The state of Minnesota is known for a great many things: history, activities, nature, food, sports teams, and even its legendary winters. In fact, it’s such a diverse state that there’s bound to be something that every kind of traveler will enjoy. Art lovers will love to visit the Minneapolis Institute of Art while liquor enthusiasts can sample some cocktails at the RockFilter Distillery. Activities such as fishing, golf, hiking, cycling, and water sports also await visitors here.
Additionally, the state also boasts some of the country’s best resort towns where you can go on a getaway with your family to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. Read on for the best resort towns in Minnesota, USA.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on October 26, 2025.
1. Grand Rapids
If you’re looking to embrace nature on your next getaway, consider going on vacation to Grand Rapids. With its forests, trails, and lakes that are abundant in fish, you and your companions will undoubtedly have a fun outdoor adventure while experiencing peace and tranquility during your time here. If you’re particularly interested in the environment, consider paying the Forest History Center a visit to learn more about Minnesota’s forests.
Should you be visiting the area on a budget, Hotel Rapids and I M Hotel by Timberlake are accommodations that can provide comfortable lodgings without breaking the bank. A refurbished mid-century modern house is also a great choice.
Hotel Rapids
Address: 680 US Hwy 2 East
248.65 km (154.6 mi) from Teddy Bear Park
I M Hotel by Timberlake
Address: 1702 South Pokegama Avenue
246.52 km (153.2 mi) from Teddy Bear Park
Grand Rapids, Minnesota, United States
249.11 km (154.8 mi) from Teddy Bear Park
Top guest reviews
Read more reviewsLocation:
nice location is about 5 minutes from restaurants and shoppingwe were in grand rapids for business and we’re happy to have a relaxing quiet stay at the midmod
2. Excelsior
Excelsior is a quaint and charming town that rests along Lake Minnetonka. Here, you’ll find plenty of things that you can see or do with your family during your getaway. You can gorge on ice cream with the kids at Licks Unlimited or Adele’s Frozen Custard, and the Excelsior Farmers’ Market is the best place to pick up some fresh produce. If you’re visiting during October, you can participate in the revelries of the local Oktoberfest that’s held by Excelsior Brewing Company.
Elegant and newly renovated rentals can accommodate you and your companions should you opt for Excelsior as a vacation destination.
Excelsior, Minnesota, United States
62.16 km (38.7 mi) from Teddy Bear Park
Excelsior, Minnesota, United States
62.59 km (38.9 mi) from Teddy Bear Park
Excelsior, Minnesota, United States
61.55 km (38.3 mi) from Teddy Bear Park
Top guest reviews
Host:
our host was easy to communicate with and responded promptly to email correspondenceRead more reviewsCleanliness:
specifically the cleanliness and updated décor made our overnight so fun and comfortable
3. Ely
Enjoy a wonderful experience east of the Rockies by going on a vacation to Ely. Here, fun activities such as camping, canoeing, and fishing await anyone looking to have a pleasant time in the great outdoors. Should your tastes lean more toward the urban side of things, worry not because you can also visit Downtown Ely for a satisfying shopping spree. Additionally, history buffs can amuse themselves in this resort town by visiting its various museums such as The Stained Glass Museum.
When looking for lodgings that will make you feel right at home, don’t hesitate to book a stay at Grand Ely Lodge or Northwoods Inn and Suites. A strategically located studio apartment in the downtown area is also worth renting.
Grand Ely Lodge
Address: 400 N. Pioneer Road
326.0 km (202.6 mi) from Teddy Bear Park
Northwoods Inn and Suites
Address: 1605 East Sheridan Street
325.32 km (202.2 mi) from Teddy Bear Park
Ely, Minnesota, United States
324.65 km (201.8 mi) from Teddy Bear Park
Top guest reviews
Host:
the owners and property manager were very helpful with my few questionscat and kelly were responsive and helped with any questions or issues we hadLocation:
the location was fantastic for walking around the town and seeing the sightsthe location of the property was perfect and i had everything i neededCleanliness:
it was clean and invitingmodern and clean and in a great locationclean roomy we’ll outfitted and very nicely locatedthe space itself was very comfortable and cleanRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
everything 1 or 2 people can need and the bed was super comfortable
You might be interested in these Airbnbs!
4. Red Wing
Excellent dining experiences with well-prepared, hot food and knowledgeable wait staff.
Reasonable pricing for a historic 19th-century hotel with free parking.
Great downtown location near the river, shops, and restaurants.
Beautifully restored with attractive public spaces, though room layout and size vary.
The city of Red Wing is a terrific destination if you’re looking for an authentic Midwest experience. With a vibrant arts and culture community, informative museums, and unspoiled natural sceneries, this charming city is sure to energize travelers who are looking to rejuvenate themselves from the stresses of daily life. Fun activities such as fishing, golfing, cycling, and canoeing also await tourists here.
If you’re looking for stylish and elegant hotels for your accommodation, check out St James Hotel or Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Red Wing, MN. Should you prefer a holiday home, opt for a historic mansion located in Downtown Red Wing.
