Looking for cheap Flights to Bemidji Beltrami, Minnesota, USA (BJI) airport?

Bemidji, accessible via low-budget flights to Bemidji at BJI airport (Bemidji Regional Airport), is a charming city in Northern Minnesota, celebrated as the "First City on the Mississippi" and home to iconic Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox statues, offering a delightful blend of American folklore, outdoor adventure, and Northwoods charm for a family-friendly escape.

The towering 18-foot Paul Bunyan and 10-foot Babe the Blue Ox statues, built in 1937, stand as beloved landmarks on Lake Bemidji’s shores, drawing visitors for photos and folklore tales. Bemidji marks the Mississippi River’s origin, with the Headwaters at Lake Itasca State Park (25 miles south), where you can step across the river’s humble beginnings. The Headwaters Science Center engages families with 40+ interactive exhibits on ecology and physics. The Beltrami County Historical Society Museum explores Ojibwe heritage, fur trading, and logging history. Lake Bemidji State Park, spanning 1,727 acres, offers hiking, biking, fishing for walleye, and boating on Lake Bemidji. The Paul Bunyan State Trail, a 123-mile paved path, starts here for scenic cycling. Downtown Bemidji’s Sculpture Walk features 25+ outdoor artworks, complemented by quaint shops and Bemidji Woolen Mills’ handcrafted goods. Annual events include the Bemidji Dragon Boat Festival and Winterfest, showcasing local culture. Savor Midwestern pasties, lake fish, and craft brews at local taprooms. With cheap tickets to Bemidji, this city delivers folklore, nature, and community spirit, making it a must-visit for families, adventurers, and history buffs seeking an authentic Minnesota experience.

Why Visit Bemidji, Minnesota

Bemidji enchants with its Paul Bunyan statues, Mississippi Headwaters, and Lake Bemidji State Park. Families love the Science Center, while outdoor enthusiasts hike the Paul Bunyan Trail. With low-cost airline deals to Bemidji, it’s ideal for solo travelers, families, and couples seeking folklore and Northwoods beauty. Events like the Dragon Boat Festival add vibrant energy, making Bemidji an authentic destination.

Quick Facts & Highlights

• Population: Approximately 15,378 (2023 estimate)
• Founded: 1896
• Area: 19.3 square miles
• Key Highlight: Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox statues
• Notable Event: Bemidji Dragon Boat Festival, annual July event
• Fun Fact: First City on the Mississippi River
• Local Treat: Pasty
• Landmark: Mississippi Headwaters

Geographic Location & Climate

Bemidji, in Beltrami County, Northern Minnesota, lies 100 miles east of Fargo, at 1,365 feet elevation near Lake Bemidji and the Mississippi River’s headwaters. The climate is humid continental with warm summers (average high 78°F) and cold winters (average high 20°F). Annual rainfall is 27 inches, with 45 inches of snow. Spring and fall (40-65°F) are ideal for hiking, summer suits boating, and winter offers snowshoeing.

Vital Statistics & Demographics In Bemidji, Minnesota

Total Population

Bemidji’s population is 15,378 (2023), with 0.5% growth since 2020, driven by education and tourism.

Age Distribution

Median age is 35.6 years; 16.5% under 18, 14.2% 18-24, 26.3% 25-44, 25.7% 45-64, 17.3% 65+.

Ethnic & Racial Composition

White 81.4%, Native American 12.1%, Two or More Races 3.8%, Black 1.7%, Asian 1.0%.

Gender Breakdown

Males 48.5%, females 51.5%.

Household Types & Sizes

Average household size 2.3; family households 57.8%, non-family 42.2%; 19.6% with children.

Population Growth Trends

Growth of 1.2% since 2020, projected to reach 15,800 by 2028, supported by Bemidji State University and tourism.

Economy & Living Standards In Bemidji, Minnesota

Major Industries & Employers

Education, tourism, and healthcare lead; top employers:

• Bemidji State University, 1500 Birchmont Dr NE, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Sanford Medical Center Bemidji, 1300 Anne St NW, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Beltrami County Government, 701 Minnesota Ave NW, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Bemidji Area Schools, 502 Minnesota Ave NW, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Walmart Supercenter, 2025 Paul Bunyan Dr NW, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Bemidji Woolen Mills, 301 Irvine Ave NW, Bemidji, MN 56601
• North Country Health Services, 1100 38th St NW, Bemidji, MN 56601
• First National Bank Bemidji, 1600 Paul Bunyan Dr NW, Bemidji, MN 56601

Employment Rate & Job Market

Unemployment rate is 4.0%; jobs focus on education (30%), tourism, and healthcare, with seasonal recreation roles.

