Summary
Minnesota, recognized as the Land of 10,000 Lakes, captivates visitors with its stunning natural landscapes and numerous waterways. From the picturesque shores of Lake Superior to the serene lakeside havens throughout the state, Minnesota provides abundant opportunities for boating, fishing, and outdoor leisure activities.
The majority of resorts in this region present themselves as “four seasons” retreats, offering a plethora of activities throughout the year, including during winter’s cold, snowy periods. Even if you are not engaged in kayaking or boating, skiing and snowshoeing remain viable options.
The vibrant Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul offer a remarkable fusion of arts, culture, and flourishing culinary scenes. In contrast, charming small towns like Stillwater and Duluth reflect the state’s rich history and welcoming hospitality. Whether you are venturing into the North Woods, delving into Scandinavian heritage, or immersing yourself in urban life, Minnesota’s diverse array of offerings renders it a destination worthy of exploration.
Here, we present the premier resorts in Minnesota:
1. Quarterdeck Resort
Source: quarterdeckresort
A two-hour drive from the Twin Cities, Quarterdeck offers an authentic experience of Minnesota lake living. Visitors can enjoy Gull Lake through cabin stays, romantic lodge suites, or family accommodations in their cottages. Nestled on 27 acres in the popular Brainerd Lakes area, Quarterdeck is a boutique resort characterized by stunning views and casual elegance.
Summer activities include fishing, golfing, and boating, while winter brings opportunities for skiing, ice fishing, and snowmobiling, ensuring a thrilling experience for adventurous guests. Jack’s Beach Grill, located on the premises, serves fresh lakeside meals, including coastal-inspired options such as lobster tacos. The resort’s accommodations provide guests with optimal views and privacy, featuring balconies that overlook the lake, alongside whirlpool tubs and fireplaces for additional comfort.
Website: http://quarterdeckresort.com/
2. Grand View Lodge
Source: grandviewlodge
When seeking resort recommendations in Minnesota, many locals will suggest the renowned Grand View Lodge. This expansive destination in Nisswa provides ample activities, necessitating at least a week to fully enjoy its offerings. Popular options include pontoon boat rides, golf on two championship courses, fishing excursions, and family boating and tubing sessions on the lake.
Alternatively, indulge in a day at Glacial Waters Spa for relaxation or explore the culinary delights at one of the resort’s six restaurants and bars. Grand View Lodge accommodates various preferences, whether you wish to unwind in a cabin or relax in a fairway townhome after a day on the golf course.
Website: http://www.grandviewlodge.com/
3. Madden’s on Gull Lake
Source: maddens
Madden’s epitomizes “classic Minnesota luxury,” offering guests a variety of accommodation options, including lakeside houses and villas adjacent to the golf course. Their golf packages feature rounds at three courses, driving range access, and available lessons for novices. Guests may also take advantage of the tennis and croquet club. For guests seeking tranquility, a visit to the Spa at Madden’s promises rejuvenation with views of Wilson Bay.
The resort provides fishing guides and all necessary equipment for water sports to ensure an enjoyable experience at the private beach. Guests can choose from multiple dining options, ranging from upscale lakeside meals to casual family dining or freshly baked pizza. Evening entertainment options include outdoor cocktails at the 19th Hole & Pool Deck or enjoying a lively atmosphere at the O’Madden Pub.
Website: https://www.maddens.com/
4. Lost Lake Lodge
Source: lostlake
Recently acknowledged as Minnesota’s “Best All-Inclusive Resort” by the Minneapolis Star Tribune, Lost Lake Lodge is relatively smaller than many nearby resorts. Despite its location in the popular Brainerd Lakes region, this refuge is ensconced in a secluded pine forest. With a rustic yet modern aesthetic, the property features 14 cabins and cottages, all within a short walk from the self-contained Lost Lake. Amenities include complimentary WiFi, televisions, fireplaces, and daily housekeeping services.
During your stay, enjoy complimentary beach toys and lake recreation gear, including kayaks, paddleboards, fishing rods, and waterslides. A complimentary boat slip is available, or guests may opt for rentals of pontoon boats, powerboats, and fishing boats. The culinary offerings at Lost Lake Lodge are noteworthy, featuring a menu with selections like scallop ceviche, house-made gnocchi, and lobster fried rice—all meals are included in the stay, so, according to Lost Lake Lodge, the only items guests need to bring are their clothing.
Website: http://www.lostlake.com/
5. Breezy Point Resort
Source: breezypointresort
Operating for over 90 years, Breezy Point Resort presents itself as a year-round vacation destination. The marina serves as a social hub for guests, ideal for sunbathing and enjoying lakeside dining, featuring four distinct restaurants with live music and entertainment most nights, including the Dockside Lounge.
