Bemidji, MN

Address:Bemidji, Minnesota

Bemidji is most famously known as the first city on the Mississippi River, and is home to the giant Paul Bunyan Statue, which has become a national landmark in the United States. Furthermore, you will want to come to Bemidji to enjoy its beautiful scenery, abundant recreations, spirited people, inspiring arts and enchanting culture.

Although many people don't know much about Bemidji, they have surely seen pictures of Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox, the giant statues that stand at the shore of Lake Bemidji. In fact, since they were built in 1937, they have become one of the most photographed icons in the country. Nearby you will also find the Putt-N-Go Amusement Park and Paul Bunyan Animal Land, both open only during the summer season and early fall. You can also go horseback riding at Sten's Winding River Farm or at the Rising Star Ranch.

Bemidji's Tourist Information Center is a great place to visit before you venture out into town. You'll find useful maps, find people to advise you on your trip, and stock up on souvenirs, including Paul Bunyan memorabilia.

Around Bemidji, you will find exciting recreational opportunities in nearby Itasca State Park, Lake Bemidji State Park, state forest areas, the Chippewa National Forest, and in over 400 fishing lakes. You will also find over 500 miles of snowmobile trails and 100 miles of cross-country ski trails.

There are fun events around town that the whole family can enjoy. At the Dragon Boat Festival, you can participate in a colorful racing competition. In August, there are many parades, musical performances, and festivals. The day after Thanksgiving, check out the Night We Light Celebration, with a parade, fireworks on the lake, wagon rides, and more. In February, watch the Minnesota Finlandia Ski Marathon. Other yearly events include Logging Days, which are a celebration of the historic lumberjack days, and Bemidji Polar Days, which is a week of food and winter sports. Plan your trip accordingly—you won't want to miss out on some of these great family-friendly celebrations!

In the evening you may want to see a performance by the Bemidji Symphony Orchestra, a foreign film at the Wild Rose Theater, a folk music concert at a downtown coffee shop, or see the latest art collection at the Gallery North or Fleur de Lis Gallery. Later at night, try your luck at the Palace Casino, Northern Lights, Shooting Star, or White Oak Casino, which are all found near Bemidji.

Bemidji offers many dining possibilities, including fine and casual dining, family restaurants, delis, coffee shops, Italian, Chinese, and other international food. We recommend the Green Mill Restaurant & Bar, offering a full menu in a casual atmosphere with a great view, the Cattails Bar & Grill for some great steak and nightly features, or the Bemidji Town & Country Club, offering a full service restaurant and lounge overlooking the north shore of Lake Bemidji. For a family dinner, try the Bonanza Restaurant or the Country Kitchen, which is open 24 hours a day.

Shopping in Bemidji is also plentiful, with many stores that provide anything you may need. The Paul Bunyan Mall is home to many retail stores, or if the weather is nice, walk around downtown Bemidji to find quaint shops and boutiques in a historic setting. Check out Bemidji Woolen Mills, a factory outlet store selling woolen garments, yarn and comforters, Emily's Country Cottage, which has gifts and collectibles including rugs, wall hangings, curtains, pillows, and dolls, and Lady Slipper Designs, an outlet store showcasing the handicrafts of over 100 local crafts people. At Morell's Chippewa Trading Post in downtown Bemidji, you will find distinctive Indian handicrafts and souvenirs. Snow Goose Gifts, also in downtown Bemidji, carries a fine line of northwoods gifts and cards. If you like art and history, be sure to check out The Old Schoolhouse, a renovated 1917 school building packed with unique consignment shops including the Christmas Room and Art Studio, containing the work of over 500 artists.

There are many options for lodging in Bemidji, including hotels, motels, and especially campgrounds. Popular options during the summer are to rent a cabin or to check into the relaxing Clear Vue Resort. During the winter, we recommend the Villa Calma Bed & Breakfast, a beautiful place with a historic Italian ambiance. Year round, other great options include well-known hotel and motel chains; but if you are looking for something more authentic, we recommend you try the Birchmont House or Ruttger's Birchmont Lodge, which has a great children's program in the summer.

Bemidji is located in Minnesota, with the nearest major city of Minneapolis 229 miles away. Driving to Bemidji is a great option—the scenery and the quiet are captivating. Bemidji Airlines offers charter flights as well as scenic tours, with five arrivals and departures on weekdays. Car rentals are available, as are limousine, cab and bus services. Don't forget to bring a camera to take your picture with Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox!