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.

Summer’s Last Hurrah Labor Day Vacation Ideas | Visit Grand Rapids

Labor Day Up North

Summer’s Last Hurrah Labor Day Vacation Ideas for the greater Grand Rapids, MN area. Here is your last minute opportunity to head north to the thousand grand lakes of Minnesota to RELAX, RECONNECT, and RECHARGE! Visit Grand Rapids has put together these labor day vacation ideas for you as easy itinerary things to do, but please know that the Grand Rapids, MN area is also a wonderful place to untap, unwind, and relax too! The choice is yours. Welcome to Grand Rapids, Minnesota!

Cozy Lodging With a View

You will find a wide variety of cozy lodging options with a view. Visit Grand Rapids represents 37 lodging properties that are Hotels/Motels, Bed and Breakfasts, Air BnB’s, Vacation Rentals and Resorts. With such a wide variety of options, there is a short-term lodging property to meet everyone’s needs. Whether you are looking for an in town place that is close to the area shops, restaurants and in town trails. Or you are looking for a property that is located more off the beaten path, on a lake, or in the forest. But don’t delay, BOOK NOW summer is fleeting – head north for Labor Day this year!

Labor Day Vacation Ideas

For summer’s last hurrah, Visit Grand Rapids has put together Labor Day Vacation ideas through an itinerary sample. You can do everything on the list, or you can do one or two, and spend most of your time to untap, unwind and relax. The choice is yours how you spend your Labor Day Vacation in the greater Grand Rapids, MN area.

Labor Day Sample Itinerary

All New Gallery

Day 1:

Once you arrive to the greater Grand Rapids, MN area, take time to unpack, get settled into your short term lodging property, and read up on things to do in the Grand Rapids Visitor Guide. Depending on what time you arrive on Day 1, will determine what is available to do at that time. Here are some options for you to consider:

MORNING – (Breakfast) Either book breakfast at your own cabin or vacation rental. OR try a local breakfast favorite: Brewed Awakenings, Country Kitchen, Dotties Hometown Cafe, NoPo Kitchen or Sportsman VIEW DINING OPTIONS (Activity) enjoy time on a lake dock (there are many fishing piers/docks in the Grand Rapids, MN area to consider: Blandin Beach on Forest Lake, Tioga Recreation Beach in Cohasset, Pokegama Dam on the Mississippi River).

AFTERNOON – (Lunch) While you are out and about, going out to eat is a huge part of going on vacation – so let’s eat out for lunch! Consider a place with a view: Pokegama Grill at the Pokegama Golf Course, Zorbaz on Pokegama, Bobbers at Williams Narrow’s Restaurant are a few of our favorite VIEW DINING OPTIONS (Activity) bicycle on the Mesabi Trail or mountain biking at Tioga Recreation Area and no worries if you do not have bikes with you or own bikes, rent at Ardent Bicycle or Mesabi Excursions VIEW OUTDOOR RECREATION IDEAS

EVENING – (Dinner) There are a lot of great places to eat in the Grand Rapids, MN area, but if you are looking to try the places where the locals go consider: Florio’s in Cohasset, Trailside in Bigfork, or Cedar Creek Grill in Grand Rapids VIEW DINING OPTIONS (Activity) If the weather allows, and your lodging property offers either fire pits or gas fire pits or tables, we suggest heading outside to enjoy a fire in nature. And of course what is better with a campfire than s’mores, and remember there are both savory and sweet options to consider (savory: brie cheese, fig jam or honey, and crackers or sweet: marshmallows, chocolate, and graham crackers)

Day 2:

We hope you had a chance to either get up early to take in the sunrise or sleep in, since you are on vacation! When you get up and get ready, now is time to get a good breakfast in you for a full day – or a day spent relaxing by the lake, reading a book, or finding new adventure on a trail.

