Forest Lake Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, activities, food, and accommodations in Forest Lake with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Forest Lake

Nestled in the heart of the Twin Cities, Forest Lake is a charming city that offers an abundance of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and cultural attractions. The crystal clear waters of Forest Lake, surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills, make it an ideal destination for those looking for a peaceful break from the hustle and bustle of the city.

List of Places to Visit in Forest Lake

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Washington County Historic Courthouse: Built in 1870, this historic courthouse now serves as a museum where visitors can learn about the legal system, the history of Washington County, and the role the courthouse played in the community.
  • Scandia Creamery: This historical creamery now serves as a museum where visitors can learn about the dairy industry in Minnesota and the history of the creamery in Scandia.
  • William O’Brien State Park: This state park offers a glimpse into the past with its historical sites, including the O’Brien House, a restored 19th-century home, and the Pioneer Cemetery, which contains the graves of some of the first settlers in the area.

Natural Attractions of Forest Lake: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Forest Lake: The star attraction of Forest Lake, this clear blue lake offers an array of water activities, including boating, fishing, and swimming.
  • Carlos Avery Wildlife Management Area: Covering over 24,000 acres, this wildlife reserve offers some of the best bird watching and wildlife viewing in the state.
  • Wyoming Trail: This scenic trail winds through forests and farmland, offering beautiful views of the countryside.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Forest Lake

  • Hardwood Creek Regional Trail: This 10-mile paved trail runs through beautiful wooded areas, wetlands, and prairies. It’s an excellent route for leisurely biking and hiking.
  • William O’Brien State Park: The park offers over 12 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging hikes through the hilly terrain.

Best Things to Do in Forest Lake: Activities and Tours

  • Forest Lake Watersports: Rent a boat or jet ski and spend a day out on the lake. The company also offers tours of the lake.
  • Trollhaugen Outdoor Recreation Area: This fun outdoor recreation area offers ziplining, adventure courses, and a giant swing.
  • Lake Life Yoga: Set on the shores of Forest Lake, this yoga studio offers yoga classes in a beautiful outdoor setting.

Week-Long Itinerary for Forest Lake

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Washington County Historic Courthouse
Day 2 Explore William O’Brien State Park
Day 3 Rent a boat from Forest Lake Watersports
Day 4 Take a hike on the Hardwood Creek Regional Trail
Day 5 Visit Carlos Avery Wildlife Management Area
Day 6 Zip line and enjoy adventure courses at Trollhaugen Outdoor Recreation Area
Day 7 End your trip with a relaxing yoga session by the lake at Lake Life Yoga

Food and Drink Scene of Forest Lake

Must-Try Dishes

  • Buffalo wings at Famous Dave’s BBQ: This local favorite serves the best buffalo wings in town.
  • Tacos at Acapulco Mexican Restaurant: Enjoy authentic Mexican food with a beautiful view of the lake.
  • Burgers at Norman Quack’s: A classic American diner serving delicious burgers and milkshakes.

Local Beverages

  • 5-8 Club: Try the Juicy Lucy burger and pair it with a glass of local craft beer.
  • Forest Lake VFW Post 4210: This Veterans of Foreign Wars post serves great drinks in a casual atmosphere.

Where to Stay in Forest Lake: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Forest Lake, MN: This hotel offers comfortable accommodation and is close to many of the city’s top attractions.
  • Forest Lake RV Resort: For those who prefer camping, this RV resort offers beautiful campsites in a peaceful setting.
  • Americas Best Value Inn: This budget-friendly hotel is conveniently located near restaurants and shopping centers.

What to Buy in Forest Lake: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Forest Lake T-Shirts: These t-shirts featuring the iconic Forest Lake logo make great gifts and souvenirs.
  • Nordic Ware Factory Outlet Store: This local factory outlet store offers baking pans and accessories that make great gifts for the foodies in your life.
  • Garden Diva Designs: This local store offers handmade jewelry and other unique accessories that are sure to impress.

Local Culture and Customs of Forest Lake

The people of Forest Lake are proud of their natural heritage, and the city has a strong sense of community. Visitors are encouraged to take part in city events and festivals, such as the Forest Lake Farmers Market and the Forest Lake Wingfest.

Best Time to Visit Forest Lake

The best time to visit Forest Lake is between June and September when the weather is warm, and outdoor activities are in full swing. However, visitors can also enjoy the city’s winter wonderland with activities such as ice fishing and snowmobiling during the colder months.

Do’s and Don’ts of Forest Lake

Do:

  • Respect the natural environment and follow the leave no trace principles.
  • Take part in local events and festivals.
  • Be friendly to the locals.

Don’t:

  • Litter or disturb the natural environment.
  • Ignore the safety rules when participating in outdoor activities.
  • Ignore local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Forest Lake

Forest Lake is generally a safe city, but visitors should take the necessary precautions to protect their belongings. While hiking and exploring the city’s natural areas, visitors should come prepared with appropriate gear and clothing.

Health in Forest Lake

Visitors should ensure they are up to date with their routine vaccinations before traveling to Forest Lake. It’s also advisable to carry mosquito repellent during any outdoor activities to prevent mosquito-borne illnesses.

Getting to Forest Lake: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Forest Lake

  • Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP): Located 35 miles from Forest Lake.

Bus Stations Near Forest Lake

  • Greyhound: Located 23 miles from Forest Lake.

Other Options

  • Car rental: Visitors can rent a car from Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport or from the city center.

How to Get Around in Forest Lake

The best way to get around Forest Lake is by car. Visitors can rent a car or bring their own vehicle. Biking is also a popular option, with many trails and bike-friendly routes available.

Where to Go Next from Forest Lake: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • St. Paul: Located 25 miles south of Forest Lake, St. Paul is the capital of Minnesota and an excellent destination for history buffs.
  • Minneapolis: Located 30 miles southeast of Forest Lake, Minneapolis is the largest city in Minnesota and offers a vibrant nightlife and cultural scene.
  • Duluth: Located 2 hours north of Forest Lake, Duluth is a beautiful city on the shores of Lake Superior and an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Conclusion

With its beautiful natural areas, exciting outdoor activities, and rich cultural heritage, Forest Lake is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Minnesota. Visitors can enjoy the crisp clear waters of Forest Lake, explore the city’s historic sites, and indulge in delicious food and drink in the heart of the Twin Cities.