Median Income & Cost of Living

Median household income is $53,200; cost of living 79.5% of U.S. average; median home value $145,600.

Poverty Rate & Economic Challenges

Poverty rate is 13.9%; challenges include seasonal job reliance and rural access.

Business Environment & Investment Opportunities

Tourism and education drive growth; Minnesota supports small businesses in hospitality and outdoor recreation.

Health & Wellness In Bemidji, Minnesota

General Health Overview

Health metrics are moderate; life expectancy is 77.5 years, supported by Sanford Medical Center and outdoor lifestyles.

Common Health Issues

Obesity (31%), seasonal allergies, rural healthcare access; addressed by community wellness and trails.

Fitness Centers & Wellness Studios

• Bemidji YMCA, 1600 23rd St NW, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Anytime Fitness Bemidji, 2524 Hannah Ave NW, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Northwoods Yoga Studio, 824 Paul Bunyan Dr S, Bemidji, MN 56601
• CrossFit Bemidji, 1100 38th St NW, Bemidji, MN 56601

Mental Health Resources

• Sanford Behavioral Health, 1300 Anne St NW, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Beltrami County Mental Health, 701 Minnesota Ave NW, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Northwoods Counseling, 1705 Anne St NW, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Upper Mississippi Mental Health, 722 15th St NW, Bemidji, MN 56601

Public Health Initiatives

Beltrami County Health Department runs vaccination clinics, wellness programs, and mental health outreach; parks promote fitness.

Hospitals & Clinics In Bemidji, Minnesota

Top 5 Hospitals & Emergency Services

• Sanford Medical Center Bemidji, 1300 Anne St NW, Bemidji, MN 56601
• North Country Health Services, 1100 38th St NW, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Cass Lake Indian Health Service, 425 7th St NW, Cass Lake, MN 56633
• MeritCare Clinic Bemidji, 1233 34th St NW, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Red Lake Hospital (regional), 24760 Hospital Dr, Red Lake, MN 56671

Urgent Care & Walk-In Clinics

• Sanford Walk-In Clinic, 1300 Anne St NW, Bemidji, MN 56601
• North Country Urgent Care, 1100 38th St NW, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Bemidji Urgent Care, 2300 24th St NW, Bemidji, MN 56601

Specialty Medical Centers

• Sanford Heart Center, 1300 Anne St NW, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Bemidji Orthopedic Clinic, 1233 34th St NW, Bemidji, MN 56601
• North Country Cancer Center, 1100 38th St NW, Bemidji, MN 56601

Telehealth & Remote Care Options

Sanford Medical Center and North Country offer telehealth apps; Upper Mississippi provides telepsychiatry; most clinics support virtual visits.

Veterinary Services & Pet Care In Bemidji, Minnesota

Animal Hospitals & Emergency Vets

• Bemidji Veterinary Hospital, 3619 Bemidji Ave N, Bemidji, MN 56601
• North Country Veterinary Clinic, 1810 Anne St NW, Bemidji, MN 56601

Pet Clinics & Routine Care

• Lake Bemidji Pet Clinic, 824 Paul Bunyan Dr S, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Paws & Claws Animal Hospital, 2524 Hannah Ave NW, Bemidji, MN 56601

Grooming & Boarding Facilities

• Paws & Claws Grooming, 2524 Hannah Ave NW, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Bemidji Pet Resort, 3619 Bemidji Ave N, Bemidji, MN 56601

Pet-Friendly Parks & Trails

• Lake Bemidji State Park, 3401 State Park Rd NE, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Paul Bunyan State Trail, 1700 Birchmont Dr NE, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Diamond Point Park, 1700 Birchmont Dr NE, Bemidji, MN 56601

Local Government & Public Services In Bemidji, Minnesota

City Hall and Administrative Offices

• Bemidji City Hall, 317 4th St NW, Bemidji, MN 56601

County Government Services

• Beltrami County Courthouse, 701 Minnesota Ave NW, Bemidji, MN 56601

Public Records and Licensing

• Beltrami County Clerk, 701 Minnesota Ave NW, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Bemidji City Clerk, 317 4th St NW, Bemidji, MN 56601

Planning and Zoning Departments

• Bemidji Planning Department, 317 4th St NW, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Beltrami County Planning, 701 Minnesota Ave NW, Bemidji, MN 56601

Tax and Revenue Offices

• Beltrami County Treasurer, 701 Minnesota Ave NW, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Bemidji City Finance, 317 4th St NW, Bemidji, MN 56601

Police, Fire, and Emergency Services

• Bemidji Police Department, 613 Minnesota Ave NW, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Bemidji Fire Department, 318 5th St NW, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Beltrami County Sheriff, 701 Minnesota Ave NW, Bemidji, MN 56601

