National Loon Center

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Minnesotans love their lakes and our state bird – the Common Loon.

The National Loon Center was established in 2017 to address the urgent need to protect loons and their habitats, and that work has led to tens of thousands of people reached through our many outreach and education programs. Now, as the foundation footings and site improvements for our world class facility are completed in the coming weeks, the countdown to Grand Opening begins!

Acting as a hub for research, education, and community engagement, the National Loon Center will deepen our understanding of loons and the ecosystems they depend on. Interactive exhibits and hands-on programs invite visitors of all ages to learn about the challenges facing loons and highlight practical steps we can take to ensure their continued survival. The Center’s mission centers on fostering stewardship and nurturing a connection to the natural world, inspiring everyone to contribute to preserving these cherished birds and their habitats. With three floors of engaging exhibits, interactive discovery activities, and outdoor learning areas, the Center provides meaningful opportunities for people of all ages to connect with the story of the loon. Each summer, we launch the StewardShip, a pontoon used for loon and freshwater education excursions on Cross Lake for guests of all ages and school groups. In just four years, we have guided 366 trips for 4,342 guests, providing an up-close view of the loon's magnificence, and a poignant reminder of the need to preserve the lakes it relies upon.

Together, we can build a lasting legacy—one that honors our lakes, uplifts our communities, and preserves the wild spirit of the loon for generations to come.