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Bemidji Travel Articles
- Visit Bemidji
Bemidji, the First City on the Mississippi, is a historically charming, progressive northwoods city. Soon after its birth at Itasca State Park, the world’s fourth longest river- the Mississippi, travels north to Bemidji. After crossing through Lake Bemidji, it turns south on its 2,552- mile journey to the Gulf of Mexico. Bemidji is a shortened version of the Ojibwe name ‘Bay-may-ji-ga-maug’, meaning ‘lake with cross waters’.
History, legend and lore mingled with an abundance of bald eagles and waterways give the Bemidji area its unique character. The natural rhythm of changing seasons draw outdoor enthusiasts to the area’s State and National Forests which hold a treasure trove of natural beauty for those seeking peaceful refreshment.
For half a century, logging was the economic lifeblood of the area. By way of celebrating the booming industry, an 18 ft. statue of the legendary lumberjack Paul Bunyan and Babe his Blue Ox were constructed at the waterfront for the 1937 Winter Carnival. This famous duo has posed with visitors for many memorable photographs ever since – earning Midwest Living magazine’s ‘‘Best in the Midwest” Roadside Attraction Award in 2003. Paul’s memorabilia, displayed in the adjacent Tourist Information Center, is sure to bring a grin.
Festivals continue to bring folks together all year around. The ‘Night We Light’ Celebration, the day after Thanksgiving begins with an evening Parade of Lights, followed by horse-drawn wagon rides, family activities and fireworks. Polar Daze and Logging Days come January and February, carry on the enjoyment of winter fun. The 4th of July Water Carnival and Art in the Park celebrate summer outdoor pleasures. The most popular summer event is the Lake Bemidji Dragon Boat Festival, held the first Saturday of August. Not only is there the excitement of the dragon boat racing, festival activities include great food, music, kid’s activities, a parade of teams, and much more all along the shores of beautiful Lake Bemidji.
Native American and Scandinavian cultures are woven together into the tapestry of Bemidji’s history. Several events and galleries showcase the community’s rich and diverse cultural heritage. A remarkable collection of sculpture and outdoor art throughout the downtown area offers a glimpse into the creativity this beautiful area inspires. The Paul Bunyan Playhouse, commencing it’s’ 57th season of professional theater, hosts top performances throughout the summer. The recently renovated railroad depot is home to a state-of-the-art history museum currently exhibiting ‘Paddle, Ride or Fly - It’s History in Motion’
Groups also enjoy touring the area via Scenic Byways stopping to step across the Headwaters of the Mississippi River or walking into a unique wilderness environment on the Big Bog Boardwalk. A horse-drawn covered wagon ride to the top of the Laurentian Continental Divide, a woolen mill factory tour, or a raptor presentation are a few favorite attractions that are often included in VisitBemidji’s customized itineraries.
Other places of interest are: the ‘Lost Forty’ forest of 350 year old trees, historic Camp Rabideau CCC Camp, Forestedge Winery and a wild rice processing plant.
While Bemidji is a regional retail and educational center, with the amenities of a large city, it still maintains a small-town, friendly atmosphere.
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