Welcome to Chisago Lakes Minnesota

Chisago Lakes, Minnesota, is a long-established community that keeps its heritage alive. A creative community that inspires and fosters the arts. An active community that embraces outdoor recreation. Small town lifestyle, beautiful lakes, the St. Croix River, and remarkable people make Chisago Lakes a great place to live, work and play.

Stay

Explore

Experience

July 5

Franconia Art & Farmers Market

10:00 am - 2:00 pm

Franconia Sculpture Park

Details

July 6

Free Pool Mondays at Ole’s Crossroads

-

Ole's Crossroads Bar & Grill

Details

Fishing

We’re not called Chisago Lakes by accident! When you visit this beautiful area, you’ll find 11 lakes and the St. Croix River at our eastern border. Our waters are the perfect location for your next fishing trip, and our communities provide the amenities and entertainment to go along with it. Whether you’re just learning to fish or are looking for your next record-breaker, the Chisago Lakes area has you covered.

Find out More

Summer in Chisago Lakes

Summer in Chisago Lakes is filled with music, festivals, and small-town charm you won’t find anywhere else. From weekly concerts to beloved community celebrations, there’s something happening all season long. Plan your visit and come experience the fun!

Harmony in the Park | Lindstrom, MN – Wednesdays June 10th – August 12th
Lindstrom Midsommar Festival – June 20th
Karl Oskar Days – July 8th – 12th
Wannigan Days – July 17th – 19th
Center City Days – July 24th – 26th
Almelund Threshing Show – August 7th – 9th
Ki-Chi-Saga Days – August 20th – 23rd
Shafer Days – September 18th – 19th
Almelund Apple Festival – September 20th

    01

    Fall Colors Trip Itinerary

    Autumn is the perfect time of year to take a day trip to the charming communities of Chisago Lakes! From stunning St. Croix River views to sunset at a sculpture park, we’ve got your autumn “day trip” planned. Read on to experience the quintessential fall day in Chisago Lakes.

    See Itinerary
    02

    Cemetaries and History Day Trip

    History abounds in the communities of Chisago Lakes! From the oldest Swedish pioneer cemetery in Minnesota to a historic logging village, we’ve got your “day trip” full of history planned. Read on to experience cemeteries and history in Chisago Lakes.

    See Itinerary
    03

    "The Emigrants" Itinerary

    Chisago Lakes is often noted for its Scandinavian heritage, especially the world-famous series The Emigrants, written by Swedish author Vilhelm Moberg in the 1940s. Moberg’s stories follow a fictional family who settled in this region. Read on to experience your own version of “The Emigrants” journey in Chisago Lakes!

    See Itinerary

Where is Chisago Lakes?

Located along Highway 8, Chisago Lakes is an easy 40-minute drive north of the Twin Cities metro area. Chisago Lakes is a community made up of many smaller towns and rural countryside. With beautiful forests, picturesque farms, abundant lakes, and bordered by the St. Croix River, you’re sure to feel right at home here.

Head north out of the Twin Cities to Highway 8 West. Chisago Lakes encompasses Chisago City, Lindstrom, Center City, Shafer, Taylors Falls & Almelund. Come experience for yourself the shopping, dining, trails, lakes, parks, and heritage of Chisago Lakes.

Get Directions

Download a PDF of the Chisago Lakes Visitors Guide

Discover the charm of Chisago Lakes – five small towns united by history, natural beauty, and warm hospitality. The Chisago Lakes Visitors Guide is your go-to resource for planning your perfect getaway, whether you’re looking for scenic parks, outdoor adventures, Swedish heritage sites, local dining, annual festivals, or a relaxing lakeside escape. Download the guide and start exploring everything our vibrant community has to offer!

Download

Chisago Lakes Stories

Where to Find the Best Tasty Treats + Ice Cream in Chisago Lakes

Indulge your sweet tooth in Chisago Lakes! From some of Minnesota’s best donuts to homemade pies and hand-scooped ice cream, our charming communities offer something ...

19 Exciting Things To Do in Chisago Lakes this Summer with Kids

Our communities shine in the summer! We’ve got it all: charming downtowns, thrilling outdoor adventures, exciting sporting events, and inviting local farms! From Chisago City ...

Let’s Go Paddling: Explore the Chisago Lakes Water Trail

Looking for the perfect Minnesota lake adventure? The Chisago Lakes Water Trail offers a unique way to experience the beauty of East Central Minnesota from ...

