Rainy Day Fun in Cook County

Rainy Day Activities

In our area, every kind of weather has its own unique beauty! Relish a rainy day and relax to the sound of raindrops and the slower pace these showers bring.

As the locals say, “There is no such thing as bad weather, just bad gear.”

Here is a short list of rainy day fun to enjoy when a cloud rolls in on your vacation:

  • Check out our local YMCA, where the kids can enjoy the pool and mom and dad can get in a brisk workout. Everybody returns back to the cabin refreshed.
  • Visit and browse our award winning Grand Marais Public Library  Since 2007 our library has been named a 5-Star Library! That is significant because only 13 other libraries in the nation have achieved this status. Be sure to check out the children’s area and calendar for excellent music, film and speaker events. MN residents, pack your home library card! Otherwise a 3 month Arrowhead Library System card may be purchased for $10.00 for both MN residents and out of state visitors.
  • Our Cook County Higher Education has a Guest Lecture Series featuring local and national topics, history and activities as well as fascinating and entertaining fund raising events all are welcome to join! Check out the upcoming events on the Cook County Higher Education Facebook Page.
  • In Tofte, go to the North Shore Commercial Fishing Museum, and on the way, observe the waves on Lake Superior. You will have a whole new appreciation of what the commercial fishermen went through in their skiffs to bring the fresh Whitefish and Herring to shore.
  • The Johnson Heritage Post and Cook County Historical Museum have fascinating displays which reflect our area’s rich history. Hours will fly by as you view various historical treasures – the lightkeeper’s house museum contains the optic glass from the Grand Marais Harbor’s historic lighthouse.
  • Chik-Wauk Museum and Nature Center, at the end of the Gunflint Trail, has fascinating and interactive historical information and flora and fauna displays and activities. On the drive up the scenic Gunflint Trail, chances are great that you’ll spot a moose, as they love the cool, wet weather.
  • Take a drive up to the Grand Portage State Park headquarters which are beautiful. The Anishinaabe culture comes alive before your eyes as you gain appreciation for their rich heritage. Then, make sure your next stop is at the Grand Portage National Monument. You will travel into the past to explore more of the Ojibwe people and their history.
  • Treat yourself! Sign up for a massage or a full spa experience. If you can’t beat the weather, join it! By sitting in a hot tub.
  • The North House Folk School is always a welcoming spot. Head to the campus to check out what someone is making. You’ll be signing up for a class in no time, and kids love simply witnessing happy hands creating loved objects and items.
  • Go on a Gallery Tour! Or embrace your inner artist, and visit the Grand Marais Art Colony. After a tour of this artistic enclave, you will be signing up for a course and heading to one of our shops for art supplies.

And last, but not least, as the saying goes on the North Shore and Gunflint Trail, “there is no such thing as bad weather, just bad gear.” Grab a raincoat (or purchase one from an outfitter or locally owned business) and hit the trail. The natural color of the forest is accentuated by the rain making it a kaleidoscope of color. Additional bonus, you’ll have the forest to yourself.

Museums & Historic Sites

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