Zorbaz sign in Detroit Lakes

Detroit Lakes

A quick 45-minute drive to Detroit Lakes will bring endless opportunities for your day! For those looking to relax, lay out your beach towel anywhere along the mile stretch of natural beaches on Detroit Lake. Want more action? Detroit Mountain offers great trails for mountain biking, with bike rentals if needed. Prefer shopping? A walk down Washington Avenue will provide cute local shops full of unique finds. No matter how you spend your day, a stop at Zorbaz is a dining destination for all Detroit Lakes visitors. With copious amounts of pizza and nachos, you will not leave disappointed – only wanting more.

Buffalo River State Park

Just 20 minutes east of Moorhead, Buffalo River State Park is a great way to spend a relaxing day with friends. With sandy beaches surrounding the man-made lake, it is a great location to stretch out, put on some sunscreen and enjoy the rays. If you prefer to get more activity, there are hiking trails along the river available for all. Cool off with a dip in the lake, and on your way back home stop and enjoy some ice cream. Right off Highway 10, the Glyndon Tastee Freez is a must-have to close out this relaxing day trip.

Inspiration Peak in Battle Lake

Battle Lake

Turn on some music and sing your heart out on this drive! With a doable drive of roughly an hour and 15 minutes, Battle Lake has much to offer. On your way into the area, a picture with the Chief Wenonga statue is a fun way to start the day. Enjoy a view of the massive West Battle Lake and experience some Minnesota small-town charm by taking a stroll down the streets in the heart of the city. A stop at Granny’s Pantry will complete this trip with an ice cream treat or taffy from the huge candy selection. If you’re feeling hungry, Stella’s is a spunky restaurant with food that will satisfy you for your journey home.

Wahpeton-Breckenridge

Just one hour south of Fargo-Moorhead, Wahpeton has many little-known attractions to explore. Start your day at the Chahinkapa Zoo! A favorite for many visitors, the Chahinkapa Zoo is home to a wide variety of animals and offers a fun, engaging experience for all ages. The lunch options in the area are vast with pizza, Tex Mex, burgers and more. After lunch, a stroll down Dakota Avenue will lead you to Dairy Delight where a classic milkshake or ice cream sandwich is just the right sweet treat. On your way back, be sure to stop at the World’s Largest Catfish (“the Wahpper”) right along the river. Don’t miss that photo op!

Headwaters of Mississippi River at Lake Itasca

Itasca State Park

The longest drive of them all but well worth it. Two hours in the car will bring you to the beautiful Itasca State Park. Offering activities from swimming to kayaking to biking, there is something for everyone. At Itasca, you can experience the mighty Mississippi River where it begins its journey as you hop across the headwaters on logs and rocks. Get a bird’s eye view of the area by climbing the 100-foot fire lookout tower. Then, take a break to enjoy a picnic along the flowing river. Be sure to wait 30 minutes before you hop back in the water!

 Published August 2018