Plan the Perfect Long Weekend: Venues, Stays & Activities in the Willmar Lakes Area for Memorial Day
Memorial Day Weekend is the unofficial start to summer in Minnesota, and there’s no better place to kick it off than the Willmar Lakes Area. With scenic lakes, outdoor recreation, family-friendly events, and welcoming local hotels, the area offers the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure for a long holiday weekend.
Whether you’re planning a family getaway, couples retreat, or group trip with friends, here’s how to spend a memorable Memorial Day Weekend in Willmar.
Start the Weekend Outdoors at Sibley State Park
Few places capture the beauty of Minnesota spring quite like Sibley State Park. Located just outside of Willmar, the park features:
- Scenic hiking trails
- Lake access for kayaking and fishing
- Picnic areas and campgrounds
- Stunning views from Mount Tom
The park’s beach store and seasonal rentals traditionally open Memorial Day Weekend, making it a great time for families to enjoy paddleboarding, kayaking, and lakeside recreation.
Learn more: Sibley State Park
Explore the Glacial Lakes State Trail
For visitors looking to stay active, the Glacial Lakes State Trail offers one of the region’s best biking and walking experiences.
Stretching from Willmar through Spicer and New London, the paved trail winds through lakes, rolling hills, and small-town scenery—perfect for a Memorial Day bike ride or morning walk.
Trail access near Willmar:
- Civic Center Trailhead
- Easy access to restaurants and lake stops along the route
Learn more: Glacial Lakes State Trail
Attend Memorial Day Weekend Events
Memorial Day Weekend in Willmar also includes community events that bring locals and visitors together.
One featured event for 2026 is the Memorial Day/Law Day 5K Run at Robbins Island Regional Park on Saturday, May 23, 2026. The race begins near the Flags of Honor Memorial Park and offers a meaningful and active way to start the holiday weekend.
Robbins Island itself offers:
- Walking paths and lakeside views
- Playground areas
- Picnic shelters
- Access to Foot Lake
Event details: Memorial Day-Law Day 5K
Where to Stay in the Willmar Lakes Area
After a full day of exploring, relaxing accommodations make the weekend even better. The Willmar Lakes Area offers hotel options for every type of traveler:
- Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Willmar — Great for families, featuring an indoor pool, waterslide, complimentary breakfast, and spacious guest rooms.
- Hampton Inn Spicer Green Lake — Ideal for lake lovers looking to stay near Green Lake and outdoor recreation.
- Best Western Plus Willmar — Conveniently connected to the Willmar Conference Center and close to shopping, dining, and local attractions.
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites Willmar — A modern, comfortable option with complimentary breakfast and easy access to the highway.
Staying local allows visitors to experience more of the area without feeling rushed throughout the holiday weekend.
Make Memorial Day Weekend a Tradition
The Willmar Lakes Area combines everything people love about a Minnesota long weekend: lakes, trails, family activities, and time spent together outdoors.
Whether you’re biking scenic trails, enjoying a lakeside picnic, or relaxing after a busy day of adventure, Memorial Day Weekend in Willmar offers the perfect start to summer.