Ulen MinnesotaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Ulen, Minnesota.
1. Ulen Museum
LOCAL HISTORY EXHIBITS
The Ulen Museum takes visitors on a journey through the area's pioneer past, showcasing artifacts and recreations of 19th-century life. Exhibits include rooms from a historic home, agricultural tools, and memorabilia unique to Ulen's Norwegian heritage. It's an ideal stop for those interested in local history and small-town Americana.
2. Minnesota Sisters
BOUTIQUE SHOPPING EXPERIENCE
Minnesota Sisters is a charming local boutique offering unique gifts, home décor, and handmade items crafted by local artisans. Shoppers will enjoy browsing an ever-changing selection of goods that reflect the creative spirit of rural Minnesota. Its warm atmosphere and friendly service make it a must-stop for travelers looking for souvenirs or one-of-a-kind finds.
3. Agassiz Recreational Trail
MULTI-USE OUTDOOR TRAIL
The Agassiz Recreational Trail begins in Ulen and stretches 53 miles northward, offering scenic routes for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and snowmobiling. The trail follows a former railroad grade, passing through picturesque farmland and prairies. It serves as a recreational backbone for the region, drawing outdoor enthusiasts year-round.
4. Ulen Veterans Memorial
TRIBUTE TO LOCAL VETERANS
The Ulen Veterans Memorial honors the service and sacrifice of veterans from the community. Visitors can reflect at this peaceful site, which features commemorative plaques and carefully maintained landscaping. It's a respectful spot that underscores the town's close-knit values and military heritage.
5. Viking Manor Nursing Home
HISTORIC SENIOR FACILITY
Viking Manor Nursing Home, while primarily a long-term care facility, is also notable for its role in Ulen's community history and its mid-century architecture. The manor has served local seniors for decades and is featured in both local lore and vintage photography. Its presence is a testament to the town's commitment to care across generations.
6. Ulen Senior Citizens Center
COMMUNITY GATHERING PLACE
The Ulen Senior Citizens Center is a welcoming spot where seniors gather for social events, games, and shared meals. The center plays a vital role in keeping the town's older residents connected and engaged. Its cheerful atmosphere and lively programming make it a hub of community life.
7. Buffalo River State Park
PRAIRIE PARK AND TRAILS
Buffalo River State Park, located in nearby Glyndon, features some of Minnesota's best preserved prairies, sandy swimming beaches, and picturesque hiking trails. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, picnicking, and exploring the native tallgrass ecosystem. The park is a favorite for nature lovers and families seeking the outdoors.
8. Bluestem Prairie Scientific and Natural Area
WILDLIFE AND BIRD SANCTUARY
Bluestem Prairie SNA is a renowned preserve protecting rare tallgrass prairie and providing critical habitat for wildlife, including the greater prairie-chicken. Visitors can wander through the area on trails, witnessing native wildflowers and diverse bird species. It's a top destination for birdwatchers and those interested in native habitats.
9. Shooting Star Casino
GAMING AND ENTERTAINMENT
Shooting Star Casino in Mahnomen offers a vibrant mix of gaming, live entertainment, and dining options. Guests can try their luck on slot machines and table games, or catch concerts and shows in the event center. As a regional draw, the casino brings excitement and nightlife to the area near Ulen.
10. Bergen's Greenhouses, Inc.
GARDENS AND FLORAL CENTER
Bergen's Greenhouses, Inc. is a sprawling plant nursery and greenhouse facility in Detroit Lakes, supplying seasonal plants, flowers, and gardening supplies. Visitors appreciate the vibrant displays, expert staff, and opportunities to tour the greenhouses. It's a destination for gardening enthusiasts and anyone seeking a splash of green.
11. United Lutheran Church
HISTORIC COMMUNITY CHURCH
United Lutheran Church is a longstanding place of worship, central to Ulen's spiritual and cultural heritage. The beautiful historic building hosts weekly services, community events, and seasonal celebrations. Its architecture and inviting atmosphere make it a local landmark.
12. First South Wild Rice Evangelical Lutheran Church
SCENIC COUNTRY CHURCH
First South Wild Rice Evangelical Lutheran Church sits just outside Ulen amid sweeping fields, offering a peaceful setting for worship and reflection. The church is rooted in pioneer history and Norwegian-American traditions. It serves as a gathering place for holiday events and rural weddings.
13. Ulen Public School
EDUCATIONAL HERITAGE SITE
Ulen Public School is central to the community, not only providing education but also serving as a venue for sports, concerts, and local events. The school's historic buildings are a point of pride, reflecting decades of local investment in youth and academics. Community members often gather here for annual celebrations and activities.
14. Mercantile Store (Historic Photo Site)
EARLY 20TH CENTURY LANDMARK
The old Mercantile Store is remembered in Ulen's history as a commercial and social hub in the early 1900s, featured in period photographs. Although the original store is no longer in operation, its memory survives in local archives and walking tours. Visitors can explore nearby sites that evoke the spirit of early Main Street.
15. Ulen Turkey Barbecue Days
ANNUAL COMMUNITY FESTIVAL
Ulen Turkey Barbecue Days is the town's signature annual event, drawing crowds for parades, food, and games. The tradition celebrates the region's agricultural heritage and community pride with a festive barbecue centerpiece. Families enjoy the lively atmosphere, music, and small-town camaraderie.