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Bemidji, First City on the Mississippi - Minnesota
Retirement Living in Bemidji, First City on the Mississippi - Minnesota
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Area Description
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Bemidji, the First City on the Mississippi, is a historically charming, progressive northwoods city. Soon after its birth at Itasca State Park, the world’s fourth longest river- the Mississippi, travels north to Bemidji. After crossing through Lake Bemidji, it turns south on its 2,552- mile journey to the Gulf of Mexico. Bemidji is a shortened version of the Ojibwe name ‘Bay-may-ji-ga-maug’, meaning ‘lake with crossing waters’.
History, legend and lore mingled with an abundance of bald eagles and waterways give the Bemidji area its unique character. The natural rhythm of changing seasons draw outdoor enthusiasts to the area’s State and National Forests which hold a treasure trove of natural beauty for those seeking peaceful refreshment.
For half a century, logging was the economic lifeblood of the area. By way of celebrating the booming industry, an 18 ft. statue of the legendary lumberjack Paul Bunyan and Babe his Blue Ox were constructed at the waterfront for the 1937 Winter Carnival. This famous duo has posed with visitors for many memorable photographs ever since – earning Midwest Living magazine’s ‘‘Best in the Midwest” Roadside Attraction Award in 2003. Paul’s memorabilia, displayed in the adjacent Tourist Information Center, is sure to bring a grin.
Festivals continue to bring folks together all year around. The ‘Night We Light’ Celebration, the day after Thanksgiving begins with an evening Parade of Lights and lighting of the downtown and park areas. WinterFest in February celebrates winter fun of pond hockey, curling and Hardwater Classic Ice Fishing Tournament all on Lake Bemidji. The 4th of July Water Carnival and Art in the Park celebrate summer outdoor pleasures. The most popular summer event is the Lake Bemidji Dragon Boat Festival, held the first Saturday of August. Not only is there the excitement of the dragon boat racing, festival activities include great food, music, kid’s activities, a parade of teams, and much more all along the shores of beautiful Lake Bemidji.
Native American and Scandinavian cultures are woven together into the tapestry of Bemidji’s history. Several events and galleries showcase the community’s rich and diverse cultural heritage. A remarkable collection of sculpture and outdoor art throughout the downtown area offers a glimpse into the creativity this beautiful area inspires. The Paul Bunyan Playhouse hosts top professional theater performances throughout the summer. The renovated Great Northern Railroad depot is home to a state-of-the-art history museum exhibits and programming.
While Bemidji is a regional retail, medical, educational and government center, it is large enough to be convenient, yet small enough to be comfortable.
Region Characteristics
Urban / City
Rural
Nearby military base
Suburban / Large Community
College Town
Lively downtown business center
Commuter Town
Coastal community
Area Amenities
Things to Do, Recreation & Fitness
Access To Green Space
Fairs & Festivals
Outdoor Concerts
Bike Paths
Fishing
Running Paths
Beach
Golf Course
Shopping
Boating
Hiking
Skiing
Bowling
Hunting
Sporting Events
Casino
Indoor Swim Facilities
Tennis
Continuing Education
Lake
State Park
Dining/Nightlife
Movie Cinemas
Walking Paths
Exercise Facilities
National Park
Cultural Activities
Arts
Lectures
Museums
Ballet
Library
Symphony
Concerts
Live music series
Theater
Films
Public transportation
Bus
Rental cars
Train
Nearby major airport
Subway
VA transportation
Nearby cruise terminal
Taxi
Paul Bunyan Transit Dial-a-Ride service 6 days a week.
Taxi, 3 major rental car agencies at Bemidji Regional Airport, which offers 3 nonstop flights to Minneapolis daily.
Jefferson Line National Bus Service.
Medical Facilities
Major Hospital
Wellness center
VA Hospital
Sanford Health - broad range of hospital, clinic and therapy options.
Climate
Monthly Temperatures / Rain / Snow
Month
Low
Avg
High
Rain
Snow
Jan
-4.3
F°
5.9
F°
16.1
F°
0.7
"
9.5
"
Feb
2.6
F°
13.3
F°
24.0
F°
0.6
"
7.0
"
Mar
16.0
F°
26.0
F°
36.0
F°
0.9
"
7.6
"
Apr
29.5
F°
41.0
F°
52.6
F°
1.5
"
3.4
"
May
42.6
F°
55.0
F°
67.5
F°
2.7
"
0.1
"
Jun
51.9
F°
63.3
F°
74.6
F°
4.1
"
0.0
"
Jul
57.0
F°
67.8
F°
78.7
F°
4.3
"
0.0
"
Aug
54.6
F°
65.6
F°
76.6
F°
3.5
"
0.0
"
Sep
45.3
F°
55.6
F°
65.9
F°
2.8
"
0.0
"
Oct
35.0
F°
44.3
F°
53.5
F°
2.3
"
0.9
"
Nov
19.0
F°
26.4
F°
33.9
F°
1.1
"
7.3
"
Dec
3.3
F°
12.0
F°
20.7
F°
0.6
"
9.3
"
Spring temperatures are cold with averages in the low 40's and highs in the low 50's. Nights are cold with lows in the upper 20's. Summer temperatures are mild with averages in the mid 60's and highs in the mid 70's. Nights are cool with lows in the mid 50's. Fall temperatures are cold with averages in the low 40's and highs in the low 50's. Nights are cold with lows in the low 30's. Winter temperatures are cold with averages in the low 10's and highs in the low 20's. Nights are cold with lows in the low 0's.
Natural Disaster Areas
Earthquakes
Hurricanes
Wildfires
Floods
Tornadoes
Volcanoes
Cost of Living for
Bemidji, First City on the Mississippi, MN
Bemidji, First City on the Mississippi, Minnesota cost of living for Housing, Healthcare, Transportation, Taxes, Utilities, etc.:
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Adult communities
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Group homes
Residential care facility
Apartments
Houses
RV Parks
Assisted Living
Nursing homes
State veteran home
Condos
Over 50 Communities
Senior Assistance in
Bemidji, First City on the Mississippi, MN
Bemidji, First City on the Mississippi, Minnesota offers the following assistance for seniors:
Elder-care facilities
Meals on Wheels
Van services for seniors
Home care
Senior center
Visiting nurses
Additional Information
Visitor Information
Relocation Information
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