Bemidji

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Bemidji's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore Bemidji
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café and enjoy a stroll around the beautiful Lake Bemidji. Take in the refreshing air and capture some photos at the iconic Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox statues.

afternoon
:

Visit the Bemidji Sculpture Walk to admire various art pieces scattered around downtown. Grab lunch at a nearby restaurant and spend some time shopping at local boutiques.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant and savor the local cuisine. Afterward, catch a sunset by the lake or attend a local event if available.

day 2
Nature Trails Adventure
morning
:

Fuel up with breakfast at a cozy diner before heading to the Chippewa National Forest for hiking. Explore the scenic trails and observe wildlife along the way.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy among the trees and relax in nature. Afterward, take a drive to the nearby Itasca State Park to see the headwaters of the Mississippi River.

evening
:

Dine at a restaurant that specializes in wild game or locally sourced dishes. Spend the evening stargazing or reflecting by the campfire.

day 3
Cultural Day in Bemidji
morning
:

Start your day at the Headwaters Science Center to engage with interactive exhibits and learn about the local ecosystem. Grab brunch at a café after exploring.

afternoon
:

Visit the Beltrami County Historical Society to gain insight into the region's history. Spend some time at the Paul Bunyan Park enjoying the fresh air.

evening
:

Attend a performance at the Bemidji Community Theatre for a unique cultural experience. Wind down with dessert at a local bakery.

day 4
Water Sports Fun
morning
:

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before renting a kayak or canoe to paddle on Lake Bemidji. Take in the sights and sounds of the lake as you navigate its waters.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a lakeside picnic area and continue with more water sports like paddleboarding or fishing. Relax and soak up the sun before heading back.

evening
:

Dinner by the lake would be an ideal way to unwind. Consider rounding off your day with live music at a local venue.

day 5
Family Fun Day
morning
:

Begin with breakfast at a family-friendly café before heading to the Bemidji Waterpark. Enjoy the slides and pools for some fun and excitement.

afternoon
:

Take a break for lunch at a nearby restaurant and catch a movie at the local cinema afterward. Spend some time at a nearby playground or park for the kids to explore.

evening
:

Wind down with a family dinner at a casual dining spot. Conclude the day with board games or family activities at your accommodation.

day 6
Fishing Expedition
morning
:

Set off early for a guided fishing tour on Lake Bemidji where you can learn from the experts. Enjoy the peaceful morning as you cast your lines.

afternoon
:

Have a lakeside lunch picnic while enjoying the picturesque views and sharing stories. Afterward, continue fishing or try your hand at another lake activity.

evening
:

Head back to shore and grill your catch for dinner if the place allows. Enjoy a quiet evening by the water or share fishing tales by a fire.

day 7
Biking Day
morning
:

After a quick breakfast, rent bikes and explore the nearby Paul Bunyan Trail. Ride along scenic paths while taking in the beautiful landscapes.

afternoon
:

Stop for lunch at a quaint spot along the way. Continue biking to discover more of the trail, stopping at points of interest.

evening
:

End your biking adventure with a nice dinner featuring local flavors. If there's a local brewery, consider tasting some craft beers.

day 8
Art and History Tour
morning
:

Start off with breakfast, then visit the Watermark Art Center to appreciate local art and exhibitions. Take your time to explore the artworks and interactive displays.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a bistro, then head to the Bemidji State University campus to observe the architecture and natural beauty. Take a walk around the campus and enjoy the surroundings.

evening
:

Dinner at a local restaurant brings a taste of authentic regional dishes. Look for an art gallery or cultural event to wind down your day.

day 9
Relaxation Retreat
morning
:

Begin with a peaceful breakfast at a café, then visit a local spa for some relaxation treatments. Indulge in massages or facials to rejuvenate your spirit.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a light lunch at the spa or a nearby eatery. Spend your afternoon strolling through serene parks or enjoying some quiet time lakeside.

evening
:

Refuel with a calm dinner at a serene place with views of Lake Bemidji. End the day with a tranquil evening walk along the shore.

day 10
Seasonal Festivities
morning
:

If your visit coincides with a local festival, enjoy breakfast at a nearby food stall. Immerse yourself in the local culture and festivities right from the start.

afternoon
:

Continue to explore festival activities, including art and craft booths or live performances. Take a break for lunch at food vendors offering local delicacies.

evening
:

Wrap up the day with festival fireworks or a closing ceremony event. Dine at a nearby restaurant specializing in seasonal dishes to end on a high note.

Discover Bemidji

Read more in our Bemidji 2024 Travel Guide.

Bemidji Travel Guide