Have Your Wedding in Chisago Lakes

Chisago Lakes invites you to begin your life together among the stunning scenery of the St. Croix River Valley. From your engagement photos to bachelor/ette parties, to the wedding and honeymoon, Chisago Lakes has everything you need to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Chisago Lakes is home to many unique venues, from rustic barns to a historic scout camp, wineries to paddleboats on the St. Croix River. Regardless of the season, the charm of small towns and modern conveniences are available to you for your big day. Invite your guests to stay for the night in a quaint bed and breakfast, hotel, vacation rental, cabin or campground. Chisago Lakes has everything you need for the perfect event, including a wide range of florists, photographers, caterers, and more.

Marriage equality is celebrated in Minnesota, and we invite you to choose the quiet beauty of Chisago Lakes for your big day!

Plan your perfect day

#explorechisagolakes

Follow us on Instagram as we guide you around Chisago Lakes! We’re the “local friend” you need to explore everything from our beautiful parks and trails, to events, shopping and dining, with some history and fun facts in the mix!

  • 🍦☀️ Summer tastes better in Chisago Lakes! From hand-scooped ice cream, creamy malts, homemade pies, donuts, and fresh-brewed coffee to local wineries, breweries, and other refreshing sips, our blog is your guide to the area's most delicious stops. Read it, then start planning your summer getaway—there's a tasty treat waiting around every corner in Chisago Lakes! 🍩☕🍷🍺 Thank you to our friend Antonia from @knead.to.roam for exploring Chisago Lakes and putting this blog together!

Click on the link in our bio to read our blog!

#explorechisagolakes #OnlyinMN #exploremn #lifeisgreatonhighway8 #LetsGo
  • 🎣🌅 Let's Go Fishing in Chisago Lakes! 🌅🎣

Cast a line and discover why Chisago Lakes is an angler's paradise! With multiple beautiful lakes and the scenic St. Croix River, you'll find incredible fishing for walleye, bass, northern pike, crappie, panfish, and more—all just an hour from the Twin Cities.

Whether you're planning a sunrise on the water, a family fishing trip, or a weekend getaway with friends, Chisago Lakes has everything you need for your next great catch. After a day on the lake, relax with great local dining, shopping, and lakeside lodging.

🎣 Start planning your fishing adventure at chisagolakes.org. You can find a website link in our bio.

#explorechisagolakes #OnlyinMN #exploremn #lifeisgreatonhighway8 #LetsGo
  • 🏕️🔥 Let's Go Camping in Chisago Lakes! 🔥🏕️

Trade busy days for campfires, starry skies, and mornings by the lake. Whether you prefer pitching a tent, parking your RV, or relaxing in a cozy cabin, Chisago Lakes has the perfect place for your next getaway. 🌲🌅

Spend your days hiking, paddling, fishing, exploring charming small towns, and roasting marshmallows under the stars. Your next camping adventure is waiting just north of the Twin Cities!

🏕️ Find the perfect spot by clicking on the link in our bio and start planning your stay.

#explorechisagolakes #OnlyinMN #exploremn #lifeisgreatonhighway8 #LetsGo
  • 🌿💙 Let’s Go Explore in Chisago Lakes! 💙🌿

Breathe in the fresh air and discover the natural beauty waiting just north of the Twin Cities. From scenic state parks and peaceful lakes to winding trails perfect for hiking, biking, paddling, and wildlife watching, Chisago Lakes is your place to reconnect with the outdoors. 🌳🚶‍♀️🚴‍♂️

Whether you're seeking adventure or simply a quiet moment in nature, you'll find breathtaking views around every corner. Come explore all that Chisago Lakes has to offer and make memories that last a lifetime.

Plan your outdoor getaway by clicking on the link in our bio 🌞

#explorechisagolakes #OnlyinMN #exploremn #lifeisgreatonhighway8 #LetsGo
  • Looking for the perfect family getaway this summer? ☀️💙 From mini golf and scenic boat tours to hiking trails, splash-worthy adventures, and friendly farm animals, Chisago Lakes is packed with fun for kids of all ages! 

Read this fully loaded blog from our friend Antonia from @knead.to.roam  by clicking on the link in our bio and start planning your summer adventure—you’ll quickly see why families love making memories here. 🌲🚤⛳🐐

#explorechisagolakes #OnlyinMN #exploremn #lifeisgreatonhighway8 #LetsGo
  • 🍷🧀 Let’s Go Noshing in Chisago Lakes! 🌿☀️

Long summer evenings were made for good company, delicious bites, and vineyard views. Head to @winehaven in Chisago City and relax on the patio with a charcuterie board, flatbreads, wine flights, and refreshing wine slushies while overlooking the vines and lake. 🍇✨

Whether it’s date night, girls’ day, or a weekend getaway, there’s no better place to sip, snack, and savor summer in Chisago Lakes. Plan your visit 🍷🌞
by clicking on the ChisagoLakes.org link in our bio.

