International Falls MinnesotaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near International Falls, Minnesota.
1. Voyageurs National Park
EXPANSIVE WILDERNESS ESCAPE
Voyageurs National Park is Minnesota's only national park and is famed for its pristine waterways, dense forests, and island-dotted lakes. Visitors can explore over 218,000 acres by boat, hike scenic trails like the Blind Ash Trail, and enjoy year-round wildlife spotting and stargazing. The park is especially popular for canoeing, fishing, camping, and guided ranger programs that immerse guests in the region's natural splendor.
2. Rainy Lake
SCENIC BOATING DESTINATION
Rainy Lake offers more than 360 square miles of sparkling water stretching between Minnesota and Canada, making it a top spot for fishing, boating, and kayaking. The vast shoreline boasts quiet coves, wildlife viewing opportunities, and excellent picnic areas. Anglers and families alike enjoy the serene landscapes, with plenty of islands and inlets to explore by canoe or motorboat.
3. Smokey Bear Park
ICONIC OUTDOOR LANDMARK
Smokey Bear Park is home to the famous 26-foot statue of Smokey Bear and provides a picturesque spot for family picnics and community gatherings. The park features open green spaces, playgrounds, and hosts several local festivals, most notably the annual Icebox Days in winter. Visitors often stop for photos with the beloved bear statue and enjoy the park's convenient downtown location.
4. Bronko Nagurski Museum
FOOTBALL LEGEND TRIBUTE
The Bronko Nagurski Museum celebrates the legacy of the famed football Hall of Famer who was born in International Falls. Through memorabilia, exhibits, and interactive displays, visitors gain insights into Nagurski's storied career and the evolution of professional football. The museum is located near downtown and shares space with the Koochiching County Historical Museum.
5. Rainy Lake Visitor Center
GATEWAY TO ADVENTURE
The Rainy Lake Visitor Center serves as the main entry point for Voyageurs National Park, providing maps, exhibits, and educational programs about the area's unique ecology and history. Knowledgeable rangers assist with trip planning, and the site offers birdwatching, short hiking trails, and excellent lake views. It is a favorite starting point for families and first-time visitors.
6. Koochiching County Historical Museum
LOCAL HERITAGE DISPLAYS
The Koochiching County Historical Museum chronicles the area's development from the early Native American inhabitants through the fur trading and lumber eras up to the present day. Visitors can explore artifacts, period photographs, and reconstructed dioramas that bring local history to life. The museum is located within Smokey Bear Park, making it easily accessible for all ages.
7. Falls Country Club
RIVERSIDE GOLFING RETREAT
Falls Country Club features an 18-hole golf course nestled along the Rainy River, offering beautiful scenery and a challenging layout for golfers of all skill levels. Players enjoy expansive fairways, wooded borders, and varied elevation changes. The club also provides a driving range and practice green, plus a welcoming clubhouse for post-game refreshments.
8. International Falls Public Library
COMMUNITY LEARNING HUB
The International Falls Public Library is a modern facility dedicated to education, literacy, and lifelong learning. It offers a wide range of books, digital resources, community programs, and a quiet, comfortable space for study or relaxation. The library often serves as a cultural center for local events and reading initiatives.
9. River Golf Course
SCENIC LOCAL FAIRWAYS
The River Golf Course is a well-maintained, 18-hole public course set along the banks of the Rainy River. It features a practice range and chipping and putting greens, making it suitable for both beginners and seasoned golfers. With its relaxed atmosphere and picturesque river vistas, the course is a favorite for visitors seeking a casual round of golf.
10. Border Theater
HISTORIC MOVIE HOUSE
Border Theater is a charming, historic cinema offering first-run movies in a classic setting. The vintage architecture and welcoming staff create a nostalgic movie-going experience that appeals to families and film buffs alike. It serves as both a local entertainment venue and a window into International Falls' past.
11. Voyageurs National Park Headquarters
PARK INFORMATION CENTER
The Voyageurs National Park Headquarters provides resources, trip planning assistance, and detailed park information for visitors. Educational exhibits and friendly rangers help orient guests before setting out on adventures within the park. The headquarters also serves as a place to obtain permits and learn about park programs.
12. Blind Ash Bay Trail
WOODLAND HIKING PATH
The Blind Ash Bay Trail is a scenic, moderately challenging hiking route within Voyageurs National Park. Hikers traverse fragrant pine forests, rocky outcrops, and lakeshore overlooks teeming with opportunities to spot wildlife. The trail provides a tranquil escape and is ideal for those seeking quiet nature exploration.
13. Icebox Days Festival
WINTER FESTIVAL TRADITION
The Icebox Days Festival is a beloved annual event that celebrates International Falls's reputation as 'The Icebox of the Nation.' The festival features quirky winter sports like frozen turkey bowling, chili cook-offs, and the famous Freeze Yer Gizzard Blizzard Run. Locals and visitors alike flock downtown for this celebration of cold-weather fun and community spirit.
14. Rainy River
INTERNATIONAL WATERWAY VIEWS
Rainy River forms the international boundary between Minnesota and Ontario and is a prime destination for fishing, boating, and riverside walks. Anglers come for walleye and smallmouth bass while others appreciate the scenic vistas and opportunities for wildlife observation. Several parks and outlooks along the river provide perfect picnic and photo spots.
15. Koochiching State Forest
VAST FOREST RECREATION
Koochiching State Forest encompasses over 565,000 acres just south of International Falls, offering year-round outdoor activities such as camping, hunting, ATV riding, and snowmobiling. Its remote wilderness atmosphere attracts adventure seekers and nature lovers looking for a peaceful retreat. Numerous lakes and trails wind through birch and pine woods, making the forest a hidden gem for explorers.