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.
Places to visit
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring Nature
morning:Start your day with a visit to the scenic Robbins Island Park, offering picturesque walking trails and serene lake views. Enjoy a delicious breakfast at The Oaks at Eagle Creek Golf Club.
afternoon:Spend your afternoon exploring the captivating displays at the Kandiyohi County Historical Society and grab a satisfying lunch at The Goodness, known for its farm-to-table dishes.
evening:Unwind with an evening stroll around Foot Lake, followed by a vibrant night-out at The HandleBar, where you can enjoy live music and refreshing drinks.
Cultural Immersion
morning:Immerse yourself in local art at the Barn Theatre and Art Gallery, and savor a delightful brunch at The Oaks at Eagle Creek Golf Club.
afternoon:Step back in time with a visit to Sperry House, an elegant historic home, and indulge in a scrumptious lunch at The Goodness.
evening:Experience the city's culture at the Rice Park Summer Music Series, a vibrant outdoor event featuring live entertainment and a diverse range of food vendors.
Family Fun
morning:Start your day with family-friendly fun at the Big Kahuna Fun Park, then refuel with a tasty breakfast at Dave's Town Club.
afternoon:Continue the excitement with a visit to the Mikkelson Collection, a fascinating display of historic vehicles, and enjoy a satisfying lunch at The Goodness.
evening:Treat the kids to an evening of laughter and joy at the Fair Oaks Drive-In Theatre, featuring the latest family-friendly movies and classic concessions.
Outdoor Adventure
morning:Embark on an exhilarating morning bike ride along the Glacial Lakes State Trail, then recharge with a delicious breakfast at Country Stop Bistro.
afternoon:Explore the lush greenery at Sibley State Park, followed by a fulfilling lunch at The Goodness.
evening:Conclude your day with an outdoor bonfire at a local campground, where you can relax under the starry night sky and savor gooey s'mores.
Willmar Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Lutefisk
A traditional Scandinavian dish made from dried whitefish and lye. Try it at the Green Mill Restaurant.
Must-Try!
Tacos de Lengua
A popular Mexican street food featuring beef tongue tacos, available at Taqueria El Guerrerito.
Hmong Egg Rolls
Delicious crispy egg rolls filled with seasoned ground pork and vegetables, commonly found at the Kandiyohi Hmong Market.
Photography Spots in Willmar
Locations for the best views and photo opportunities
Sibley State Park
Features hiking trails and a lookout tower with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Rice Park
A beautiful park with scenic views and great photo opportunities, especially in the fall.
Seasonal Advice
Best times to visit and what to expect in different seasons
Spring
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
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
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
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.
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Kandiyohi Hmong Market
Offers a wide array of Hmong ingredients and ready-to-eat street food, including traditional Hmong sausages and snacks.
Willmar Farmers Market
A vibrant market where you can find fresh local produce, homemade baked goods, and artisanal food products.
Taco Truck on Litchfield Avenue
Serves authentic Mexican street food, such as tacos, tamales, and elote (Mexican street corn).
Things to do in Willmar
Unique local experiences...
Pet sitters in Willmar
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!