Our area offers a variety of attractions, year-round recreational opportunities, shopping, dining, and lodging, making it the perfect place for a day trip, a weekend stay, or as a base to explore the northern Twin Cities, scenic St. Croix Valley, and Minnesota's Lakes Region.
A quick glance at our Community Events Calendar shows that there's always something happening here. Check out one of the state's oldest and largest Fourth of July celebrations in Forest Lake, complete with a carnival, bingo tent, street vendors, a huge parade, spectacular fireworks and more.
In addition, the area also hosts outstanding farmers markets, arts and musical events, Taco Daze in Scandia, Linwood Family Fun Day, and Wyoming Stagecoach Days to name just a few.
Get Outside
Our lakes, parks and trails make it easy to enjoy Minnesota in every season. Spend a summer day on the water, take a walk or bike ride, explore area parks, hit the golf course, or bundle up for winter recreation when the snow arrives. Forest Lake alone offers parks with amenities ranging from swimming and picnic areas to hiking, biking and snowmobile trails, while neighboring communities add even more opportunities to explore.
Eat & Drink Local
A good adventure needs good food.
Grab your morning coffee, meet friends for lunch, enjoy dinner overlooking the lake, or discover one of the locally owned restaurants and gathering places throughout our communities. The Chamber's dining directory makes it easy to find member businesses while you're here.
Shop the Area
Make a little room in the trunk.
Explore local retailers, specialty shops, boutiques, gifts, home and garden businesses, and other unique finds throughout the Forest Lake area. Shopping local is also one of the easiest ways to experience the personality of our communities.
Stay a Little Longer
Turning your day trip into a weekend? Find local lodging and make the Forest Lake area your home base for exploring northeastern Minnesota, the St. Croix Valley and the northern Twin Cities.
Visitor Resources
General Visitor Information:
Public Parks, Trails and Lakes
- Forest Lake Parks & Trails
- Scandia Parks
- Columbus Parks
- Wyoming Parks
- Carlos Avery Wildlife Management Area (Minnesota Department of Natural Resources)
- Hardwood Creek Wildlife Management Area (Minnesota Department of Natural Resources)
- Area Lakes - Minnesota DNR Lakefinder
- Hardwood Creek Regional Bike Trail (Washington County)