What to See and Do

See for yourself why they call it the “Lake that Speaks.”

Visit the chapel

Step into the re-created chapel built in the 1940s and learn about life in the pre-territorial mission. See exhibits and artifacts that tell of the Dakota, and the role missionaries played in the development of the written Dakota alphabet and the translation of the Bible into the Dakota language.

Explore Lac qui Parle State Park

Experience the lake by canoe or kayak. Fish for plentiful walleyes, northerns, perch, or crappies. Trek the trails on foot or horseback. Keep an eye out for wildlife, as the nearby Lac qui Parle Wildlife Management Area means you may come face-to-face with white tail deer, geese, swans, nesting pelicans, and other animals who call the area home.

Members always save

Minnesota Historical Society members receive free general admission and a 10% discount on purchases in MNHS stores and in our online store. Become an MNHS member today!

Visit another nearby MNHS historic site

While you're in the area, tie in a visit to the Lower Sioux Agency, where you can learn about Dakota culture and history, and examine the causes of the US-Dakota War. See the Lower Sioux Agency website for hours, directions, and other information.