An Invitation to Explore
There is always something going in Chisago Lakes and you are invited. There are so many interesting people, events and places that we have decided to take a deeper dive into some of them. If you have a moment we invite you to learn a little more about our beautiful area.
- Antonia Grant
Wondering where to shop small in Chisago Lakes? This article has you covered with over thirty fantastic women-owned businesses to support in our area! From Chisago City to Taylors Falls, women entrepreneurs are redefining the local business scene with passion, creativity, and a commitment to our communities. From boutique shops and local eateries to adventurous outdoor experiences and cozy farms, these women-owned businesses bring innovation and heart to every corner of Chisago Lakes. Whether you’re looking for a quiet getaway, unique hand-crafted goods, or a taste of local flavor, Chisago Lakes offers no shortage of extraordinary ventures led by inspiring local women. Join us in celebrating and supporting these 40+ fantastic women-owned businesses that are making waves in our communities!
- Tracy Blowers
The festive season officially kicks off Thanksgiving weekend in Chisago Lakes. The five Chisago Lakes communities go all in for the holidays and you definitely don’t want to miss it!
As the last leaves let go and snowflakes start to fall, Chisago Lakes will soon be covered in a sparkling blanket of white. Signaling it’s time to enjoy all the holiday festivities and natural beauty as the season unfolds. From winter hiking and sculpture park adventures to shopping small for homemade holiday gifts and lighting festivals, there is something special this holiday season for everyone. So get ready to pull out your warm sweaters, gloves, and hats and explore Chisago Lakes! Let’s get cozy and plan your Thanksgiving weekend with family and friends.
Start in Chisago City and work your way through the 5 Chisago Lakes communities!
- Antonia Grant
Looking for the perfect spot to grab drinks with friends in Chisago Lakes? Whether you’re celebrating a bachelorette party, catching up after work, or just planning a fun night out, our community offers a range of drinking holes, wine bars, and cozy taverns that locals and travelers alike will love. From laid-back pubs with craft brews on tap to intimate wine bars perfect for toasting with your besties, Chisago Lakes has the perfect spot for every kind of gathering. Here’s our list of 14 must-visit places to enjoy happy hour, share some laughs, and sip your favorite drinks in a fun, welcoming atmosphere. Keep reading to discover our top picks for some of the best places to get drinks with friends in Chisago Lakes!
- Antonia Grant
Get ready for an unforgettable fall trip to Chisago Lakes, where vibrant autumn leaves set the stage for three days of family-friendly fun across our six communities! Lace up your hiking boots and explore scenic trails, where every turn reveals a new burst of fall color. Then, continue exploring fall activities in Chisago Lakes with apple picking at a local orchard. In addition to munching on seasonal treats, kids will delight in the goats and resident black cat. Of course, you can’t miss one of Minnesota’s largest corn mazes—perfect for some family-friendly competition! With each day packed with autumnal delights, from cozy farm visits to delicious fall eats, there are endless ways for families to create a fall itinerary to Chisago Lakes. Keep reading to discover the best things to do in Chisago Lakes during your fall family getaway, plus a few extra ideas if you have more time!
- Tracy Blowers
The orchard has a down-to-earth atmosphere where all can experience the benefits of fresh Minnesota-grown fruits. The orchard is open for two seasons, offering pick-your-own strawberries in the summer, pick-your-own or pre-picked delicious apple varieties in the fall, and so much more.
- Antonia Grant
It’s time to celebrate the harvest! Whether you live locally in Chisago Lakes or are looking for some of the best farms, vineyards, and orchards within an hour of Minneapolis and Saint Paul, we have just what you’re looking for. Did you know that Chisago Lakes is a haven for those interested in exploring local farms and orchards? Throughout our communities, you can find farms and growers featuring everything from animals and seasonal produce to some of Minnesota’s best wines. No matter the season, you can find many exciting activities for all ages.
- Tracy Blowers
Have you heard of the Chisago Lakes Water Trail? If not, you’re in for a splash of a good time.
Enjoying the lakes is a favorite Minnesota pastime, and that’s especially true in Chisago Lakes. The Chisago Lakes community has a rich lake history dating back to the 1800s. At that time, many of the current lakes were part of one large lake which was called “Ki Chi Saga” by the Ojibway people, meaning fair and lovely waters.
- Antonia Grant
One of the best things about Chisago Lakes is the diverse array of outdoor activities for families! The shimmering lakes and lush greenery provide the perfect backdrop to endless summer adventures. Families love exploring wooded trails filled with wildflowers, birds, scenic views, and more. Then, canoeing and kayaking allow families to get on the water, fostering teamwork and a sense of adventure. And what better way to beat the summer heat than by taking a dip in one of the lakes? Indeed, from hiking and boating to thrilling alpine slides, Chisago Lakes offers endless fun in the sun with kids.
- Antonia Grant
One of our favorite experiences in Chisago Lakes is paddling down the St. Croix River from Taylors Falls to Osceola. Canoeing down the St. Croix River is a fantastic way to spend a sunny summer day with your favorite people (young and old alike!). This beautiful journey takes you along gentle to mild currents to view dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, magnificent wildlife, and so much more. It is undoubtedly one of the best places to paddle in Minnesota!
