By Folkways

Looking to escape the city this summer without draining your wallet or gas tank? Enjoy some nearby lake life and sightseeing suggested by students for students.

Itasca State Park

Distance: 2 hours | Recommended by: Montana

Minnesota’s oldest state park is also where the Mississippi River begins. Explore 16 miles of paved bike trails, climb the 100-foot fire tower for incredible views, and check out historic interpretive centers to learn about the park’s origins.

Quarry Park & Nature Preserve

Waite Park, MN

Distance: 2 hours 30 minutes | Recommended by: Alessa

Once a granite mine, now a hit summer location. Swim in old quarry pits and lounge on the sandy beaches. Feeling more adventurous? Take a plunge from the cliff-jumping spots. Enjoy the nearby walking and biking trails as well.

K&K TUBING

Detroit Lakes, MN

Distance: 1 hour | Recommended by: Eliza

Float your way through summer on a two-hour ride down the Otter Tail River. Tubes, cooler, and life jackets are available to rent. Prices start at $7, and your second float of the day is free!

Rapid River Logging Camp

Park Rapids, MN

Distance: 2 hours | Recommended by: Eliza

Step back in time and eat like a true Northwood lumberjack. This family-style breakfast spot is set up like a 1900s logging camp, and you will want help finishing this hearty meal so bring some friends along. After breakfast, visit the animals and learn about Minnesota’s logging legacy

Trowbridge Creek Zoo

Vergas, MN

Distance: 1 hour | Recommended by: Eliza

Zebras? Capybaras? Kangaroos? Yes, yes, and yes. This zoo is hidden in the lakes country and has an impressive variety of exotic animals, which you can feed many of them with a $3 bucket. Admission is $16 for adults and totally worth it for all the selfies you can get with the up close animal exhibits.

Fort Ransom State Park

Distance: 1 hour 20 minutes | Recommended by: Pratik

Perfect for a spontaneous adventure. Fort Ransom has 20+ miles of trails, kayak rentals, and camping options. Not into tent camping? They have yurts, cabins, and vintage style wagons available to rent!

Shady Hollow Flea Market

Detroit Lakes

Distance: 45 minutes | Recommended by: Amanda

Make an offer or try to barter at the Flea Market. Shop for your next vintage find or decorate your home with some locally made art. This stop is a must in Detroit Lakes because there is so much to look at; it’s basically an eye spy book in real life.