Detroit Lakes

Destinations

Experienced Recommendations

Top Detroit Lakes Destinations to Visit

Explore the best of Detroit Lakes destinations with our guide to the area’s most visited spots. From outdoor adventures to cultural hotspots, discover where locals and visitors alike love to spend their time. GoGo Rental has everything you need to make the most of your visit, ensuring a memorable experience at each destination.

An all-season haven, Detroit Mountain Recreation Area offers thrilling winter sports and summer biking adventures. Ski down the powdery slopes, explore cross-country trails, or embrace gravity on downhill mountain bike tracks. In summer, families converge on the outdoor play area, making memories amidst nature’s playground. As winter’s chill takes over, the mountain becomes a wonderland for snowboarders and tubers alike, offering fun-packed activities under a canopy of sparkling snowflakes.

A serene escape from life’s fast pace, Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge is a mosaic of forests, marshes, and prairies stretching over 43,000 acres. It’s a crucial sanctuary for birds embarking on their epic migrations, and for visitors, it offers a chance to connect with nature. With trails that guide you through diverse habitats, you’re likely to spot a ballet of trumpeter swans or hear the rustle of deer among the trees. Every season transforms the refuge, revealing different aspects of its ever-evolving beauty.

Dive into the eclectic world of Shady Hollow Flea Market, a beloved local tradition where treasure hunters and casual shoppers alike can spend hours perusing a vast collection of items. From rare antiques to handcrafted goods, the market spans 3.5 acres of curiosity and charm. Whether you’re looking for vintage finds, repurposed décor, or simply a unique piece that tells a story, Shady Hollow is a weekend destination that promises a journey through time and imagination.

City Beach & Park is the jewel in the crown of Detroit Lakes, offering golden sands, sparkling waters, and lush greenery. It’s a perfect spot for a family day out with picnic tables, volleyball nets, and the opportunity to play frisbee golf against a backdrop of laughter and the gentle lap of lake waves. The park’s facilities accommodate all ages and interests, providing a serene escape or a hub of activity, depending on your mood.

A true hiker’s paradise, the North Country National Scenic Trail is a haven of tranquility and natural splendor. Stretching across several states with a significant presence near Detroit Lakes, this trail offers an escape into the wilderness. Meandering through dense forests and open prairies, every step on this path presents an opportunity for discovery and reflection. The crisp air, the rustle of leaves underfoot, and the chorus of birds overhead accompany trekkers as they journey through what can only be described as the heart of America’s great outdoors.

Steeped in history and buzzing with cultural vibrancy, the Historic Holmes Theatre is the cornerstone of Detroit Lakes’ arts scene. A splendid array of performances grace the stage here, from soulful concerts to laugh-out-loud comedic acts. The theater, lovingly restored to its former glory, retains a sense of timelessness while celebrating the new and now. Whether you are a connoisseur of the classics or a seeker of new artistic experiences, the theatre’s dynamic calendar is sure to have something that speaks to your spirit.

The sprawling greens of Forest Hills Golf & RV Resort beckon golfers to indulge in a round under the expansive Minnesota sky. This destination isn’t just for those with a penchant for putting but also for those who appreciate the quieter moments in life. Here, RV enthusiasts can find their spot, surrounded by the gentle hum of nature, and families can make memories that last a lifetime, whether on the fairways or enjoying the resort’s many amenities.

Discover the charm of Detroit Lakes at the Holiday Inn, perfectly located to maximize your enjoyment of the area’s diverse activities and beautiful natural surroundings. Whether you’re here to unwind on the sandy shores of Detroit Lake, enjoy local dining, or engage in outdoor adventures, the Holiday Inn provides a comfortable and convenient base. Enhance your stay by renting boats, mopeds, and more through GoGo Rental, available directly at the hotel.

Perched by the shimmering waters of Detroit Lake, Lakeside Tavern & Brewery is a sanctuary for those who appreciate craft beers and gourmet pub grub. With its breezy patio and welcoming interior, this tavern is the perfect setting for both lively gatherings and intimate moments. Sample the locally brewed offerings as you gaze out at the water, and let the flavors tell the story of Detroit Lakes – a story steeped in tradition and togetherness.

Infused with an eclectic mix of zest and zest, Zorbaz is not just a restaurant but a cultural phenomenon in Detroit Lakes. With its boisterous atmosphere and eclectic menu that promises a fusion of Tex-Mex and Italian fare, every meal here is a celebration. The diverse selection of beers complements the vibrant food, ensuring that each visit is a jubilant toast to good times.

Detroit Lakes’ Polar Fest is a vibrant testament to the community’s embrace of the winter season. This festival brings together a patchwork of events that celebrate the chill of winter with the warmth of community spirit. With a palette of activities that includes ice sculptures, frosty plunges, and cozy gatherings, Polar Fest is a shining beacon in the snowy months, bringing light and joy to all who partake.

The Northwest Water Carnival is a splashy, exuberant celebration of summer on the shores of Detroit Lakes. This time-honored festival offers a plethora of aquatic and beachside activities that are sure to delight visitors of all ages. From water ski shows to sandcastle building, from sporting events to leisurely beach banquets, the carnival is a sun-soaked homage to the joys of lake life.

Destinations key


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Boating & Fishing

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Camping

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Off-Roading

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Scootering

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Biking & Hiking

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Nature

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Family Activities

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Beaches

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Festivals

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Hotels

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Shopping

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Theaters

Golfing

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Historical Sites

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Food & Drink

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