There are many roadside attractions to see in Minnesota. They range from giant fish to unique water towers – and everything in between. While these are all amusing stops on the way to greater destinations, it is rare that a roadside attraction becomes a destination itself. However, there are a few examples of this in Minnesota. One of our favorites is a historic Paul Bunyan Statue in Bemidji, Minnesota. Almost 100 years old, this statue is not only a fun place to stop. It’s also an interesting piece of history. Read on below to learn more about its story:

Bemidji, Minnesota - a small city about 200 miles northwest of Minneapolis and 150 miles west of Duluth - is home to a fun roadside attraction. Head to Paul Bunyan Park to find a giant statue of Paul Bunyan and his sidekick, Babe the Blue Ox.
Mark Morris/Google
The statues date back to January 14, 1937, when it was unveiled at a winter carnival in Bemidji. They were designed by Leonard Pitney and built by Carl Aldal and placed in Bemidji to draw in tourism.
Patti Gallo/Google
The statues drew many people over the years. From locals popping into their neighborhood park to families on Minnesota road trips, Paul and Babe have enjoyed countless visitors in the 85 years they've stood in Bemidji.
Josh/Flickr

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It's easy to see why people enjoy visiting them. Paul, with his bright red plaid, stands 18 feet tall!
Marc Master/Google
Babe is also eye-catching, standing 10 feet tall. It's hard to miss this bright sculpture as you drive past!
jennie freeman/Google
The statues were added to the National Register of Historic places in 1988. They've become icons of Bemidji and Minnesota as a whole, appearing in movies and TV shows throughout the decades. Anyone who has visited these iconic statues can appreciate their nearly 100-year history by the roadside!
Paul Bunyan & Babe the Blue Ox Statues/Google

Have you ever visited the Paul Bunyan Statue in Bemidji? What did you think? Let us know in the comments! And if you can’t get enough Paul Bunyan, check out our past article about Minnesota’s famous 1950s amusement park, Paul Bunylan Land. And if you’re interested in exploring other Minnesota landmarks, check out our list of historical landmarks everyone should visit in Minnesota.

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Paul Bunyan Park, US-2 Old, Bemidji, MN 56601, USA