Hillman MinnesotaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Hillman, Minnesota.
1. Mille Lacs Lake
MINNESOTA'S SECOND-LARGEST LAKE
Mille Lacs Lake is the second-largest inland lake in Minnesota, providing visitors with excellent opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming during warmer months. The lake is particularly renowned for its abundant walleye population, making it a premier fishing destination in the Midwest. Families and outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of water activities while taking in the scenic beauty of central Minnesota.
2. Mille Lacs Kathio State Park
HISTORIC OUTDOOR RECREATION
Mille Lacs Kathio State Park offers visitors well-marked trails for hiking and bird watching amid stunning natural beauty and historical significance. During winter months, the park transforms into a wonderland perfect for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing adventures. The park preserves both natural landscapes and archaeological sites significant to Native American history in the region.
3. Mille Lacs Indian Museum and Trading Post
NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE
The Mille Lacs Indian Museum and Trading Post provides a fascinating look into the history and culture of the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring traditional and contemporary Ojibwe art, artifacts, and interactive displays that tell the story of the tribe's rich heritage. The adjacent trading post offers authentic Native American crafts, artwork, and educational materials for purchase.
4. Grand Casino Mille Lacs
GAMING AND ENTERTAINMENT
Grand Casino Mille Lacs offers visitors a complete entertainment experience with gaming, dining, and live performances. The casino features thousands of slot machines, table games, and a bingo hall for gaming enthusiasts of all levels. Beyond gambling, guests can enjoy multiple restaurants, entertainment venues, and comfortable accommodations at the attached hotel.
5. St. Therese Little Flower Parish
HISTORIC SACRED SPACE
St. Therese Little Flower Parish stands as a spiritual landmark in the Hillman community, offering a peaceful place for reflection and worship. The church features traditional architecture and religious artwork that tells the story of faith in rural Minnesota. Visitors appreciate the welcoming atmosphere and historical significance of this local parish.
6. Munsinger Gardens
RIVERSIDE FLORAL PARADISE
Munsinger Gardens offers a stunning collection of flowers and plants along the Mississippi River, creating a picturesque setting for nature lovers. The gardens feature winding paths, fountains, and a variety of seasonal blooms that change throughout the growing season. Visitors can enjoy peaceful walks, photography opportunities, and the tranquil atmosphere created by the combination of floral displays and riverside views.
7. Clemens Gardens
FORMAL EUROPEAN-STYLE GARDENS
Clemens Gardens showcases six distinct garden areas designed in formal European style, offering visitors an elegant horticultural experience. The gardens feature ornate fountains, walkways, and thousands of annuals and perennials arranged in meticulous patterns. This botanical attraction pairs beautifully with neighboring Munsinger Gardens to create one of Minnesota's most impressive public garden experiences.
8. Red River Zoo
CONSERVATION AND EDUCATION
The Red River Zoo specializes in cold-climate species and conservation efforts, providing an educational experience for visitors of all ages. The zoo's exhibits focus on animals from regions with similar climates to North Dakota, creating appropriate and comfortable habitats. Interactive displays and regular educational programming make this a family-friendly destination that combines entertainment with important conservation messages.
9. Pine Tree Apple Orchard
FAMILY FARM EXPERIENCE
Pine Tree Apple Orchard offers seasonal fruit picking and farm activities in a picturesque rural setting near the Twin Cities. Visitors can enjoy apple picking in fall, strawberry picking in early summer, and special seasonal events throughout the year. The on-site bakery and store offer fresh pies, apple products, and other homemade treats that showcase the orchard's bounty.
10. LuceLine Orchard
PREMIUM APPLE DESTINATION
LuceLine Orchard stands as one of Minnesota's best apple orchards, offering a variety of pick-your-own fruit experiences and farm activities. The orchard features multiple apple varieties, a pumpkin patch in autumn, and seasonal events that celebrate the agricultural heritage of the region. Families particularly enjoy the corn maze, hayrides, and farm animals that complement the fruit-picking experience.
11. Downtown West
URBAN CULTURAL HUB
Downtown West forms the cultural heart of Minneapolis, featuring theaters, museums, and historic architecture in a vibrant urban setting. Visitors can explore attractions like the Guthrie Theater, Mill City Museum, and Minneapolis Central Library all within walking distance. The area's mix of contemporary and historic buildings creates a dynamic cityscape that tells the story of Minneapolis's development from mill town to modern metropolis.
12. Immaculate Conception Church
HISTORIC RELIGIOUS ARCHITECTURE
Immaculate Conception Church stands as a testament to the religious heritage of central Minnesota's early European settlers. The church features impressive architecture, stained glass windows, and religious artwork that reflects the faith traditions of the community. Visitors appreciate both the spiritual significance and the architectural details that make this historic church a landmark in the region.
13. Wilderness Survival Skills Workshop
OUTDOOR EDUCATION EXPERIENCE
The Wilderness Survival Skills Workshop offers hands-on learning experiences in outdoor skills essential for backcountry safety and self-sufficiency. Participants learn fire-making, shelter building, foraging, and navigation techniques from experienced instructors in the beautiful Minnesota wilderness. These educational programs combine adventure with practical skills that build confidence and connection to the natural environment.
14. Father Hennepin State Park
LAKESIDE RECREATION AREA
Father Hennepin State Park offers beautiful shoreline access to Mille Lacs Lake with camping, swimming, and picnicking facilities. The park features sandy beaches, wooded hiking trails, and excellent birdwatching opportunities throughout its diverse habitats. Visitors enjoy the combination of recreational amenities and natural beauty that makes this park a popular destination for both day trips and overnight stays.
15. Soo Line Trail
HISTORIC RAILWAY PATH
The Soo Line Trail follows the historic railway corridor through central Minnesota, offering a scenic route for hiking, biking, and snowmobiling. The trail passes through diverse landscapes including forests, wetlands, and rural communities that showcase the natural beauty of the region. History enthusiasts appreciate the railway heritage preserved along the route, while outdoor recreationists enjoy the well-maintained pathway through changing seasonal landscapes.