Osakis MinnesotaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Osakis, Minnesota.
1. Panther Distillery
LOCAL SPIRITS AND TOURS
Panther Distillery offers visitors a chance to explore Minnesota's first legal whiskey distillery. Guests can enjoy guided tours to learn about the distillation process and sample various spirits produced on-site. The distillery provides a unique taste of local craftsmanship in a welcoming atmosphere.
2. Erickson's Petting Zoo
FAMILY-FRIENDLY ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS
Erickson's Petting Zoo invites animal lovers of all ages to interact with a variety of friendly creatures. Located at 11890 Hope Road, this family attraction allows visitors to feed and pet numerous farm animals in a safe, supervised environment. Children particularly enjoy the hands-on experience with gentle animals while learning about different species.
3. Lake Osakis
PREMIER FISHING DESTINATION
Lake Osakis offers 6,270 acres of pristine waters perfect for fishing, boating, and water recreation. Stretching 11 miles long and 3.5 miles wide with a maximum depth of 86 feet, this expansive lake provides ample opportunities for anglers and water sports enthusiasts alike. The lake features direct access from several resorts and public areas, making it the centerpiece of recreation in the Osakis area.
4. Head of the Lakes Resort
LAKESIDE LODGING AND RECREATION
Head of the Lakes Resort provides comfortable accommodations with direct access to Lake Osakis for a perfect Minnesota getaway. The resort features a sandy beach with sun tanning platforms, lounge chairs, and a rainbow playground perfect for families with young children. Guests can enjoy the on-site restaurant and bar open year-round, plus access to both Lake Osakis and Little Osakis Lake for diverse fishing opportunities.
5. Antiques Osakis
VINTAGE TREASURES AND COLLECTIBLES
Antiques Osakis invites visitors to browse through a carefully curated collection of vintage items and collectibles located at 26 W Main Street. Treasure hunters can discover unique pieces of history, from furniture and home decor to nostalgic memorabilia and one-of-a-kind finds. The shop provides a delightful experience for antique enthusiasts and casual shoppers alike looking to bring home a piece of the past.
6. The Bowling Barn & Grill
FAMILY FUN AND DINING
The Bowling Barn & Grill combines entertainment and dining for a complete family outing in downtown Osakis. Located at 40 E Main Street, this venue offers bowling lanes for competitive fun alongside a full-service restaurant serving up delicious comfort food. Visitors can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere perfect for birthday parties, casual get-togethers, or a fun evening activity during their stay in Osakis.
7. Little Osakis Lake
HIDDEN FISHING PARADISE
Little Osakis Lake offers excellent fishing opportunities in a more secluded setting compared to its larger neighbor. Although there is no public access, the lake can be reached via the creek running through Head of the Lakes Resort, making it a special find for resort guests. Anglers praise this hidden gem for its fishing quality, providing a more intimate experience away from the busier main lake.
8. Dragon Willow Winery
LOCAL WINE TASTING EXPERIENCE
Dragon Willow Winery welcomes wine enthusiasts to sample locally produced wines in a charming countryside setting near Osakis. Located at 23419 210th St in nearby Long Prairie, this winery showcases Minnesota viticulture with tastings that highlight the unique characteristics of regionally grown grapes. Visitors can relax in the tasting room while learning about the winemaking process and enjoying the fruits of local craftsmanship.
9. Circle R Ranch
EQUESTRIAN ADVENTURES FOR ALL
Circle R Ranch offers an authentic horse lover's experience with riding programs suitable for various skill levels near Osakis. Known as "The Horse Lover's Favorite Camp," this equestrian center located at 32549 State Hwy 27 in Long Prairie provides trail rides, riding lessons, and horse-centered activities in a beautiful countryside setting. Visitors can connect with these majestic animals while enjoying the scenic beauty of central Minnesota's landscape.
10. Christie House Museum
HISTORIC PRESERVATION AND EDUCATION
The Christie House Museum preserves local history through its collection of artifacts and period rooms showcasing life in earlier eras. Located in Long Prairie near Osakis, this historical museum offers visitors a glimpse into the region's past through carefully maintained exhibits and informative displays. History enthusiasts can appreciate the authentic representation of pioneer and early 20th century living while learning about significant events that shaped the area.
11. Carlos Creek Winery
AWARD-WINNING MINNESOTA WINES
Carlos Creek Winery invites wine connoisseurs and curious travelers alike to experience Minnesota viticulture at its finest just a short drive from Osakis. This award-winning winery offers tastings of their unique cold-climate wines in a charming setting complete with beautiful grounds and a welcoming tasting room. Visitors can enjoy regular events including live music, festivals, and educational tours about the winemaking process from grape to glass.
12. Big Splash Indoor Waterpark
YEAR-ROUND AQUATIC FUN
Big Splash Indoor Waterpark provides aquatic entertainment regardless of Minnesota's weather, making it a perfect excursion from nearby Osakis. Featuring water slides, a lazy river, and interactive play areas, this climate-controlled facility offers fun for swimmers of all ages throughout the year. Families appreciate having a guaranteed water adventure option during their visit to the area, especially during cooler seasons when outdoor swimming isn't possible.
13. Minnesota Lakes Maritime Museum
CELEBRATING LAKE HERITAGE
The Minnesota Lakes Maritime Museum preserves and celebrates the rich boating heritage of the region's lakes, showcasing historic watercraft and lake culture a short drive from Osakis. Visitors can explore impressive collections of classic boats, including wooden Chris-Crafts, Garwoods, and other vintage vessels that once graced the waters of Minnesota's famous lakes. The museum offers an educational glimpse into how lakes have shaped recreation, transportation, and community life throughout the area's history.
14. Runestone Museum
CONTROVERSIAL HISTORICAL MYSTERY
The Runestone Museum houses the famous Kensington Runestone, a controversial artifact that some believe provides evidence of Norse exploration in Minnesota before Columbus. Located in Alexandria near Osakis, this unique museum explores both the runestone's contested history and the broader heritage of the region through exhibits on pioneer life and Native American culture. Visitors can form their own opinions about this intriguing historical mystery while exploring artifacts that tell the story of early Minnesota settlement.
15. Sinclair Lewis Boyhood Home
LITERARY HISTORY PRESERVED
The Sinclair Lewis Boyhood Home preserves the early environment of America's first Nobel Prize winner for literature in nearby Sauk Centre. Visitors can tour the restored Victorian house where Lewis spent his formative years, gaining insight into the influences that shaped his satirical novels including "Main Street," which was based on his hometown. The museum features original furnishings and personal items that help bring to life the story of this important American author's early development.