapids, Minnesota offers you a lot of  spring MN adventures, but you will also find lots of cozy lodging options where you can find rest and relaxation while up north. You will find conveniently located in town Hotels/Motels and Bed & Breakfast. You will also find Minnesota Resort cabins and Vacation Home Rentals where you will have the opportunity to make your own meals and gather together. And we also offer in-town Air B&B’s as well that are hosted in a mixed commercial and residential area that is close to being able to walk to shops, restaurants, and breweries downtown. Find Places to Stay in Grand Rapids, MN.

Spring Break in Grand Rapids, MN

Top 5 Spring Break Things To Do

Cabin Fever Reliever

Top 10 Reasons to book Spring Break in Grand Rapids, MN this year. Everyone get’s a little, or a lot, of cabin fever around the transition from winter to spring. Grand Rapids, Minnesota is known as the outdoor mecca of the north. In and around Grand Rapids families will find over 1 million acres of public forest land, 1,007 lakes, and over 2,000 miles of trails to explore. Families will also find fun places to eat & drink, kid-friendly art and historic places to explore, and cozy lodging.

Family Friendly Trails

 

Top 5 Spring Break Things To Do

10. Cross Country Skiing

Cross Country Skiing is a great way to get the entire family outside to explore the many forests around Grand Rapids, MN. The Northern Lights Nordic Ski Club created a ski trail map that is over 200KM in total. Some of our favorite kid-friendly ski trails are Legion, Forest History Center, and MN Power. Both the Legion and MN Power are lit at night until 10pm. There is something very magical to ski at night on a lit path in the winter. The glistening snow, the cool crisp air, and the sparkling stars above the tall pine trees. If you do not own, Ardent Bicycles rents equipment. View Cross Country Ski Trails HERE.

spring break 9. Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing is a wonderful outdoor recreation activity, and kids love it. Kids strap on snowshoes and enjoy the big footprints in the snow that is left behind as they trek through the forests of white winter wonderland. A few of our favorite places to snowshoe are Simpson Creek and the Lost Forty in the Chippewa National Forest. Explore the mixed hardwood and pine forests of over 200 year old trees that takes four people to hold hands together to fit around. If you do not have snowshoes for the entire family, Ardent Bicycle rents. Find more information about Snowshoeing HERE.

Fat Tire Biking Resize 8. Fat Tire Biking

The Grand Rapids, Minnesota area has over 100 miles of bike trails that you can ride all seasons. In the Winter, we suggest: Tioga Recreation Area  (25+ mile world class, purpose built multi level mountain bike trails), Chippewa National Forest trail roads, and Legion Trail. Tioga has trails for all levels from green to double black diamond. Legion is a 7-mile loop that winds around Hale Lake. The Chippewa National Forest offers an opportunity to ride packed winter forest roads, and to get an up close personal view to northern MN wildlife. If you do not own fat tire or mountain bikes, Ardent Bicycles rents. 

spring break 7. Snowmobiling

The Grand Rapids, MN area is known for some of the best snowmobile trails in Minnesota. Over 300 miles of snowmobile trails that makes for a great way to spend a March Spring Break. The Grand Rapids, MN area snowmobile trails are open until March 31st each year. From the in town trails you can access the famous state Taconite Trail. The Taconite Trail is 165 miles long, and once on you can ride to Ely, Minnesota. If you do not own snowmobiles, R & R Rental rents snowmobiles. Learn more about Grand Rapids area snowmobiling HERE.

Spring Break 6. Ice Fishing

Kids love ice fishing as much as adults. The Grand Rapids area has some of the best ice fishing destinations, and has been referred to as an “Ice Fishing Paradise” – with an abundance of interconnected lakes, creeks, and ponds perfect for fishing success. In Northern Minnesota ice fishing goes through March and sometimes April. Later in the season walking out on the lake is the best way to catch big panfish. This is perfect for kids because they just want to catch something. Don’t have Ice Fishing Gear, give R&R Rental a call, and Bowstring Shores has hard ice house rentals. Learn more about Ice Fishing in Grand Rapids HERE.

