Friendship

Girls summer Weekend Getaway

Take some time away and have a fun weekend with your girls.
Day One – Friday: Cheers to the Weekend!

The fun starts as soon as you arrive! Check into your hotel, drop your bags, and meet your girlfriends for dinner and drinks.

If you’re staying in Willmar, you can’t go wrong with the Best Western Plus or Holiday Inn Express & Suites—both are just steps from Green Mill and Ruff’s Wings & Sports Bar, where you can toast to the weekend on their lively patios.

Staying near the lake in Spicer? Cozy up at the SureStay Hotel or the Hampton Inn, just minutes from all the downtown Spicer action. Meet up at O’Neil’s or Zorbaz for a delicious dinner and a round (or two!) of cocktails.

After catching up and laughing over supper, keep the good times rolling! Head into New London to catch the talented Little Crow Ski Team at Neer Park (Fridays, June-August), or check out a live performance at the Little Theatre Auditorium.

Wrap up the night at a local favorite—grab a craft beer at Goat Ridge Brewery, O’Neil’s or Zorbaz while enjoying live music or a DJ. (Pro tip: peek at our Event Calendar to see who is playing where!)

Day Two – Saturday: Coffee, Shopping & Laughter

Rise and shine, ladies—it’s your day to explore! Start off with coffee and pastries from one of our charming local cafés.

  • In Spicer, swing by Jacked Up Coffee Co. for your morning pick-me-up.
  • In New London, sip something special at Lake Affect Coffee.
  • And if you’re in Willmar, you’ve got seven coffee shops to choose from—each one with its own cozy vibe and tempting treats!

Once you’re caffeinated, it’s time to shop ‘til you drop!
Browse through the cute boutiques and charming shops that make the Willmar Lakes Area so special.

  • In New London, hit up favorites like The Lucky Duck, Ali J Boutique, The Happy Sol, K & Co. Boutique & Gifts, and Three Sisters Furnishings.
  • In Spicer, don’t miss Urban Escape—it’s the perfect mix of style, relaxation, and inspiration.
  • And in Willmar, shop your heart out at Lotus on Burlington, Mainstream Boutique, Primrose Boutique, Shoppe 14, and Stacy’s Nursery & Floral.

If retail therapy isn’t your mood, switch it up! Book a Bloody Mary Cruise aboard the Danny Boy with Green Lake Cruises (Saturdays, June-August) or reserve a private charter for your crew. You’ll love the views, the vibes, and the laughter that comes with being out on the water.

And don’t forget a sweet stop at B’s Chocolates—open until 1:30 p.m. on Saturdays—for some of the best Belgian chocolates in Minnesota.

When hunger strikes, the Willmar Lakes Area delivers:

  • Craving Mexican? Try Azteca, Copaneco Restaurant, or Spurs Bar & Grill in downtown Willmar.
  • Want pizza perfection? Head to Jake’s, Giovanni’s, or Zorbaz on Green Lake.
  • Looking for comfort food? Frieda’s, Middle Fork Café, or McMillan’s Family Restaurant will make you feel right at home.

After lunch, get moving with a scenic walk, bike ride, or paddle! Explore the Glacial Lakes State Trail, Eagle Lake Trail, Robbins Island trails, or circle beautiful Green Lake.

Need gear? Rent bikes from BikeWillmar or reserve kayaks and fat-tire bikes through Prairie Woods Environmental Learning Center (just call 24 hours in advance).

Still have energy to burn? Hit up Big Kahuna Fun Park (Memorial Weekend – Labor Day) for go-karts, bumper boats, mini-golf, and arcade games. Because let’s be honest—you’re never too old for a little friendly competition and ice cream!

Cap off your fabulous day with dinner and wine at Green Mill Restaurant, Max’s on the Green, O’Neil’s, or The Oaks at Eagle Creek—the perfect ending to a perfect Saturday.

Day Three – Sunday: Brunch & Goodbyes (for now!)

Before you head home, squeeze in one last meal together.

  • In Spicer, Westwood Café serves up a mouthwatering breakfast menu you’ll be dreaming about all week.
  • In Willmar, McMillan’s Family Restaurant is a must for their famous brunch buffet—or just grab a gooey caramel roll if you’re keeping it light.

After a weekend of laughter, great food, and unforgettable memories, you’ll head home feeling relaxed, recharged, and already planning your next Girl’s Weekend in the Willmar Lakes Area!

Public Beaches

Missing the beach but don’t want to travel far? Willmar Lakes Area has got plenty of beaches and lakeshore for you to enjoy this summer.

Lakes & Water Recreation

Places to stay

Whether you revel in the outdoors or are looking for all the comforts of home, we’ve got plenty of campgrounds, hotels, and resorts to fit your needs and budget.

Places to Stay

Fish our lakes

The possibilities are endless on our 30 recreational lakes…boating, swimming, fishing, water skiing, tubing, canoeing, kayaking, paddle boating, hydro biking, paddle boarding and so much more!

Fishing Report

Explore our Trails

Surrounded by beautiful lakes and scenery…who wouldn’t take a hike or a leisurely bike ride to enjoy the view? With miles of trials to choose from, you can always find new places to explore.

Trail Report