Already dreading the summer vacation complaints of, "There's nothing to do?" No, video games aren't the answer. Our real estate agents join their families for some exciting day trips, no more than three hours away from Crookston homes for sale. 

Explore Northwest Minnesota: Family-Friendly Day Trips

Headwaters Science Center - Bemidji, MN

Address: 413 Beltrami Ave. NW, Bemidji, MN 

Education doesn't have to stop just because school's out. Sneak in some learning disguised as fun with a trip to Headwaters Science Center.

You and your kids will all enjoy interactive exhibits and special events such as:

• Test your arm and learn how RADAR works in the Pitching Cage
• Use the Big Blue Blocks to construct experiments in motion, gravity, geological history, and more
• Watch the Snake Feedings every other Saturday at 3:30 p.m.

Hours are 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily except Sunday, when doors open at 1 p.m. Admission is $7-$10.

Itaska State Park - Park Rapids, MN

Address: 36750 Main Park Dr., Park Rapids, MN 56470

Explore the rich natural history of the region at Itaska State Park, where the mighty Mississippi River begins its journey through the heart of America. If you'd rather be out on the water, head over to Lake Itasca for swimming, paddling, and boating.

On-site amenities include:

• Douglas Lodge and Restaurant, which has been hosting guests since 1905 
• Forest Inn, built by Veterans Conservation Corps workers in 1941, which now houses a gift shop and meeting room
• Jacob V. Brower Visitor Center, where you can watch birds and wildlife outside large observation windows

Itaska State Park is open seven days a week from 8 a.m. - 10 p.m. Vehicle permits are $7 per day or $35 for an annual pass.

Big Bog State Recreation Area - Waskish, MN

Address: 55716 Hwy. 72 NE, Waskish, MN 56685

Often referred to as "Minnesota's last true wilderness," Big Bog State Recreation Area will have you feeling light years away from civilization. The park's centerpiece is a one-mile boardwalk that traverses a 500-square-mile peat bog, offering numerous views of carnivorous plants, orchids, and other unique plants.

There's no lack of other activities, such as:

• Swimming
• Fishing 
• Boating and paddling
• Picnic area

Hours are 8 a.m. - 10 p.m. daily. Vehicle permits are $7 per day or $35 for an annual pass.

Sinclair Lewis Days - Sauk Centre, MN

Address: Sinclair Lewis Park, 510 Park Rd., Sauk Centre, MN 56378

Each year, Sauk Centre proudly honors the legacy of the town's most notable resident during Sinclair Lewis Days. Of course, Lewis is the iconic Nobel Prize-winning author of classic novels such as Babbitt, Elmer Gantry, and Dodsworth.

Festival events and activities feature something for every member of the family:

• Free concerts and outdoor movies
• 5K fun run
• Craft fair and vendor market
• Parade and fireworks
• Food trucks and a beer garden

This year's festival is scheduled for Wednesday, 7/15, through Sunday, 7/19. Follow their Facebook page for updates.

Potato Days Festival - Barnesville, MN

Address: Main Ave. & Front St. N., Barnesville, MN 56514

Celebrate everyone's favorite vegetable at the annual Potato Days Festival, named as one of the best festivals in the country by U.S. News & World Report. Potatoes are showcased in cook-offs, pageants, games, contests, and the spectacular "spud"rrific potato pancake feed. 

Mark your calendar for Saturday, 8/22. Visit the website for updates.

It's Summertime, and Livin' Is Easy in Crookston, MN

Is buying or selling a home on your to-do list this summer? Contact us at LeBlanc Realty to get started.