MORNING – (Breakfast) The Hotels, Motels and Bed & Breakfasts will provide for you. But if you are seeking a local coffee shop you have to try Brewed Awakenings, Dragonfly Coffee. They all offer great coffee, chai, and tea options, as well as fresh baked items, yogurt, cereal, and breakfast sandwich options. VIEW DINING OPTIONS

AFTERNOON – Now again, you pick how much activity you are looking to do while on vacation in the greater Grand Rapids, MN area, but here are some adventure opportunities: Paddle the Mississippi by renting and launching right from Paddle Hoppers or taking a guided paddle on the Mississippi River from the Forest History Center. (Lunch) Whether you are looking for a quick bite or a sit down spot with a view, here are some options to consider: Spartan Deli in Central Square Mall offers healthy and quick options to go, Pickled Loon Saloon offers an amazing view of the Pokegama Lake harbor. VIEW OUTDOOR RECREATION IDEAS

EVENING – (Activity) To slow things down, try throwing a line in an area lake or the Mississippi River. The Grand Rapids Library loans fishing rods, reels and tackle for you to try your chance at catching a fish on the Mississippi River pier located behind the Grand Rapids Library or if you have your own fishing equipment, there are over 1,000 area lakes to catch fish. Places like Thousand Grand Lakes Sporting Goods or L&M Fleet Supply for bait and fishing tips, techniques and get the latest on what’s biting. READ THE WEEKLY FISHING REPORT (Dinner) Tonight we encourage you to head out to try one of the craft breweries – Klockow and Rapids Brewing or winery – Smoke on the Water or Unwined Up North. All of these locations are family friendly and outside you can bring your dog too.

Day 3:

MORNING – On Day 3, we hope that you got an amazing nights sleep, and if you didn’t, maybe a nap on a hammock or lounge chair by the pool, lake or river is in order. By Day 3, you have probably gotten a grasp on places to eat & drink, options offered at your short-term lodging option, so, we will just include the link to find places to grab breakfast here VIEW DINING OPTIONS (Activity) Sometimes by Day 3 (weather dependent) you are looking for more of a slower paced activity option, and maybe sometimes you are wanting more of an adventure. Taking a hike in the 1M+ publicly accessible forest acres around the Grand Rapids, MN area (being out in nature has proven to help lower stress and allow people to regain perspective on what is important to them) Here are some of our hiking spots (based on intensity level) Simpson Creek Trail in the Chippewa National Forest (light-moderate) is a 13-mile trail which is fairly flat and even ground that wraps around the Cut Foot Sioux area where eagles and other birds of prey, ducks and geese often are found. Legion Trail (light to moderate) (while we know that this link takes you to a mountain bike group version of the trail – that’s OK, there is a single track trail for biking and a mowed wide path for hiking) right in the city limits of Grand Rapids next to the Reif Center is a wonderful 7-mile trail that wraps around Hale Lake. There is a map kiosk that you can take a picture on your phone to take as you hike. Suomi Hills Trail that is located on the Edge of the Wilderness Scenic Byway (moderate to advanced) this trail contains more hills, and is a 19-mile loop. VIEW OUTDOOR RECREATION IDEAS

AFTERNOON – Depending on the amount of exercise that you got while hiking will depend on how hungry you are, and if you are preferring a sit down place to eat near your hike. Here are some options to consider: Gosh Dam Place on the Avenue of the Pines Scenic Byway near Simpson Creek Trail, Timberwolf on the Edge of the Wilderness Scenic Byway by the Suomi Trail, or Cedar Creek Tavern that is north of Legion Trail in Grand Rapids VIEW DINING OPTIONS We all know that we do not allow ourselves enough time to untap, unwind, and relax, so here is your opportunity. Take time on your Labor Day Vacation in the greater Grand Rapids, MN area to just simply be in nature. Sit in a chair by water to reflect on the beautiful sights and sounds around you. Practice mindful breathing to slow your heart rate and allow yourself to be in the time and place of nature. Sometimes slow activity like wading the in the lake, pool or river, or slow paddling a stand up paddle board or kayak across the water has a similar impact on your mind and body to slow down and enjoy being in nature.

EVENING – (Dinner) While you know after viewing the DINING OPTIONS and on Day 3 of your vacation up north in the Grand Rapids, MN area there are many places to eat, but maybe you are looking for cultural cuisine or upscale dining options. Here are a few for you to consider: Fuji Japanese Restaurant, El Porto Mexican Restaurant, or The Pines Restaurant downtown Grand Rapids. (Activity) Here is your opportunity to take advantage of the later sunset and take a stroll from your lodging property to enjoy the greater Grand Rapids, Minnesota area that is surrounded by nature. Whether you are staying in downtown Grand Rapids, on a lake, or in the woods, the views are amazing this time of year.