IMG 4318 5. Skating, Snowtubing,  Downhill Skiing, and Snowboarding

Grand Rapids and surround communities have outdoor skating rinks that are maintained weekly. These outdoor rinks offer on-site rink attendants and warming shacks. Clafton Skate is a great place to sharpen your skates, and also check on their rental supply. When there is low snow, skating on the frozen lakes is a common past time. Located only 15 minutes from downtown Grand Rapids is a the Mt. Itasca Winter Sports Center that is the perfect family-friendly ski, snowboard, cross country ski, and snowtubing located in Coleraine, MN. Mt Itasca is also home to Olympic biathlon and ski jump training. 

Top 5 Spring Break Things To Do 4. Explore Minnesota’s History

Grand Rapids, Minnesota was established in 1872, and has a rich forestry, logging and mining history to learn about. You will want to check out the Itasca County Historical Society Museum. They just opened a new escape room. The Museum is FREE, and houses a lot of interesting Minnesota artifacts, and also houses a genealogy center and gift shop. The Children’s Discovery Museum is a great indoor museum that offers unique kid-friendly exhibits that have an up north theme. Perfect for kids ages toddler to early teens. The Judy Garland Museum is housed in the same building. Did you know Grand Rapids, MN is the birthplaces of Judy Garland? When you purchase a ticket to the Children’s Museum, you also get access to the Judy Garland Museum. Pay a little bit more money and get a VIP tour that includes access to an exclusive Judy Garland memorabilia exhibit.

Top 5 Spring Break Things To Do 3. Grand Rapids Art & History Tour

Take a walking tour around Grand Rapids and visit different murals, sculptures and historic building.  The art and history around Grand Rapids represents the what Grand Rapids was founded on and you can find different art pieces that represent the Ojibwa culture. MacRostie Art Center offers youth classes, and has monthly art exhibits that the entire family will enjoy. MacRostie also lends out an art suitcase that includes everything families will need to create art while visiting Grand Rapids. Let nature inspire you. To view the self-guided Grand Rapids Art & History Tour map click HERE.

Top 5 Spring Break Things To Do 2. Water Fun

In Grand Rapids you will find many lodging options to choose from while on Spring Break in Grand Rapids, and many offer onsite pools and hot tubs. This allows the kids of all ages to enjoy pool time while the parents relax in the hot tub. Timberlake Lodge Hotel has a Grand Splash waterpark, which offers a 98 foot slide, 20 person hot tub, and kiddie pool. A great way for the kids to burn off some energy and the parents to relax in comfort. Additional properties that have a pool and hot tub are: AmericInn, Country Inn & Suites and Best Western. To find Hotels with pools as amenities, learn more HERE.

Top 5 Spring Break Things To Do

1. Entertainment

Mother Nature sometimes brings showers, and sometimes she brings snow storms. If this is the case, don’t fret, we have several indoor locations that can keep the everyone entertained. The Reif Center is our hidden gem of a theater that brings the stars to norther Minnesota. Each year the Reif staff selects family friendly theater performances. Another great place to relax and be entertained indoors is Mann’s Cinnema Theater. Their reclining seats offer a great place for families to attend an afternoon matinee or evening show. Thunder Alley XL offers bowling and indoor adult style arcade game area, and onsite bar that serves great pizza and other concession snacks. Lastly, check out our new craft brewing. Then check out fun places to eat & drink that also offer live family-friendly entertainment like Klockow, Rapids Brewing Co and Unwined Up North. Check out the Grand Rapids Events Calendar for all of the details.

Grand Rapids, MN is a family-friendly destination for Spring Break. Find lots of cozy family-friendly lodging options in Grand Rapids. From conveniently located Hotels, Motels, Air B&B’s and Bed & Breakfasts to Resort Cabins and Vacation Rentals located on the lakes and trails. Book your Spring Break Vacation HERE. Also, check out the Last Minute Openings for short-term lodging properties that have a last minute opening because someone was not able to head north and had to cancel. 

Winter Road Trip to Grand Rapids

top winter things to do

This blog includes Top Winter Things To Do In Grand Rapids, MN. Experience and abundance of outdoor recreation: snowmobiling, ice fishing, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, snowboarding, downhill skiing, and tubing. Reconnect with loved one’s by relaxing by a fireplace, and enjoy the simple pleasures of life in northern Minnesota. Book your winter trip now to Grand Rapids to enjoy the top winter things to do today!

