Grand Marais

SPECIAL SPONSORED SECTION

Photo by Explore Minnesota Tourism

Grand Marais, a small city rich in geological and natural history (the city has been an Ojibwe village, trading post, fishing harbor and logging town), is a great town to visit in spring or summer. Beautiful sunsets, the mesmerizing sound of waves crashing against the craggy Lake Superior shore, the awesome sight of aurora borealis, and towering pines, spruce, fir, and aspen (creating some amazing hiking and biking opportunities) attract tourists near and far. Wildlife is another big draw.

The forest is home to wolves, bears, deer, moose, grouse, and rabbits. Visitors enjoy wandering the streets of Grand Marais (the only North Shore community whose downtown is right on the lake), walking out to the lighthouse, going on guided kayaking or canoeing trips, hiking along the Superior Hiking Trail, or watching a performance at the Grand Marais Playhouse. Grand Marais also marks the start of the Gunflint Trail, an old logging route that now offers access to camping and the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, a unique wilderness of more than a thousand lakes and streams joined by short overland trails referred to as portages.

FOR BIG KIDS

Guests staying at The Inn at Terrace Point enjoy a truly special place away from it all.  Handsome, contemporary suites designed with wonderful gourmet kitchens and fireplaces. Scandinavian sauna or whirlpool bathtub. The Lakeside one-bedroom suites are designed for a couple or individual, while accommodations on the ridge are designed for parties up to four.  Nearby hiking and biking trails are within walking distance (the Gunflint Trail is less than a 10 minute drive). The Inn at Terrace Point is a great place to visit year-round,  but especially nice in May or June with the spring bird migration, emerging flowers and spring showers. Advance reservations are required. 

for little kids

The Inn at Terrace Point appeals mostly to adults, with occupancy limited to two-person suites.  

For more information, visit www.innatterracepoint.com

FOR BIG KIDS

Enjoy the scenic beauty and serenity of Lake Superior from Best Western Superior Inn & Suites, featuring 66 well-appointed rooms, an indoor whirlpool, and a prime location close to the Gunflint Trail, Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Lutsen Mountains, and Superior National Golf Course.  For the ultimate in luxury, request a “Renewal Spa Suite†with a double whirlpool, gas fireplace, fabulous steam shower, wet bar, private balcony, and views of Artist Point (Renewal Spa Suites will be available in June.)

for little kids

Kids love the private cobblestone beach and close proximity to North Shore activities. Spacious mini suites in the John Beargrease Wing are perfect for families.

For more information, visit www.bestwestern.com/superiorinn

FOR BIG KIDS

Stay in a completely renovated vacation condo, merging the history and gracious hospitality of the East Bay tradition (East Bay Suites was originally built as the Lakeside Hotel in the 1900s) with spectacular views and access to Lake Superior. The beautifully designed, fully furnished beachfront suites offer a private deck or patio, fireplace, soaking tubs, flat screen LCD television, stainless steel kitchens, and a state-of-the-art community room. The location is just steps from quaint shopping, galleries, restaurants and world-class recreation. After a day of playing outside, work out the kinks with an in-suite massage. Rates start at $75/hour. There are packages designed for romance, relaxing/wave-watching, exploring, and picnicking. There’s even a “Pooch Package†for furry friends.

for little kids

Reserve the “Everyday is Sundae†Package to receive chocolate and vanilla ice cream, hot fudge, caramel sauce, M&M’s, nuts, sprinkles and whipped cream upon arrival. A complimentary shuttle takes guests to and from Lutsen Mountains and the alpine slide.

For more information, visit www.eastbaysuites.com