Finish Your Planning and BOOK LODGING

So, we hope you enjoy our Summer’s Last Hurrah Labor Day Vacation Ideas blog and itinerary sample. Now you can finish your planning and BOOK LODGING now! Also take a look at LAST MINUTE LODGING OPTIONS to see if there is a discount or deal that you can take advantage of. DOWNLOAD GRAND RAPIDS VISITOR GUIDE for more information.

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.

Fourth of July Celebrations | Visit Grand Rapids, MN

Fourth of July celebrations in the Grand Rapids, Minnesota area are long standing traditions where these small towns come together to celebrate our nations freedom, but more importantly come together as a community to celebrate. If you have never experience a small town fourth of July celebration, here is your opportunity. These are open to the public events where volunteers and the Cities help to coordinate family friendly activities and events where many are FREE. There will be lots of food, beverages, vendors, kids activities and games, parades, live music, fireworks and more! Check out the 2025 Grand Rapids, MN Area Fourth of July Celebrations below.

Grand Rapids, MN Fireworks

It is a long standing tradition that there are fireworks over Pokegama Lake on or around the 4th of July. Originally the fireworks were set off from Nesbitt Island (one of the large islands located in front of the Pokegama Golf Course). But now the fireworks are set off from the Pokegama Golf Course and shot over Pokegama Lake to the south sky.

The City of Grand Rapids, City of Cohasset, Harris Township, and Greater Pokegama Lake Association contribute to the cost of the annual fireworks.

Hill City, MN Fourth of July Celebration

Celebrate the 121st Annual 4th of July Festivities in Hill City, Minnesota! Come together with the community for a weekend packed with entertainment, activities, and patriotic fun. These events are family friendly, and many of them are FREE and open to the public.

There will be food trucks, craft vendors, live music and other performances, kids games, adult contests, a parade, fireworks, and lots of fun! The small town of Hill City, Minnesota throws a terrific fourth of July celebration. Make this Independence Day unforgettable in Hill City, Minnesota.

Nashwauk, MN Fourth of July Celebration

The City of Nashwauk works with local volunteers to coordinate the annual 4th of July celebrations that include: car show, live music, food trucks, craft vendors, kids games, Lego car building, pin-up pageant, tractor pull, 5k run, K-9 unit demonstration, flag raising, kids races, bean bag tournament, parade and fireworks. Come experience a small town fourth of July celebration that is open to the public, and family friendly.

Keewatin, MN Fourth of July Celebration

The City of Keewatin and many volunteers help to coordinate their annual fourth of July festivities. Each year volunteers coordinate 1-2 days worth of events that are all family friendly and open to the public. The 2025 Fourth of July events include: food trucks, vendor booths, parade, Shriners motorcycles, a medallion hunt, a magic show, kids games, bean bag tournament, axe throwing, and fireworks. Most events are FREE!

Spring Girlfriend Getaways to Grand Rapids MN | Visit Grand Rapids

Consider Grand Rapids, MN for Your Next Girlfriend Getaway

A Wide Variety of Lodging

Grand Rapids is a perfect up north destination for a girlfriend getaway primarily because it is a small rural charming community that offers amenities of a much larger community. That goes for the wide variety of places to stay. Because Grand Rapids is a ‘going to the lake’ vacation destination, there is a wide variety of lodging from in town Bed and Breakfasts, Hotels, Motels, and Air BnB’s. Staying in town gives you the opportunity to be close to shops, salons and spas, and places to eat and drink. The in town Hotels and Motels offer amenities like onsite bars, restaurants, a hot tub, a pool, and continental breakfast. Bed and Breakfasts provide charming places to stay with hosts that live on site; where you get a home cooked breakfast, and inside secrets like where to eat, where to shop, and behind the scenes not to miss attractions.

