Play Tourist For A Day In The Charming Town Of Bemidji, Minnesota, The Birthplace Of Jane Russell
By Clarisa|Published January 31, 2023
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Clarisa
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Born and raised Kansan, Clarisa has lived in both tiny towns and cities during their time here in the Sunflower State. As a busy mother of one crazy kid, two cats, and two geckos, they write whenever there is spare time.
If you want to be a tourist without going somewhere packed, why not tour a small town in Minnesota named Bemidji? Not only is it the birthplace of a beautiful actress, but plenty of local businesses will make you feel right at home during your adventure. There’s plenty to do around these parts, including local attractions, nature to explore, and dining options. Grab your road trip planner, and put Bemidji on the list.
Town residents Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox would like to introduce you to Bemidji, Minnesota. With a population of under 15,000 people, this small town feels cozy, but not empty. Thankfully, that also means there is plenty to do around town as well.
Named after Bemidji Lake, the first permanent resident in the area was an Ojibwe man named Shaynowishkung, who lived with his family on the lakeshore and served as a spokesperson for the local group of Ojibwe. Later on, he was nicknamed Chief Bemidji, and he stands tall in Library Park.
Bemidji is also the birthplace of Jane Russell, a popular actress in the '40s and '50s who moved to California before she had her big break in the 1943 film "The Outlaw." She went on to star in more than 20 films before the '60s; most notably, she was cast alongside Marilyn Monroe in the 1953 hit "Gentlemen Prefer Blondes."
Pictured here, they both leave their prints and signatures in the cement at Grauman's Chinese Theater that same year. Later, Russell received her own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
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Other than Jane Russell, Bemidji has a rich history you can learn all about at the Beltrami County History Center. Starting with geographical history before moving to cultural aspects and artifacts of the local Anishinaabe. From there, you can learn about the town's creation and the industries that kept it alive through the years.
Local businesses are the cornerstone of towns like this one, and even if you'd rather browse than buy when you're traveling, there's a lot to look at. Grandma's Attic Antique Mall, for example, has a large assortment of antique and vintage good and massive inventory of repurposed and restored items. Maybe you'll find a must-have little treasure?
Grandma's Attic Antiques, 502 3rd St NW, Bemidji, MN 56601, USA
Speaking of local industries, you'll find Bemidji Woolen Mills, a long-standing business that has been making wool clothing, blankets, and other essentials, for Minnesotans. You can still shop wool products here today!
After you make sure you're ready for the weather, a visit to Lake Bemidji State Park is in order. The sunsets are legendary, and the hiking and fishing spots give you plenty to do if you never get tired of lakes.
Lake Bemidji State Park, 3401 State Park Rd NE, Bemidji, MN 56601, USA
Of course, you can't have a day full of adventures without fuel! Today's first option is Dave's Pizza, a favorite since 1958. Pizza is always a classic, and you can pair it with a local craft brew to make it even better.
Dave's Pizza, 422 15th St NW, Bemidji, MN 56601, USA
Then again, you could also choose to try out Bar 209, which boasts lots of libations and pizza options of their own, plus fan favorites like mac and cheese. However, if you have anything here, make sure you get one of the ever-changing desserts they have available. Especially if it's cheesecake!
Bar 209, 217 Minnesota Ave NW Suite 109, Bemidji, MN 56601, USA
If you feel like having a little extra fun, or you want to buy brews from the source, stopping by Bemidji Brewing to bring home some of the finest local brews is recommended. You can visit the taproom when it's open, or take home cans of your favorite options for later! Options are always the right way to go.
If Bemidji is “been there, done that” to you, or it just doesn’t spark that road trip bug, you might enjoy one of these historic trolley tours in Minnesota small towns, especially if you don’t have all day to spend exploring.
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