Looking for the best things to do in Detroit Lakes, MN? This lakeside community in northwest Minnesota is an excellent destination for families, couples, outdoor lovers, and travelers who want a mix of nature, recreation, food, events, and small-town experiences.
Detroit Lakes is surrounded by more than 400 lakes within 25 miles, so swimming, boating, fishing, kayaking, and other water activities naturally sit at the heart of a visit. But the area offers much more than lake recreation. You can explore parks and wildlife refuges, hunt for giant outdoor trolls, bike scenic trails, visit sculpture gardens, enjoy live music, play golf, explore local shops, and experience winter sports.
Best Things to Do in Detroit Lakes, MN
1. Spend a Day at Detroit Lakes City Beach
For many visitors, a beach day is one of the easiest ways to experience Detroit Lakes.
Detroit Lakes City Beach offers a long sandy shoreline along Little Detroit Lake. Visitors can swim, relax in the sun, fish, and enjoy nearby recreational activities. The beach is next to City Park, making it convenient for families who want to combine time in the water with playgrounds, green space, and other activities.
Bring a towel, sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothing for a relaxing summer afternoon.
2. Explore Detroit Lakes City Park
Detroit Lakes City Park is one of the city’s central outdoor spaces.
The park is particularly useful for families because you can combine several activities in one visit. Depending on the season and current park facilities, visitors can enjoy green space, playgrounds, recreational areas, picnicking, and nearby lake activities.
City Park is also associated with the community’s outdoor troll adventure and summer entertainment. Local programming includes free outdoor music during the summer and other events.
3. Go Troll Hunting
One of the most unusual things to do in Detroit Lakes is go looking for giant troll sculptures.
Detroit Lakes has five Thomas Dambo trolls and a Golden Rabbit hidden around the area. The experience turns sightseeing into a scavenger hunt and gives visitors a fun reason to explore parks, trails, and other outdoor spaces.
Troll hunting is especially good for:
- Families with kids
- Couples
- Photographers
- Art lovers
- Road trippers
- Visitors looking for unusual attractions
Instead of simply driving from one attraction to another, you get an interactive outdoor experience.
4. See Barefoot Frida at Ortenstone Gardens
Ortenstone Gardens & Sculpture Park combines art, gardens, walking paths, and nature.
The 50-acre outdoor attraction is home to sculptures, native plants, exhibitions, and Thomas Dambo’s giant troll Barefoot Frida. The park is listed as free to visit from dawn to dusk.
This is a particularly good choice for people who want something quieter than a busy beach.
You can walk the paths, take photographs, enjoy the landscaping, and make the troll part of your Detroit Lakes sightseeing route.
5. Explore Dunton Locks County Park
Dunton Locks County Park is another strong choice for outdoor recreation.
The park sits along Muskrat Lake and Lake Sallie and covers 53 acres. It features hiking and biking trails, fishing piers, picnic shelters, and scenic lake views.
It is a good place for:
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Picnicking
- Photography
- Family outings
- Enjoying nature
If you want to spend a few hours outside without committing to an intense adventure, Dunton Locks is a practical choice.
6. Visit Sucker Creek Preserve
Nature lovers should put Sucker Creek Preserve on their list.
The preserve covers about 117 acres and includes wetlands, a trout stream, marsh, woods, prairie, and a marsh walk. It provides an opportunity to experience a more natural side of the Detroit Lakes area.
It is especially appealing for visitors who enjoy:
- Nature walks
- Wildlife
- Birdwatching
- Photography
- Quiet outdoor spaces
Wear comfortable shoes and allow enough time to explore rather than rushing through the preserve.
7. Explore Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge
Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge is one of the area’s best destinations for wildlife enthusiasts.
The refuge is about 18 miles northeast of Detroit Lakes and covers roughly 43,000 acres. Its landscape includes lakes, rivers, wetlands, woods, and ponds. The refuge supports a large variety of birds and wildlife, making it a worthwhile stop for nature lovers.
You may encounter wildlife such as:
- Trumpeter swans
- White-tailed deer
- Beavers
- Porcupines
- Black bears
- Timber wolves
Bring binoculars if birdwatching is part of your trip.
8. Go Birdwatching
Detroit Lakes is a good destination for birdwatchers because of its mixture of lakes, wetlands, forests, and prairie.
The area’s birding opportunities include the Pine to Prairie International Birding Trail and nearby wildlife refuges and preserves. Local tourism information notes that hundreds of bird species can be found in the region.
Early morning can be a rewarding time for birdwatching because wildlife activity is often easier to observe when trails are quieter.