Embark on a boat trip to Gooseberry Island for swimming and a leisurely tour around Pelican Lake. Whether seeking a golf vacation, spa retreat, or family getaway, Breezy Point offers diverse accommodations such as hotel-style rooms, jacuzzi suites, condos, and complete vacation homes. Schedule an appointment at Serenity Spa, or spend your day enjoying the resort’s pools and saunas. Recently, Breezy Point acquired the Deacon’s Lodge golf course, which stands as a highlight of the resort.
Website: http://breezypointresort.com/
6. Arrowwood Resort
One of the key attractions of Arrowwood Resort is its impressive indoor waterpark. Located in Alexandria, adjacent to Lake Darling, this waterpark features three slides that extend over four stories high and spans an expansive 38,000 square feet, complemented by the Banana Cabana Snack Bar, ensuring kids are entertained throughout their stay. Arrowwood also boasts the newly renovated Atikwa Golf Course, offering both stunning scenery and exceptional play.
Aligned with the standards of northern resorts, Arrowwood’s amenities lie right at the lake’s edge, providing guests easy access to a marina that offers everything needed for a day of water activities, including kayaks and paddleboards. Additionally, horse stables are available for those interested in trail riding. Accommodation options range from traditional rooms to cozy cottages and luxurious townhomes. Culinary options include al fresco dining at the Deck Bar & Grill, fresh offerings at the Lake Cafe, or relaxing in the inviting Rafters Lounge over cocktails and appetizers.
Website: https://arrowwoodresort.com/
7. Lutsen Resort
Source: lutsenresort
Nestled within its own secluded cove on Lake Superior, Lutsen is recognized as the oldest resort in Minnesota. Established by a Swedish immigrant, the lodge reflects its Scandinavian roots through features such as stone fireplaces and hand-hewn beams. Guests have a variety of lodging options, from the lodge close to dining facilities, pubs, and pools, to townhomes, log cabins, river condos, or lakefront villas. Amenities vary from jacuzzi rooms to private decks, all offering splendid views of the lake.
Throughout the year, Lutsen provides a diverse array of complimentary activities and equipment for guests, whether they enjoy paddling, skiing, or simply relaxing on the beach. Summer offerings include children’s camps, hiking tours, and fly fishing lessons, while winter brings free snowshoe and cross-country ski tours. Additionally, the Lakeside Dining Room features an extensive wine selection with over 125 options available.
Website: https://www.lutsenresort.com/
8. Cedar Valley Resort
Source: cedarvalleyresort
With only nine log cabins, Cedar Valley Resort serves as an excellent venue for family reunions, vacations, or group retreats. Notably, one cabin accommodates up to 40 individuals, making it ideal for large gatherings. Surrounded by natural beauty, guests can frequently observe eagles, deer, and wild turkeys. In the evenings, the sounds of coyotes and owls create a tranquil atmosphere. Conveniently located next to Lanesboro, recognized as one of “America’s Prettiest Towns,” as well as the Root River State Bike Trail, guests have many exploration opportunities nearby.
Activities include fishing, hiking, kayaking, and tubing, with over 12 trout streams located within 20 minutes of the resort. For relaxation, guests can schedule massages in their cabins while enjoying outdoor amenities like the sand volleyball court, basketball court, or the 9-hole frisbee golf course.
Website: http://cedarvalleyresort.com/
9. Eagle Nest Lodge
Source: eaglenestlodge
Embodying a traditional family resort, Eagle Nest Lodge provides a multitude of activities, preserving the cherished Minnesota tradition of family vacations “up north” in lakeside cabins. Positioned within the Chippewa National Forest, bordered by Lake Winnie and Cutfoot Sioux, the scenery and wildlife attract numerous visitors.
Accommodation is diverse, including one-bedroom cabins and larger five-bedroom houses that can sleep up to 19 individuals. Fishing opportunities are exceptional, and staff members assist with boat launches to enhance guest experiences on the water. A sandy beach on the property is equipped with seating, along with the availability of paddleboards, kayaks, hydro bikes, and a Hobie Cat sailboat for water-based activities. Their Activities & Naturalist Program organizes trail hikes, treasure hunts, bingo, and even includes a water slide for guest enjoyment.
Website: https://www.eaglenestlodge.net/
10. Gunflint Lodge
Source: gunflint
Situated in an unspoiled forest next to Gunflint Lake, this resort represents an ideal retreat for nature enthusiasts. The pristine and remote area frequently invites moose sightings. Choose from a collection of cabins that offer one to five bedrooms, equipped with living room fireplaces. Each cabin features a full kitchen and a sauna, with luxurious spa tubs available in upgraded accommodations.
Guests can enjoy a beach for sunbathing, swimming, or observing ducks, and guided fishing trips can be arranged for those desiring to catch walleye, lake trout, or smallmouth bass. The lodge also offers opportunities for canoe trips, hiking excursions, and canopy tours. During winter, resort attractions include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and dog sledding. For dining, the lodge provides a full bistro menu daily, featuring six dinner options in the evening, with complimentary coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and baked treats available at all times.
