Minnesota, USA, has garnered the nickname “Bread and Butter State” for its numerous flour mills and butter-making plants. Some might also recognize Minnesota as the “Land of 10,000 Lakes”. Although it sounds bizarre, Minnesota does in fact have more than 10,000 lakes. Located in the north-central part of USA, Minnesota is surrounded by Canadian states Manitoba and Ontario in the north and Lake Superior in the east. Outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers can certainly appreciate paddling through the serene Boundary Waters or hiking on the trails of Voyageurs National Park. The twin cities of Minneapolis and Saint Paul are a must-visit. Check out the top-rated weekend getaways in Minnesota, the USA, for a truly splendid trip!
1. Minneapolis - Lake of Isles (from USD 165)
The Lake of Isles is an absolute beauty. A part of Chain of Lakes Regional Park, Lake of Isles has an average of 5.5 million visitors annually. They flock to this location to simply enjoy its picturesque views. People who visit typically lay out a blanket and enjoy a lovely picnic. Those who visit in the summer get the opportunity to canoe on the lake itself. During winter, ice skating can be quite magical. If you bring your furry buddy along, there is an off-leash dog park situated at the south end of the park. This is definitely a hidden gem in the heart of Minneapolis!
Hampton Inn & Suites - Minneapolis/Downtown
Parking Meeting/banquet facilities 24-hour front desk Fitness centre Garden Non-smoking rooms Dry cleaning Facilities for disabled guests
2. Duluth - North Shore Scenic Railroad (from USD 229)
Hop on the Duluth Trains along North Shore Scenic Railroad. This heritage railroad, which spans 28 miles (45.1 kilometres), operates between Duluth and Two Harbors. Today, North Shore Scenic Railroad ferries over 100,000 passengers annually. Visitors from around the world flock to this beautiful railroad to immerse themselves in its rich history. For train enthusiasts, embarking on one of their special train excursions would prove to be a treat. Reserve your tickets for The Duluth Zephyr, a 75-minute train ride, which runs through the shorelines of Lake Superior and the historic Congdon neighbourhood. Be sure to check out Lake Superior Railroad Museum for their impressive display of historic railroad equipment.
Lift Bridge Lodge, Ascend Hotel Collection
Parking Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-hour front desk Fitness centre Garden Terrace Non-smoking rooms
3. Ely - Ely Steam Bath (from USD 209)
Fancy a steam bath while in Minnesota? Head over to Ely Steam Sauna, a century-old public sauna in Ely. This public sauna is a local favourite, especially for those seeking a refreshing steam bath and a good conversation. For 7 USD, a visitor receives a pair of towels, a bar of soap, and the experience of having a steam bath with family or friends. There’s something quite magical about the sauna experience. You’ll have to head over to Ely Steam Sauna to experience it yourself!
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
even my oldest daughter who barely share her room loved us sleeping together in the lofteverything was well thought out and every room was a delight to be inwe fell in love with the beautiful log cabin interior and cozy pine wallscolleen’s cabin was amazing the decor and overall atmosphere was very cozyCleanliness:
very clean and cozy cabinvery clean and well maintainedsuper cozy and clean cabin feelcolleen's place was cozy clean and comfortablevery thoughtful host immaculately clean and charming insideHost:
the host is quick and efficient at responding to any questionscolleen is a wonderful caring hostcolleen our host was extremely easy to communicate withgas fireplace comfortable beds kitchen amenities and a wonderful responsive host that provided great recommendations that met our interestscolleen was great to work with and responsive to minor questionsRead more reviewsLocation:
wonderful cozy cabin close to townbeautiful rustic cabin within walking distance of downtown elythe location was best balance of peace and walkability to restaurants/shoppingthe cabin was close to downtown ely making it an easy drive to restaurants and storeswhat an amazing space so close to town
Superhost
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4. Lanesboro - Root River State Trail (from USD 149)
At the heart of Lanesboro lies the spectacular Root River State Trail, which spans 42 miles (67.6 kilometres). Within this trail are two scenic state bike trails, namely, Root River State Trail and Harmony-Preston Valley State trail, which connect the Root River Trail towns. These trails wind through an abandoned railroad bed and follow the Root River. You’ll be able to spot a plethora of birds such as hawks, songbirds, and wild turkeys. Keep a lookout for rattlesnakes around the vicinity too. Take your time to explore the historical buildings and the Amish communities that reside along the trail. If you’re up for an adventure, reside at one of the trail towns!
