Forest Lake MinnesotaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Forest Lake, Minnesota.
1. Fenway Fields
COMMUNITY BALLPARK AND REC
Fenway Fields is a well-maintained sports complex in Forest Lake, offering multiple baseball and softball fields for league games and community recreation. The park provides ample seating, concessions, and playground equipment, making it popular for families and local sports enthusiasts. Seasonal tournaments and youth programs regularly animate the venue, fostering a vibrant local sporting culture.
2. Tower Park
DOWNTOWN GREEN OASIS
Tower Park is a charming public space located in the heart of Forest Lake, featuring a gazebo, picnic tables, and seasonal floral displays. The park is ideal for quiet relaxation, lunchtime picnics, and community gatherings, offering a tranquil escape close to downtown businesses. Its central location makes it a favored spot for local events and festivals.
3. Forest Lake Beach
POPULAR SWIMMING SPOT
Forest Lake Beach is a public lakeside destination that attracts visitors for swimming, sunbathing, and lakeside picnics every summer. The beach features a sandy shore, lifeguard presence, and facilities including restrooms and picnic tables. Its scenic outlook and family-friendly atmosphere make it a cherished summer hangout for both residents and tourists.
4. Forest Lake Sports Complex
MULTI-SPORT FACILITY
The Forest Lake Sports Complex provides expansive fields and amenities for soccer, football, and other recreational sports. With well-kept grounds and modern facilities, it's a hub for local leagues, youth programs, and community sporting events throughout the year. The complex is known for fostering active lifestyles and hosting large tournaments in the region.
5. Tanners Brook Golf Club
CHALLENGING GOLF DESTINATION
Tanners Brook Golf Club is a moderately priced course featuring nearly 7,000 yards of play, with a scenic landscape marked by water hazards and bunkers. Golfers appreciate its well-groomed fairways, friendly staff, and comprehensive practice facilities. The club hosts both casual play and tournaments, catering to golfers of all skill levels.
6. Hardwood Creek Regional Trail
BIKING AND WALKING TRAIL
The Hardwood Creek Regional Trail is a scenic multi-use path running through the Forest Lake area, ideal for biking, running, and walking. The trail traverses picturesque woodlands and fields, offering a peaceful retreat and wildlife viewing opportunities. Year-round accessibility and convenient trailheads make it a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts.
7. Carlos Avery Wildlife Management Area
EXPANSIVE NATURE PRESERVE
Carlos Avery Wildlife Management Area, just south of Forest Lake in Columbus, spans over 23,000 acres of wetlands and forests. It provides habitat for waterfowl, deer, and diverse wildlife, making it a premier destination for birdwatching, hiking, and photography. The area is also popular for seasonal hunting and nature exploration.
8. Vanelli's by the Lake
LAKEFRONT ITALIAN DINING
Vanelli's by the Lake is a longstanding restaurant on the Forest Lake shoreline, renowned for its Italian-American cuisine and picturesque lake views. Guests enjoy classic pasta, seafood, and steak dishes served in a comfortable, welcoming atmosphere. The outdoor patio and regular live music events make it a local dining favorite.
9. Forest Lake 4th of July Celebration
ANNUAL PATRIOTIC FESTIVAL
The Forest Lake 4th of July Celebration is one of Minnesota's largest Independence Day festivals, drawing crowds with its grand parade, carnival, and fireworks display. The event features live music, street vendors, and a vibrant community atmosphere that lasts several days around the holiday. It's a cherished tradition that brings together locals and visitors alike.
10. Forest Lake Farmers Market
FRESH LOCAL PRODUCE
The Forest Lake Farmers Market offers a weekly showcase of fresh produce, homemade goods, and handcrafted items from local vendors. Visitors can shop for seasonal fruits, vegetables, artisanal foods, and gifts while enjoying a vibrant, community-oriented environment. Live music often accompanies the market, making it an enjoyable outing for all ages.
11. Your Boat Club Forest Lake
BOAT RENTAL & ADVENTURE
Your Boat Club on Forest Lake provides convenient boat rentals and memberships, allowing visitors to explore the lake with ease. The club offers pontoons, fishing boats, and watercraft for group outings, fishing trips, or leisurely cruising. Staff ensures a smooth rental experience, making it accessible for both novice and experienced boaters.
12. Wildwood RV Park & Campground
FAMILY-FRIENDLY CAMPING
Wildwood RV Park & Campground, located near Forest Lake in Taylors Falls, is a popular campground featuring full hookup sites, tent camping, and cabins. Amenities include a swimming pool, playground, and organized family activities, catering to campers of all ages. Its proximity to area attractions and natural beauty makes it a convenient base for exploring the region.
13. Taylors Falls Scenic Boat Tours
HISTORIC RIVER EXCURSIONS
Taylors Falls Scenic Boat Tours, a short drive from Forest Lake, offers narrated cruises on the St. Croix River aboard historic paddlewheel boats. Passengers experience breathtaking views of unique rock formations and forested bluffs while learning about the area's history and geology. The tours are family-friendly and suitable for all ages.
14. Hardwood Creek Wildlife Management Area
WILDLIFE AND BIRDWATCHING
The Hardwood Creek Wildlife Management Area, located in the neighboring city of Hugo, features a mix of prairies, wetlands, and woodlands for wildlife observation and hiking. Birdwatchers are drawn to its diverse species, especially during migration seasons. The area also offers peaceful trails for nature walks and photography.
15. Bowlero
MODERN BOWLING CENTER
Bowlero in Blaine, a short drive from Forest Lake, is a popular entertainment hub offering state-of-the-art bowling lanes, arcade games, and a lively food and drink menu. The center is ideal for family outings, birthday parties, and group events. Its vibrant atmosphere and variety of activities ensure fun for guests of all ages.