Experience the grandeur of nature—Tourist attractions in International Falls, Minnesota

Just across the river is Canada. In such a location lies International Falls, a town in Koochiching County, Minnesota, USA. Situated in the northern part of the United States, this town has an average annual temperature of below 10°C and is known for its harsh winters. It is often called the "Icebox of the Nation" and can sometimes be colder than the Arctic.
Around 10,000 years ago, most of this area was covered by Lake Agassiz, and as a result, many lakes remain to this day. This nature-filled tourist destination attracts many visitors seeking rich and scenic landscapes.
In this article, we will introduce some of the popular tourist spots in International Falls. It may not be a well-known town in Japan, but consider adding it to your list of travel destinations!

1. Smokey Bear Park

Smokey Bear Park, known for its giant Smokey Bear statue, is one of the popular tourist attractions in International Falls. Smokey Bear is a famous bear mascot created in 1944 as the symbol of the United States' forest fire prevention campaign.
During the 1940s, the United States faced widespread forest fires, causing significant concern. To raise awareness and encourage local residents to cooperate in fire prevention, Smokey Bear was introduced. The statue in International Falls raises its right hand in a "stop" gesture, symbolizing a warning about the environmental impact and unpleasant odors caused by the local paper mills.
This park also houses a History Museum and the Bronko Museum. The History Museum showcases the culture and history of the indigenous people who once lived in Koochiching County. The Bronko Museum, on the other hand, is a rare museum dedicated to the legendary American football player Bronko Nagurski. These are must-visit spots when exploring the area.

2. Voyageurs National Park

Voyageurs National Park, one of the most popular attractions in International Falls, is a vast nature-filled park covering a total area of 882 square kilometers. The park is home to five large lakes, including Rainy Lake, which spans the U.S.-Canada border, and Sand Point Lake.
Tourism in this park is all about adventure! You can enjoy canoeing, kayaking, and fishing on the lakes. In winter, the park transforms into a snowy wonderland, offering activities such as snowmobiling and cross-country skiing. One of the highlights is Kettle Falls, accessible by boat between Rainy Lake and Namakan Lake, where you can experience the rare sight of looking southward to see Canada. Wildlife is abundant, making it a great spot for animal watching.
Established in 1891, Voyageurs National Park is undoubtedly one of the most famous attractions in International Falls. It offers a truly grand northern American wilderness experience.

3. Bronko Nagurski Museum

The Bronko Nagurski Museum is a well-known tourist attraction in International Falls, dedicated to Bronko Nagurski, a legendary figure in both football and professional wrestling. It is located within Smokey Bear Park, mentioned earlier.
While attending the University of Minnesota, Bronko Nagurski became the only player in college football history to be named an All-American in both the fullback and tackle positions. He was a rising star in college football and was scouted by George Halas of the Chicago Bears in 1930. As a professional player, he contributed significantly to the team's NFL championships.
In 1933, he transitioned to professional wrestling and won the NWA World Heavyweight Championship. After retiring, he ran a gas station in International Falls until his passing in 1990. His legacy remains strong, attracting numerous fans and tourists to this museum. The museum is known for its large bronze statue of Bronko Nagurski, making it an enjoyable stop even for those unfamiliar with his story.

4. Swanky Sweetpea

A favorite among both tourists and locals, Swanky Sweetpea is a popular gift shop that specializes in bath products, particularly bath bombs. If you're visiting International Falls, this shop is definitely worth a stop!
For those who love cute and aesthetically pleasing items, Swanky Sweetpea offers a variety of bath bombs shaped like cupcakes, ice cream, and other sweets that look incredibly realistic. The store is filled with colorful and adorable products, so be careful—you might end up buying more than you planned!
Using one of these fun bath bombs can make your bath time even more relaxing after a long day of sightseeing. Whether for yourself or as a souvenir from your trip to International Falls, this gift shop is a fantastic place to find unique and delightful items.

◎ Summary

We introduced four must-visit tourist spots in International Falls! The town is laid out in a grid pattern, making it easy for tourists to navigate without getting lost as long as they know the street names and numbers.
Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll through the town, immersing yourself in breathtaking nature, or exploring unique attractions, there’s something for everyone in International Falls. Enjoy your trip!