A cozy, downtown café known for craft coffee and a relaxed atmosphere a favorite morning stop for locals and visitors looking for a solid breakfast or pastry before a day on the lakes.

Housed in a charming, renovated building in Perham, Gathering Grounds serves specialty coffee, hearty breakfast and lunch plates, and a small retail selection a great place to linger with a book or plan your day.

Set in historic downtown Ottertail, this longtime shop blends a gift store with a deli and espresso bar perfect for quick sandwiches, ice cream, and outdoor seating in summer.

Located at Thumper Pond Resort, Willy T’s is a family-friendly tavern serving house-roasted meats, burgers, pizzas and casual pub fare — an easy choice after golf, the waterpark, or a lake day.

A lakeside staple (pizza + Tex-Mex style menu) popular across Minnesota lake country lively patio vibes and big portions make it a crowd pleaser for families and groups.

Perham’s casual dining spot combining classic American entrees with family entertainment (they even have bowling) known for hand-cut steaks, weekly specials, and a full bar.

A regional quick-serve favorite (Detroit Lakes/nearby) dishing up build-your-own burritos, bowls and Tex-Mex comfort food fast, fresh, and wallet-friendly for a lake lunch.

A beloved bakery in the area (New York Mills region) known for fresh morning pastries, sandwiches, and homestyle lunch specials ideal for picking up picnic provisions.

Local bakery in Ottertail producing breads, buns, donuts and specialty coffee a dependable stop for fresh baked goods and morning takeaways.

A hometown breakfast & lunch spot on Perham’s Main Street known for generous plates, daily specials, and friendly small-town service.

Perham’s full-service outdoor & sporting shop (since mid-1900s) a go-to for fishing, hunting, bait, and local outdoor know-how before you head out on the water.

Charming boutique on Main Street offering curated clothing, accessories and home goods perfect for picking up a gift or a lakeside outfit.

A locally owned gift & home shop in Perham (Main Street) with a wide selection of curated gifts and seasonal finds a pleasant browse for unique souvenirs.

A full-service, family-owned grocery serving the lakes area deli, bakery, produce and local staples for stocking cabins or planning cookouts.

Family-run u-pick farm and seasonal destination (near Perham) pick strawberries and raspberries in summer, then visit the fall corn maze and pumpkin patch. Great for family photos and kid-friendly farm fun.

More than a gym PACC offers an indoor waterpark, roller skating, therapy pool, fitness rooms and community programming, making it a local hub for families and recreation.

A scenic state park with paved biking loops, interpretive trails, yurts/camping, sandy beaches and excellent birdwatching a must for paddling, hiking, and quick nature escapes.

Family resort with an indoor waterpark, golf course, and on-site dining — ideal for weekend getaways, group stays, and activities that keep kids entertained.

NEW Mini Golf!!!!!

Regional watersports outfitter renting and selling kayaks, paddleboards and towables a reliable launch point for exploring nearby lakes or renting gear for a day on the water.