Elk River Mn Map
Introduction
Elk River, Minnesota, is a charming city located in Sherburne County. It is known for its beautiful parks, historic landmarks, and outdoor activities. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or foodie, Elk River has something to offer for everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.
Top Attractions
Elk River Arts Alliance
The Elk River Arts Alliance is a non-profit organization that promotes the arts in the community. They organize art shows, workshops, and events throughout the year. If you’re an art lover, be sure to check out their calendar of events.
Lions Park
Lions Park is a beautiful park located on the banks of the Mississippi River. It offers stunning views of the river and is a popular spot for picnics, hiking, and fishing. The park also has a playground, picnic shelters, and a boat launch.
Hidden Gems
Oliver H. Kelley Homestead
The Oliver H. Kelley Homestead is a historic site that was the home of Oliver H. Kelley, the founder of the National Grange of the Order of Patrons of Husbandry. The homestead has been restored to its original condition and offers a glimpse into life in the 1860s.
Clearwater Historical Society Museum
The Clearwater Historical Society Museum is a small museum that showcases the history of the Clearwater area. It has exhibits on local industries, Native American artifacts, and pioneer life. The museum is run by volunteers and is open on weekends.
Food Scene
Rockwoods Grill and Bar
Rockwoods Grill and Bar is a popular restaurant that serves American cuisine. They have a wide selection of appetizers, entrees, and desserts. The restaurant also has a full-service bar and live music on weekends.
Elk River Family Restaurant
The Elk River Family Restaurant is a family-owned restaurant that serves homestyle cooking. They are known for their breakfast dishes, but also serve lunch and dinner. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and friendly staff.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Elk River has many free or low-cost activities for visitors. Some of the budget-friendly tips include visiting the parks, hiking trails, and attending community events. The Elk River Public Library also offers free programs for all ages.
Outdoor Adventures
Beaudry Provincial Park
Beaudry Provincial Park is a beautiful park located on the banks of the Assiniboine River. It offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and a playground. The park is also a popular spot for birdwatching and fishing.
Elk River Paddle Shack
The Elk River Paddle Shack offers canoe and kayak rentals for visitors. They also provide guided tours of the river and surrounding areas. The paddle shack is open from May to October.
Family-Friendly Activities
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge
The Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge is a great place to take the family for a day of hiking and wildlife viewing. The refuge has over 30,000 acres of wetlands, forests, and prairies. Visitors can see a variety of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, sandhill cranes, and bald eagles.
Elk River Splash Pad
The Elk River Splash Pad is a fun water play area for kids. It has fountains, sprayers, and water features that are perfect for hot summer days. The splash pad is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
Elk River Municipal Airport
The Elk River Municipal Airport is a small airport that offers sightseeing flights over the city and surrounding areas. Visitors can take a scenic flight in a small plane and see Elk River from a different perspective.
Olde Main Eatery
Olde Main Eatery is a quirky restaurant located in downtown Elk River. It has a unique decor and menu that features comfort food with a twist. The restaurant also has a bar and live music on weekends.
Natural Wonders
Mississippi River
The Mississippi River is a natural wonder that runs through Elk River. Visitors can take a scenic drive along the river, go fishing, or take a boat tour. The river is also a popular spot for birdwatching and wildlife viewing.
Elk River Dam
The Elk River Dam is a historic structure that was built in the early 1900s. It is a popular spot for fishing and picnicking. Visitors can also take a tour of the dam and learn about its history.
Vibrant Nightlife
Buffalo Bar and Grill
The Buffalo Bar and Grill is a popular spot for nightlife in Elk River. It has a full-service bar and live music on weekends. The restaurant also serves American cuisine and has a cozy atmosphere.
Elk River American Legion
The Elk River American Legion is a local hangout that offers a full-service bar and live music on weekends. The Legion also hosts community events throughout the year, including bingo and karaoke.
Local Markets
Elk River Farmers Market
The Elk River Farmers Market is a weekly market that features local produce, crafts, and baked goods. It is open from June to October and is a great place to support local farmers and artisans.
Clearwater Farmers Market
The Clearwater Farmers Market is another local market that features fresh produce, homemade jams, and other artisanal products. The market is held on Saturdays from May to October.
Beaches and Mountains
Lake Maria State Park
Lake Maria State Park is a beautiful park located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. It offers hiking trails, swimming beaches, and picnic areas. The park is also a popular spot for wildlife viewing.
Wright County Swapper’s Meet
The Wright County Swapper’s Meet is a unique flea market that features vendors selling antiques, crafts, and other unique items. The market is held on Saturdays and Sundays from April to October.
Cultural Immersion
Elk River Community Theatre
The Elk River Community Theatre is a non-profit organization that promotes local theater. They produce several shows throughout the year and offer opportunities for community members to get involved in theater productions.
St. Cloud Somali Community
The St. Cloud Somali Community is a vibrant community located near Elk River. Visitors can experience Somali culture by visiting local markets and restaurants, attending community events, and learning about the history and traditions of the Somali people.
Art and Music Scene
Great River Arts
Great River Arts is a non-profit organization that promotes the arts in the community. They organize art shows, workshops, and events throughout the year. If you’re an art lover, be sure to check out their calendar of events.
Elk River High School Performing Arts Center
The Elk River High School Performing Arts Center is a state-of-the-art facility that hosts concerts, plays, and other performances. The center features a 1,000-seat auditorium and is home to several local performing arts groups.
Walking Tours
Elk River Historic Downtown Walking Tour
The Elk River Historic Downtown Walking Tour is a self-guided tour that takes visitors through the historic downtown area. The tour highlights the architecture and history of the buildings in the area.
Mississippi River Trail
The Mississippi River Trail is a 3,000-mile trail that follows the Mississippi River from its source in Minnesota to its mouth in Louisiana. Visitors can take a section of the trail and enjoy scenic views of the river and surrounding areas.
Architectural Marvels
Wright County Courthouse
The Wright County Courthouse is a beautiful building that was built in the early 1900s. It features a neoclassical design and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Elk River Water Tower
The Elk River Water Tower is a unique structure that was built in the 1930s. It features a design that resembles a giant milk can and is a popular landmark in the city.
Historical Sites
Oliver Kelley Farm
The Oliver Kelley Farm is a