And then there are resorts and vacation rental properties that are located on area lakes. These properties have lodge rooms, cabins, and condos and villas. Many of the available cabins, condos and villas offer kitchens, and places to gather together; both indoors and outdoors. And let’s be honest, the main reason girls get together is to gather together. These types of lodging opportunities give you multiple bedrooms for sleeping. Most resorts and vacation rentals in the Grand Rapids area have updated properties that have full kitchens with dishwashers, wifi, streaming TV opportunities,, and many other . Many of these properties are located on the lake or have lake views. You can also select from a variety of Grand Rapids Hotels/Motels that are conveniently located in town and close to restaurants, spa services, theater, night life, and walking/biking trails. Our quaint and charming Bed & Breakfast or Air B&B’s downtown which are also close to town to trails, shops, area lakes and places to eat & drink.

View Places To Stay in the Grand Rapids, MN Area.

Get Pampered

At our local Spa Service Providers in town. True North Salon is located within Historic Central School Marketplace in the center of downtown. They offer facials, manicures and pedicures, hair services (cuts, blowouts, styling, etc), and make-up services. They are an exclusive Aveda salon. Salon Brad which offers full-service hair and waxing services. Center Spa MN offers laser hair reduction & skin resurfacing, dermablading, Botox, fillers, chemical peels, micropen, massage, body scrubs, manis, pedis, facials and skincare. Muah Salon and Spa is a boutique beauty salon & spa specialized in eyelash services, color trends, hair extensions, teeth whiting and more. Elements Salon and Spa offers salon services like hair extensions, blow outs, and spa services like facials, massage, and lash extensions. The newest spa in Grand Rapids is Solace Spa which is a full-service day spa offering a range of services including advanced skincare, waxing, signature massages and float therapy.

Boutique Shops, Vintage Finds & Art Galleries

There are several fun places to shop in the Grand Rapids, Minnesota area. Downtown Grand Rapids offers locally owned and operated boutique style shops that offer gift, home decor, jewelry, clothing, shoes, art, vintage, repurposed, and more. And then there are locally owned stores that offer unique and one of a kind shopping experiences that are located in Grand Rapids, Coleraine and Bovey. And then there are the big box stores that are located on the south end of town as well. Discover the wide variety of Places to Shop in the Grand Rapids, Minnesota Area.

Discover New Sips & Bites

While you are on a Spring Girlfriend Getaway in Grand Rapids, MN, you have to check out the locally owned craft breweries, winery, MN Wine Bar, and other locally owned bars and restaurants. From the craft breweries: Klockow Brewing Co and Rapids Brewing Co, to the winery: Smoke on the Water located in Coleraine, the MN Wine Bar, Unwined Up North, and to the awesome places the locals go: Sammy’s Pizza, Forest Lake Restaurant, Timberlake Lodge Restaurant, Pickled Loon, and Florio’s. There are SO many places to eat & drink in the Grand Rapids, MN area! Check out all of the options: Places to Eat & Drink in the Grand Rapids, Minnesota Area.

Start planning your next Girlfriend Getaway now, and we hope that you consider coming together in Grand Rapids, Minnesota. This charming small town offers a wide variety of things to do, outdoor recreation, and live music and performances to entertain you and your girlfriends.

Download the Grand Rapids, MN Area Visitor Guide

Stay up to date on the Grand Rapids, MN area by signing up to Receive the Monthly E-Newsletter

Check out the Grand Rapids, MN Area Evens Calendar to see upcoming performances, annual festival, art classes and live music opportunities.

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.

Labor Day Vacation in Grand Rapids Minnesota

Labor Day Up North

This Labor Day Vacation in Grand Rapids, Minnesota. Head north for the perfect road trip destination to celebrate the end of the summer. Grand Rapids, Minnesota is a small and charming town that offers amenities of a much larger community. Enjoy an abundance of outdoor recreation, cozy lodging options with a view, beautiful art, and interesting historic sites, scenic byways, boutique style shops, and fun places to eat & drink. Find rest and relaxation at the lake, seek adventure on our trails, and reconnect in Minnesota’s nature.

