Devils Lake offers several distinct reasons to visit: local history downtown, cultural offerings throughout the year, a summer event featuring classic cars, and activities in the surrounding area. You can tailor your stay to focus on culture, an event, or nature.
Local History Downtown
The Lake Region Heritage Center is located in the former post office in downtown Devils Lake. Its extensive collection focuses on the history of the Lake Region and the surrounding community. The center hosts art exhibitions and historical presentations year-round; individual exhibitions and presentation dates may change.
The cityscape also features historic details: Buildings along Main Street retain brickwork and design elements from around the turn of the century. Two murals are located along 4th Avenue. The “Dr. Suess” mural is near the alley between 4th Street and 5th Street. The architecture and murals complement the city’s cultural and historical themes.
Activities and Summer Event
The Dockside Entertainment Center in Devils Lake offers bowling lanes, multisport simulators, an indoor playground, and pickleball courts. Visitors can access the center by purchasing a membership or day pass. This provides a range of activities at a single venue, alongside the offerings downtown.
Devils Run takes place annually in the summer in Devils Lake. The program includes classic cars, hot rods, a parade, and car rallies. The specific event dates and activities may change. If you’re planning your trip around the event, check the latest information in advance.
Nature Nearby
In the area around Devils Lake, Grahams Island State Park offers opportunities for a day by the lake, hiking trails, a visitor center, and more than three miles of groomed cross-country ski trails. The park offers both a waterfront experience and trails and ski trails.
White Horse Hill National Game Preserve protects bison, elk, and prairie dogs, as well as more than 214 bird species. It has a driving loop and hiking trails, as well as opportunities to observe and photograph wildlife. The combination of wildlife viewing and different trails offers a different focus from a day at the lake in Grahams Island State Park.
The Devils Lake region offers year-round opportunities for open-water and ice fishing, boating, camping, and hunting. When planning, you can consider these recreational options alongside the specific offerings of the two protected recreation areas.
When to Visit
The offerings vary considerably by season: Devils Run takes place annually in the summer, while the Lake Region Heritage Center hosts art exhibitions and historical presentations year-round. Individual exhibitions and dates may vary. You can plan your stay around either the summer event or cultural offerings throughout the year.
In the area around Devils Lake, the Devils Lake Visitor Center offers Wi-Fi and answers questions about attractions and activities in the area and along Highway 2. As operating details may change, check the latest information before visiting.
For the broader travel overview: Ramsey.
