FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES IN AND AROUND CROSBY

Enjoying an ice cream treat at Victual's in Crosby. The perfect spot to enjoy a summer day with the family!

CROSBY, MINNESOTA FAMILY VACATION GUIDE: Trails, Lakes, and More

Planning a family getaway to Crosby, Minnesota? Located in the heart of Cuyuna country, this vibrant small town is packed with outdoor adventures, hands-on attractions, and plenty of ways to keep the kids entertained. From scenic bike trails and wildlife encounters to local treats and lakeside fun, Crosby and the surrounding area offers something for every member of the family. Here’s your go-to guide to kid and family-friendly activities in the area!

High Wheel Confectionery

Located in Ironton, just down the street from Crosby, High Wheel is a charming stop perfect for the whole family. Step inside and you’ll find a nostalgic mix of old-fashioned candy, sodas, gourmet chocolates and fudge, craft coffee, house-made popcorn, and ice cream in all kinds of fun flavors. They also carry puzzles, games, and toys for purchase! 

A delightful view inside High Wheel Confectionary, showcasing an array of colorful candies in glass jars, with a vintage bicycle adorning the wall and whimsical chandeliers adding charm to the space.

Soo Line Depot Museum

Housed in an original 1910 train depot and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Soo Line Depot Museum is a must visit for families looking to connect with the region’s rich past. It’s filled with fascinating Cuyuna Range artifacts, from mining tools and vintage wedding gowns to a replica of the Project Man high capsule and detailed accounts of the Milford Mine disaster, the museum is filled with artifacts that bring Cuyuna’s past to life. Soo Line Depot offers a deeper look into the people's lives, stories, and the industry that shaped the region.

Open from Memorial Day through Labor Day (Tuesday–Saturday, 10 AM–4 PM), the museum offers free admission and is a great educational stop for both kids and adults!

Explore history and family fun at the inviting Soo Line Depot Museum, where the charm of mining and railroad heritage awaits.

Safari North Wildlife Park

Just 30 minutes from Crosby, Safari North Wildlife Park offers an unforgettable day of fun for the whole family. Feed giraffes, ride camels, hop on the safari train, or see lions, zebras and much more! Open daily from May to October, it’s the perfect spot for animal lovers and for the whole family!

A fun-filled day at Safari North Wildlife Park with smiles all around as a friendly giraffe curiously observes the group.

Cuyuna Lanes

A classic family-friendly bowling alley that’s perfect for rainy days or post-trail fun. Cuyuna Lanes offers lanes with bumpers for kids, arcade games, and plenty of space to cheer each other on. It's laid-back, affordable, and always a hit with groups of all ages. Plus, it’s a great place to snap some fun action shots, whether you're landing a strike or just laughing at the gutter balls!

Explore the Paved Trails

Get outdoors on the Cuyuna Lakes State Trail, excellent for biking or a casual stroll. Guests staying at Cuyler or Una Cabins can hop right on the Cuyuna Lakes trail, no car needed! The Paul Bunyan State Trail is another great option for a bike ride, not far from the Crosby area.

Miner's Mountain Overlook

This overlook is the highest point in the Cuyuna Recreation Area. It was formed years ago by miners who built the hill truckload by truckload. Today, mountain bike trails wind around it, and there’s also a paved road leading to the top, making it super easy to visit. From the top, you’ll see Huntington Mine Lake (which is an incredible 258 feet deep!). To get there, drive through the Miners Mountain Rally Center, head all the way to the back, and follow the road up the hill. Address: 17934 County Road 30, Ironton, MN 56455

A woman enjoys a peaceful moment at Miners Mountain Overlook.

Swim in a Mine Lake

Cuyuna’s crystal-clear mine lakes are perfect for a summer swim with the family. Many feature beach access and picnic areas, making them the ideal spot for a full day of play, splashing, and sunshine!

A serene view of the beautiful mine lake at Miner's Mountain Rally Center, situated just north of Ironton, offering a picturesque start for mountain biking and paddling enthusiasts.

Get a selfie with Kahnah'bek, the serpent at Crosby Memorial Park

Located on Serpent Lake, this park is home to a giant serpent sculpture making it an iconic photo opportunity for families and a great spot for camping!

Colorful serpent sculpture at Crosby Memorial Park beside the lake, perfect for a family outing.

Explore Project Play at Crosby Memorial Park

With picnic tables, a massive playground, and waterfront access, it’s a great spot for the whole family to unwind and explore!

Paul Bunyan Land

Craving some classic amusement park fun? Paul Bunyan Land in Brainerd delivers with 30+ rides, a charming Pioneer Village filled with historic buildings, and a 26-foot tall talking Paul Bunyan who greets your kids as they walk in! Open from Memorial Day through Labor Day, this nostalgic park is packed with old school charm and hands-on experiences!

Milford Mine Memorial Park

Milford Mine Memorial Park offers a quiet, reflective place to learn about Minnesota’s worst mining disaster. With educational displays and a scenic walking trail, it provides meaningful insight into the region’s history and the people who helped shape it. 

Signage at Milford Mine Memorial Park provides visitors with trail maps, park information, and historical context, all surrounded by lush greenery.

Mini Golf

Just outside of town, Traditions Mini Golf in Deerwood, Minnesota offers classic mini-golf fun for the whole crew. Expect colorful obstacles and lots of laughter and fun!

Cuyuna Mountain Bike Trails 

With a mix of beginner, intermediate, and advances trails, the Cuyuna Lakes Mountain Bike Trails are perfect for riders of all ages. The trails wind around scenic lakes and through red-dirt terrain, making it a fun and approachable adventure for the whole family.

Grab a Slice at Rafferty’s Pizza

After a full day of family fun, refuel at Rafferty’s Pizza, a local favorite known for its fresh made dough, generous toppings, wood fired pizzas, and a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you go for a classic pepperoni or a unique specialty pizza, it’s a kid-approved stop that hits the spot every time!

Rafferty's Pizza, a beloved spot in Crosby, warmly invites visitors with its charming facade on West Main Street.

PLAN YOUR CUYUNA FAMILY GETAWAY

From historic museums and scenic bike trails to mine lake swims and wildlife adventures, Crosby is packed with a family-friendly experiences year-round! Whether you’re planning a weekend of action or a laid-back escape with the kids, there’s something here for every kind of traveler. 

Want to stay close to the fun? Cuyuna Cabin Collection offers thoughtfully designed, family-ready cabins just minutes from trails, lakes, and local attractions, making it easy to unwind after a full day of exploring!

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