9. Bike the Heartland State Trail
Cycling is another popular way to experience Detroit Lakes.
The Heartland State Trail provides opportunities for recreational riding, while local trails connect visitors with parks, natural areas, and scenic landscapes. Detroit Lakes is also connected to broader trail systems, including the North Country National Scenic Trail.
Cycling is a good option for travelers who want to see more of the area without spending the entire day in a car.
10. Go Mountain Biking at Detroit Mountain
Detroit Mountain Recreation Area offers activities in multiple seasons.
The 310-acre recreation destination features skiing, snowboarding, tubing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing in winter. During warmer months, visitors can find mountain biking and hiking opportunities.
For active travelers, Detroit Mountain adds variety to a trip that might otherwise focus heavily on lakes and beaches.
Things to Do in Detroit Lakes for Couples
Detroit Lakes can be a good destination for couples who want a combination of outdoor activities, food, scenic views, and relaxed evenings.
11. Take a Lakeside Walk
A walk near the water is one of the simplest couple-friendly activities. Choose a park, beach, or lakefront area and enjoy the scenery without creating a complicated itinerary.
Sunset can be an especially attractive time for photographs and a slower walk.
12. Enjoy a Lakeside Meal
Dining with a lake view can turn a normal meal into part of the travel experience.
Local tourism information highlights restaurants with patios, waterfront settings, casual meals, and fine dining options.
For a more upscale meal, consider The Fireside.
For a casual waterfront atmosphere, options include Lakeside Tavern & Brewery and Long Bridge Bar, Grill & Marina.
13. Explore Outdoor Art Together
A stroll through Ortenstone Gardens is a relaxed option for couples. You can combine nature, art, photography, and conversation without needing to plan a full-day excursion.
Troll hunting also makes for a fun couple’s activity if you want something more playful.
Things to Do in Detroit Lakes With Kids
Families have plenty of options in Detroit Lakes.
14. Go Swimming at the Beach
A day at Detroit Lakes City Beach is an easy family activity. The sandy shoreline provides space to swim, relax, and enjoy the outdoors, while nearby City Park adds additional recreation.
15. Search for the Trolls
Troll hunting can turn sightseeing into an adventure for children.
Give kids the job of finding the sculptures, taking pictures, or checking off each troll as you discover it.
16. Visit the Parks
Parks around Detroit Lakes provide opportunities for children to play, run, picnic, and enjoy outdoor activities.
Peoples Park, South Shore Park, Long Lake Park, and City Park are among the local parks highlighted by the area’s tourism organization.
17. Visit the Becker County Museum
The Becker County Museum provides an indoor alternative when weather makes outdoor activities less appealing.
It can also be a useful stop for families who want to add local history and education to their vacation.
Best Free Things to Do in Detroit Lakes
You do not need a large budget to enjoy Detroit Lakes.
Some low-cost or free options include:
- Exploring public parks
- Walking local trails
- Troll hunting
- Visiting Ortenstone Gardens
- Enjoying lake views
- Birdwatching
- Photography
- Exploring downtown
- Attending selected community events
Ortenstone Gardens is specifically listed as free from dawn to dusk.
Always check current rules before visiting because access, hours, and event schedules can change.
Best Beaches and Swimming Spots
If swimming is one of your main goals, Detroit Lakes City Beach should be high on your list.
The area also has many lakes, so visitors may find additional public access points and recreational beaches around the region. However, not every lake is automatically suitable for swimming.
Before entering the water, check:
- Swimming rules
- Water-quality information
- Beach hours
- Weather
- Posted warnings
- Local safety requirements
Choose designated swimming areas whenever possible.
Best Parks in Detroit Lakes
Some of the most useful parks and natural areas include:
- Detroit Lakes City Park
- Dunton Locks County Park
- Peoples Park
- South Shore Park
- Long Lake Park
- Sucker Creek Preserve
- Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge
Each offers a different experience, from playgrounds and recreation to wildlife and quiet nature walks.
Best Hiking Trails Near Detroit Lakes
Hikers have several options around Detroit Lakes.
Dunton Locks offers hiking and biking trails near Muskrat Lake and Lake Sallie, while Sucker Creek Preserve provides a natural landscape of wetlands, prairie, woods, and marsh. The wider region also connects with the North Country National Scenic Trail.
For a broader day trip, several state parks are within roughly an hour’s drive, including Maplewood, Buffalo River, Glendalough, and Itasca according to local tourism information.
Best Places to Watch the Sunset
Detroit Lakes is naturally suited to sunset viewing because of its many lakes and open shoreline.
Good approaches include finding a public beach, lakeside park, or waterfront dining location with an unobstructed view.
