Local Perspectives: Favorite Picnic Spots in Northern Minnesota
As told to Ann Mayhew | August 26, 2021
Author David Treuer’s family and friends enjoying their fire pit, made from the stones of an inukshuk Treuer’s father had built.
SPOTLIGHT
As we approach the end of the summer of 2021, four northern Minnesota artists, architects, and authors reflect on their favorite spots for outdoor dining. Their selections tell us that the perfect setting for a picnic is not just about a beautiful backdrop; it’s often built on fond memories, family connection, and a feeling of home.
Charlie Parr at Brighton Beach in Duluth. Photo courtesy of Charlie Parr.
Charlie Parr, musician
My favorite picnic spot in Duluth is Brighton Beach. When my kids were little, we came up here several times a week during the summer. It’s a beautiful and historic park that I still enjoy visiting even though my teenagers don’t often come along these days.
Jonathan Thunder on this patio, with views of Gichigami (Lake Superior). Photo courtesy of Jonathan Thunder.
Jonathan Thunder, artist
The patio at home has been a great place to host a few small outdoor gatherings. There’s a nice view of Gichigami and my grill is just below. It's a good place to sketch or write or just zone out.
Sir Benedict’s Tavern on the Lake. Photo courtesy of glensheen.org.
Katherine Gerzina, AIA, architect and AIA Northern Minnesota president
My favorite outdoor patio would have to be Sir Ben’s (Sir Benedict’s Tavern on the Lake) in Duluth! Modeled after a British pub, it has that atmosphere that makes you feel welcomed and at home. Since my favorite place in the world is London, I think I may just be a little biased for this spot.
It has always been the place I think of when someone asks, “Who has outdoor seating?” Sitting outside eating your sandwich and/or sipping a pint, looking at [Lake Superior], and watching the people go by is an added charm to Sir Ben’s. The inside of the tavern is just as fun (or even more fun). This is where the “pub” atmosphere really comes alive and is also home to some good live music!
Author David Treuer’s family and friends enjoying their fire pit, made from the stones of an inukshuk Treuer’s father had built. Photos courtesy of David Treuer.
David Treuer, bestselling author, The Heartbeat of Wounded Knee
When my father moved to northern Minnesota in the early 1950s, he bought an abandoned farm on the edge of the Leech Lake Reservation. The farmers had blown up a large boulder and used the pieces as a foundation for the pumphouse. Later, in the 1990s, my father carried the pieces, one by one, and made an inukshuk in his front yard. When he passed, I used them to build an enormous fire pit in the front yard where my siblings and kids and partner and I gather all through the summer. And I feel like, through the flames, I can see my father and those farmers and the rock that was here long long before.