Summer Weekend in Devils Lake
It doesn’t matter whether you’re in town for a few days or live just down the road, there’s so much to discover in Devils Lake during the last hurrah of summer. From a day spent exploring the unique shops in beautiful, historic downtown to a twenty-four hour outdoor adventure, we’ve mapped out the perfect way to spend the weekend. Go solo, grab your favorite person, or pack up the whole family; either way, you’ll get to experience ???
Day One: Downtown Shopping
1 Number One: Mornin’ Sunshine!
Whether you’re into an Americano, feeling the latte love, or just want the tea, the Liquid Bean offers a refreshing menu full of hot and cold caffeinated beverages to fuel a day of downtown shopping and retail therapy. Equally as hard to resist at this popular meeting spot located in this historic part of town is its savory menu of mouthwatering breakfast pastries like muffins, scones, cookies and bagels. Don’t say we didn’t warn you!
2 Number Two: Closet Envy
Darling, floral dresses, cute puff sleeve tops, breezy wide leg pants, cropped denim jackets… There's a reason why it’s hard to walk out of Camora Clothing Co. without at least one (or ten) new additions to your wardrobe. In need of a gift for that special someone? Check out their purses, charms, and jewelry, including delicate turquoise hoops, charm bracelets, and pendant necklaces.
3 Number Three: Time to Make a Good Impression
Ignite that community spirit by snagging a hoodie, sweatshirt, bag or other Firebird swag at Creative Impressions. They also specialize in personalized items like coffee mugs, water bottles, key chains, ornaments and more. Fun fact: The Devils Lake High School Firebirds ended a 99-year state championship drought in 2024, scoring the Division A boys basketball title.
4 Number Four: Flower Power
Why not spread some happy by surprising your favorite person with some beautiful flowers? Harvested Blooms offers some of the prettiest custom arrangements around, from wrapped bouquets to the cutest potted plants you’ve ever seen. It’s also a great way to inject a pop of color into your home. While you’re there, check out their other goodies: Wrangler purses, plant-based cleaning and home care products from Koala Eco, and baby gifts like Warmies and Copper Pearl swaddles.
5 Number Five: Remember The Golden Rule
Time to make a pit stop at one of our favorite sporting goods stores: Gerrells Sports Center. It’s also the perfect opportunity to stock up on some gear for tomorrow’s outdoor adventure. They’ve got everything you need to enjoy livin’ that Lake Life, from sunglasses to straw bags. It’s also adjacent to the Golden Rule Boutique, where your next cute outfit awaits.
6 Number Six: Old Main Street Cafe
Now that you’ve worked up an appetite, head on over to the Old Main Street Cafe for a bite to eat. The hardest part will be choosing what to order, thanks to a kitchen that whips up everything from appetizers and burgers to soups, salads, seafood and steaks. Just be sure to save room for dessert. If the pecan pie isn’t enough to make your mouth water, maybe the cheesecake, ice cream cones or cookies will.
Day Two: The Great Outdoors
1 Number One: Objective: 10,000 Steps
A breath of fresh air awaits as you set out on three miles of designated hiking trails at the White Horse Hill National Game Preserve. Beginning at the visitor’s center, you’ll find paths that wind your way through beautiful woodlands, prairies, and wetland habitats that include interpretive stops. Keep an eye out for the warblers, wood ducks and white tailed deer (not to mention stunning views of Devils Lake) as you enjoy this beautiful green space that was originally set aside as a national park in 1904 by President Theodore Roosevelt.
2 Number Two: Paddle Away!
Now that you’ve got those morning steps conquered, it’s time to head to the Creel Bay Golf Course. Located along the shoreline, they offer kayak rentals for $8.00/hour, allowing you to paddle your way across North Dakota’s second biggest lake, whether for a few hours or for the whole day. And if you’re wondering what in the devil inspired the name, here’s the scoop: The Dakota called the lake Mni Wakan or Minnewaukan, which translates to “Spirit Water” or “Sacred Water.” Early settlers misunderstood, interpreting it as “Bad Spirit Lake,” which eventually evolved into “Devils Lake.”
3 Number Three: This Will Really Float Your Boat
There’s no better way to end a day in Devils Lake than floating on the water while watching the sunset. No boat of your own? No worries. You can rent one at Woodland Resort; all you need is a valid drivers license. Motor boats and pontoons are available with rates that vary for a full day, half day, weekend/holiday, or even weekly. All rentals come with fuel and life jackets, too. Please note: pets are not allowed on the boats.