Bring a camera, arrive a little early, and choose a spot where you can comfortably stay until the sun goes down.
Hidden Gems in Detroit Lakes
If you want to move beyond the most obvious attractions, consider:
- Sucker Creek Preserve
- Ortenstone Gardens
- Smaller local parks
- Public art and murals
- Scenic trail sections
- Lesser-known lake access points
- Local community events
The outdoor sculptures are particularly good examples of attractions that feel different from traditional tourist stops.
Pet-Friendly Things to Do
Traveling with a dog does not mean leaving your pet behind for the entire trip.
Detroit Lakes has a city dog park, and local tourism information notes that several hotels, resorts, campgrounds, and restaurants with outdoor patios accommodate pets under their respective rules.
Check each property’s current pet policy before visiting.
Keep your dog leashed where required and follow park rules.
Best Places to Eat in Detroit Lakes
Food can be part of the experience rather than simply something you do between attractions.
Local options include waterfront restaurants, casual bars and grills, breweries, cafés, and fine dining. Some popular choices include:
- Lakeside Tavern & Brewery
- Hub 41
- Long Bridge Bar, Grill & Marina
- The Fireside
Local tourism information specifically highlights lakeside dining, patios, casual food, sports bars, and fine dining.
Detroit Lakes Nightlife
Nightlife in Detroit Lakes is generally centered around local bars, restaurants, live music, seasonal events, and community entertainment rather than a large-city club scene.
For a relaxed evening, look for:
- Live music
- Waterfront dining
- Local breweries
- Bars and grills
- Seasonal concerts
- Community events
Summer can be particularly lively, with outdoor music and food events taking place in and around City Park.
Shopping in Detroit Lakes
Downtown Detroit Lakes provides opportunities to browse local shops and specialty stores.
During warmer months, visitors can also find seasonal markets and outdoor shopping opportunities. The local tourism organization highlights downtown shopping and events such as the Shady Hollow Flea Market.
Shopping is a good addition to an itinerary when you want a break from hiking, swimming, or sightseeing.
Things to Do in Detroit Lakes in Summer
Summer is one of the busiest seasons for the area.
Popular activities include:
- Swimming
- Boating
- Fishing
- Kayaking
- Paddleboarding
- Hiking
- Biking
- Golf
- Troll hunting
- Outdoor dining
- Live music
- Festivals
- Farmers markets
Summer events include outdoor concerts, community celebrations, car events, and major festivals.
Things to Do in Detroit Lakes in Fall
Fall brings cooler weather and changing foliage.
Good autumn activities include:
- Scenic drives
- Hiking
- Photography
- Wildlife watching
- Birdwatching
- Biking
- Golf
- Visiting parks
- Exploring outdoor art
Fall can be a good choice if you prefer outdoor recreation without the busiest summer crowds.
Things to Do in Detroit Lakes in Winter
Winter completely changes the character of Detroit Lakes.
Detroit Mountain offers skiing, snowboarding, tubing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and other cold-weather activities.
You can also try:
- Ice fishing
- Snowmobiling
- Winter hiking
- Snowshoeing
- Winter photography
- Seasonal festivals
The community also celebrates Polar Fest with winter activities and events.
Things to Do in Detroit Lakes When It Rains
Rain does not have to ruin your trip.
Consider:
- Historic Holmes Theatre
- Becker County Museum
- Local shopping
- Restaurants and cafés
- Indoor recreation
- Art galleries
- Scheduled performances
The Historic Holmes Theatre hosts theater, music, comedy, art, classes, and other programming, making it one of the area’s useful indoor attractions.
Day Trips From Detroit Lakes
If you are staying for several days, consider exploring beyond the city.
Nearby possibilities include:
- Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge
- Maplewood State Park
- Buffalo River State Park
- Glendalough State Park
- Itasca State Park
- Regional scenic drives
- Other lakes and small communities
Local tourism information lists several state parks within about an hour’s drive and Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge about 18 miles from Detroit Lakes.
Where to Stay in Detroit Lakes
For a convenient trip, consider staying close to the lake, downtown, or the attractions you most want to visit.
Stay Near the Lake
This is a good choice if swimming, boating, fishing, and waterfront dining are your priorities.
Stay Near Downtown
Downtown is convenient for restaurants, shopping, events, and easy access to several local attractions.
Stay at a Resort or Campground
A resort or campground can be a better fit if you want a more outdoors-focused vacation.
For families, check whether the property offers lake access, recreational equipment, playgrounds, kitchens, or family activities.