St James Hotel
Address: 406 Main Street
58.31 km (36.3 mi) from Teddy Bear Park
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Red Wing, MN This is a Proud Certified property where you can be extra sure of a welcoming stay.
Address: 4275 Highway 61 West
55.78 km (34.7 mi) from Teddy Bear Park
Red Wing, Minnesota, United States
58.98 km (36.7 mi) from Teddy Bear Park
Top guest reviews
Location:
the property is within walking distance of restaurants and activities downtown red wing which is a lovely areawe enjoyed the local restaurants that are walking distance and the cute small town shops and boutiquesloved being able to walk to restaurants and explorethe wedding was great and the house and location were very convenientCleanliness:
the house was clean and rooms were comfortableRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
beds were comfy bathrooms ensuite for each bedroom was great
5. Grand Marais
Whether you’re a creative looking for your next big inspiration, an adventurer seeking new thrills, or a family simply looking to spend some time with one another, you can never go wrong by heading to Grand Marais. At this destination, you’ll find shops dealing with local arts and crafts, traditional cafes, breathtaking natural sceneries, and even unique restaurants, making it the perfect getaway for those looking for new experiences.
Popular rentals at Grand Marais include Hillside Harbor and Grand Marais House of Light. A two-bedroom rental in the heart of the city is a lovely option, too.
Grand Marais, Minnesota, United States
354.57 km (220.4 mi) from Teddy Bear Park
Top guest reviews
Host:
very helpful and friendly hostexceptional hosts and a comfortable place to stayowner was terrific and quickly responded to our request for lampsLocation:
the location was fantastic alsowalk anywhere in "downtown" grand maraisthis place was amazing great location and viewawesome view of the lighthouse and walking distance to downtownnice home in a great locationCleanliness:
this spot was fantastic very clean and a great locationthis was a great property not only was everything clean and easy the location is fantasticRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
we loved the kitchen living room and the view the mostvery warm inside and the heated floors in the living room were a bonus
Grand Marais, Minnesota, United States
354.73 km (220.5 mi) from Teddy Bear Park
Top guest reviews
Host:
host was great to communicate withLocation:
great location fully stocked with everyone we could need (including games and records )Read more reviewsAmenities & Room:
bedding was very comfortable
Grand Marais, Minnesota, United States
354.75 km (220.5 mi) from Teddy Bear Park
Top guest reviews
Host:
management company was very responsive and helpfulRead more reviewsLocation:
great location within walking distance of everythingbeautiful home with perfect location in grand maraisminimal and well thought out design- warm cork flooring- great location for gm access
6. Saint Peter
Saint Peter in Minnesota is a small resort town with a population of 12,000 people. If you’re looking for a unique getaway for you and your family, this destination is one of your best bets. Here, you can explore the city and find plenty of things to do such as exploring the botanical gardens of The Arboretum At Gustavus Adolphus College or warming up with a cup of coffee at River Rock Coffee & Tea. Visitors can even drive a tank during their time here.
Once the sun’s gone down, you can take refuge at Best Western Plus Saint Peter or AmericInn by Wyndham St. Peter. You can also rent a charming loft apartment if you want something a bit more reminiscent of home.
AmericInn by Wyndham St. Peter
Address: 700 North Minnesota Avenue
121.02 km (75.2 mi) from Teddy Bear Park
Best Western Plus Saint Peter
Address: 1301 Old Minnesota Ave
119.75 km (74.5 mi) from Teddy Bear Park
St Peter, Minnesota, United States
121.95 km (75.8 mi) from Teddy Bear Park
Top guest reviews
Host:
the host was wonderful and thought of everythinghe was available to answer any questions and very friendly and accommodatingLocation:
great location as wellthe location is amazing; we enjoyed strolling down the blocks to shopCleanliness:
the place was very clean and well decoratedwe had an amazing experience— very clean and the most well stocked place i’ve ever beensuch a clean welcoming place in a great locationvery clean with tons of extra touches comfortable beds and fully functional kitchenRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
very comfortable beds and so many thoughtful extras throughout the apartment
7. Mankato
Don’t hesitate to consider Mankato as your next vacation destination. Home to open country roads, cycling trails, and entertainment centers, it has the perfect combination of a small town and natural sceneries. Activities such as hiking, cycling, and kayaking are very popular at this place. Plus, its city center also boasts lively nightlife, with approximately over 700 shows held here every year.
If you’re looking for accommodations that will make you feel right at home, book a stay at either AmericInn by Wyndham Mankato Event Center near MSU or Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Mankato Hotel and Conference Center, MN. A fully furnished rental with a pool and hot tub access is also an awesome choice.