- Antonia Grant
Indulge your sweet tooth in Chisago Lakes! From some of Minnesota’s best donuts to homemade pies and hand-scooped ice cream, our charming communities offer something for every dessert lover. If you’re looking for the best sweet treats in Chisago Lakes, start in Taylors Falls, where you can enjoy tasty drive-in classics like rootbeer floats and chocolate malts. Then, in Lindström, grab a slice of homemade apple pie or cheesecake. In the mood for a croissant or scone with your morning coffee? We have those too.
- Tracy Blowers
The Chisago Lakes area is filled with fun and unique dog-friendly adventures! We love getting out and about with our dogs and exploring this vibrant community. Not only do we get to spend quality time with each other and our dogs, but there are more benefits to bringing our pups along, such as building their confidence and providing exercise. Whether a local, visitor or traveling through, you will find something great on Highway 8.
- Antonia Grant
Our communities shine in the summer! We’ve got it all: charming downtowns, thrilling outdoor adventures, exciting sporting events, and inviting local farms! From Chisago City to Taylors Falls, life along Highway 8 is pretty great all summer long. If you’re looking for fun things to do with kids this summer in Chisago Lakes, you’re in the right spot!
- Tracy Blowers
There is excitement in the air as the Chisago Lakes communities come together to celebrate the start of summer and the farmers’ harvests. It’s a cherished time to connect to our roots, food, local farmers, artisans, and neighbors.
- Alyssa Auten
To find all things fishing and boating in Chisago Lakes, look no further than Frankie’s Live Bait & Marine. For nearly 60 years, Frankie’s has been the region’s go-to shop for live bait, fishing equipment, boat sales and repair. This family-owned and operated business started as a humble hardware and bait shop and has grown into a leading destination for bait, supplies, and premium boats.
- Chisago Lakes Visitor's Bureau
Nestled in the scenic heart of Minnesota, Chisago Lakes is a haven for fishing enthusiasts. With its rich tapestry of lakes and rivers, the region offers a variety of fishing experiences all year round. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a novice, Chisago Lakes promises an unforgettable fishing adventure in every season.
- Tracy Blowers
The Eastern Minny League is Minnesota’s oldest active amateur baseball league with a rich history of over 100 years. The league was founded in the early 1920s, even before the launch of the Minnesota Baseball Association, and continues to thrive today. In fact, Minnesota has more Town Ball teams than any other state in the country!
- Tracy Blowers
Spend a day or an extended stay in the quaint river town of Taylors Falls, exploring like a local! From staying in a historic neighborhood to thrifting vintage gems and tasting local maple syrup, you’ll want to add this itinerary to your Minnesota bucket list.
The Village of Taylors Falls, Minnesota, offers something for every generation, including delicious drinks and sweets, shopping, history, scenery, and fun! So, bring Grandma, Grandpa, and the kids and enjoy making memories.
- Antonia Grant
If you’re wondering where to go hiking in Chisago Lakes with kids, we have six perfect options for every season. Whether your kids are new to hiking or are experienced trekkers, we have trails for all abilities and skill levels, from Chisago City to Taylors Falls.
- Dan Brown
With 20 lakes to choose from and over 7,000 acres of water, those of you who live in or around the Twin Cities are a mere 40-minute (or so) drive to outstanding fishing and a perfect weekend getaway.
- Antonia Grant
The Chisago Lakes area in Central Minnesota is a diverse community filled with fun outdoor adventures, charming main streets, yummy eats, and some of the most friendly locals around.
- Antonia Grant
Welcome to the Chisago Lakes! We are so glad you’re here. Located along Highway 8, Chisago Lakes is a quick 40-minute drive north of the Twin Cities metro area – perfect for a day trip or a weekend getaway.
- Alyssa Auten
This national, invitational gathering of potters and sale of ceramics is an exciting destination for anyone who appreciates handmade pottery and their makers.
- Alyssa Auten
Society and found four local women to feature! Over four weeks we used social media to share a little bit about these prominent #ChisagoLakes women.
- Alyssa Auten
It’s hard to visit the Chisago Lakes area without noticing the beautiful scenery and Swedish influence. These notable features were the inspiration for Swedish …
- Brenda Brophy
Good morning! It’s hard to believe the last day of your Perfect Girls Get-a-way Trip has arrived. But don’t hurry out of town too quickly, we’ve got some good things …
- Brenda Brophy
Rise and shine ladies! It’s time to get up! Slip on the new Chisago t-shirt you bought yesterday and get your blood pumping with an energizing and invigorating …
- Brenda Brophy
If you are lucky enough to be able to take the entire day off and start your weekend early, there are plenty of things to keep you busy in Chisago Lakes.
- Brenda Brophy
Just north of the Twin Cities, Chisago Lakes offers visitors and residents a small town experience with endless outdoor possibilities, one-of-a kind shopping …