Website: http://gunflint.com/
11. Fair Hills Resort
Source: fairhillsresort
Fair Hills embodies a summer camp atmosphere perfect for families. The resort garners a loyal clientele, with many guests returning each summer to reconnect with friends and enjoy prepared meals. The staff at Fair Hills curate a range of activities according to guests’ preferences—guests may engage in games such as capture the flag, kickball, and ultimate frisbee, partake in talent shows, campfires, and water slides suitable for all ages. Adults can indulge in yoga sessions, massages, bike tours, and a “paints and pints” class, complemented by a cocktail hour.
Fair Hills is especially popular for its Tuesday night festivities, which commence with a cruise of Pelican Lake, leading into a hearty dinner buffet followed by a musical performance known as the “Hootenanny,” a tradition going strong for over 50 years. The resort features over 100 comfortable cabins housing up to four bedrooms each, with daily housekeeping service provided.
Website: http://fairhillsresort.com/
12. Chase on the Lake
Chase on the Lake is situated on the shores of Leech Lake in the town of Walker, exuding historical elegance and warmth. Guests have the option of choosing from Lakeview hotel rooms or condominiums, with pet-friendly accommodations available. The resort’s restaurant, The 502, serves traditional American cuisine alongside lighter “spa” dishes, catering to a variety of dietary preferences. Additionally, the resort features a bar with happy hour specials and numerous big-screen televisions.
Activities at Chase on the Lake include fishing, biking, kayaking, jet skiing, and golfing. The resort can also coordinate hunting excursions and ice fishing trips on the lake, complete with private ice houses. For those seeking relaxation, the Copper Door Aveda Spa provides an array of treatments, from manicure services to therapeutic massages. Furthermore, the resort boasts its own two-lane bowling alley, complete with catering or cocktail services available during your bowling experience.
Website: http://www.chaseonthelake.com/
13. Ludlow’s Island Resort, Cook
Source: ludlowsresort.com
For those dreaming of a private island experience, Ludlow’s Island Resort presents a unique opportunity. Guests can escape the crowds while enjoying one of the 22 luxury, handcrafted cottages constructed by the Ludlow family on Lake Vermillion. Ranging from intimate one-bedroom retreats to expansive five-bedroom houses, each cottage provides a distinctive atmosphere. Constructed with wood-burning fireplaces, screened-in porches, and decks, all cottages are located within 50 feet of the water’s edge.
The ambiance is both relaxed and indulgent, with options for guided lake fishing trips available, after which the staff prepares and delivers freshly caught fish to your cottage. Enjoy pontoon boat rentals for leisurely outings or speed boats for water skiing. Additionally, guests can participate in rounds of golf, and the staff arranges summer children’s activities or special outings for guests, including romance packages, Father’s Day getaways, and gourmet weekends.
Website: https://ludlowsresort.com/
14. Eagle Ridge Resort at Lutsen
Source: eagleridgeatlutsen
This resort is strategically situated in the heart of America’s “North Coast,” surrounded by state parks, the rugged shores of Lake Superior, and the breathtaking Lutsen Mountains. Eagle Ridge serves as your “base camp for adventure” throughout every season. In the winter, activities center around skiing and snowboarding, with additional options for snowshoeing and dog sledding. During other seasons, guests can engage in golfing, kayaking, or hiking along dramatic ridgeline trails available on the property.
Opportunities for biking, campfires, or relaxation in the pools, sauna, and hot tubs are also available. Additionally, the resort assists guests in planning wildlife observation or bird-watching excursions. A unique attraction to experience is their Alpine Slide, a half-mile twisting track that winds down the mountainside. Eagle Ridge features 75 cozy, modern studios and condominiums, all equipped with fireplaces and mountain views. Guests can dine at Papa Charlie’s Restaurant and Tavern for a delightful culinary experience.
Website: https://www.eagleridgeatlutsen.com/
15. Boyd Lodge
Source: boydlodge
Boyd Lodge is an award-winning resort nestled between Rush and Lower Whitefish Lakes near Crosslake, Minnesota. Although primarily recognized as a family vacation destination focused on fishing, it also caters to corporate retreats and romantic escapes. The resort’s picturesque loft cabins and cottages are surrounded by nature and offer various amenities, including Weber gas grills, bar areas, and private dock spaces.
Summer marks the peak season for Boyd Lodge, with guests enjoying fishing, volleyball, and relaxation on the resort’s soft sandy beach. Visitors can take a refreshing swim in the pool or paddle canoes on the lake. Family-friendly activities are organized, such as ice cream socials, T-shirt tie-dyeing, and turtle races. In winter, guests can explore the resort’s snowmobile and cross-country ski trails or try ice fishing right outside their doors!
Website: http://boydlodge.com/
