Explore Ottertail, MN: Best Activities Beyond the Lake

Top Things to Do in Minnesota (Beyond Fishing)

Explore More with Ottertail Tail Guide Service – Ottertail, MN

Minnesota is best known for its lakes and world-class fishing, but there’s a lot more to discover once you’ve reeled in your last walleye of the day. Whether you’re visiting Ottertail, MN, for a guided trip with Ottertail Tail Guide Service or planning a longer stay, the area offers plenty of family-friendly activities, scenic adventures, and cultural gems to round out your experience. Here are some top things to do that make Minnesota more than just a fishing destination.

1. Glendalough State Park – Nature, Trails & Wildlife

Just a short drive from Ottertail, Glendalough State Park is a local favorite for those looking to unplug and connect with nature. This peaceful park offers hiking and biking trails that wind through forests, prairies, and along the quiet waters of Annie Battle Lake. It’s a perfect spot for a picnic, a birdwatching outing, or a peaceful paddle with no motorboats allowed on the lake.

Families love Glendalough for its accessibility and variety of activities. You can rent bikes, explore cart-in campsites, or simply enjoy the open space and fresh air. It’s a great way to stretch your legs after a day on the boat with Ottertail Tail Guide Service or to explore before you hit the water.

2. Ottertail’s Unique Small-Town Shops

Ottertail, MN, may be small, but it’s full of charm. Main Street is home to a few delightful locally owned shops and boutiques where you’ll find handmade goods, lake-themed décor, and souvenirs to take home. It’s a great way to support local businesses and pick up something special to remember your trip.

After grabbing coffee or ice cream in town, explore nearby communities like Perham or Battle Lake for even more shopping and dining. These towns are within a short drive and offer that authentic, small-town Minnesota vibe that visitors fall in love with.

3. Historic Phelps Mill & Park

Located just south of Ottertail, Phelps Mill is a beautiful 19th-century flour mill surrounded by parklands and picnic areas. The site is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and offers a scenic spot to walk, take photos, and learn a bit about Minnesota’s milling history.

Each summer, Phelps Mill also hosts an arts festival that draws in talented regional artists, crafters, and food vendors. If your visit lines up with the event, it’s a fun way to enjoy local culture and connect with the community that surrounds Ottertail, MN.

4. Maplewood State Park – Fall Colors & Scenic Drives

If you're visiting in September or October, a drive through Maplewood State Park is a must. Just a short distance from Ottertail, this park is known for its dramatic fall colors, rolling hills, and peaceful lakes. Take a scenic drive, pack a camera, or hike one of the many trails that offer panoramic views of the Minnesota countryside.

In other seasons, Maplewood is great for hiking, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing. It’s a quieter alternative to busier tourist stops and perfect for nature lovers looking to unwind before or after a fishing trip with Ottertail Tail Guide Service.

5. Local Dining and Lakefront Eats

Minnesota is home to some delicious local eats, and the Ottertail area doesn’t disappoint. Grab a hearty breakfast at a cozy diner, enjoy a burger with a lake view, or relax with a cold drink at one of the area’s classic supper clubs. Many local spots offer regional specialties and warm hospitality you won’t find at chain restaurants.

Whether you’re swapping fish stories over lunch or fueling up for an afternoon hike, Ottertail and nearby towns offer several memorable dining options to suit every taste. It's a great way to experience local flavor—literally.

6. Explore Fergus Falls – Arts, Theater & History

About 30 minutes from Ottertail, Fergus Falls offers a more urban experience with art galleries, historical attractions, and a vibrant downtown. Stop by the Kaddatz Gallery, catch a live show at the A Center for the Arts, or learn something new at the Otter Tail County Historical Museum.

Fergus Falls is also home to riverside parks and trails, making it a great day trip for travelers staying in Ottertail. You’ll return with a deeper appreciation of the area's culture and history—and maybe a few surprises you didn’t expect in small-town Minnesota.

Plan Your Trip with Ottertail Tail Guide Service

While fishing with Ottertail Tail Guide Service might be the highlight of your visit, these local experiences make your time in Minnesota even more rewarding. From hiking and history to food and family fun, Ottertail, MN offers plenty of ways to explore, relax, and create memories beyond the lake. Plan your trip today—and discover why visitors return here year after year.