Did you just spill your coffee on you laptop? Hear the kids say there’s nothing to do? Catch yourself eye-rolling at a staff meeting? If you’re having one of those days when the TV commercial comes to mind and you want to get away, it’s not too late to plan a stay in the Park Rapids Lakes Area.
Choose a classic northern Minnesota resort, a campground or lodging in town. Your options are open and so are the experiences to try: biking, hiking, trail riding, kayaking and fishing. Head to the Mississippi headwaters at Itasca State Park, go birdwatching or star gazing, read a good book at the end of a dock. It’s good to get away.
Itasca State Park facilities are open for the season with naturalist programs, trail hikes, live music and other activities if you need an excuse to visit other than to explore the park on your own and walk across the Mississippi River where it begins.
Akeley’s always first on the calendar of community festivals. This year’s 69th Annual Paul Bunyan Days June 23-25 celebrates the legendary figure and traditions including a giant parade.
The free music series, 2nd Street Stage, invites you to downtown Park Rapids Thursdays, June 15 through Aug. 17 for live bands, a beer garden and family friendly activities. New this year, the beer garden will open an hour before the music starts and a button will get you a free cup or koozie every week. Go to www.parkrapidsdowntown.com for times and to learn more about all 10 bands.
Events for dirt bike riders and spectators will be held in the area. Two in a Big 6 Series of Enduros and Hare Scrambles will be held at Huntersville June 3-4 and at Akeley July 29-30. For more, go to Big 6 Series on Facebook.
June brings the opening of our fine summer theaters and other cultural events. The Park Rapids Lakes Area Chamber web calendar guides you to schedules and other local festivities. You will find unique shopping and great places to eat morning, noon and night.
If you have never stayed here for a 4th of July weekend, a slice of Americana awaits with an old-fashioned parade, band concert on the Fish Hook River and unforgettable fireworks display.
The Park Rapids area welcomes you any time. If you need help planning a memorable and affordable visit, need more information about the area or have questions, call our friendly staff at 800-247-0054 to learn more.