Courts and Legal Aid

• Beltrami County District Court, 600 Minnesota Ave NW, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Bemidji Municipal Court, 317 4th St NW, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Legal Aid Service of Northeastern Minnesota, 824 Paul Bunyan Dr S, Bemidji, MN 56601

Public Works and Utilities

• Bemidji Public Works, 317 4th St NW, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Beltrami County Highway Department, 2491 Adams Ave NW, Bemidji, MN 56601

Voter Registration and Civic Engagement

• Beltrami County Voter Registration, 701 Minnesota Ave NW, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Bemidji Public Library, 509 America Ave NW, Bemidji, MN 56601

Current U.S. Senators & U.S. House Representatives

Senators: Amy Klobuchar (D), Tina Smith (D)
House Representative (MN-8 District): Pete Stauber (R)

Education & Libraries In Bemidji, Minnesota

Public School Districts

Served by Bemidji Area Schools.

Public School Names and Full Addresses

• Bemidji Middle School, 1910 Middle School Ave NW, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Bemidji High School, 2900 Division St W, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Lincoln Elementary, 1617 5th St NE, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Northern Elementary, 8711 Irvine Ave NW, Bemidji, MN 56601

Charter and Private Schools

• TrekNorth Junior & Senior High, 2400 Pine Ridge Ave NW, Bemidji, MN 56601
• St. Philip’s Catholic School, 702 Beltrami Ave NW, Bemidji, MN 56601

Colleges and Universities

• Bemidji State University, 1500 Birchmont Dr NE, Bemidji, MN 56601; Majors: Environmental Studies, Nursing
• Northwest Technical College, 905 Grant Ave SE, Bemidji, MN 56601; Majors: Welding, Healthcare

Public Libraries and Learning Centers

• Bemidji Public Library, 509 America Ave NW, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Bemidji State University Library, 1500 Birchmont Dr NE, Bemidji, MN 56601

Flights & Travel Logistics In Bemidji, Minnesota

Best Time to Book Flights

Book 2-3 months ahead for affordable flights to Bemidji; January and November offer cheap one-way flights; avoid summer festival season.

Airlines That Serve Bemidji, Minnesota

BJI served by Delta Connection; connections via Minneapolis (MSP).

Nearby Airports and Alternatives

BJI is primary; alternatives: Grand Forks (GFK, 90 min), Duluth (DLH, 120 min). Drive via US-2; no direct Amtrak; Jefferson Lines buses to Bemidji.

Transportation After Arrival

Car rentals at BJI (Hertz, Enterprise); taxis ($10-15 downtown); Uber/Lyft ($8-12); Paul Bunyan Transit ($1.50/trip).

Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

Pack for cold winters; book Dragon Boat Festival events early; try pasties; rent a bike for Paul Bunyan Trail; visit Headwaters in spring. Secure flight bargains to Bemidji for savings.

Ready to explore Bemidji? Book low-budget tickets to Bemidji, Minnesota, USA (BJI) airport and save up to $158 with early booking. Keep in mind that the nearest airport to Bemidji, Minnesota, USA (BJI) may offer cheap tickets to Bemidji and alternate date options depending on departure city and season.

Where to Stay In Bemidji, Minnesota

Budget-Friendly Accommodations

• Super 8 by Wyndham Bemidji, 1815 Paul Bunyan Dr NW, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Quality Inn Bemidji, 3500 Moberg Dr NW, Bemidji, MN 56601
• AmericInn by Wyndham Bemidji, 1200 Paul Bunyan Dr NW, Bemidji, MN 56601

Boutique Hotels and Inns

• Ruttger’s Birchmont Lodge, 7598 Bemidji Rd NE, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Kohl’s Resort, 15707 Big Turtle Dr NE, Bemidji, MN 56601

Luxury Resorts and Spas

• Ruttger’s Birchmont Lodge, 7598 Bemidji Rd NE, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Lake Bemidji B&B, 2115 Bemidji Ave N, Bemidji, MN 56601

Family-Friendly Lodging

• Hampton Inn & Suites Bemidji, 1019 Paul Bunyan Dr S, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Holiday Inn Express Bemidji, 2422 Ridgeway Ave NW, Bemidji, MN 56601

Vacation Rentals and Extended Stays

• Airbnb Lakefront Cabins, Various, e.g., 1000 Bemidji Ave N, Bemidji, MN 56601
• VRBO Mississippi River Cottages, Near Birchmont Dr NE, Bemidji, MN 56601

Getting Around In Bemidji, Minnesota

Public Transportation Overview

Paul Bunyan Transit offers buses ($1.50/trip); limited city shuttles.