AmericInn by Wyndham Mankato Event Center near MSU
Address: 240 Stadium Road
137.91 km (85.7 mi) from Teddy Bear Park
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Mankato Hotel and Conference Center, MN
Address: 1900 Premier Drive
132.84 km (82.6 mi) from Teddy Bear Park
Mankato, Minnesota, United States
133.03 km (82.7 mi) from Teddy Bear Park
Top guest reviews
Location:
a good location within walking distance to hyvee and the river hills malls among other storesgreat place to stay in mankatoRead more reviewsCleanliness:
the apartment is clean and nicely appointedhad several nice touches such as cleaning supplies board games and kitchen gadgets for cooking
8. Minnetonka
If you love the outdoors, then you’ll be delighted to go on a holiday to Minnetonka. One of Minnesota’s best resort towns, it’s home to around 50 parks and offers many fun-filled activities. Want to try your hand at being a wine connoisseur for a day? Head to Spasso and sample any of its 140 wine bottles. If you love to fish, visit Lone Lake Community Park and Preserve where 146 acres (59.08 hectares) of shoreline awaits. You can also find all manner of souvenirs at the General Store of Minnetonka. Whatever you like to do, you’ll surely find it in this wonderful city.
For a memorable time, book a room at Hampton Inn & Suites Minneapolis West/Minnetonka or Home2 Suites by Hilton Minneapolis-Eden Prairie. You can also choose a lovely home with airport and downtown access for convenience.
Home2 Suites by Hilton Minneapolis-Eden Prairie
Address: 6030 Clearwater Drive
53.09 km (33.0 mi) from Teddy Bear Park
Hampton Inn & Suites Minneapolis West/ Minnetonka
Address: 10600 Wayzata Blvd
48.73 km (30.3 mi) from Teddy Bear Park
Minnetonka, Minnesota, United States
55.58 km (34.6 mi) from Teddy Bear Park
Top guest reviews
Host:
owners were very responsive and helpfulthanks for being super hoststhanks for being super hostsLocation:
beautiful comfortable and close to everythingit was close to some very good restaurants and close enough to downtown to catch a twins gamewe loved the property and locationCleanliness:
super clean quiet and comfortableeverything was so clean and welcomingthe house is beautiful it is very comfortable and clean and nice locationRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
the kitchen is fabulous for cooking with well stocked suppliesthe kitchen is fabulous for cooking with well stocked supplies
9. Stillwater
Known as “The Birthplace of Minnesota” for being the site of the convention that began the process of turning Minnesota into a state, Stillwater is a year-round resort town that offers many things to do. You can learn more about the city by taking a trolley or guided walking historical tours or tee off at one of its many golf clubs. Foodies can also treat themselves to any of the sidewalk cafes and restaurants for a wonderful dining experience.
During your time here, you can get comfortable by staying at Lora or Water Street Inn. A beautiful cottage on the lake is also a fantastic home away from home.
Water Street Inn
Address: 101 Water Street
308 meters (0.2 ft) from Teddy Bear Park
Lora
Address: 402 South Main Street
62 meters (203.2 ft) from Teddy Bear Park
Stillwater, Minnesota, United States
1.44 km (0.9 mi) from Teddy Bear Park
Top guest reviews
Location:
this house is beautiful and the location is greatwe would recommend this location 100% for family gatheringthe walking path right alongside the property made for a nice morning walk with a lot of wildlifegreat location and would come back in a heartbeatspaceous well appointed tech approved loved the fireplace nice place to walk or ride your bikeCleanliness:
it was clean and spacious and the yard was perfect for games and a bonfireit had everything we needed the location is fantastic the house is clean and well keptRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
beds were comfortable and there were plenty of extra pillows and blankets
10. Maple Grove
Plan a memorable trip to Minnesota by considering a visit to Maple Grove. At this spectacular resort town, you’ll find fun activities to do with your family such as making a splash at Venetian Indoor Waterpark, having a retail therapy in The Shoppes at Arbor Lakes, or indulging in some outdoor activities such as biking and swimming at Elm Creek Park Reserve.
Book a stay at either Hilton Garden Inn Minneapolis Maple Grove or Courtyard Minneapolis Maple Grove Arbor Lakes. Spacious rentals are also an option for tourists at Maple Grove.
Hilton Garden Inn Minneapolis - Maple Grove
Address: 6350 Vinewood Lane
50.55 km (31.5 mi) from Teddy Bear Park
Courtyard Minneapolis Maple Grove Arbor Lakes
Address: 11871 Fountains Way North
49.23 km (30.6 mi) from Teddy Bear Park
Maple Grove, Minnesota, United States
49.1 km (30.6 mi) from Teddy Bear Park
Top guest reviews
Host:
janine was wonderful and very responsive to any questions we hadLocation:
the location is very close to shopping dining and highways to get around pretty easyCleanliness:
upon entering you could tell this was a nice clean place to stayRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
the beds were very comfortable and the “welcome” sign and snacks were appreciated
Be mesmerized by Minnesota's resort towns
It’s undeniable that the beauty of Minnesota makes it a destination worthy of any traveler’s bucket list. When you’re planning your vacation to the so-called “Land of 10,000 Lakes”, refer to this list for the best resort towns in Minnesota, USA.
History
Get Trip101 in your inbox
Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data