Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox
Standing proudly on the shore of Lake Bemidji, these colossal 1937 statues of the legendary lumberjack and his faithful blue ox are among the oldest roadside giants in the United States. They kickstarted a nationwide craze for oversize roadside statues and remain a beloved, must-visit photo stop.
- Admission
- Free
- Hours
- Open 24/7
- Duration
- 15-30 minutes
- Parking
- Free parking lot available at the adjacent Bemidji Tourist Information Center
- Access
- Wheelchair-accessible paved plaza surrounding the statues
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Standing proudly on the shore of Lake Bemidji, the colossal statues of Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox have welcomed travelers since 1937. Originally constructed to promote a winter carnival, this iconic monument is widely recognized as one of the oldest and most famous roadside attractions in the United States.
Visitors will find the 18-foot-tall lumberjack and his faithful blue companion standing adjacent to the Bemidji Tourist Information Center. The site offers a scenic lakeside park setting, making it an ideal spot for a quick stretch, a family picnic, and the quintessential Minnesota photo opportunity.
Beyond their kitschy appeal, these statues hold a significant place in American preservation history and are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. They symbolize the mid-century boom of automobile tourism and the enduring folklore of the great Northwoods.
Ratings
roadside attractionVisitor Tips
- ◆ Stop by the adjacent Tourist Information Center to view vintage memorabilia and a whimsical collection of Paul Bunyan's giant everyday items.
- ◆ Visit during the early morning or golden hour for the best photographic lighting and to avoid the largest crowds.
- ◆ Take time to stroll along the paved Lake Bemidji waterfront path located right behind the statues.
- ◆ If visiting during the winter months, dress in layers as the wind blowing off the frozen lake can be exceptionally cold.
Heads Up
- ◆ Climbing on the statues or their immediate pedestal bases is strictly prohibited to preserve these historic concrete structures.
- ◆ The parking lot directly adjacent to the statues can fill up quickly during peak summer holiday weekends.
Common questions
Can you climb on the Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox statues?
No, climbing on the statues is prohibited to protect and preserve the historic structures. There is a low post-and-chain barrier surrounding them, but you can stand right next to it for photos.
Where is the best place to park to see the statues?
Free parking is available directly next to the statues in the parking lot for the Bemidji Tourist Information Center.
Are the Paul Bunyan and Babe statues lit up at night?
Yes, the statues are illuminated by spotlights at night, making them accessible for viewing and photos 24 hours a day.