At A Glance: Exploring Willmar – Fun, and Food
Memories are guaranteed when taking an easy and relaxing ride on the Glacial Lakes State Trail or biking along the cottage roads that meander around some of the 360 lakes in the Willmar Lakes area. Located in West Central Minnesota, along the glacial ridge, you will find a perfect place for the whole family to enjoy. Mountain bikers and gravel road riders will also find many options. After pedaling through the countryside with family and friends, take in some of the fun water sports activities the Willmar Lakes area offers. You’re bound to find something that suits you while exploring Willmar.
Where to Bike in the Area
The Glacial Lakes State Trail is located on a former Burlington Northern Railroad grade. You will enjoy over 20 miles of scenic trails here that meander through the rolling countryside which consists of farm fields, wooded areas, marshes, and lakes between the towns of Willmar, Spicer, New London, and Hawick. The trail from New London goes west out to Sibley State Park. It is at this state park that you will find additional trails inside the park for mountain biking.
Available Maps in the Area
HaveFunBiking Willmar Lakes Area Map
Glacial Lakes Trail
Mountain Biking Sibley State Park Maps
Walk/Hiking Opportunities
Willmar Downtown Walking Trails
Parks in the Willmar Area
Prairie Woods Environmental Learning Center Trails
Area Bike Shops and Clubs
Rick’s Cycling and Sports Center | 320 3rd St. S.W., Willmar, MN 56201 | 320-235-0202
Spicer Bike and Sports | 178 Progress Way, Spicer, MN 56288 | 320-796-6334
Where to Play When Not Biking or Hiking
Dorothy Olson Aquatic Center – The facility offers entertainment for all ages, diving boards, and two raging water slides. | 1601 22nd St. S.W., Willmar, MN 56201 | 320-441-2018
Kandiyohi County Historical Society and Museum – The Kandiyohi County Historical Society is a non-profit dedicated to preserving, discovering, and sharing the story of the Kandiyohi. It also offers a beautiful and exciting museum and research center. | 610 Hwy 71 Srv Rd., Willmar, MN 56201 | 320-235-1881
The Barn Theatre – The Barn Theatre provides affordable, quality performing arts. | 321 4th St. S.W., Willmar, MN 56201 | 320-235-9500
Willmar Area Arts Council – The Area Art Council displays numerous pieces of art and has a large gallery on diverse and exciting sculptures, paintings, and shows. | 611 5th St. S.W., Willmar, MN 56201 | 320 235-8560
KRA Speedway – The speedway is a 3/8 mile dirt track with large seating areas for spectating mudsling racing. | 781-899 7th St NW, Willmar, MN 56201 | 320-552-0255
Glacial Ridge Winery – Glacial Ridge Winery is a beautiful winery with lakes, and great scenery in the backyard. The winery provides tours, show casing, and taste testing of their award winning wine. The apple orchard contains over 800 trees of 12 different varieties. | 15455 Co Rd., Suite 131, Spicer, MN 56288 | 320-796-9463
Other fun attractions.
Where to Eat
From Deidra’s Espresso Cafe & Bakery to the Oaks at Eagle Creek, Willmar offers several interesting and charming cafes, coffee shops, and ice cream shops ideally suited to a cyclist’s taste.
Jazz N Java – The Jazz N Java offers great tasting food with excellent coffee in an atmosphere filled with music. | 913 Hwy 71 Srv Rd., Willmar, MN 56201 | 320-262-3999
Azteca – This authentic Mexican restaurant has numerous plates that provide great taste and a real Mexican food experience loved by many customers. | 215 4th St. S.W., Willmar, MN 56201 | 320-262-3920
Harberts Ice Cream Shop – This small ice cream shop provides a great family atmosphere and is a great place to go for ice cream. | 924 1st St. S., Willmar, MN 56201 | 320-235-3950
More dining options.
Where to Sleep When Visiting
For camping see the Kandiyohi County Park information.
Public Wi-Fi Spots
Along with most hotels, coffee shops, and restaurants that have Wi-Fi availability, the public library is another good option. The Willmar Public Library is located at 410 5th St. S.W., Willmar, MN 56201 and can be reached at 320-235-3162.
See the Willmar Tourism Bureau for more detailed information.