Best Weather-Proof Activities on the Range

Sometimes our best-laid vacation plans go awry. Like an ATV ride, bicycle trip or mountain bike day that’s ruined not because the rain is falling, but because storms damaged trails and other destinations. Occasionally, this type of weather means some trails and attractions may need to close until things dry out. Luckily, other attractions are resilient to rain! These weather-proof activities will help keep everyone happy, and make sure your trip to the Range is saved!

Weather-Proof Museums

While on the Range, a must-visit is Minnesota Discovery Center. The largest museum complex outside of the Twin Cities, this venue tells the story of iron mines and the immigrant miners whose hard work created the nation’s first million-dollar company while fighting for their own safety and wages. Geology, Native American history and the Conservation Corps are additional themes. Ride a vintage trolley to a mining ghost town and watch a movie in the theater. Every Thursday, MDC hosts “Bands, Brews and BBQ” with free museum admission after 4:00, local music and tasty food.

Also in Chisholm, the Minnesota Museum of Mining looks back over more than 140 years of local and regional history, and lets you experience what it’s like to be in an underground mine. In nearby Eveleth, the US Hockey Hall of Fame Museum is America’s shrine to hockey and offers t glimpse into the sport that even non-fans can appreciate.

Go Wild With Weather-Proof Animal Adventures

While Vince Shute Wildlife Sanctuary will close for inclement weather, chances are you can check out live black bears up close and personal at evenings 5-8 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday.

Putt-Putt Playground is Open After the Storm

Greens on Foreteenth is the region’s premier mini-golf course. Fun for everyone and you may even encounter a food truck there!

Shopping is Always Weather-Proof

A trip to the Northland is not complete unless you stop at Canelake’s Candies in Virginia. With homemade chocolates and hard candies galore, plus an old-fashioned soda fountain and a great selection of souvenirs, this is a destination not to be missed. Also in Virginia, Irma’s Finland House carries gorgeous imports. In nearby Gilbert, Koshar’s Sausage Kitchen has everyone’s favorite meat sticks, brats and more, and both F&D Meats in Virginia and Fraboni’s in Hibbing stock a wide variety of specialty meats that a must-haves for your grill and freezer! Pick up your frozen pasties and sarmas at the Tourist Senior Center in Hibbing, and buy potica at Sunrise Bakery, also in Hibbing.

Explore other places to learn, shop and generally have a good time.