Known as the “First City on the Mississippi,” Bemidji is a vibrant outdoor hub where you can snap a photo with the iconic Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox statues or explore over 400 fishing lakes and the scenic Paul Bunyan State Trail. The charming downtown offers a surprising array of breweries, sculptures, and dining that make it a lively home base for your assignment.
For weekend adventures, drive just 45 minutes to Park Rapids to visit the Mississippi Headwaters at Itasca State Park, or head east to Grand Rapids (70 miles) to see the Judy Garland Museum.