Possibly the most iconic Minnesota pastime is throwing a line out into the lake and waiting to see your bobber dip below the water. While you may not catch anything (as Mr. Luebbers says, that's why the call it 'fishing' and not 'catching'), it's a great way to relax and enjoy the peace of northern Minnesota (or maybe not peace as you can see this fish really gave Thomas a run for his money).
Tubing is a must in the land of 10,000 lakes. While Mr. Luebbers did seem to like Thomas from the start, he took the opportunity to test Thomas' mettle while taking him tubing. The fun activity was always a highlight of the Luebbers' vacations growing up and it's a great way to have some fun on the lake.
Rafferty's Pizza is one of the top 100 pizza places in the US (at least according to the sign that's been up for the past 30 years). It wasn't a trip to Minnesota with the Luebbers Family if Rafferty's wasn't part of the menu at least one of the nights. Also, sorry for the picture Joe and Goose, it was the only one we could find.
Imagine Charlie and the Chocolate Factory if kids didn't die and oompa-loompa's didn't sing at their demise and you have the Chocolate Ox. Every year, Lizzy and her siblings would save up their money to buy as much candy as they possibly could. Definitely a place for all ages to check out!
A landmark in downtown Nisswa, Mini Donuts is a classic spot to check out if you happen to find it open. Business hours are as sporadic as one's sleep schedule on vacation, but if you happen to see the OPEN flag waving, be sure to check it out.
Have you ever thought to yourself, "I wonder how fast turtles can move when they're being screamed at by toddlers?" well look no further. Nisswa Turtle Races are an iconic tradition beloved by all in the area.
The Paul Bunyan Trail runs from Brainerd, MN to Bemidji, MN. It's the perfect trail for running, biking, or walking (just don't ask Zach and Sam for directions as they got seriously lost as kids). Also, shout out to New Orleans City Park as that is where this photo was taken (we didn't have any from the trail but it's basically the same thing without the tropical trees).
If you're looking to play a stiff round of pickleball or get smoked in basketball by Joe who's freakishly tall, check out Nisswa City Park. It's right next to the Paul Bunyan State Trail and the Ol' Pickle Factory (an iconic Nisswa bar) so it's able to accomodate all sorts of people at any time of day.
Do you ever wonder what it would be like to grow fruit but don't want to actually try? Then you should check out Double T Acres! You can go pick fresh fruit and flowers there and learn the struggles of trying to grow fruits (and really any plant) in northern Minnesota.
Pirate's Cove in Brainerd is an iconic mini golf course. It is Lizzy's favorite type of golf as it only takes 30 minutes and she can kinda hold her own against Thomas (when she cheats).
If you're looking for a real round of golf, check out The Pines golf course at Grandview. This is Thomas' preferred form of golf, and Lizzy loves the bluetooth golf carts that go really fast. You could do 9 or 18 holes, and if you take Sam, Lizzy's brother, you may be able to even get a discount.
If you need to let off a little steam, check out The Wreck Room at Roundhouse Brewery. It's a fun place to hang out, grab drinks, and often listen to live music.
If you ever were a horse girl like Lizzy was growing up, you should totally check out this place for fun outback trail rides. Thomas was sweet enough to relive Lizzy's childhood dreams for her 20th birthday here but has yet to buy her her own horse (as she constantly reminds him).