Car Rentals and Ride Shares

Rentals at BJI (Enterprise, Hertz); Uber/Lyft $8-12 for local trips; taxis $10-15; bike rentals ($8/day).

Walkability and Bike-Friendly Areas

Downtown scores 65/100 walkability; Paul Bunyan Trail and Lake Bemidji State Park bike-friendly.

Parking Tips and Local Driving Rules

Free parking downtown; metered near City Hall ($1/hour); 25 mph in town; watch for deer crossings.

Natural Wonders & Outdoor Activities In Bemidji, Minnesota

National Parks and Scenic Areas

Lake Itasca State Park (25 min); Chippewa National Forest (30 min).

Hiking, Biking, and Nature Trails

• Paul Bunyan State Trail, 1700 Birchmont Dr NE, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Lake Bemidji State Park Trails, 3401 State Park Rd NE, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Diamond Point Park Trails, 1700 Birchmont Dr NE, Bemidji, MN 56601

Wildlife Viewing

Loons, deer, and walleye in Lake Bemidji and Chippewa National Forest.

Lakes, Rivers, and Water Activities

• Lake Bemidji, fishing, 3401 State Park Rd NE, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Mississippi Headwaters, kayaking, 5239 MN-200, Jacobson, MN 56601

Camping and RV Parks

• Lake Bemidji State Park Campground, 3401 State Park Rd NE, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Royal Oaks RV Park, 17763 213th Ave NW, Bemidji, MN 56601

Seasonal Outdoor Adventures

Spring fishing, summer boating, fall hiking, winter snowshoeing.

History & Heritage In Bemidji, Minnesota

Founding and Historical Background

Founded 1896 as a logging and trading hub; grew with railroads and tourism.

Major Disasters and Events

Happy: Paul Bunyan statues erected (1937). Sad: 1910 wildfire; 2020 flooding.

Recovery Efforts for Recent Disaster

Post-2020 flooding: FEMA aid, riverbank restoration, community relief programs.

Historical Landmarks

• Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox Statues, 300 Bemidji Ave N, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Mississippi Headwaters, 5239 MN-200, Jacobson, MN 56601
• Beltrami County Historical Society Museum, 130 Minnesota Ave SW, Bemidji, MN 56601

Museums and Cultural Centers

• Beltrami County Historical Society Museum, 130 Minnesota Ave SW, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Headwaters Science Center, 413 Beltrami Ave NW, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Bemidji Community Arts Center, 426 Bemidji Ave N, Bemidji, MN 56601

Local Folklore and Legends

Paul Bunyan and Babe tales; Ojibwe creation stories; logging era legends.

Indigenous and Pioneer History

Ojibwe lands pre-1800s; settlers arrived 1880s; logging and fur trade shaped growth.

Prominent Public and Private Personalities In Bemidji, Minnesota

• Chief Bemidji (Shaynowishkung): Ojibwe leader, city namesake.
• Paul Bunyan (folklore): Iconic lumberjack figure.
• John G. Morrison: Early logging pioneer.

Arts & Culture In Bemidji, Minnesota

Performing Arts Venues

• Bemidji Community Arts Center, 426 Bemidji Ave N, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Paul Bunyan Playhouse, 314 Beltrami Ave NW, Bemidji, MN 56601

Art Galleries and Exhibitions

• Downtown Sculpture Walk, 426 Bemidji Ave N, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Watermark Art Center, 505 Bemidji Ave N, Bemidji, MN 56601

Local Artists and Artisans

Sculptors, painters, and musicians at Sculpture Walk and Dragon Boat Festival.

Cultural Festivals and Events

• Bemidji Dragon Boat Festival, 300 Bemidji Ave N, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Winterfest, 3401 State Park Rd NE, Bemidji, MN 56601

Music Scene and Live Performances

• Keg N’ Cork, 310 Beltrami Ave NW, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Bemidji Community Arts Center, 426 Bemidji Ave N, Bemidji, MN 56601

Food & Drink In Bemidji, Minnesota

Restaurants by Cuisine

• American - The Tavern on South Shore, 300 Bemidji Ave N, Bemidji, MN 56601; Specialty: Burgers
• Seafood - Tutto Bene, 300 Beltrami Ave NW, Bemidji, MN 56601; Specialty: Lake fish
• Midwestern - Raphael’s Bakery Café, 319 Minnesota Ave NW, Bemidji, MN 56601; Specialty: Pasties
• Pub - Brigid’s Pub, 317 4th St NW, Bemidji, MN 56601; Specialty: Craft beer

Farm-to-Table and Local Ingredients

Tutto Bene uses local lake fish; Bemidji Farmers Market sources berries, produce.

