Mentor MinnesotaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Mentor, Minnesota.
1. Rydell National Wildlife Refuge
PROTECTED WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
Rydell National Wildlife Refuge offers expansive trails winding through diverse habitats, making it a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Walking paths and interpretive signs provide educational experiences about native Minnesota wildlife in tranquil, scenic surroundings. Visitors frequently spot deer, waterfowl, and songbirds, making it an ideal spot for families and photographers alike.
2. Voyageur's View Tubing & Camping
RIVER TUBING ADVENTURE
Voyageur's View Tubing & Camping provides a memorable outdoor experience with tubing and canoeing along the meandering Red Lake River. The campground also hosts lively events and offers amenities for both tent and RV campers seeking a fun, social atmosphere. Families and groups enjoy the blend of relaxation on the water and recreational opportunities onshore.
3. Shooting Star Casino
CASINO AND ENTERTAINMENT
Shooting Star Casino in Mahnomen features a lively gaming floor with slots, table games, and regular live entertainment. Guests can dine at several onsite restaurants and enjoy concerts or comedy acts in the casino's event center. The complex also offers hotel accommodations, making it a popular regional destination for a night out or a weekend getaway.
4. Grape Mill Vineyard and Winery
LOCAL VINEYARD EXPERIENCE
Grape Mill Vineyard and Winery invites guests to sample locally produced wines in a welcoming tasting room surrounded by scenic vineyard views. The family-owned winery offers tours that highlight the process of grape growing and winemaking in the Red River Valley. Visitors appreciate the relaxed ambiance and friendly staff, often leaving with a bottle of their favorite vintage.
5. First Presbyterian Church
HISTORIC COMMUNITY LANDMARK
First Presbyterian Church stands as a pillar of Mentor's small-town heritage, serving the local community for generations. Its classic architecture and peaceful setting make it a notable spot for history buffs interested in the region's cultural past. The church continues to host regular services and community gatherings, inviting all to experience its enduring sense of fellowship.
6. Grand Forks County Historical Society Myra Museum
REGIONAL HISTORY DISPLAYS
The Myra Museum, operated by the Grand Forks County Historical Society, preserves and showcases the history of the surrounding Red River Valley. Exhibits include period rooms, antique furnishings, and artifacts that illustrate North Dakota's early settlement. The museum also maintains historic buildings on its grounds, offering immersive glimpses into 19th-century life.
7. All Seasons Garden Center
GARDENING AND GIFTS
All Seasons Garden Center pairs verdant greenhouses with gift shops brimming with unique décor and plants. Garden enthusiasts can explore a wide array of perennials, annuals, and gardening supplies in a friendly, knowledgeable environment. Seasonal events and workshops frequently delight families and newcomers, making it more than just a garden store.
8. Ulen Museum
SMALL-TOWN HERITAGE
Ulen Museum serves as a window into the rural history and traditions of the area, with displays focused on local agriculture and pioneer life. The museum's lovingly curated collection includes photographs, household items, and memorabilia from Ulen's early days. It stands as a testament to community pride and the region's agricultural roots.
9. The Parrot's Cay
ECLECTIC EATERY AND BAR
The Parrot's Cay is known for its quirky, laid-back atmosphere and inventive menu featuring famous wings and Cajun-inspired dishes. Locals and visitors gather here for lively evenings, live music, and a unique dining experience packed with bold flavors. The bar's character and inventive drinks have made it a beloved staple in the Grand Forks food scene.
10. Widman's Candy Shop
HANDMADE SWEETS INSTITUTION
Widman's Candy Shop has delighted generations with its handcrafted chocolates and signature Chippers—potato chips dunked in chocolate. The welcoming shop is filled with nostalgic confections and friendly staff eager to offer samples and share their candy-making traditions. A visit here is a treat for all ages, perfect for indulging a sweet tooth or picking up memorable gifts.
11. Maple Lake Pavilion
LAKESIDE REC & EVENTS
Maple Lake Pavilion brings Mentor's scenic lakeside charm to life with rollerblading sessions and community events throughout the season. The venue is a gathering place for summer festivities and a hub for family fun set against the tranquil waters of Maple Lake. Locals look forward to dances, live music, and lakeside celebrations at this beloved spot.
12. Polk County Fair
ANNUAL COUNTY FAIR
The Polk County Fair in Fertile delivers classic fairground excitement with agricultural showcases, midway rides, and live entertainment every July. Local produce, crafts, and livestock exhibits highlight the rural traditions of northwestern Minnesota. The festive atmosphere makes it a highlight of summer for families across the county.
13. Agassiz Environmental Learning Center
NATURE EDUCATION TRAILS
Agassiz Environmental Learning Center provides hands-on nature education amid the rolling terrain of the Fertile Sand Hills. Visitors can explore interpretive trails, attend programs on local ecology, and discover the area's unique prairie and woodland habitats. The center is a favorite destination for school groups, hikers, and anyone interested in the natural world.
14. Arts & Crafts Festival at Maple Lake Pavilion
SUMMER ARTS FESTIVAL
The annual Arts & Crafts Festival at Maple Lake Pavilion draws artisans and visitors from across the region for two days every July. Stalls showcase handcrafted goods ranging from jewelry and pottery to local artwork and specialty foods. The festival's lively setting and lakeside backdrop make it a summer tradition for Mentor and surrounding communities.
15. Ox Cart Days
COMMUNITY HERITAGE FESTIVAL
Ox Cart Days in Crookston celebrates local history with a week-long festival featuring parades, contests, and cultural demonstrations. This vibrant event offers everything from classic car shows to live music and family fun, attracting visitors from across northwestern Minnesota. The festival honors Crookston's origins as a transportation hub in the Red River Valley.