Minnesota is the land of 10,000 lakes and blue-sky waters! Think bald eagles, common loons, turtles, lumberjacks, fresh fish, pontoon boats, thunderstorms, log cabins and s’mores. We got to experience all these summertime delights and more on our recent visit to the Bemidji area to drop off our daughter to the Concordia Language Villages —an international world language, culture, and education program offering 15 different foreign language immersion options.
Named one of the top 15 small towns to visit in summer 2022 by Smithsonian Magazine, Bemidji is not only the birthplace of Paul Bunyan but also is known to be the “curling capital” of the USA.
Wondering what to do in Bemidji, Minnesota if you only have a few days? Here are some of our top recommendations:
Stay at Kohl’s Resort – family and dog friendly resort located on Big Turtle Lake. Spend your days immersed in water play fun – swimming, fishing, boating, and enjoying stunning sunsets.
Check out downtown Bemidji to get photo op with Paul Bunyan and Ox, get groceries at Harmony Food Coop, fresh fish at Locker and Fish Co, and enjoy some local history and shopping at the Bemidji Woolen Mills.
Take in some local art at the Watermark Art Center – free admission.
Take a day trip to the headwaters of the Mississippi River and enjoy Itasca State Park. Stop by the Visitor Center to get discounts for the passenger “Chester Charles II” boat cruise and learn about the local native and wildlife.
