Gilbert MinnesotaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Gilbert, Minnesota.
1. Lake Ore-Be-Gone
CRYSTAL CLEAR MINE LAKE
Lake Ore-Be-Gone is a former iron mine within Gilbert city limits that has been transformed into a stunning recreational area. The clear waters make it a scuba diving paradise, with mining equipment and surprises sunken hundreds of feet below. Visitors can enjoy the swimming beach, fishing pier, dock, and pavilion picnic area.
2. Iron Range Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation Area
HIGH-OCTANE OUTDOOR PLAYGROUND
The Iron Range Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation Area offers 36 miles of roads for ATV, Jeep, and truck enthusiasts to explore. Riders can rumble across rocky terrain, splash through mud holes, and grind up hill climbs across trails of all difficulty levels. This riders' paradise features scramble areas and mud pits that provide thrilling adventures for motorized recreation enthusiasts.
3. Sherwood Forest Campground
SCENIC LAKESIDE CAMPING
Sherwood Forest Campground overlooks Lake Ore-Be-Gone and serves as headquarters for annual events like ScubaPalooza and Ride for a Cure Jeep event. This friendly campsite is a favorite for both motorized and non-motorized trail enthusiasts seeking outdoor accommodations. The campground's strategic location alongside the Mesabi Trail and reclaimed mine lake makes it an ideal base for exploring Gilbert's attractions.
4. Mesabi Trail
SCENIC PAVED CYCLING PATH
The Mesabi Trail runs through Gilbert as part of its impressive 130-mile paved route that stretches from Grand Rapids to Ely. Cyclists can enjoy spectacular views of open-pit mines, forests, lakes, and historic sites along this well-maintained pathway. The trail section in Gilbert runs alongside Lake Ore-Be-Gone and the popular Sherwood Forest Campground, offering convenient access to the town's attractions.
5. Whistling Bird Restaurant
FAMOUS LOCAL DINING SPOT
The Whistling Bird Restaurant stands as one of the famous dining establishments along Gilbert's exceptionally wide main street. This notable eatery offers a distinctive culinary experience within walking distance of the Sherwood Forest Campground. Visitors and locals alike frequent this establishment as one of the great dining destinations in Gilbert.
6. Koshars Sausage Kitchen
SPECIALTY MEAT SHOP
Koshars Sausage Kitchen is a highly-rated specialty shop in Gilbert that delights visitors with its unique offerings. This popular establishment has earned an impressive 4.8 rating, making it one of the most beloved specialty and gift shops in the area. Food enthusiasts can explore a variety of sausages and meat products that showcase local flavors and traditions.
7. Kandy N Konez
SWEET SUMMER TREATS
Kandy N Konez is a beloved summer destination in Gilbert where kids and adults alike can enjoy treats of all flavors. Located within walking distance of Sherwood Forest Campground, this sweet shop provides the perfect refreshment after a day of outdoor activities. The establishment is particularly popular during the warm months when visitors seek cool, delicious relief from summer adventures.
8. Gilbert's July 4th Parade
SPECTACULAR HOLIDAY CELEBRATION
Gilbert's July 4th Parade is renowned as one of the best Independence Day celebrations on the Iron Range. The spectacular event draws visitors and locals alike to the town's famously wide main street for a patriotic display. Attendees can enjoy the small-town charm combined with impressive floats, music, and community spirit that make this annual tradition a must-see attraction.
9. U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame Museum
NATIONAL HOCKEY SHRINE
The U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame Museum in nearby Eveleth celebrates America's hockey heritage with an impressive collection of memorabilia and exhibits. Visitors can see the triumphs of the "Miracle on Ice" 1980 U.S. Olympic hockey team and other national hockey stars, many of whom grew up playing on the Iron Range. The museum features the world's largest free-standing hockey stick and puck, providing perfect photo opportunities for sports enthusiasts.
10. Greyhound Museum
HISTORIC BUS TRANSPORTATION
The Greyhound Museum in Hibbing offers visitors the chance to explore vintage buses from the company that launched America's bus industry. Visitors can hop aboard historic vehicles and learn how the company evolved from a humble Hupmobile touring car that transported residents between mining towns to an essential part of the nation's transportation network by World War II. This museum preserves the rich transportation history of the region and its connection to national development.
11. ScubaPalooza Event
UNDERWATER DIVING FESTIVAL
ScubaPalooza is an annual diving event centered around the crystal-clear waters of Lake Ore-Be-Gone in Gilbert. Scuba enthusiasts gather to explore the unique underwater landscape featuring sunken mining equipment and various surprises hundreds of feet below the surface. The event headquarters at Sherwood Forest Campground serves as the perfect base for participants to enjoy this celebration of underwater adventure.
12. Ride for a Cure Jeep Event
CHARITABLE OFF-ROAD ADVENTURE
The Ride for a Cure Jeep Event combines off-road excitement with charitable purpose in Gilbert's renowned OHV Park. Participants navigate their vehicles through challenging terrain while raising funds for important causes. The event is headquartered at Sherwood Forest Campground, allowing attendees to enjoy the full experience of Gilbert's outdoor recreational offerings.
13. Gilbert's Historic Main Street
WIDEST MIDWEST MAIN STREET
Gilbert's historic main street is reputed to be the widest in the entire Midwest, creating a unique and spacious downtown area. Visitors can explore the various restaurants, bars, and shops that line this expansive thoroughfare, offering a glimpse into the town's character and heritage. The distinctive width of the street reflects the town's mining history and practical planning for large equipment that once traversed the area.
14. Gilbert's Mining Heritage
IRON RANGE HISTORY
Gilbert's mining heritage forms the foundation of this Iron Range community, with visible remnants of its industrial past throughout the area. The transformation of former mining operations into recreational spaces like Lake Ore-Be-Gone demonstrates the town's evolution while honoring its roots. Visitors can gain insights into the region's important role in America's industrial development through Gilbert's preserved mining landscape.
15. Gilbert Public Parks
COMMUNITY GREEN SPACES
Gilbert's public parks provide peaceful green spaces for residents and visitors to enjoy outdoor recreation. These community gathering places offer opportunities for picnicking, sports, and relaxation amidst the natural beauty of Minnesota's Iron Range. The well-maintained parks contribute to Gilbert's reputation as a recreation-friendly destination with amenities for all ages.