Top Attractions & Places to Visit in Crosslake, Minnesota
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or looking for something new to explore, here are some of the top attractions and places to visit in Crosslake, Minnesota.
Explore Crosslake’s Top Attractions
There’s more to Crosslake than beautiful lakes, although we have plenty of those! From local landmarks and historic sites to family-friendly activities and some of the best ways to experience the outdoors, there are plenty of places worth adding to your Crosslake itinerary.
Pine River Dam & Cross Lake Recreation Area
35507 County Road 66, Crosslake
No visit to Crosslake is complete without a stop at the Pine River Dam and Cross Lake Recreation Area. Located on the Whitefish Chain of Lakes, the dam is one of Crosslake’s most recognizable landmarks and a favorite place to watch the rushing water, take in the scenery or cast a line.
The surrounding U.S. Army Corps of Engineers recreation area offers even more ways to enjoy the outdoors, including swimming, picnicking, camping and access to the water.
Take some time to walk around, snap a photo and enjoy one of the places that makes Crosslake feel unmistakably Up North.
Crosslake Historic Log Village
35404 County Road 3, Crosslake
Step back in time at the Crosslake Historic Log Village, located just across from the Pine River Dam and Cross Lake Recreation Area.
The village preserves historic buildings and artifacts that tell the story of life in the Crosslake area. Visitors can explore buildings representing an earlier era, including a general store, tourist camp and logger’s camp.
The Historic Log Village is a seasonal attraction, so be sure to check current hours and programming when planning your visit.
The National Loon Center & The Nest
14303 Gould St, Crosslake
Loons and lake life go hand in hand in northern Minnesota, and Crosslake is home to the National Loon Center.
The organization’s current visitor center, The Nest, is located in Crosslake Town Square and offers an opportunity to learn more about loons, freshwater ecosystems and conservation.
There’s even more to come. The new 20,000-square-foot National Loon Center is scheduled to open in 2027 and will feature three levels of interactive exhibits focused on loons, lakes and freshwater ecosystems.
The National Loon Center also offers seasonal programming, including educational Loon Pontoon experiences and the annual Loons & Lakes Festival.
Crosslake Train Club & Railroad Museum
36184 Co Rd 66, Crosslake
All aboard! The Northern Minnesota Railroad Heritage Association, also known as the Crosslake Train Club, is a fun stop for families, train enthusiasts and anyone interested in railroad history.
Inside the museum, visitors can explore impressive operating model railroad displays in several scales, along with railroad memorabilia, historic photographs and other pieces of Minnesota railroad history. Younger visitors will find plenty to enjoy, too, making this an easy addition to a family day in Crosslake.
Museum Hours:
Saturdays year-round | 10 AM–2 PM
Wednesdays, Memorial Day–Labor Day | 3–6 PM
The museum is not open on Wednesdays outside of the summer season.
Explore the Whitefish Chain of Lakes
You can’t talk about Crosslake attractions without talking about the water.
Crosslake sits among dozens of lakes, including the 14 interconnected lakes of the Whitefish Chain of Lakes. Together, the Chain encompasses more than 13,500 acres of water and 119 miles of shoreline.
Spend a day boating from lake to lake, go fishing, paddle a quiet bay, swim or simply find a place along the shoreline to enjoy the view. With resorts, campgrounds and dockside dining around the Chain, the lakes aren’t just something to see, they’re a big part of the Crosslake experience.
Shop Local in Crosslake
Make time to browse while you’re exploring Crosslake! Around town, you’ll find locally owned boutiques, gift shops and specialty stores filled with clothing, home décor, Up North gifts, outdoor essentials and plenty of unique finds to bring home.
Crosslake Town Square is one popular shopping stop, bringing together local businesses around a welcoming green space and gazebo. Throughout the year, the Square also hosts community activities and events, including Music in the Square during the summer.
In the heart of Town Square, the Legacy Gardens adds another beautiful gathering place to the heart of Crosslake and is worth a stop as you explore the shops, restaurants and attractions around town.
Play a Round of Golf or Mini Golf
Crosslake offers plenty of ways to get a little competitive during your vacation.
Golfers can spend a morning or afternoon on the course, while families can make memories with a round of mini golf. Crosslake’s golf and mini-golf options make an easy addition to a summer getaway, family vacation or weekend with friends.
Get Outside at Crosslake's Parks & Trails
Want to stretch your legs? Crosslake has parks and recreation areas for everything from a quiet picnic to pickleball, playground time, walking and winter recreation.
The Crosslake Community Center is packed with recreation opportunities, while Pine River Overlook Park offers a peaceful spot along the river and South Bay Park provides a more natural setting for a walk along the water.
Taste Your Way Around Crosslake
Exploring Crosslake can work up an appetite! From casual Up North favorites and family-friendly restaurants to lakeside dining, coffee shops, breweries and places to grab a sweet treat, there are plenty of ways to refuel between adventures.
One of the best parts of dining in Crosslake is the variety of settings. Grab a bite in town, enjoy a meal overlooking the water or arrive by boat at one of the area’s dockside restaurants. Whether you’re looking for breakfast before a day on the lake, a quick lunch or dinner and drinks after a full day of exploring, you’ll find plenty of local options.
Make a Getaway of It
There’s plenty to discover in Crosslake, so why make it just a day trip? Stay a little longer and give yourself time to explore the lakes, attractions, shops, restaurants and outdoor recreation that make this corner of Minnesota such a special place to visit.
Choose from resorts, cabins, vacation rentals, campgrounds and other lodging options throughout the Crosslake area, including properties right on the water.
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