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Local Attractions

There's a reason they call it "God's Country."  We are so fortunate to be located in such an incredibly beautiful part of the country.  With all of our pristine lakes and woods, it's easy to lose yourself in the beauty of it all. Whether you prefer to be indoors or out, there is always something to do, no matter what season of the year you choose to visit.

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If you're into history, we have numerous historical attracations in the area. Tour the Hill Annex Mine or the Forest History Center for a first hand look at how the Mining and Lumber industries caused a boom in early Minnesota's industry.  Old Central School, built in 1895, is within walking distance of the Gilbert Mansion, as is the Itasca County Historical Society.  Just a few miles up the road, you can shop for antiques at Annabella's Antique Mall and see the Speakeasy in the basement, complete with the original escape tunnel.

Activities for Everyone

Theater

The Reif Performing Arts Center, located less than a mile from the Gilbert Mansion, brings in top quality professional entertainment from around the globe.  Take in a show along with your B&B stay.  Check out the Reif Center's calendar of events at www.reifcenter.org/event-tickets/.   

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bed and breakfast, bed & breakfast, B&B, b&b, historic mansion, historic mansion tours, special events, unique, tours, wine and cheese, tea party, social gathering

Outdoor Activities

Whether you're into hiking, biking, or cross-country skiing, you'll find hundreds of miles of scenic trails to explore, including the famed Mesabi Trail which begins just a few blocks from the Gilbert Mansion.

With breathtaking scenery and wildlife galore, you'll want to bring your camera to capture those memories.

Snowmobiler's Paradise

If you prefer to explore the great northland by sled, you're in the right place!  With hundreds of miles of groomed trails through our forests and onto area lakes, Itasca County has some of the best snowmobiling in Minnesota.  You can request a map of trails from our local tourism office at www.visitgrandrapids.com.

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Fairs & Festivals 

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We have numerous fairs and festivals throughout the year, including Tall Timber Days and the Judy Garland Festival each summer.  You can also tour Judy's childhood home and museum.  Grand Rapids Riverfest, a live music festival on the banks of the mighty Mississippi River in downtown Grand Rapids, is walking distance from the Gilbert Mansion.  Our neighboring  communities also have great events like the Wild Rice Festival in Deer River and the North Star Stampede Rodeo in Effie.  With so much to do in the area, you'll want to check our Community Calendar at www.visitgrandrapids.com to see what is going on during your stay.

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