Cozy Lodging Options with a View

Come experience “Grand” hospitality in Minnesota’s nature. There are many lodging choices to choose from. Whether you are looking for a clean and economical motel or you would like a property that has full amenities we have you covered. You will find Hotels, Motels, Resorts, a Bed & Breakfast, Vacation Rentals, Lake Rentals, and Camping. Find Grand Rapids Lodging HERE.

Fun Places To Eat & Drink

Going out to eat is a big part of going on vacation. This small town offers a wide variety of places to enjoy a good bar burger, made from scratch wild rice soup, wood fire pizza, and grilled to perfection steaks. There are also craft breweries, a wine bar, and boat up restaurants that you can also drive to, giving you the opportunity to a unique experience of going out to dinner. All of our places to eat & drink are family friendly, here in the greater Grand Rapids, MN area we pride ourselves on being the up north destination for all members of the family. You will also find many places that allow you to bring your dog (as long as they reside in the dog friendly areas). Find all of the Grand Rapids Places To Eat & Drink.

Things To Do in Grand Rapids

Grand Rapids, MN offers a wide variety of things to do over Labor Day weekend. There is end of summer events like live music, Bovey Farmers Day, the First Friday Art Walk downtown Grand Rapids, Wonders in the Night Sky at the Forest History Center, Naturalist Program at the Edge of the Wilderness Discovery Center, Farmers Markets and more. You can tour one of our historic museums like the Judy Garland Museum, Children’s Discovery Museum or the Itasca County Historical Museum. You can enjoy beautiful art through the multiple galleries at the MacRostie Art Center, or take a self guided art and historic site tour through downtown and along the Mississippi River. You can go shopping at the many boutique style shops that offer a wide variety of unique and one-of-a-kind items. Learn more by viewing all of the Things To Do In Grand Rapids, MN.

Lakes, Trails and Fresh Air

Being up north for a Labor Day Vacation to Grand Rapids, MN you must do some type of outdoor recreation activities! There are over 1,400 area lakes, 2,000 miles of trails that are located in over 1 million publicly accessible forest acres within one hour of Grand Rapids, Minnesota. So, whatever type of outdoor recreation you are interested in, you will be able to enjoy it here. Mountain Bike at Legion Trail or at Tioga Recreation Area. Paddle on one of our 1,400 lakes and the Mississippi River that flows right through downtown Grand Rapids. Bike the Mesabi Trail which runs from the Mississippi River in Grand Rapids to the Boundary Waters in Ely. There are hundreds of acres to Hike in the Chippewa National Forest. There are over 300 miles of ATV Trails in and around the Grand Rapids, Minnesota area. And then the outdoor activity that people have been coming to the Grand Rapids, MN area for hundreds of years – Fishing. With over 1,400 lakes, you will find a lake to catch fish on. End of the summer is the perfect time to catch panfish, bass, walleyes, northern pike and trout. Learn more about the Grand Rapids Outdoor Recreation.

Spend Your Labor Day Vacation in Grand Rapids, Minnesota

Grand Rapids Minnesota is that place where you can all come together to un-plug and reconnect! Grand Rapids is conveniently located, but far enough away to create a true destination vacation. We welcome you to join us Up North in Grand Rapids, Minnesota this Labor Day. Start by finding your ideal Grand Rapids Lodging, and viewing additional fun ideas for things to do in the Grand Rapids, MN area through the interactive Grand Rapids Visitor Guide.

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.

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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

Labor Day Up North

Cozy Lodging With a View

Labor Day Vacation Ideas

Labor Day Sample Itinerary

Day 1:

Day 2:

Day 3:

Finish Your Planning and BOOK LODGING

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!

Grand Rapids, MN Fireworks

Hill City, MN Fourth of July Celebration

Nashwauk, MN Fourth of July Celebration

Keewatin, MN Fourth of July Celebration

Table of Contents

Consider Grand Rapids, MN for Your Next Girlfriend Getaway

A Wide Variety of Lodging

Get Pampered

Boutique Shops, Vintage Finds & Art Galleries

Discover New Sips & Bites

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

Labor Day Up North

Cozy Lodging Options with a View

Fun Places To Eat & Drink

Things To Do in Grand Rapids

Lakes, Trails and Fresh Air

Spend Your Labor Day Vacation in Grand Rapids, Minnesota

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

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