Clearbrook MinnesotaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Clearbrook, Minnesota.
1. Clearbrook City Park
RECREATION AND COMMUNITY HUB
Clearbrook City Park offers camping facilities with 15 RV sites and 15 tent sites within walking distance of Main Street. Visitors can enjoy the outdoor swimming pool, playground, and pavilion while being close to shopping and music on Main Street. The park serves as a gateway to nearby lakes including Pine, Balm, Clearwater, and Bagley lakes, all within 20 minutes of the campground.
2. La Salle Lake State Recreation Area
PRISTINE WILDERNESS EXPERIENCE
La Salle Lake State Recreation Area offers outdoor enthusiasts a chance to explore Minnesota's natural beauty with hiking trails and lake activities. The recreation area features Minnesota's deepest lake and provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing throughout the seasons. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful surroundings while experiencing the diverse ecosystem of northern Minnesota.
3. Chief Bemidji Statue
HISTORICAL CULTURAL MONUMENT
The Chief Bemidji Statue honors Shaynowishkung, the first permanent resident of the area and a respected Ojibwe leader. Located along the shore of Lake Bemidji, this bronze statue replaced the original wooden carving and serves as an important cultural landmark. Visitors can learn about the history of the region's indigenous people and Chief Bemidji's legacy of peaceful relations with early European settlers.
4. Mattie's Menagerie
FAMILY-FRIENDLY ANIMAL EXPERIENCE
Mattie's Menagerie provides visitors with a unique opportunity to interact with a variety of friendly farm animals in a safe environment. This family-oriented attraction offers educational experiences about animal care and farm life for visitors of all ages. The menagerie creates memorable experiences for children and adults alike through up-close encounters with goats, horses, and other domesticated animals.
5. Sculpture Walk
ARTISTIC OUTDOOR GALLERY
The Sculpture Walk features an impressive collection of public art installations displayed throughout downtown Bemidji. Visitors can stroll through the city streets to discover creative sculptures that showcase the talents of local and regional artists. The outdoor gallery changes annually, providing new artistic experiences for returning visitors and celebrating the vibrant arts community of northern Minnesota.
6. Bemidji Woolen Mills
HISTORIC LOCAL CRAFTSMANSHIP
Bemidji Woolen Mills has been crafting high-quality woolen garments and accessories since 1920, making it a historic landmark in the region. Visitors can explore the retail store featuring locally-made woolen products including their famous plaid clothing, blankets, and outdoor gear. The mill represents northern Minnesota's rich tradition of craftsmanship and provides a glimpse into the region's manufacturing heritage.
7. Itasca State Park
MISSISSIPPI RIVER HEADWATERS
Itasca State Park is Minnesota's oldest state park and home to the headwaters of the Mississippi River, where visitors can walk across the mighty river as it begins its journey to the Gulf of Mexico. The park encompasses more than 32,000 acres of pristine wilderness with old-growth pine forests, over 100 lakes, and abundant wildlife. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, biking, boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing while exploring this historic and ecologically significant park.
8. Lake Bemidji State Park
SCENIC LAKESIDE RECREATION
Lake Bemidji State Park offers year-round outdoor recreation on the shores of beautiful Lake Bemidji with sandy beaches, hiking trails, and camping facilities. In winter, the park transforms into a wonderland for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and wildlife viewing against snowy landscapes. Visitors can explore the diverse ecosystems including coniferous forests, hardwood forests, and bogs while observing native wildlife such as deer, beaver, and a variety of bird species.
9. Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox
ICONIC FOLKLORE STATUES
The towering statues of Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox stand as Bemidji's most famous landmarks, celebrating the legendary lumberjack from American folklore. Built in 1937, these beloved figures have welcomed visitors to Bemidji for generations and are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Tourists from around the world stop to take photos with these iconic statues that represent northern Minnesota's logging heritage and pioneering spirit.
10. Bemidji Brewing
CRAFT BEER EXPERIENCE
Bemidji Brewing offers visitors a taste of northern Minnesota through its craft beer selection made with locally-sourced ingredients whenever possible. The taproom provides a welcoming atmosphere where guests can sample a variety of handcrafted beers while learning about the brewing process from knowledgeable staff. Beer enthusiasts can take guided tours of the brewing facilities to gain insight into the art and science of craft beer production.
11. Clearwater County Historical Society
LOCAL HERITAGE PRESERVATION
The Clearwater County Historical Society preserves and showcases the rich history of the region through its museum collections and historical records. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of early settlers, Native American culture, and rural life in northern Minnesota. The society offers educational programs and research opportunities for those interested in genealogy and local history.
12. Concordia Language Villages
IMMERSIVE CULTURAL LEARNING
Concordia Language Villages provides a unique immersive language and cultural experience on a beautiful campus near Bemidji. The internationally recognized program offers language learning in authentic village environments that replicate the architecture, customs, and cuisine of various countries. Visitors can attend special events and programs that celebrate global cultures through music, dance, art, and culinary traditions.
13. Clearwater Forest
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE PARADISE
Clearwater Forest offers outdoor enthusiasts miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife observation in the pristine wilderness of northern Minnesota. The forest features diverse ecosystems including wetlands, pine forests, and natural meadows that support a variety of plant and animal species. Visitors can experience the changing seasons in the forest, from spring wildflowers to vibrant fall colors and serene winter snowscapes.
14. Buena Vista Ski Area
WINTER SPORTS DESTINATION
Buena Vista Ski Area provides winter recreation opportunities with scenic views of the Laurentian Divide just north of Bemidji. The family-friendly resort offers downhill skiing, snowboarding, and tubing hills suitable for all skill levels from beginners to experienced winter sports enthusiasts. During the summer months, visitors can explore hiking trails that showcase the natural beauty of the forested hills and valleys.
15. Mississippi Headwaters Forest
HISTORIC RIVER WILDERNESS
The Mississippi Headwaters Forest encompasses the critical watershed area where America's most famous river begins its 2,552-mile journey to the Gulf of Mexico. This protected forest area features old-growth pine stands, diverse wildlife habitats, and numerous recreational opportunities including hiking, fishing, and birdwatching. Visitors can explore the ecological significance of the headwaters region while enjoying the tranquility of this pristine natural area.