Winton MinnesotaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Winton, Minnesota.
1. International Wolf Center
EDUCATIONAL WOLF SANCTUARY
The International Wolf Center offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the world of wolves through educational exhibits and live wolf viewing opportunities. Visitors can observe the resident wolf pack and learn about wolf behavior, biology, and conservation efforts through interactive displays. The center provides daily programs led by knowledgeable staff who share insights about these magnificent predators and their role in the ecosystem.
2. Kawishiwi Falls Trail
SCENIC WATERFALL HIKE
Kawishiwi Falls Trail offers a relatively easy hiking experience leading to spectacular waterfall views just outside of Ely. The well-maintained 1.5-mile round-trip trail winds through beautiful forest before revealing the powerful Kawishiwi Falls cascading down rocky ledges. Visitors can enjoy photography opportunities from several viewing platforms that provide different perspectives of the falls and surrounding wilderness.
3. Dorothy Molter Museum
BOUNDARY WATERS LEGEND
The Dorothy Molter Museum preserves the legacy of the legendary 'Root Beer Lady' who was the last non-indigenous resident of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Visitors can explore Dorothy's reconstructed cabins filled with original artifacts and learn about her remarkable 56 years of wilderness living. The museum offers a glimpse into a unique piece of Minnesota history and the independent spirit of a woman who became famous for her homemade root beer and hospitality in the remote wilderness.
4. Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness
PRISTINE WILDERNESS EXPERIENCE
The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness offers over a million acres of pristine lakes, streams, and forest just outside Winton. Adventurers can paddle through interconnected waterways, portage between lakes, and camp on secluded shorelines in this protected wilderness area. The area provides opportunities for fishing, wildlife viewing, and experiencing the tranquility of one of America's most beloved wilderness destinations.
5. Fall Lake
PREMIER FISHING DESTINATION
Fall Lake is renowned for its excellent black crappie fishing and serves as a popular entry point to the Boundary Waters. The lake features several islands, bays, and rocky shorelines that create ideal habitat for various fish species including walleye, northern pike, and smallmouth bass. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, and stunning views of the surrounding wilderness landscape.
6. North American Bear Center
BEAR EDUCATION FACILITY
The North American Bear Center provides an immersive educational experience focused on understanding black bears and their habitat. Visitors can observe live bears in a naturalistic environment and explore numerous exhibits detailing bear biology, behavior, and conservation. The center offers daily programs, a theater showing bear documentaries, and beautiful grounds with hiking trails through northern Minnesota forest.
7. Bear Head Lake State Park
PRISTINE WILDERNESS PARK
Bear Head Lake State Park encompasses over 5,600 acres of pristine wilderness with crystal-clear lakes, mature pine forests, and abundant wildlife. Visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, and boating on Bear Head Lake, or explore miles of hiking trails through diverse northern forest ecosystems. The park offers year-round recreational opportunities including camping, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing in a tranquil setting reminiscent of the Boundary Waters.
8. Lutsen Mountains
PREMIER NORTHWOODS SKI RESORT
Lutsen Mountains offers the Midwest's largest ski resort with breathtaking views of Lake Superior from its slopes. The resort features four mountains, 95 runs, and a 1,088-foot vertical drop, providing skiing and snowboarding opportunities for all skill levels. During summer and fall, visitors can enjoy alpine slides, mountain biking, hiking, and scenic gondola rides showcasing spectacular North Shore vistas.
9. Giants Ridge Recreation Area
FOUR-SEASON OUTDOOR DESTINATION
Giants Ridge Recreation Area offers year-round outdoor activities in Minnesota's beautiful Iron Range region. Winter visitors enjoy 35 downhill ski runs and over 60 kilometers of meticulously groomed Nordic ski trails, while summer brings championship golf courses and mountain biking opportunities. The recreation area also features hiking trails, swimming beaches, and rental equipment for a complete outdoor adventure experience.
10. Lake Okabena
SERENE RECREATIONAL LAKE
Lake Okabena provides a picturesque setting for various water activities in the heart of Worthington. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, and lakeside picnics along the shoreline of this 776-acre lake. The lake hosts several community events throughout the year, including regattas and the annual Worthington Windsurfing Regatta and Music Festival.
11. Nobles County Historical Society
LOCAL HERITAGE MUSEUM
The Nobles County Historical Society preserves and showcases the rich heritage of the region through engaging exhibits and artifacts. Visitors can explore collections highlighting pioneer life, agricultural development, and the diverse cultural influences that shaped the area. The museum offers educational programs, research opportunities, and special events celebrating the unique history of Nobles County.
12. Worthington Aquatic Center
FAMILY WATER RECREATION
The Worthington Aquatic Center delivers fun-filled water recreation for families with its exciting water slides and refreshing pools. Children can splash in the zero-depth entry pool, navigate through water play structures, and zoom down thrilling slides. The facility offers swim lessons, water fitness classes, and a relaxing environment for visitors of all ages to beat the summer heat.
13. Centennial Park
SCENIC URBAN GREENSPACE
Centennial Park offers visitors peaceful walking trails and beautiful scenic vistas within Worthington's city limits. The park features well-maintained pathways winding through natural landscapes, perfect for casual strolls, bird watching, and enjoying native flora. Visitors can take advantage of picnic areas, open green spaces, and stunning sunset views across the park's scenic terrain.
14. Ely's Historic State Theater
RESTORED VINTAGE CINEMA
Ely's Historic State Theater stands as a beautifully restored 1936 art deco cinema in downtown Ely. Visitors can enjoy first-run movies, live performances, and special film events in this charming theater that combines vintage ambiance with modern projection technology. The theater serves as both an entertainment venue and a cultural touchstone for the community, preserving an important piece of Ely's architectural heritage.
15. Soudan Underground Mine State Park
HISTORIC IRON MINE
Soudan Underground Mine State Park offers visitors the unique experience of descending half a mile underground into Minnesota's first iron mine. Guided tours take visitors through historic mining tunnels while explaining the challenges and technological innovations of late 19th and early 20th-century mining. The park also houses the Soudan Underground Laboratory, where scientists conducted groundbreaking physics research in the mine's naturally shielded environment.