Your Gateway to Downtown Bemidji
Travel Guide
There is so much to do and see in beautiful Bemidji—locations listed here are only a start! We encourage you to visit our friends at Visit Bemidji—either online or in-person. Their tourist information center located just two blocks from the 4th Street Lodge on the shores of Lake Bemidji!
Restaurants
Tutto Bene
Indulge in the flavors of Italy at Tutto Bene, where fresh, locally-sourced ingredients create mouthwatering dishes. From handmade pasta to delectable seafood, this cozy eatery offers a memorable dining experience.
Minnesota Nice Cafe
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Minnesota Nice Café. Known for its friendly service and delicious menu, this café is a local favorite for breakfast and lunch.
Tara Bemidji
The first restaurant in the county to feature authentic and popular Thai dishes paired with local craft beers.
Wasabi Sushi and Slurp Ramen
Simple, affordable, and memorable sushi and ramen restaurant.
Bars & Lounges
Brigid’s Pub
Enjoy the warm, inviting atmosphere of Brigid’s Pub, an Irish pub known for its extensive beer selection and classic pub fare. It’s the perfect spot to unwind with friends after a day of exploring.
facebook.com/brigidscrossirishpub
Bar 209
For a lively night out, head to Bar 209. Renowned for its juicy burgers and vibrant atmosphere, it’s a great place to experience the local nightlife.
bar209bemidji.com
Bemidji Brewing
Local taproom where you can enjoy local craft brews and soak up beautiful views of the lake in the heart of downtown. Growlers,howlers (beer to-go), craft sodas, and cold brewed coffee also available.
Keg N Cork
Where “folks come for a while and leave with a smile.” This traditional Irish pub has been serving the Bemidji area since 1974.
Shopping Local
Bemidji Woolen Mills
Visit Bemidji Woolen Mills for high-quality woolen products and apparel. This historic store offers a range of cozy items, perfect for souvenirs or gifts.
bemidjiwoolenmills.com
218 Clothing+Gift
Find unique gifts and Minnesota-themed apparel, much of which is designed and printed locally at this area code inspired store (an extension of the related Yellow Umbrella Boutique).
218gift.com
Chocolates Plus
Satisfy your sweet tooth with handmade chocolates, fudge, and truffles while also exploring gift baskets, other candies, and coffee.
chocplus.com
Books N More
Discover what started as a book store that now includes a full selection of video games and musical instruments.
facebook.com/booksnmorebemidji
Merry Piglets
Delight in uncommon and unique gifts designed to bring joy to your life and the lives of your favorite people.
shopmerrypiglets.com
Sightseeing & Activities
Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox Statues
No visit to Bemidji is complete without a photo with the iconic Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox statues. These legendary landmarks are a must see!
visitbemidji.com
Bemidji Sculpture Walk
Stroll through downtown and admire the Bemidji Sculpture Walk, an outdoor gallery featuring impressive sculptures by local and regional artists.
bemidjisculpture.com
Headwaters Science Center
Perfect for families, the Headwaters Science Center offers interactive exhibits and live animal displays, providing fun and educational experiences for all ages.
hscbemidji.org
Paul Bunyan Playhouse
Take in a show at the oldest professional summerstock company in Minnesota housed in the historic Chief Theater (just down the block from the 4th Street Lodge).
thechieftheater.com
Sanford Center
There’s always something happening at the Sanford Center whether it’s a Bemidji State hockey game, touring comedian, or big name musical acts.
thesanfordcenter.com/events
Local Events
First City of Lights (November)
Kick off to the winter holiday season centered around a city-wide light display featuring over 300,000 lights!
firstcityoflights.org
Loop the Lake (June)
Annual 17 mile bike ride around Lake Bemidji that is designed for all skill levels to enjoy.
bikebemidji.com
Jaycee’s Water Carnival (July)
Bemidji’s largest summer festival featuring a parade, midway, medallion hunt, fireworks, and more!
bemidjijaycees.com/water-carnival
Dragon Boat Festival (August)
Come for the dragon boat races and also enjoy food, music, kids’ activities, and more all along the shores of beautiful Lake Bemidji.
bemidjidragonboat.com
Blue Ox Marathon (October)
The Northland’s most colorful run–featuring a variety of races from a 1/2 K kids’ race to the full marathon, including a 26K lake loop!
bemidjiblueoxmarathon.com
Hiking & Biking
Lake Bemidji State Park
A short drive from downtown, Lake Bemidji State Park offers a plethora of outdoor activities. Enjoy hiking, biking, bird watching, and breathtaking lakeside views in this beautiful natural setting.
dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks
Bemidji Favorite Riding Trails
Did you know that Bemidji has been recognized as a Bronze Level “Bicycle Friendly Community” since 2012? Explore biking options from 6 to 160 miles, city routes to mountain bike trails. Shuttles and bike rentals available.
visitbemidji.com
Winter Trails and Pathways
Bemidji is truly a city for all seasons. Uncover opportunities for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and winter disc golf.
ci.bemidji.mn.us
Lake Itasca State Park
Established in 1891, Itasca is Minnesota’s oldest state park. Explore the headwaters of the Mississippi River and so much more in this 32,000 acre park which includes over 100 lakes.
dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks