Looking for lakeside beauty, forest adventures, and a touch of history? Visit Grand Rapids! Nestled in Minnesota’s Northwoods, Grand Rapids is a four-season destination for outdoor lovers, artists, and families. Whether you’re exploring trails, touring historic homes, or relaxing on the lake, this charming town offers a perfect Up North escape.
Grand Rapids, MN Highlights:
- Tour the Judy Garland Museum: Visit the childhood home of the *Wizard of Oz* star and explore memorabilia and history.
- Explore the Forest History Center: Step into a 1900s logging camp and learn about Minnesota’s timber heritage through living history demonstrations.
- Bike or walk the Mesabi Trail: This scenic trail stretches through the Iron Range, passing through forests, lakes, and mining towns.
- Relax at Pokegama Lake: Swim, boat, or picnic along the shores of this expansive and popular recreational lake.
- Catch a show at the Reif Performing Arts Center: Enjoy concerts, theater, and community performances in a state-of-the-art venue.
When I like to visit Grand Rapids, MN
The best time to visit Grand Rapids is from May through October for warm-weather outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, and lake fun. Fall brings vibrant foliage, while winter offers snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and cozy cabin stays.
Tips for getting to Grand Rapids, MN
- If you are traveling by car: Grand Rapids is located along U.S. Highway 169, about 3.5 hours north of Minneapolis–St. Paul and 90 minutes northwest of Duluth.
- By air: The closest major airport is Duluth International Airport (DLH); smaller regional airports serve Hibbing and Grand Rapids itself.
- By bus: Arrowhead Transit offers limited local and regional service; driving is the most convenient option for exploring the area.
Where I like to stay in Grand Rapids, MN
- Timberlake Lodge Hotel – Upscale lodge-style hotel with a pool, restaurant, and spacious rooms near downtown.
- Hotel Rapids – Boutique hotel with updated modern rooms and a relaxing onsite bar and bistro.
- Loon Point Resort – Family-friendly cabins on Wasson Lake, great for fishing, swimming, and a peaceful nature getaway.
Best Things to Do in Grand Rapids, MN
1. The Reif Performing Arts Center
The Reif Performing Arts Center hosts a wide array of artistic programs, as well as regularly scheduled events like community workshops, cultural seminars, and live performances. Located on the northwestern side of Grand Rapids, connected to the high school, the arts center attracts talent at the local, national, and even international levels to perform on one of its two stages. Both visitors and community members alike fill the audience at The Reif Performing Arts Center for live performances, which vary from contemporary dance to tribute rock bands. The center also offers a Children's Performing Art series during the school year.
720 NW Conifer Dr, Grand Rapids, MN 55744, Phone: 218-327-5780
2. Judy Garland Museum
The Judy Garland Museum celebrates the life and career of Judy Garland, better known from her role in The Wizard of Oz as Dorothy. This well known actress was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan in 1922 and visitors today can tour her childhood home, as well as explore her career in Hollywood. Approximately fifteen thousand square feet is dedicated to the beloved movie star at the Judy Garland Museum, including the largest Wizard of Oz collectible collection in the world, which features movie set props among numerous other items. There are also gardens outside for visitors to stroll through.
2727 S Pokegama Ave, Grand Rapids, MN 55744, Phone: 218-327-9276
Where to Eat in Grand Rapids, MN
3. Sammy's Pizza and Restaurant
Sammy's Pizza and Restaurant in Grand Rapids is a family tradition that started over sixty years ago with Sam Perrella, also known as “Grandpa Sam,” and has now seen four generations in the pizza business. The restaurant is known for combining artistry in pizza making with quality, fresh ingredients, with the menu at Sammy’s featuring a variety of award-winning pizzas, stromboli, hot appetizers, pastas, salads, soups, and chicken. Sammy's Pizza and Restaurant became a Pizza Hall of Fame Inductee in 2015, and was voted in 2018 as the “Best Pizza in Minnesota” after winning the Pizza Bracket Challenge by Minnesota Monthly Magazine.
802 S Pokegama Ave, Grand Rapids, MN 55744, Phone: 218-326-8551
More Places to Eat in Grand Rapids, MN
- Brewed Awakenings – Popular coffee shop offering breakfast, sandwiches, and baked goods with a cozy atmosphere.
- Zorbaz on Pokegama Lake – Laid-back lakeside spot serving pizza, Mexican fare, and craft drinks with water views.
- UnWined Up North – Wine bar and bistro with small plates, live music, and a relaxed, rustic vibe.
My favorite local events:
- Itasca County Fair (August) – Classic summer fair with rides, animals, food vendors, and live entertainment.
- Judy Garland Festival (June) – A multi-day celebration with Oz-themed fun, museum tours, and costume contests.
- First Friday Art Walk (Monthly) – Explore downtown galleries and meet local artists in a creative evening atmosphere.
My favorite day trips within 30 Minutes of Grand Rapids, Minnesota:
- Bovey and Coleraine (10–15 min) – Explore Iron Range history and beautiful lakeside parks in neighboring towns.
- Scenic State Park (30 min) – Hike through old-growth pine forests, canoe peaceful lakes, or camp by the water.
- Taconite (20–25 min) – Discover small-town charm and connect with the Mesabi Trail for biking adventures.
- Blackduck Lake (near Deer River) (30 min) – Fish, boat, or birdwatch in this quiet, nature-filled destination west of town.
- Sugar Hills Scenic Overlook (20 min) – Enjoy one of the area’s best fall foliage views and a tranquil walk through hardwood forests.
Plan Your Trip