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
louanne’s space is absolutely stunning so much room and very comfortable bed and furniturethe bed is amazingly comfortablecool bar area comfortable furniture well stocked kitchen and we really enjoyed our 3-night getawaylots of clean linens and extra pillows a neat high top table good tv and internetthe space itself was spacious and very comfortableCleanliness:
very clean and comfortablelots of clean towels linen and blanketsthe space was very clean stylish and comfortablea clean and comfortable place to stay in lanesboroand the living space is very clean and comfortableHost:
the patrons and the staff are so wonderfulthe owner is competent and helpfullouanne is a great host friendly responsive and availablelouanne is a dream host and the loft is our favorite airbnb yetvery stylish open space louanne is a wonderful hostRead more reviewsLocation:
nice location in townexcellent location in a charming towna great location to enjoy the areas attractionsgreat place and location definitely recommendthe loft is located in the best location right on main street
5. Grand Marais - Grand Marais Harbor (from USD 237)
Nestled on Lake Superior lies the historic Grand Marais Harbour. This charming destination is a unique backdrop for recreation and art for locals and visitors alike. Skip stones, watch for flocks of seagulls, or observe local commercial fishermen anchor at the docks at the harbour. Pay the iconic lighthouse a visit. Erected in 1884, this building is now home to Cook County Historical Society. While you are there, hike up Gunflint Trail toward Pincushion Mountain Overlook, which boasts a 180-degree view of Lake Superior. If you are feeling adventurous, walk out to an island called Artist’s Point. Located on the east side of the harbour, this is surely worth a visit.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
couch made a surprisingly comfortable bedvery comfortable bed with just the right amenities for a quiet simple staythe bed was comfortable and the tub is great for soaking sore musclesit was warm during our stay and the a/c was perfect working quickly when neededvery cozy and private location with great amenities outside fireplace large tub and well decorated spaceCleanliness:
sparkling clean and quaint place to staythis was a nice very clean and cozy cabinplace was clean equipped with everything you need for a quiet getaway and a wonderful tubincredibly clean and provides everything you'd need for a comfortable stay (fully stocked kitchen supplies linens towels etc)the cabin was sparkling clean and the hosts were responsive and helpfulHost:
todd was responsive and friendlythe hosts were friendly and made sure we had everything we neededthank you so much todd and susan for being such lovely hoststodd was a great resource and really responsive to any questions we hadtodd & susan are gracious hosts helpful when needed but not at all intrusiveRead more reviewsLocation:
great location easy to walk to everything but still privateawesome location just a short walk to downtown and the lakeabsolutely fantastic location to all locations downtowna great space close to downtowncute little cabin close to everything in grand marais
6. Minnesota River Valley Scenic Byway (from USD 84)
Minnesota River Valley Scenic Byway is a 287-mile (461.9-kilometre) drive through south-central Minnesota, which takes you along the meandering Minnesota River, orchards, and vineyards. The picturesque road has six state parks, important museums, and historic sites. Pick apples at Emma Krumbee’s orchard. Have a glass of wine and wood-fired pizzas at Morgan Creek Vineyards. For those who are bird enthusiasts, be on the lookout for eagles in La Sueur and Saint Peter. Pack your bags and head off for an exciting road trip!
HomeTown Inn and Suites Belle Plaine
Address: 331 Enterprise Drive East
Parking Meeting/banquet facilities 24-hour front desk Non-smoking rooms Business centre Games room Free parking Internet services
7. Winona (from USD 149)
Known for its picturesque vistas and stunning architecture, Winona is a city located in southeast Minnesota. Nestled along the majestic Mississippi River, Winona has magnificent views that can be witnessed on Garvin Heights Overlook. For those who fancy a round of golf, Winona has three golf courses with breathtaking views. Winona also has many scenic bike routes around the 300-acre (121.4-hectare) Lake Winona. With the Mississippi River along Winona, you can be sure that fishing here will be phenomenal.
Alexander Mansion Bed & Breakfast
Address: 274 East Broadway Street
Parking Pets allowed Meeting/banquet facilities Garden Terrace Non-smoking rooms Fishing Business centre
8. Detroit Lakes (from USD 91)
Home to more than 400 sparkling blue lakes is Detroit Lakes in Minnesota. Detroit Lakes is filled with a whole host of activities for everyone all year round. While Detroit Lakes offers more freshwater and miles of shoreline more than any other destination in Northwest Minnesota, there’s certainly more to this adventure, especially on land. Hit up the 1 mi (1.6 km) of sugar sand beach and go for a swim or a tan. If you’re a golf enthusiast, head over to the emerald fairways at Detroit Country Club. Families can also try their hand at mini golf. Mountain bikers can certainly get a thrill from the miles of terrain at Maplelog Resort and Detroit Mountain Recreation Area. There’s something for everyone here at Detroit Lakes!
Lakes Inn
Parking Pets allowed Non-smoking rooms Free parking Internet services Canoeing BBQ facilities WiFi Available
9. Lutsen - Lutsen Mountains (from USD 249)
Lutsen Mountains is home to Minnesota’s first resort. Here you’ll find the finest collection of family-owned resorts and ski lodges. It’s no secret that Lutsen thrives during winter. This winter wonderland is constantly blessed with white, fluffy, and deep snow annually. Alpine sports enthusiasts can certainly enjoy their time on the numerous mountain ski trails. While you’re there, take in the breathtaking scenes of Lake Superior. Whether you’re looking for a fun family getaway, a romantic escape, or an amazing location to spend time with your friends, Lutsen Mountains is quite the destination to be at.
The Historic Lutsen Lodge
Parking Restaurant 24-hour front desk Sauna Golf course (within 3 km) Garden Non-smoking rooms Fishing
10. Eagan - Lebanon Hills Regional Park
Lebanon Hills Regional Park is the largest park in the Dakota County park system. Located in the Minnesota cities of Eagan and Apple Valley, this 1869-acre (756.4-hectare) park offers hiking trails and numerous lakes for outdoor sports. The Holland and O’Brien Lakes trail is definitely something worth exploring. This is an 8.9-kilometre (5.5-mile) loop trail near Saint Paul, Minnesota. Apart from hiking, this is also a lovely spot for some bird watching. While in Lebanon Hills Regional Park, check out Schulze Lake Beach. The clear waters of Schulze Lake are breathtaking and a popular spot with the locals.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
our stay at jack's lovely apartment was everything we needed last weekendthey have a beautiful home and we felt welcome and comfortable right awayCleanliness:
a clean quiet place to spread outRead more reviewsHost:
jack and leann are excellent hostsjack and leann were excellent hostsjack and leann were responsive to any questionsi would highly recommend these hostswe were blessed to have such wonderful hosts and such a beautiful place to stay
Pack now for a perfect weekend getaway
Looking for the perfect weekend getaway? These top-rated weekend getaways in Minnesota, USA, will surely give you the enjoyable time off you deserve. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a nature lover, and someone who just loves to explore, Minnesota is definitely the destination for you. Let Minnesota surprise you!
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