Pequot Lakes is a town in northern Minnesota known for its popular community events and beautiful outdoor areas. Known to many as “Bobber Town” - since the water tower is an iconic fishing bobber. People flock to Pequot Lakes to enjoy the town’s delicious restaurants and extravagant shopping districts. Perhaps you’re planning a visit to Pequot Lakes, or maybe you’re thinking about purchasing a home in the area. If so, make sure you set aside some time to check out some of the fantastic Pequot Lakes things to do.
Sibley Lake Park
Sibley Lake Park is one of the top Pequot Lakes attractions that you must see, especially if this is your first time in town. French scientist Joseph Nicollet first discovered this park in 1836 while traveling to Itasca. He named the lake after Henry Hastings Sibley, a well-known fur trader and pioneer. You’ll find a boat dock, a fishing pier, a playground, and multiple picnic areas inside the park.
MN Traders Co.
A newer establishment to the Pequot Lakes Area! MN Traders brings an upscale vibe with craft coffees, specialty cocktails + bar, brunch/lunch + happy hour, bakery items, event space rentals, home goods boutique, as well as private offices and rentals. This is a great addition to the area and a great spot to grab a cup of coffee and work remotely on a cabin week/weekend up north! The original building of MN Traders was the home of “Silver Creek Traders” - which was an important staple in the community for years. MN Traders is the “modern version” of the post and a great place for collaboration to happen in the community!
A-Pine Family Restaurant
A-Pine Family Restaurant has been regarded as one of the best restaurants in Pequot Lakes since it first opened in 1965. The restaurant is popular for its delicious food and for its large statue of Paul Bunyan that greets guests as they arrive. Restaurant owner Richard Beyer grew up in the hospitality business and started working at Country Kitchen Restaurant when he was only 15. He bought A-Pine Family Restaurant nearly 40 years ago and worked hard to make the restaurant what it is today. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner in addition to providing catering and family-style to-go meals. Don’t forget to grab a homemade pie to bring home before you leave.
Wildwedge Golf, Mini Golf, and Maze
You’ll find a number of attractions at Wildwedge Golf, Mini Golf, and Maze. Their nine-hole par three course is one of the best short courses in the entire state of Minnesota. You’ll enjoy the beautiful natural scenery in the background of each hole that rivals what you’ll find at any other Pequot Lakes golf course. You can also play a round on their recently-renovated mini-golf course with the entire family, or you can test your luck in the 10,000-square-foot maze. If you’re traveling to Pequot Lakes by RV, you may consider parking in the large RV park where most pull-through sites have full hookups.
Black Pine Beach Resort
Black Pine Beach Resort sits on the banks of Clamshell Lake. You can book an overnight stay in one of their cabins, or you can enjoy their many day-use recreational activities. Rentals are available for kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards if you decide you want to get out on the water. You also have the option of splashing around in the shallow water near the beach with your children or fishing off the dock. Perhaps you’ll decide to gather a group of friends for a sand volleyball game or a round of horseshoes. As the day winds down, you can enjoy the sunset from the beach or build a bonfire on the sand. There’s no shortage of opportunities to enjoy life in the great outdoors at this fabulous resort.
Paul M. Thiede Fire Tower
Paul M. Thiede Fire Tower was built in 1935 and holds a place on the National Registry of Historic Lookouts. Crow Wing County purchased the fire tower and the surrounding land in November 2018 with the hope of better preserving the space for public use. Visit the park to climb the fire tower or enjoy the surrounding walking trails. This is a great spot for amazing views of the lakes area, especially in the fall when you can see all the amazing change of color.
Bertha Boatworks
Bertha Boatworks offers a massive inventory of new and pre-owned boats along with short-term boat rentals. You can take your boat out on the Whitefish Chain anytime after 10 am on the date that your rental begins. Bertha Boatworks provide all necessary safety equipment, including an adequate number of life jackets based on the number of passengers that your boat can accommodate. During the summer months Bertha Boatworks also has a food truck that serves pizzas, hotdogs, “whimpies” and a full bar! Make sure you check them out!
Trailside Park of Pequot Lakes
Located near downtown Pequot Lakes, Trailside Park is a great place to get some fresh air as you enjoy a walk or bike ride on Paul Bunyan Trail. Throughout the summer, you can enjoy free concerts on Saturday evenings in the band shelter. You’ll also want to check out the onsite veterans’ memorial that honors many of the individuals who have served in the past. Another notable site in the park is Dru’s Garden, which was created to honor the memory of Pequot Lakes High School graduate Dru Sjodin.
Rollie Johnson Natural & Recreational Area (Whitefish Lake - Big Island)
Rollie Johnson Natural & Recreational Area consists of two small islands along with one larger island affectionately known throughout the area as “big island.” Each island is open for visitors, and campsites are available on a first-come-first-serve basis. Children will enjoy time spent playing on the beach, and everyone will marvel at the sight of various forms of wildlife and trees that are more than 150 years old. This is a great way to see the Whitefish Chain - make sure you pack the poison ivy cream though - this area is known for having quite a bit on the island.
Lakes Latte
Lakes Latte’ is a local store known for its coffee and its excellent service. The onsite cafe serves delicious baked goods along with hot fresh coffee. The store also carries a selection of crafts, toys, games, and souvenirs.
Norway Ridge Supper Club
Although technically located in “Ideal Corners Township” Norway Ridge Supper Club is one of the finest restaurants in all of Northern Minnesota. Their chefs still prepare many of the same recipes that were on the menu when they first opened in 1948. Daily specials include all-you-can-eat smoked ribs on Fridays and prime rib on Saturdays. Visit their website to reserve a table for your upcoming visit. This is a MUST DO in the lakes area when you are looking for an upscale dining experience.
Contact the Larson Group if you’re thinking about shopping for a new home in Pequot Lakes. They bring nearly 40 years of experience into each transaction, and they take pride in providing a rewarding and enjoyable experience to each customer. They would love to answer any questions that you have about the local real estate market, and they are looking forward to the opportunity to serve you.