A Simple 2-Day Detroit Lakes Itinerary
Day 1: Lakes and Local Attractions
Morning: Start with breakfast and explore the downtown area.
Late morning: Go troll hunting and visit City Park.
Afternoon: Spend time at Detroit Lakes City Beach or another designated recreation area.
Evening: Enjoy a lakeside dinner and watch the sunset.
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
Morning: Visit Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge or Sucker Creek Preserve.
Afternoon: Explore Ortenstone Gardens and see Barefoot Frida.
Late afternoon: Visit Dunton Locks County Park for hiking, biking, or fishing.
Evening: Have dinner at a local restaurant and check whether live music or another event is scheduled.
Best Time to Visit Detroit Lakes
The best time depends on the experience you want.
Summer is ideal for swimming, boating, fishing, beaches, biking, outdoor dining, and festivals.
Fall is excellent for hiking, scenic drives, photography, and cooler outdoor adventures.
Winter is best for skiing, snowboarding, tubing, snowshoeing, ice fishing, and snowmobiling.
Spring can be a quieter time for nature walks, birdwatching, and enjoying the transition into warmer weather.
Detroit Lakes promotes itself as a four-season destination, with different outdoor and community activities available throughout the year.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Detroit Lakes, MN known for?
Detroit Lakes is known for its large number of surrounding lakes, beaches, water recreation, outdoor activities, wildlife, trails, festivals, and four-season tourism. More than 400 lakes are located within 25 miles of the community.
Is Detroit Lakes worth visiting?
Yes. Detroit Lakes offers a broad mix of water activities, parks, trails, wildlife, outdoor art, food, shopping, cultural attractions, and seasonal recreation.
What are the best things to do in Detroit Lakes with kids?
Popular family activities include visiting the beach, exploring City Park, troll hunting, visiting parks, exploring outdoor sculptures, biking, and visiting the museum.
What are the best things to do in Detroit Lakes for couples?
Couples can enjoy lakeside walks, sunsets, outdoor art, troll hunting, scenic drives, hiking, waterfront dining, and live music.
What can you do in Detroit Lakes for free?
Free or low-cost options may include public parks, walking trails, lake views, troll hunting, outdoor art, birdwatching, photography, and Ortenstone Gardens.
What is there to do in Detroit Lakes besides swimming?
You can hike, bike, fish, golf, watch wildlife, visit museums, explore sculpture gardens, hunt for trolls, shop downtown, enjoy restaurants, attend concerts, and participate in winter sports.
What are the best outdoor activities in Detroit Lakes?
Swimming, boating, fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, hiking, biking, birdwatching, golfing, mountain biking, and winter recreation are among the area’s main outdoor activities.
Is Detroit Lakes good for a weekend trip?
Yes. A weekend gives you enough time to combine lake activities, parks, troll hunting, nature attractions, dining, and another activity such as biking or wildlife watching.
What can you do in Detroit Lakes when it rains?
Try the Historic Holmes Theatre, Becker County Museum, local shopping, restaurants, galleries, and indoor recreation.
What are the best winter activities in Detroit Lakes?
Detroit Mountain offers skiing, snowboarding, tubing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing, while the wider area is also suited to ice fishing and snowmobiling.
Final Thoughts
The best things to do in Detroit Lakes, MN go far beyond spending a summer afternoon beside the water. The area’s hundreds of lakes create excellent opportunities for swimming, boating, fishing, and relaxing, while parks, trails, wildlife refuges, sculpture gardens, and outdoor art give visitors plenty of ways to explore the landscape.
For families, start with the beach, City Park, troll hunting, and easy outdoor attractions. Couples can add lakeside dining, sunsets, scenic walks, and outdoor art. Active travelers can explore trails, bike, hike, fish, mountain bike, or visit Detroit Mountain.
If you are visiting in winter, switch from beaches and boats to skiing, snowboarding, tubing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing. And if the weather changes, museums, theaters, restaurants, and shopping provide useful indoor alternatives.
With a little planning, you can build a Detroit Lakes itinerary around exactly what you enjoy—whether that means relaxing by the lake, exploring nature, finding unusual art, enjoying local food, or experiencing Minnesota’s four distinct seasons.
I’m Charlotte Pembroke, and my passion for lakes began through travelling across the United Kingdom’s national parks. I enjoy learning about freshwater ecosystems, famous lakes, conservation, and the unique stories behind these incredible places.
I write to make geography and nature enjoyable for everyone, combining reliable research with clear explanations that readers of all ages can understand.
Books I’ve Written:
- Lakes of Britain: A Natural Journey
- Waters That Shaped History
Oliver Whitmore
Henry Ashford