Vermillion MinnesotaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Vermillion, Minnesota.
1. Soudan Underground Mine State Park
HISTORIC MINING ADVENTURE
Soudan Underground Mine State Park offers guided 1.5-hour tours where visitors can don hard hats and travel a half-mile below ground in an elevator cage. Visitors can ride a train deeper into the mine to explore the cavern that was the last area mined before operations ceased in 1962. The park provides a fascinating glimpse into the area's iron ore mining history that operated from 1892 to 1962.
2. Pier 77 Mini-Golf
NORTH WOODS THEMED RECREATION
Pier 77 Mini-Golf offers a cleverly designed course tucked into a grove of pine and birch trees on the shore of Lake Vermilion. The holes are all themed to reflect the north woods environment, featuring elements from moose to mining. After enjoying a round of mini-golf, visitors can stop at the Pier 77 ice cream shop for treats like the Root Bear Bobber or Vermilion Sunrise.
3. Lake Vermilion
WILDERNESS PARADISE FOR BOATING
Lake Vermilion offers 290 miles of shoreline, the longest of any lake in Minnesota, with 365 pine-topped islands spread throughout its 37 miles. This large, beautiful lake in northeast Minnesota is rimmed with thick forest and remains largely undeveloped, providing a wilderness escape. It's a haven for anglers, paddlers, and boaters in summer, while winter brings ice fishing and snowmobiling opportunities.
4. Alexis Bailly Vineyard
LOCAL WINE TASTING
Alexis Bailly Vineyard is a highly-rated winery where visitors can sample locally produced wines in a picturesque setting. The vineyard offers tastings that showcase Minnesota's unique wine varieties adapted to the northern climate. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful grounds while learning about the art of cold-climate viticulture and winemaking.
5. Watt Munisotaram
BUDDHIST TEMPLE COMPLEX
Watt Munisotaram is Minnesota's largest Cambodian Buddhist temple, featuring ornate architecture and cultural significance. The temple complex includes beautiful gardens, intricate decorations, and traditional Cambodian design elements that transport visitors to Southeast Asia. Visitors can explore the peaceful grounds, observe ceremonies, and learn about Buddhist traditions in this cultural landmark.
6. Hidden Greens Golf Course
SCENIC GOLFING EXPERIENCE
Hidden Greens Golf Course offers players a well-maintained course with beautiful natural surroundings. The course features challenging holes that wind through scenic landscapes, providing both novice and experienced golfers with an enjoyable experience. With excellent ratings from visitors, this golf destination combines sporting challenge with the beauty of Minnesota's natural environment.
7. Spring Lake Park Bison Enclosure
NATIVE WILDLIFE VIEWING
Spring Lake Park Bison Enclosure allows visitors to observe American bison that were reintroduced to their historic habitat beginning in October 2022. The enclosure provides a rare opportunity to view these majestic animals that once dominated the American grasslands. Visitors can learn about conservation efforts and the ecological importance of bison while witnessing these impressive creatures in a natural setting.
8. Whitetail Woods Regional Park
YEAR-ROUND OUTDOOR RECREATION
Whitetail Woods Regional Park spans 456 acres and features more than 10 miles of summer trails for hiking and exploration. During winter, the park offers 5 miles of dedicated trails perfect for snowshoeing and winter hikes through the snow-covered landscape. The park provides visitors with diverse recreational opportunities throughout all seasons in a beautiful natural setting.
9. Schaar's Bluff
MISSISSIPPI RIVER OVERLOOK
Schaar's Bluff sits atop the Mississippi River Bluffs, providing spectacular panoramic views of the vast river valley below. The area serves as a trailhead for numerous hiking and biking trails that wind along the bluff top, offering different vantage points of the scenery. Visitors can immerse themselves in the natural beauty while appreciating the geological and ecological significance of the Mississippi River landscape.
10. Moosebirds General Store
RUSTIC SHOPPING EXPERIENCE
Moosebirds General Store offers visitors a charming shopping experience with a variety of local goods and necessities near Lake Vermilion. The store combines practical items for lake visitors with unique north woods souvenirs and gifts in a rustic setting. Visitors can also enjoy the store's ice cream and coffee offerings, making it a perfect stop during a day of exploring the Lake Vermilion area.
11. The Landing Restaurant
LAKESIDE DINING DESTINATION
The Landing Restaurant provides diners with delicious meals in a scenic lakeside setting on Lake Vermilion. The restaurant offers a menu featuring local flavors and fresh ingredients that showcase the culinary traditions of northern Minnesota. Visitors can enjoy their meals while taking in beautiful views of the lake, creating a memorable dining experience that complements the natural beauty of the area.
12. Wolf Center
WILDLIFE EDUCATION EXPERIENCE
The Wolf Center allows visitors to get up close and personal with wolves in a controlled environment while learning about these magnificent predators. The center offers educational programs about wolf behavior, ecology, and conservation efforts in the northern Minnesota ecosystem. Visitors can observe wolves in naturalistic habitats and gain a deeper understanding of their important role in the wilderness.
13. Fortune Bay Resort Casino
ENTERTAINMENT AND GAMING
Fortune Bay Resort Casino offers visitors exciting nightlife options including gaming, dining, and live entertainment near Lake Vermilion. The resort features a variety of casino games, restaurants, and regular concerts in a beautiful north woods setting. Guests can enjoy both daytime recreation on the lake and evening entertainment at this popular destination that combines natural beauty with modern amenities.
14. Sunset Bay Retreat
LAKESIDE VACATION EXPERIENCE
Sunset Bay Retreat offers visitors a tranquil lakeside getaway with comfortable accommodations on Lake Vermilion. The retreat provides access to the lake's recreational opportunities while serving as a peaceful base for exploring the natural beauty of the area. Guests can enjoy spectacular sunset views over the water, explaining the aptly chosen name of this relaxing northern Minnesota destination.
15. The Wilderness at Fortune Bay
PREMIER GOLF COURSE
The Wilderness at Fortune Bay is a championship golf course designed to showcase the natural beauty of northern Minnesota's landscape. The course features challenging holes that wind through forests, around lakes, and over rocky outcroppings characteristic of the region. Golfers can enjoy a world-class golfing experience while appreciating breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness and Lake Vermilion.