Bemidji MinnesotaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Bemidji, Minnesota.
1. Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox
ICONIC FOLKSY STATUES
Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox are legendary statues that have welcomed tourists to Bemidji since 1937. These folksy statues stand proudly with Paul in his red-checked plaid shirt alongside his trusty sidekick, forming the most photographed statues in the midwestern United States. Visitors can take selfies with these iconic figures located outside the Bemidji Visitor Center, making it a perfect starting point for exploring the first city on the Mississippi River.
2. Lake Bemidji State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Lake Bemidji State Park is an outdoor paradise offering a variety of recreational activities including swimming, boating, fishing, biking, and hiking. Located on the shores of beautiful Lake Bemidji, the park provides visitors with pristine natural settings and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. Nature enthusiasts can explore the park's trails and enjoy the serene North Woods environment throughout all four seasons.
3. Sculpture Walk
WATERFRONT ART DISPLAY
The Sculpture Walk in Bemidji features 12 statues designed by well-known artists along the waterfront. This artistic area provides a cultural experience where visitors can stroll and appreciate various artistic expressions while enjoying views of Lake Bemidji. Each sculpture adds to the city's charm, making the walk both a cultural and scenic attraction for art lovers and casual visitors alike.
4. Headwaters Science Center
HANDS-ON LEARNING EXPERIENCE
The Headwaters Science Center offers visitors over 40 hands-on science exhibits for interactive learning experiences. The center also houses a collection of live animals and a unique gift shop that enhances the educational visit. Special science demonstrations and programs make this a fascinating destination for curious minds of all ages who want to explore scientific concepts in an engaging way.
5. Mississippi Headwaters
BIRTHPLACE OF GREAT RIVER
The Mississippi Headwaters area near Bemidji marks where America's most famous river begins its 2,552-mile journey to the Gulf of Mexico. This beautiful section of the Mississippi offers isolated natural beauty with abundant wildlife and few visitors, creating a serene experience. Visitors can appreciate the significance of standing at the beginning of this mighty river that will grow from this modest stream to become one of the world's great waterways.
6. Bemidji Visitor Center
FOLKLORE AND INFORMATION HUB
The Bemidji Visitor Center serves as the starting point for many Bemidji vacations, offering information about local attractions and activities. Inside, visitors can explore an eclectic, comical display of supersized artifacts that continues the Paul Bunyan theme, including a baby moccasin, rattle, and rifle. The center also features the unique Fireplace of States built with stones from every Minnesota county and every U.S. state, making it a fascinating historical attraction.
7. Paul Bunyan State Trail
SCENIC MULTI-USE PATH
The Paul Bunyan State Trail is one of Minnesota's premier recreational pathways starting in Bemidji. This multi-use trail offers opportunities for hiking, biking, and snowmobiling through beautiful North Woods scenery. Stretching for miles through the region, the trail connects Bemidji to other communities and natural areas, making it perfect for both short excursions and longer adventures.
8. Bemidji State University
LAKESIDE CAMPUS EXPERIENCE
Bemidji State University offers visitors a beautiful campus located right on the shores of Lake Bemidji. The university features architectural points of interest, cultural events, and athletic competitions throughout the year. Visitors can explore the campus grounds, attend performances at the theater, or enjoy the university's connection to the surrounding natural environment.
9. Chief Bemidji Statue
HISTORICAL NATIVE AMERICAN TRIBUTE
The Chief Bemidji Statue honors Shaynowishkung, the respected Ojibwe leader for whom the city is named. This highly-rated historical monument recognizes the important Native American heritage and influence in the region. Visitors can learn about Chief Bemidji's significance to the area while enjoying its lakeside setting, connecting with an important aspect of local history.
10. Sanford Center
ENTERTAINMENT AND SPORTS VENUE
The Sanford Center in Bemidji is a modern entertainment and sports venue hosting concerts, conventions, and athletic events. Home to Bemidji State University hockey, the center offers visitors exciting sporting competitions in an excellent facility. The venue's convenient location and variety of events make it a cultural and entertainment hub for both locals and tourists throughout the year.
11. Bemidji Theater
HISTORIC PERFORMING ARTS
Bemidji Theater holds the distinction of being Minnesota's oldest professional summer theater featuring both contemporary and classic plays. This cultural institution offers visitors a chance to enjoy quality theatrical performances in a charming setting. Theater enthusiasts can appreciate the historical significance of the venue while enjoying professional productions that bring stories to life on stage.
12. Ski Bemidji
WINTER SPORTS COMPLEX
Ski Bemidji offers winter sports enthusiasts excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities in northern Minnesota. The area features well-maintained slopes and trails catering to various skill levels, from beginners to advanced snow sport participants. During the winter months, visitors can enjoy the thrill of downhill adventures alongside stunning snow-covered North Woods scenery.
13. Itasca State Park
MINNESOTA'S OLDEST PARK
Itasca State Park, established in 1891, holds the distinction of being Minnesota's oldest state park, encompassing over 32,000 acres and more than 100 lakes. Visitors can walk across the mighty Mississippi as it starts its winding journey 2,552 miles to the Gulf of Mexico, standing under towering pines and visiting landmarks of centuries gone by. The park's 2,000-acre Wilderness Sanctuary is one of Minnesota's seven National Natural Landmarks, offering camping opportunities and exploration via Wilderness Drive.
14. Lake Bemidji
RECREATIONAL WATER ACTIVITIES
Lake Bemidji provides abundant access to water recreation with its pristine waters perfect for canoeing, paddle boarding, fishing, and boating. The lake forms a stunning backdrop to the city, with its blue waters shimmering behind the folksy statues of Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox. Visitors can enjoy the lake's natural beauty through various seasonal activities, from summer swimming to winter ice fishing.
15. Fireplace of States
UNIQUE NATIONAL MONUMENT
The Fireplace of States in the Bemidji Visitor Center is a remarkable monument constructed with stones from every Minnesota county and every U.S. state. This unique architectural feature represents the unity of the nation and serves as a fascinating point of interest for history buffs and casual visitors alike. Tourists can examine stones from across America while learning about this distinctive piece of Americana that complements the Paul Bunyan theme of the center.