Winter Outdoor Recreation

top winter things to do
top winter things to do
snowmobile trails
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Visitor Guide

Grand Rapids, MN is the outdoor mecca of the north. This is your opportunity to get an up close and personal experience and adventure in Minnesota’s nature. With over 1,400 lakes and over 2,000 miles of trails there is a lot of outdoor recreation opportunity! This is why outdoor recreation is first on our top winter things to do in Grand Rapids, MN:

Downhill, Snowboarding & Snowtubing

Mt. Itasca is a winter recreation sports facility that is perfect size ski hill for young or entry level families. Their Area 51 snowboard terrain park, snowtubing runs, and 10k of cross country ski trails. They also offer equipment rentals for downhill, snowboarding and cross country skiing.

Cross Country Skiing

The Northern Lights Nordic Ski Association has many volunteer members that work along with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources to keep the 198 KM well groomed for the winter season. The Northern Lights Nordic Ski Association does a great job of keeping their Trail Reports up to date, and the easy to read PDF map helps guide for level, KM length, description of the trail, and directions. Located just north and west of Grand Rapids is the Chippewa National Forest that has hundreds of KM of cross country ski trails. This winter seek solitude in Minnesota’s nature on cross country skis. For trails and conditions click HERE. Trail conditions are updated weekly once there is enough of a snow base for clubs to start grooming.

Snowmobiling

Grand Rapids has over 1,000 miles of well groomed snowmobile trails. There are 13 snowmobile clubs and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources who keep the Itasca County Snowmobile Trails well groomed. The snowmobile trails can open as early as December 1st, but the lakes and tamarack bogs need to freeze solid with 5-7 inches of good ice to cross safely in a snowmobile or four-wheeler. In order for the clubs and MN DNR to groom they need a 10 inch base. Once they get that good base, then maintaining the trails and a balance of continued snow totals, temperature, and trail use. Grand Rapids, MN has in-town trails that allow for safe travel from gas stations, places to eat, and places to stay. Grand Rapids is the start of the famous state Taconite Trail which is 165 miles that goes to Ely, MN. There are many spur trails off of the Taconite Trail that connect to places to eat, gas stations, and places to lodge. For trails and conditions click HERE. Trail conditions are updated weekly once there is enough of a snow base for clubs to start grooming.

Ice Fishing

There are over 1,400 area lakes in the greater Grand Rapids, Minnesota area that covers over 2,000 square miles. There are a lot of fish to catch here in northern Minnesota! The smaller lakes tend to freeze earlier than the large lakes like Pokegama, Bowstring and Lake Winnibigoshish. Safety should always be observed when traveling across ice at any point throughout the winter season. The MN DNR Ice Safety Guideline is a great resource for traveling across the ice, and what depths are standard for being able to withstand the weight of a person, four-wheeler, snowmobile or a vehicle. They call it fishing, not catching, so be patient, and enjoy the time on the ice as an escape from the everyday hurried schedules.

Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing in the winter in Northern Minnesota has the advantage of outdoor activity with no ticks and no mosquitos. Unlike snowshoeing in the mountains, we have no danger of avalanche, either! We don’t have to worry about what trails are safe, or what beacons to purchase should we fall prey to a snow slide. A couple of places to try snowshoe are: Tioga Recreation, Legion Trail, Simpson Creek, and Sugar Hills. The links are those to the cross country ski trail, just remember to not walk on the groomed trails and cross the trail at a 90 degree angle. Snowshoeing can be done anywhere there is public access or land you have private access approval. The Chippewa National Forest has hundreds of thousands of acres to snowshoe on. Find a forest road that is not plowed and find your new snowshoe adventure. Just be mindful of the direction you are headed in. A compass is a great tool to have with you. If you snowshoe along a designated trail system, it will help you access back to where you parked.

