The Minnesota Vacation Home Rental Guide

The area’s 25 best private cabin getaways, via VRBO, Airbnb, and more


Sawtooth Cabin

Photo by Corey gaffer


There are plenty of excellent lodges, hotels, and resorts in these parts. But when we’re seeking an overnight experience that’s a little more secluded, unique, or, well, homey, we turn to private vacation home rentals. Increasingly, you are too: The number of adults who have stayed in a vacation home rental grew from 8 percent in 2011 to 32 percent in 2015.

With some 10 million properties for rent worldwide, the process of finding the right place to stay can feel rather overwhelming. That’s why we did the work for you, curating a selection of premium rental homes across outstate Minnesota and western Wisconsin. Some offer chic modern design with the architecture awards to prove it. Many have luxe amenities including soaking tubs, gourmet kitchens, and even an in-home theater. And a few have loveable quirks: a traditional Finnish barrel sauna, a vintage Budweiser sign over the pool table. All have prime waterfront locations and positive guest reviews.

So if you’re thinking of an upcoming family reunion or friends getaway, start planning. This guide can bring you a “cabin” vacation without the commitment of ownership (or the need to angle for an invitation).

For more info on each listing, click on its respective area on the map.

Image MapThe northwest portion of MinnesotaThe northeast portion of MinnesotaThe southern portion of Minnesota.A outline of the map of Wisconsin.The central portion of Minnesota map.