Breweries, Wineries, and Distilleries

• Bemidji Brewing, 401 Beltrami Ave NW, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Outstate Brewing Company, 309 America Ave NW, Bemidji, MN 56601

Street Food and Casual Dining

• Bemidji Farmers Market, 200 Paul Bunyan Dr S, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Cantina Laredo, 426 Bemidji Ave N, Bemidji, MN 56601

Vegan, Vegetarian, and Dietary Options

Raphael’s offers vegetarian pasties; Tutto Bene has gluten-free fish; most eateries provide dietary choices.

Shopping & Leisure In Bemidji, Minnesota

Local Boutiques and Artisan Shops

• Bemidji Woolen Mills, 301 Irvine Ave NW, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Bemidji Farmers Market, 200 Paul Bunyan Dr S, Bemidji, MN 56601

Malls and Shopping Districts

• Downtown Bemidji, Beltrami Ave NW, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Paul Bunyan Mall, 1401 Paul Bunyan Dr NW, Bemidji, MN 56601

Antique Stores and Markets

• Bemidji Antique Mall, 824 Paul Bunyan Dr S, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Northwoods Flea Market, 200 Paul Bunyan Dr S, Bemidji, MN 56601

Souvenirs and Specialty Goods

• Paul Bunyan Gift Shop, 300 Bemidji Ave N, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Watermark Art Center Shop, 505 Bemidji Ave N, Bemidji, MN 56601

Events & Entertainment In Bemidji, Minnesota

Annual Festivals and Parades

• Bemidji Dragon Boat Festival, 300 Bemidji Ave N, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Winterfest, 3401 State Park Rd NE, Bemidji, MN 56601

Farmers Markets and Local Gatherings

• Bemidji Farmers Market, 200 Paul Bunyan Dr S, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Diamond Point Park Picnics, 1700 Birchmont Dr NE, Bemidji, MN 56601

Sports Events and Recreational Leagues

• Bemidji Parks and Recreation, 317 4th St NW, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Bemidji Youth League, 1230 23rd St NW, Bemidji, MN 56601

Holiday Celebrations and Seasonal Fun

• Bemidji First City of Lights, 300 Bemidji Ave N, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Winterfest, 3401 State Park Rd NE, Bemidji, MN 56601

Nearby Destinations In Bemidji, Minnesota

Popular Day Trips

• Lake Itasca State Park, MN (25 min): Mississippi Headwaters
• Bagley, MN (30 min): Clearwater County Historical Museum

Hidden Gems in the Region

• Lake Bemidji, 3401 State Park Rd NE, Bemidji, MN 56601
• Concordian Sculpture Park, 5239 MN-200, Jacobson, MN 56601

Scenic Drives and Routes

• US-2 to Grand Forks, US-2, Bemidji, MN 56601
• MN-200 to Lake Itasca, MN-200, Bemidji, MN 56601

Regional Attractions Worth Visiting

• Chippewa National Forest, 30 min, Cass Lake, MN 56633
• Itasca State Park, 5239 MN-200, Jacobson, MN 56601

Audience-Specific Guides In Bemidji, Minnesota

Family Travel Tips

Visit Paul Bunyan statues, explore Headwaters Science Center, stay at family-friendly hotels, attend Dragon Boat Festival with cheap travel deals to Bemidji.

Solo Traveler Highlights

Explore Beltrami County Museum, dine at Raphael’s, bike Paul Bunyan Trail, visit Mississippi Headwaters with discounted airfare to Bemidji.

Romantic Getaways

Dine at Tutto Bene, stay at Ruttger’s Birchmont Lodge, kayak Lake Bemidji, tour Sculpture Walk with budget plane tickets to Bemidji.

Business Travel Essentials

Near BJI airport, meeting spaces at Hampton Inn, quick dining, Wi-Fi at Holiday Inn Express with low-cost tickets to Bemidji.

Accessible Travel Resources

ADA-compliant parks and museums, wheelchair rentals at Sanford Medical Center, accessible Paul Bunyan Transit, Minnesota Relay services.

Natural Resources In Bemidji, Minnesota

Timber, fish, iron ore, granite, peat. Granite, a durable and abundant resource, supports local construction and is featured in Bemidji’s Sculpture Walk artworks. The Beltrami County Historical Society Museum displays granite’s role in regional development, and nearby quarries offer educational tours, attracting visitors interested in Minnesota’s geological and artistic heritage.

Article Published on August 27, 2025, Last Modified on October 5, 2025. Content subject to change at any time.