Things To Do
in Willmar
Willmar is a city located in central Minnesota, United States. It is known for its diverse community and rich agricultural history. The city offers a range of outdoor recreational activities, such as fishing, boating, and hiking, with its proximity to several lakes and parks. Willmar also features a vibrant downtown area with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
Overall, Willmar is a welcoming and family-friendly community with a strong sense of local pride.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $12 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk at the beautiful Robbins Island Park. Enjoy the scenic views and observe local wildlife as the sun rises.
Visit the Kandiyohi County Historical Society to learn about the region's rich history. Engage with interactive exhibits and explore the historical structures on site.
Grab dinner at a local restaurant, savoring dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. After dinner, take a stroll along the lakeside to unwind.
Rent a bike and ride the scenic trails around Lake Elizabeth. The morning breeze will invigorate you while you soak in the natural beauty.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at the lakeside. Spend the afternoon lounging or swimming in the clear waters.
Return to your accommodation and freshen up. Enjoy a cozy dinner at a nearby eatery known for its delicious burgers.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strong sense of community and neighborly support
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities
- Pleasant small-town atmosphere with access to outdoor recreation
- Good schools and educational opportunities
- Growing job market in diverse sectors
- Limited entertainment and nightlife options
- Harsh winters with significant snowfall
- Fewer options for shopping and dining compared to larger cities
- Potential for economic volatility due to reliance on certain industries
- Limited public transportation options
Best Activities in Willmar
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a unique outdoor experience at Spicer Castle, where you can explore the historic grounds and participate in activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing on Green Lake.
Spend a day hiking, birdwatching, or picnicking in the beautiful natural surroundings of Sibley State Park. With its diverse landscapes and scenic views, this park offers a range of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy.
Relax and unwind in the peaceful setting of Rice Park, where you can take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or simply soak in the tranquil ambiance of this outdoor space in Willmar.
Tours
Uncover the best of Willmar with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Willmar
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding lakes.
Features hiking trails and a lookout tower with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area.
A beautiful park with scenic views and great photo opportunities, especially in the fall.
Food in Willmar
Willmar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Scandinavian dish made from dried whitefish and lye. Try it at the Green Mill Restaurant.
Must-Try!
A popular Mexican street food featuring beef tongue tacos, available at Taqueria El Guerrerito.
Delicious crispy egg rolls filled with seasoned ground pork and vegetables, commonly found at the Kandiyohi Hmong Market.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Willmar better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Offers a wide array of Hmong ingredients and ready-to-eat street food, including traditional Hmong sausages and snacks.
A vibrant market where you can find fresh local produce, homemade baked goods, and artisanal food products.
Serves authentic Mexican street food, such as tacos, tamales, and elote (Mexican street corn).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Willmar, it is important to show respect for the diverse cultural and ethnic communities that make up the population. Embracing and appreciating the various backgrounds and traditions is a key cultural norm.
Engaging in community events and activities is a respectful way to demonstrate care and interest in the local cultural fabric. Participation in local events fosters a sense of belonging and inclusivity.
Politeness and courtesy are valued in Willmar, and individuals are expected to greet others with respect and kindness, regardless of cultural or ethnic differences.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Willmar with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Willmar
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is a common practice in Willmar, United States. It is customary to tip service industry workers such as waiters, bartenders, and taxi drivers. The standard tip is around 15-20% of the total bill.
In Willmar, United States, payment for goods and services is primarily made using credit or debit cards, but cash is also widely accepted. Contactless payment methods are gaining popularity, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Willmar.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Willmar, as the weather starts to warm up and the area comes to life with blossoming flowers and trees. It's also a good time for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and bird watching.
Summer is peak tourist season in Willmar, with warm temperatures perfect for enjoying the lakes and beaches in the area. Visitors can also experience local festivals, farmers markets, and outdoor concerts during this time.
Fall in Willmar is known for its beautiful foliage as the leaves change colors. It's a great time for scenic drives, apple picking, and attending fall harvest events. The weather is generally mild and comfortable for outdoor activities.
Winter in Willmar offers opportunities for snow sports such as skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing. The town also hosts winter festivals and holiday events, making it a picturesque and festive destination during the winter months.
Willmar at Night
Hiking in Willmar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A large state park featuring beautiful lake views, wooded areas, and various hiking trails suitable for all levels of hikers.
Known for its stunning scenery and diverse wildlife, this park offers several miles of trails that wind through forests and along lakes.
Located near Spicer, this park features trails that offer a serene walking experience alongside Green Lake.
Offers trails for hiking and scenic views of the surrounding areas, suitable for a family outing.
A local park with walking paths and natural landscapes, providing a peaceful hiking environment.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Willmar through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Willmar by plane.
The largest airport in Minnesota, located approximately 100 miles northeast of Willmar.
Located about 70 miles east of Willmar, serves several regional flights.
Located approximately 110 miles southeast of Willmar, offering major regional and some international flights.
Situated about 140 miles southwest of Willmar, provides a range of domestic flights.
Located around 80 miles north of Willmar, primarily servicing regional flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly non-Hispanic white population, largely comprising the majority demographic in Willmar.
This group has seen growth in recent years, contributing to the local culture and economy.
A smaller demographic in Willmar, representing a significant cultural and social community.
Includes various Asian ethnicities, contributing to the diversity of the population.
Individuals identifying with two or more races, reflecting the increasing diversity of the area.
A historically significant demographic, though smaller in number compared to other groups.
The Soul of Willmar
Discover the essence of Willmar through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular summer sport in Willmar, with local teams and youth leagues participating in the sport.
High school football is a significant part of the community, with local schools fielding competitive teams.
A winter favorite in Willmar, particularly with youth and amateur leagues organized in the area.
Widely played in schools and recreational leagues, basketball is a common sport in Willmar.
Gaining popularity among youth, soccer leagues are common, providing opportunities for children to participate.
With several golf courses in the area, golf is a popular sport for recreation and competition.
Part of the school sports programs, track and field events are popular at the high school level.
Both indoor and beach volleyball are enjoyed, with organized leagues for adults and youth.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Willmar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants and cafes in Willmar offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, with options like tofu stir-fry, veggie burritos, and plant-based salads.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can find gluten-free items on menus, such as grilled fish, risottos, and gluten-free pizza at various dining establishments.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Willmar with these cultural adventures.
