100 Things to Do in Minnesota Northwoods Before You Die

by Julie Jo Larson

Up in the land where Paul Bunyan statues are big and the tall tales about him are even bigger, lie some of Minnesota’s most beautiful resort communities. This is the land of 10,000 lakes and truly untouched wilderness surrounding Bemidji, Cass Lake, and Blackduck, among others, otherwise known as Minnesota’s Northwoods.
Though only the hearty live here year round and the winter averse just vacation here in the summer, there’s still no shortage of activities and sights to fill your itinerary, no matter the season. Whether you use this book as a bucket list, tour guide, or a cure for cabin fever, we’ve got you covered.
We’ll entice you to try new outdoor activities, such as wading across the headwaters of the Mississippi, eat unusual foods, and sip flavorful beverages. You’ll also find a plethora of things to do inside on rainy days, such as exploring the US Hockey Hall of Fame Museum. Carefully crafted itineraries and seasonal—yes, there are four seasons here—activities will provide plenty of inspiration for visitors and locals alike.
Local author Julie Jo Larson’s own wanderlust led her to share her penchant for her hometown with the world. Grab a friend or two, a copy of 100 Things to Do in Minnesota Northwoods Before You Die, and your sense of wonder because adventures await you in the Minnesota Northwoods.

Genres: Travel

160 pages, Paperback

Published March 31, 2021

Reviews

[Sheri]

I’ve always considered the Minnesota Northwoods to be an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. The Land of 10,000 Lakes not only offers fishing, boating, hiking, camping, hunting and other sporting and nature pursuits, but also many inside activities to pique your interest. This handy idea book makes it easy to plan a visit that makes the most of the area’s many interesting, fun, and uncommon opportunities, both inside and out. Here’s a sampling of the possibilities:

If you enjoy a scary fright, stop by Haunted Hidden Hollows and stroll through the haunted corn maze and spook-filled haunted house.

Wizard of Oz fans will delight in the ruby slippers and other memorabilia at The Judy Garland Museum.

Attend an Ojibwe powwow and take in the sights, sounds, and tastes of the Ojibwe peoples.

Wade across the Mississippi headwaters in Itasca State Park.

Watch hawks at an observatory and consider sponsoring a bird release for a unique hands-on experience.

Want to see even more animals? Head on over to the Vince Shute Wildlife Sanctuary to see bears up close from a fenced-in treehouse.

Search for Paul Bunyan, Babe the Blue Ox, and Lucette (Paul’s wife) statues throughout the Northwoods.

Of course, throughout your day of entertainment and exploration, you’ll also find diverse dining and shopping options to further your enjoyment of the area. Trip planning becomes even easier when you take advantage of the included appendices offering suggested itineraries and activities by season. This nifty little guidebook is a great resource directing you to the many special treats and treasures of the Minnesota Northwoods.

[Mary Aalgaard]

What a fun book to read. I can only imagine the research was even better. Julie Jo Larson covers the highlights and hidden gems of our fine state of Minnesota. We're more than lakes and snowstorms! Yes, people come up here to enjoy the great outdoors with fishing, hiking, camping, canoeing, snowmobiling and ice fishing. You can also see a pair of Dorothy's ruby red slippers at the Judy Garland Museum in Grand Rapids, or celebrate the music of Bob Dylan in his home town of Hibbing. Julie Jo has tips on where to eat lutefisk (or avoid it) or get a scoop of "super premium" ice cream. The Northland is a great place to visit, and an even better place to live. Grab a copy of 100 Things to do in Minnesota Northwoods and head on up. With this guide in hand, you will be sure to get a chance to do, see, taste, and experience much of what makes Minnesota nice!

[Michelle Rosenau]

Great information for places to visit....some I've been to...

[Nina]

2.5,