Virginia MinnesotaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Virginia, Minnesota.
1. Olcott Park
HISTORIC CITY PARK
Olcott Park is a beloved green space in Virginia, offering wide lawns, mature trees, and a charming playground perfect for families. A highlight is the historic Olcott Park Greenhouse, where visitors can discover exotic plants and floral displays year-round. The park also frequently serves as the venue for local festivals, concerts, and seasonal community events.
2. Heritage Museum
LOCAL HISTORY MUSEUM
The Heritage Museum in Virginia showcases the region's fascinating mining, logging, and immigrant history. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring artifacts, photographs, and documents that trace the growth of the Iron Range. The museum is conveniently located near Olcott Park, making it an excellent stop for those interested in local culture and heritage.
3. Iron Range Veterans Memorial
VETERANS TRIBUTE SITE
The Iron Range Veterans Memorial in Virginia honors local service members who have served in the nation's armed forces. The striking sculpture and peaceful park space provide an important place for reflection and remembrance. Regular ceremonies and gatherings are held here to commemorate veterans' sacrifices for the community.
4. Superior National Forest's Lookout Mountain Trails
SCENIC HIKING TRAILS
Superior National Forest's Lookout Mountain Trails offer scenic hiking experiences just outside Virginia, with breathtaking vistas and well-maintained paths. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy the variety of routes through dense forests and up to panoramic overlook points. Wildlife sightings and peaceful natural surroundings make it a favorite for both locals and visitors.
5. Giant Loon
QUIRKY ROADSIDE ATTRACTION
The Giant Loon on Silver Lake is one of Virginia's most iconic and whimsical landmarks, billed as the world's largest floating loon. This oversized sculpture provides a unique photo opportunity and adds a touch of local charm to the city's lakefront. It's a favorite stop for families and visitors seeking a memorable Iron Range selfie.
6. Iron Trail Motors Event Center
MULTI-USE SPORTS ARENA
The Iron Trail Motors Event Center is Virginia's modern venue for concerts, conventions, and sporting events. This state-of-the-art facility is a hub for hockey and community gatherings, featuring spacious arenas and flexible event spaces. Its convenient location connects to nearby trails and lakes, making it part of Virginia's vibrant recreational scene.
7. Mesabi Trail
REGIONAL BIKING TRAIL
The Mesabi Trail is a renowned multi-use trail that stretches across Minnesota's Iron Range, with a scenic segment passing through Virginia. Cyclists, walkers, and runners enjoy its gentle grades, bridges, and views of lakes and forests. The trail connects several Iron Range communities, making it ideal for both short excursions and longer adventures.
8. Virginia Square Market
FARMERS AND ARTISANS MARKET
Virginia Square Market offers locally grown produce, homemade foods, and handmade crafts in a welcoming downtown setting. Shoppers and foodies flock to the market for its community atmosphere and fresh seasonal goods. Special market events also feature music and family-friendly activities that celebrate the city's vibrant culture.
9. Lyric Center for the Arts
HISTORIC PERFORMING ARTS VENUE
The Lyric Center for the Arts is a beautifully restored former opera house in downtown Virginia, now serving as a cultural centerpiece. Visitors can attend art exhibits, theatrical performances, and concerts highlighting local and regional talent. Ongoing renovations preserve the venue's historic charm while providing a platform for the area's creative community.
10. Land of the Loon Festival
ANNUAL ARTS FESTIVAL
The Land of the Loon Festival is Virginia's signature annual celebration held each June, featuring arts, crafts, music, and culinary delights. Sprawled across Olcott Park, the festival attracts thousands with its lively parades and diverse entertainment. It's a highlight of the summer season for both residents and visitors seeking authentic Iron Range fun.
11. Mineview in the Sky
IRON MINE OVERLOOK
Mineview in the Sky offers panoramic views of the expansive Rouchleau iron ore mine and the surrounding Iron Range landscape. Informational displays educate visitors about the area's mining heritage and the site's industrial significance. It's an essential stop for anyone wanting to understand the history and impact of mining in Virginia.
12. Silver Lake Park
WATERFRONT RECREATION AREA
Silver Lake Park provides a picturesque lakefront setting for walking, fishing, and picnicking in the heart of Virginia. The park's paved paths, playgrounds, and views of the Giant Loon make it a favorite for families and nature lovers. Seasonal events and water-based activities enliven the park throughout the year.
13. U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame Museum
NATIONAL HOCKEY MUSEUM
The U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame Museum in Eveleth chronicles the history and heroes of American ice hockey with engaging exhibits and memorabilia. Visitors can explore interactive displays, rare artifacts, and honored inductees from all levels of the sport. Its location just minutes from Virginia makes it a must-see for hockey fans touring the Iron Range.
14. Greyhound Bus Museum
HISTORIC TRANSPORTATION MUSEUM
The Greyhound Bus Museum in Hibbing celebrates the origin and growth of the iconic bus company that began in northern Minnesota. Tour vintage coaches, exhibits on early travel culture, and stories of the people who shaped Greyhound's history. It's a dynamic, family-friendly destination just a short drive from Virginia.
15. Minnesota Discovery Center
REGIONAL HERITAGE MUSEUM
The Minnesota Discovery Center in Chisholm offers interactive exhibits and outdoor displays about Iron Range mining, immigration, and geology. Visitors can ride a trolley to a former pit mine, explore historical buildings, and enjoy the adjacent Redhead Mountain Bike Park. The center is a hub for learning and adventure, drawing guests from across the Iron Range.