Activities

Nostalgic Icons

Start a family tradition with photos at the areas historical monuments. 

In the heart of Nevis you will find the World’s Largest Tiger Muskie, you can’t miss it! There you can enjoy a nice pic-nic under the park shelter while the kids get out their energy on the jungle gym nearby.

In neighboring Akeley, stop and take a family photo in the palm of Paul Bunyan. Next Christmas card perhaps!?Paul is near the Heartland Trail access with convenient parking. So combine your visit with Paul with a nice bike ride on the Heartland Trail.

Can you ever have too many Paul Bunyan statues? We think not. You’ll find this Paul and Babe on the shores of Lake Bemidji. This is a great day trip from Nevis, about 50 minutes north. It’s a stunning drive, especially in the fall as the leaves are turning. There is a wonderful playground and visitor center, with free parking, near this must visit icon. Then head out of for a stroll in downtown Bemidji!

Bike the Heartland Trail

A paved trail that runs 27 mi from Park Rapids to Walker and a 22mi stretch connecting Walker and Cass Lake. The Park Rapids to Walker segment also has a parallel natural surface trail for horseback riding, hiking and mountain biking. This trail was converted from an old rail line, so it’s a fairly flat, good for all ages.

We like the short 5 mile trip between Nevis and Dorset, making sure to stop at the local eateries. Or venture further for a daytrip to Walker and back. Grab some good eats at The Piggy BBQ.

Visit Itasca and the Mississippi Headwaters

Itasca State Park, home to the Headwaters of the Mississippi, is a MUST DO when staying the area. Itasca park has lots to do — rent bikes, paddle boats, canoes…. or just go for a hike.

Visit the Mary Gibbs Mississippi Headwaters Center that has interpretive displays on the plaza are available for viewing year-round. Be sure to take the short walk to the Headwaters of the Mississippi which offers visitors a glimpse of this historic location.

Refuel at the Headwaters Café, a cafeteria-style restaurant located in the Mary Gibbs Mississippi Headwaters Center. Or for a more sit down experience, stop at the Douglas Lodge Restaurant. Check seasonal availability and hours.

Family Friendly Outings

Each town in the area has something special to offer. Here are some of our favorites for families with kids.

For a real small town experience, check out Shenanigans, in the heart of Nevis. Great for young kids and families, they have a mini-mini golf, fossil dig, old time photos.

For the latest and greatest mini gold experience, visit Birdie’s. Just opened in 2023, this course has all the bells and whistles! 36 holes total, you choose which 18 hole courses to try. Fun for all ages. Bring sunscreen at hats as there isn’t much shade. Can’t miss it, on Country Road 34 on your way into Park Rapids.

Yet another great place for kids, the Evergreen Fun Park. Family fun park for all ages, even little kids. Bumper boats, go cart racing, escape rooms, rock climbing, laser tag, batting cages, water wars and yes, more mini-golf! Great place to make family memories that last. On US Highway 71 ten miles north of Park Rapids or ten miles south of Itasca State Park.