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What is Grand Rapids, Minnesota known for?
- Grand Rapids is considered a gateway to Minnesota’s Northwoods and offers a mix of community, recreation, and culture.
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What famous person was born in Grand Rapids?
- Judy Garland, best known for playing Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz, was born in Grand Rapids.
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What attractions in Grand Rapids are dedicated to Judy Garland?
- Visitors can tour the Judy Garland Museum and explore her adjacent historic home.
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What cultural attractions can visitors enjoy in Grand Rapids?
- The city offers performances at The Reif Performing Arts Center.
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Are there outdoor recreation opportunities in Grand Rapids?
- Yes! The region boasts 1,000 lakes, providing plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation.
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1. The Reif Performing Arts Center
See live performances and enjoy community shows on an affordable weekend outing.
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
Explore childhood memorabilia and see Wizard of Oz stuff on a fun trip.
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
3. Sammy's Pizza and Restaurant
Savor classic pies and enjoy a quick bite with the family.
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
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and blooming landscapes.
Timberlake Lodge – A cozy stay with great amenities.
Visit the Judy Garland Museum – Explore the childhood home of the famous actress.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and great for outdoor adventures.
Forest Lake Motel – A budget-friendly stay close to local attractions.
Explore the Mesabi Trail – A scenic biking and hiking route through nature.
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air and stunning fall foliage.
Sugar Lake Lodge – A lakeside resort with outdoor activities.
Drive the Edge of the Wilderness Scenic Byway – Experience breathtaking autumn colors.
Plan Your Trip
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