Archives: Things to Do

Ranier Beach

A wooden boardwalk extends over Rainy Lake, curving to the right along the Minnesota lakeshore. Trees and grass line the shore, with houses and boats visible in the background under a hazy sky. | Rainy Lake, MN

Ranier has a wonderful natural sand beach available for public use with a swimming pier for sunning, swimming and fishing.  The City does not have a lifeguard, so please swim at […]

Smokey Bear Park

A large Smokey Bear statue holding a shovel stands on a grassy lawn near Rainy Lake in Minnesota, surrounded by trees, with a sidewalk, pavilion, and museum buildings nearby under a partly cloudy sky. | Rainy Lake, MN

In the heart of International Falls, Smokey Bear Park is home to the iconic Smokey Bear statue and hosts seasonal events throughout the year, including 4th of July celebrations, International […]

Ranier Park

A playground near Rainy Lake, Minnesota, features seesaws, a merry-go-round, a slide, a climbing wall, and swings. Surrounded by trees and picnic tables on a cloudy day, wood chips cover the play area and green grass borders the scene. | Rainy Lake, MN

The park features a basketball court and hoop, disc golf, horseshoe pits, playground equipment, swing set, picnic tables, a shelter, a Little Library box, porta-potty, and public parking.

Little American Falls

A calm river, reminiscent of Minnesota’s Rainy Lake, reflects trees and a bright blue sky with scattered clouds. Pine trees line the rocky riverbank, while sunlight highlights patches of greenery along the peaceful shore. | Rainy Lake, MN

If you’re headed north on Highway 71, take a detour to Little American Falls near Effie, Minnesota. This easy stop features a short walk to a scenic waterfall surrounded by […]

The Falls Bistro at the Cobblestone

A bowl of salad topped with grilled chicken, cherry tomatoes, pickled onions, shredded cheese, and leafy greens—served with sliced boiled eggs and a cup of dressing—offers a fresh taste reminiscent of a summer day by Minnesota’s Rainy Lake. Fork, knife, and menu included. | Rainy Lake, MN

Located inside the Cobblestone Hotel & Suites, The Falls Bistro serves chef-inspired American fare in a relaxed, welcoming setting. Their menu features shareable starters like poutine and wings, hearty burgers […]

Blue Ox Trail

Trail map of Blue Ox and Alwood/Squaw Lake areas in north-central Minnesota, featuring ATV routes, parking, campsites, picnic spots, service roads, and a map key with navigation tips—ideal for exploring the Rainy Lake region. | Rainy Lake, MN

The Blue Ox Trail is a scenic, multi-use trail system in Koochiching County offering year-round outdoor recreation begins in International Falls. Spanning approximately 74 miles along a former railroad grade, […]

Voyageurs National Park Boat Tours

Explore Voyageurs National Park from the water with a scenic boat tour on Rainy Lake. A perfect way for visitors to enjoy the park’s beauty without having to navigate yourself. […]

Timber Pins Bowling Center

Bowling lanes in an indoor alley near Rainy Lake, with the American, Canadian, and POW/MIA flags hanging on the back wall above the pins. | Rainy Lake, MN

A fun stop for all ages, Timber Pins Bowling offers classic bowling fun in a relaxed, family-friendly setting. Perfect for a rainy day, evening outing, or group activity. 🎳

Harry Oveson Fish Camp

An older man in yellow overalls sits in a small boat on Minnesota’s Rainy Lake, cleaning a fish with a knife. The calm water and distant trees provide a peaceful background. | Rainy Lake, MN

Accessible by boat only.Dock Harry Oveson Fish Camp is a unique Visitor Destination site that offers a glimpse into the rugged, hardworking life of commercial fishing on Rainy Lake. Once […]