Ice Skating

Grand Rapids, MN is a hockey town USA. There are many outdoor skating rinks that the surrounding city public works keep the ice cleaned off. Many have heated ice shacks for people to put on their skates and warm up between pick-up hockey games. These outdoor rinks are perfect for families on a 20 degree winter day. Grand Rapids hosts thousands of people to weekend hockey tournaments that take place at the IRA Civic Center and Hodgins-Berardo Arena. Both of these indoor rink facilities offer open skating hours and on site concessions. 

Fat Tire Biking

Located just outside Grand Rapids, Minnesota is a premiere world-class mountain bike trail that was professionally built to include multi-level trails for the beginner to the double black diamond rider. Tioga Recreation Area is a 25-mile single track trail system that is located on a reclaimed mine area that includes 500 acres. Situated between a beautifully clear Tioga and Pokegama Lakes. Both of these lakes provide great ice fishing opportunities. In addition to fat tire biking, Tioga is a great place to snowshoe. Just make sure to cross the trail at a 90 degree angle to not disrupt the grooming. Then in town, right next to The Reif Performing Arts Center is Legion Trail which is 7 miles of single track trail. There is also a lit cross country ski trail system that runs through the American Legion Park too.

Rentals

 If you are looking for something to get you more into nature, stop at Ardent Bicycles where you can rent cross country skis, snowshoes or rent a fat tire bike and spend the day on the 25 miles of trails at Tioga Recreation. If you want more of an adrenaline rush call over to R&R Rentals to rent a snowmobile! In Itasca County we have over 600 miles of trails. We also have a variety of lodging that has access right to the trails. If you are taking a road trip to go fishing we have over 1,000 lakes in Itasca County. If you are looking for new gear or forgot something check out Thousand Lakes Sporting Goods. They have just about everything and more you would need for ice fishing.

top winter things to do Fun Places to Eat & Drink

Eating out is one of the best parts of being on vacation, so that is why fun places to eat & drink are next on the top winter things to do in Grand Rapids, MN. There are two locally owned craft breweries, Klockow Brewing Co, and Rapids Brewing Co. Then there are eclectic lake restaurants like Zorbaz and Pickled Loon Saloon located on Pokegama Lake. Unwined Up North is a MN wine bar that also serves Minnesota craft beer and tasty panini sandwiches, salads, flat breads and charcuterie boards. Timberlake Restaurant, Forest Lake Restaurant, Cedar Creek Grill and Florio’s are locally owned restaurants that offer northern specialties like prime rib, steaks, shrimp, wild rice soup, fish dinners, and great bar burgers. Fuji, El Potro and New China offer a cultural cuisine to Grand Rapids, MN. You will find many other options like fast-food and food chain franchise restaurants in Grand Rapids, MN as well.

top winter things to do Public Art & Historic Attractions

Downtown Grand Rapids offers beautiful public art. Most of this art was created by local and Minnesota artists. MacRostie Art Center is a free gallery and gift shop where you can purchase stunning works of art. The Reif Arts Center is another attraction where you can view monthly art exhibits in their lobby. Grand Rapids is also home to the famous Judy Garland Museum and Children’s Discovery Museums, and the Itasca County Historical Society. All of these locations are kid friendly.

top winter things to do Events & Entertainment

For a small town, Grand Rapids has a lot of events and weekly entertainment. The craft brewing companies are known for their weekly live music venues. The Reif Center brings Broadway style theater and performances to northern Minnesota in a two-stage theater venue where you can get an up close and personal view to the performers. Check out the Events Calendar to view the current and upcoming events and entertainment in the greater Grand Rapids, MN area.

top winter things to do Cozy Lodging

And of course we cannot forget about a place to stay, so that is the final top winter things to do in Grand Rapids, MN. Check out the STAY PAGE to find lodging  for your winter road trip. On this page you will find Hotels that offer a wide array of amenities and economical and convenient Motels located in town.  A quaint Bed & Breakfast located on Pokegama Lake. Vacation rentals that are located both in town and also on Grand Rapids, area lakes. In addition, you will find year-round Resorts that offer cozy cabins with fireplaces and a short walk to the lake. Plan your winter road trip today. Take the time to reconnect up north and experience all of the fun outdoor recreation, fun places to eat & drink and cozy lodging that Grand Rapids, MN has to offer.