Elizabeth MinnesotaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Elizabeth, Minnesota.
1. I 94 Speedway
THRILLING RACING ACTION
I 94 Speedway offers exciting auto racing events in Elizabeth, Minnesota. Visitors can enjoy high-speed competition with various race classes throughout the racing season. The speedway provides family-friendly entertainment with concessions and a vibrant atmosphere for motorsport enthusiasts.
2. Otter Tail County Museum
LOCAL HISTORY PRESERVED
The Otter Tail County Museum showcases the rich heritage of the region with fascinating exhibits and artifacts. Visitors can explore displays that tell the story of early settlers, Native American history, and the development of Otter Tail County. The museum offers educational programs and seasonal events that bring local history to life.
3. A Center for the Arts
CULTURAL ENTERTAINMENT HUB
A Center for the Arts serves as a cultural cornerstone in Fergus Falls, hosting a variety of performances throughout the year. The venue features music concerts, theatrical productions, dance performances, and visual art exhibitions that appeal to diverse audiences. Visitors appreciate the historic theater setting that combines charm with quality entertainment options near Elizabeth.
4. Otto the Big Otter
ICONIC ROADSIDE ATTRACTION
Otto the Big Otter stands as a beloved landmark and photo opportunity in Otter Tail County. This large otter statue represents the county's namesake and has become a popular stopping point for travelers. Visitors enjoy taking pictures with this whimsical roadside attraction that celebrates the region's natural heritage.
5. Broken Down Dam Park
SCENIC NATURAL AREA
Broken Down Dam Park offers visitors a unique combination of natural beauty and historical significance near Elizabeth. The park features the remains of an old dam along with walking trails and picnic areas along the Otter Tail River. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy bird watching, fishing, and photography in this peaceful setting.
6. Elizabeth Village Hall and Jail
HISTORIC GOVERNMENT BUILDING
Elizabeth Village Hall and Jail stands as a historic landmark completed in 1898 in the heart of Elizabeth. This well-preserved building offers visitors a glimpse into the town's governmental history and architectural heritage. The structure continues to serve as the seat of local government while maintaining its historical significance.
7. International Wolf Center
WOLF EDUCATION FACILITY
The International Wolf Center in Ely provides visitors with an immersive educational experience about wolf behavior, conservation, and habitat. Guests can observe the resident wolf pack through large viewing windows while learning about wolf ecology through interactive exhibits. The center offers various programs including howling trips, tracking sessions, and educational presentations for all ages.
8. North American Bear Center
BEAR CONSERVATION SHOWCASE
The North American Bear Center offers visitors a chance to learn about and observe black bears in a natural setting. The facility features educational exhibits, naturalist programs, and viewing areas where guests can watch resident bears in a spacious wooded enclosure. Visitors gain valuable insights about bear behavior, ecology, and conservation efforts through this unique educational attraction.
9. Dorothy Molter Museum
ROOT BEER LADY LEGACY
The Dorothy Molter Museum preserves the legacy of the last resident of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, known as the "Root Beer Lady." Visitors can tour Dorothy's reconstructed cabins and learn about her remarkable life as she welcomed thousands of canoeists with her homemade root beer. The museum offers a fascinating glimpse into wilderness living and Northwoods history.
10. Ely Folk School
TRADITIONAL SKILLS CENTER
The Ely Folk School celebrates traditional crafts and skills through hands-on classes and workshops for visitors and locals alike. Students can learn diverse skills ranging from birch bark basket weaving and knife making to bread baking and fly fishing. The school nurtures a vibrant community focused on preserving heritage crafts while creating meaningful connections between people and the Northwoods culture.
11. Ely-Winton History Museum
REGIONAL HERITAGE DISPLAYS
The Ely-Winton History Museum chronicles the rich history of the Ely area through compelling exhibits and artifacts. Visitors can explore displays featuring the region's mining heritage, logging industry, and immigrant stories that shaped the community. The museum provides insights into the cultural, economic, and social development of this distinctive Northwoods region.
12. Bois Forte Heritage Center
NATIVE CULTURAL MUSEUM
The Bois Forte Heritage Center and Cultural Museum showcases the history, traditions, and contemporary life of the Bois Forte Band of Ojibwe. Visitors can view authentic artifacts, artwork, and multimedia presentations that tell the story of the region's first inhabitants. The center offers cultural programming that honors indigenous knowledge and provides educational experiences about Native American heritage.
13. Boundary Waters Canoe Area
PRISTINE WILDERNESS EXPERIENCE
The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness offers over a million acres of pristine lakes, forests, and streams for outdoor enthusiasts to explore. Visitors can paddle through interconnected waterways, camp on secluded islands, and experience the solitude of one of America's most beloved wilderness areas. The area provides opportunities for fishing, wildlife viewing, stargazing, and connecting with nature in its most unspoiled form.
14. Superior National Forest
VAST OUTDOOR RECREATION AREA
Superior National Forest encompasses over three million acres of public lands offering endless recreational opportunities near Ely. Visitors can enjoy hiking on scenic trails, fishing in crystal-clear lakes, and camping in developed campgrounds or remote backcountry sites. The forest provides habitat for diverse wildlife including moose, wolves, and bald eagles that outdoor enthusiasts may encounter during their adventures.
15. Phelps Mill County Park
HISTORIC MILL SITE
Phelps Mill County Park features a beautifully preserved flour mill built in 1889 that stands as a testament to the area's agricultural heritage. Visitors can explore the historic mill structure, enjoy picnicking along the Otter Tail River, and attend the popular annual Phelps Mill Festival featuring artisans and music. The picturesque setting combines history with natural beauty, making it a favorite destination in Otter Tail County.