TO DO in August & September

all about creating memories in lakes and pines area. Summer fishing can be as simple as hanging out on the dock and snapping a photo with a big catch. Fishing is a family sport – for the youngster with his or her first rod and reel, the avid angler or an entire family on vacation visiting one of the many lakes and resorts.

Check in at one of the local bait shops for tips on hot spots, best bait and lures, fishing style and time of day for whichever lake you’re heading out to fish.

6. Rock out on Main Street

Bring a lawn chair to Main Street, downtown Park Rapids and enjoy free, outdoor concerts from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursdays through Aug. 17.

The Park Rapids Downtown Business Association hosts the live concerts, featuring regional bands, a beer garden and family activities.

7. Fire it up

If you haven’t done it already this summer, now’s the time – light up that backyard fire pit, take a seat, pop open a cold beverage and roast some marshmallows with your family, friends and neighbors. Or roam away from home and enjoy the sight, sound and smell of a campfire. There are plenty of state forests and resort campgrounds – plus Itasca State Park – where you can pitch a tent and get a campfire going.

8. Contemporary art or history lesson

Turn a rainy day into a visit to the Nemeth Art Center. It shares space with the Hubbard County Historical Museum in a beautiful Victorian building that was originally built as a courthouse. Visit nemethartcenter.org or hubbardcountymuseum.org for the latest hours and exhibits.

9. Ride the countryside

Hubbard County is an ATV enthusiast’s playground. There are miles of ATV and OHV trails around.

The Martineau Recreational Trails are found in the Paul Bunyan State Forest, near Akeley. Located on a combination of state forest roads and trails in northern Minnesota, the Round River Drive Trail showcases the diverse terrain of the Paul Bunyan State Forest.

The Forest Riders Trail in the Smoky Hills and Two Inlets State Forest is a 100-mile, scenic ride through Becker and Hubbard counties, on terrain ranging from rolling and hilly to level and smooth.

10. Sculpture Trail

Sculptures created by Minnesota artists dot downtown Park Rapids and Red Bridge Park. Stroll along the trail to enjoy a dozen new sculptures. All artworks remain in place for a year and are available for sale.