#explorechisagolakes #OnlyinMN #exploremn #lifeisgreatonhighway8 #LetsGo
  • 🚣‍♀️🌊 Ready to explore Chisago Lakes from a whole new perspective? Read our latest blog about the Chisago Lakes Water Trail and discover miles of scenic paddling through beautiful lakes, peaceful shorelines, and abundant wildlife. Then start planning your visit and experience why paddlers keep coming back to Chisago Lakes year after year! 💙

Read Let’s Go Paddling: Explore the Chisago Lakes Water Trail by clicking the link in our bio.

#explorechisagolakes #OnlyinMN #exploremn #lifeisgreatonhighway8 #LetsGo
  • 💦☀️ Let’s Go Floating in Chisago Lakes! ☀️💦

Looking for the ultimate summer adventure? Head to @skiwildmtn in Taylors Falls and spend the day floating the lazy river, racing down waterslides, cruising the alpine slides, and making memories with family and friends. Wild Mountain's summer attractions are packed with fun for all ages, making it the perfect destination for a day trip or weekend getaway. 

After your day on the water, explore the charming shops, restaurants, trails, and lakes that make Chisago Lakes a favorite summer destination. Your next great summer adventure is waiting! 🌊😎

Learn more and plan your visit by clicking on the https://chisagolakes.org/ link in our bio.

#explorechisagolakes #OnlyinMN #exploremn #lifeisgreatonhighway8 #LetsGo
  • 🚍Leave the driving to someone else and spend your Sunday exploring Chisago Lakes! 

Looking for the perfect summer day trip? @graylineminnesota is offering Sunday tours to the Chisago Lakes Area, departing from the Mall of America and bringing guests to some of our favorite destinations. 🌿

Your adventure includes:
🥐 A stop at @thelindstrombakery for delicious Swedish treats
🎨 A visit to @franconiamn for a beautiful art exploration
🚢 An unforgettable scenic boat cruise on the St. Croix River with @taylorsfallsboat 

🌳Beautiful views, charming small towns, and plenty of time to relax and explore!

Whether you are from Minnesota and looking for a stress-free getaway or hosting friends and family from out of town, this guided bus-and-boat experience is a fantastic way to discover the beauty of Chisago Lakes. Tours run Sundays through October 25th. 🎟️ Reserve your seat today by clicking on the link in our bio.

#explorechisagolakes #OnlyinMN #exploremn #lifeisgreatonhighway8 #LetsGo
  • Let the St. Croix River lead you on an unforgettable adventure! 🚤🌲 From towering cliffs and scenic overlooks to paddling, boating, wildlife, and breathtaking views, the St. Croix is one of Minnesota’s most treasured natural wonders. Read our blog (click on the link in our bio) written by our friend Antonia from @knead.to.roam and start planning your journey to Chisago Lakes. You will quickly see why so many visitors fall in love with life along the river. 💙

#explorechisagolakes #OnlyinMN #exploremn #lifeisgreatonhighway8 #LetsGo
  • 🎣☀️ Let’s Go Fishing in Chisago Lakes!

June 5th – 7th is Take a Kid Fishing Weekend in Minnesota and it's the perfect chance to introduce kids to the fun of fishing and make unforgettable summer memories together. With beautiful lakes, peaceful shorelines, and family-friendly fishing spots throughout Chisago Lakes, adventure is waiting at the end of every cast. 🐟

Explore our lakes and plan your fishing getaway 👉 click on the link in our bio.

#explorechisagolakes #OnlyinMN #exploremn #lifeisgreatonhighway8 #LetsGo
  • Take a scenic drive through Chisago Lakes and discover the beauty of our Barn Quilt Trail! 🚗✨ Explore colorful quilt designs, charming countryside views, and the small-town character that makes this area so special. Check out our Barn Quilt Trail page by clicking on the link in our bio to help plan your adventure and learn more about the trail! 🌻

To request your very own copy of the Barn Quilt brochure, send an email to info@chisagolakes.org 

#explorechisagolakes #OnlyinMN #exploremn #lifeisgreatonhighway8 #LetsGo

Stay in Touch

Sign up to get updates about what’s happening in the Chisago Lakes area.