Minnesota’s myriad resorts and lodges are the perfect getaways for those seeking relaxation and adventure. From lakeside cabins to spacious family retreats, these destinations deliver a mix of rustic charm and modern comfort. Many of the state’s best resorts are family-owned, with their rustic log cabins, fieldstone fireplaces, and soaring beams—preserved by generations who have passed down traditions and a love for the state’s natural beauty. Whether you’re looking to unwind by the water, enjoy outdoor activities, or simply embrace the laid-back atmosphere, these Minnesota lodges provide ideal settings for refreshing escapes—while creating lasting memories for each new generation of guests.
BEST SPA EXPERIENCE
Madden’s on Gull Lake
Situated on the secluded expanse of Gull Lake’s Pine Beach Peninsula, Madden’s on Gull is a historic resort blending classic sophistication with top-tier modern amenities. Since its humble beginnings in 1929 as a Northwoods golf course and hotel, Madden’s has focused on showcasing the best that Minnesota has to offer. Whether exploring the resort’s four championship golf courses, indulging in the award-winning luxury spa, enjoying eight unique dining options, or partaking in adventure-filled activities, guests leave with a deeper appreciation for the North Star State’s beauty and charm.
A true four-season experience, guests can immerse themselves in the wonder of lake living no matter the weather. Reserve Madden’s charming Beach House in the colder months to discover a winter wonderland at your doorstep, with off-site winter activities ranging from ice fishing to guided snowmobiling, or enjoy an abundance of lively outdoor activities each spring and summer, from morning yoga to wake surf and water ski lessons. At the resort’s full-service luxury spa—the only lakeside spa in the area—you can rejuvenate your senses no matter the season, with a menu featuring massages, facial treatments, manicures, pedicures, and more.
11266 Pine Beach Peninsula, Brainerd, 218-829-2811, maddens.com
Courtesy of Madden's
BEST VIEWS
Caribou Highlands Lodge
Tucked away in the breathtaking Sawtooth Mountains of Lutsen, Caribou Highlands Resort offers year-round adventure with unparalleled views of Lake Superior. This family-friendly retreat is perfect for all ages, featuring everything from kids’ activities to relaxing spa treatments. Accommodations range from cozy lodge rooms to spacious log cabins, all designed with luxurious mountain-style finishes.
In the winter, Caribou Highlands is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering world-class downhill skiing with stunning lake views or the chance to unwind by a crackling fire. After a day of exploration, relax in the indoor pool and hot tube, or maintain your fitness at the on-site workout facility. The resort also offers a wide variety of activities, including hiking, fat biking, and golf. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Caribou Highlands provides the perfect getaway with something for everyone.
371 Ski Hill Road, Lutsen, 800-642-6036, caribouhighlands.com
Courtesy of Caribou Highlands Lodge
BEST PLACE FOR LARGE GROUPS
Arrowwood Resort & Conference Center
Arrowwood Resort in Alexandria is a premier destination offering a wealth of activities and accommodations for all types of guests. Set on the picturesque shores of Lake Darling, the resort features a full-service marina for boating, fishing, and swimming. For indoor fun, the 38,000-square-foot waterpark promises hours of entertainment. Accommodations include modern hotel-style rooms in the main lodge, family-friendly lake homes, and colorful cottages, accommodating up to 14 guests. Beyond water activities, Arrowwood offers horseback riding, an 18-hole championship golf course, a relaxing spa, and several on-site dining options.
In addition to its Alexandria location, Arrowwood operates a smaller resort in the Brainerd Lakes area, with a water park, arcade, and restaurant. Perfect for year-round getaways, the resort is a hub for family vacations, weddings, meetings, and retreats. Just two hours from the Twin Cities and 90 minutes from Fargo, it’s conveniently located for visitors from both Minnesota and North Dakota. With local attractions like Carlos Creek Winery and the Minnesota Lakes Maritime Museum, Arrowwood is a must-visit for relaxation and adventure.
2100 Arrowwood Lane NW, Alexandria, 320-762-1124, arrowwoodresort.com
Courtesy of Arrowwood Resort & Conference Center
BEST YEAR-ROUND ATTRACTIONS
Kavanaugh’s Sylvan Lake Resort
After being family-owned and -operated for over 50 years, Kavanaugh’s prides itself on welcoming families to the Brainerd area. Nestled against the scenic backdrop of Sylvan Lake, Kavanaugh’s offers charming, “home-away-from-home” accommodations—full homes, cottages, condos, and pool suites with air conditioning, gas fireplaces, Wi-Fi, charcoal grills, and private decks or patios. Ranging from one to six bedrooms, there’s something for vacation groups of all sizes.
Head to the shore to enjoy endless hours of swimming, boating, paddleboarding,
and other activities on Sylvan Lake, plus pickleball, tennis, basketball, and sand volleyball on-site. There are 4,400 feet of trails within the resort to explore by foot or bike (with rentals available), and 9 miles of additional paved trails nearby in the city of East Gull Lake. For more off-site excursions, head to Pillsbury State Forest or Paul Bunyan Trail.
Winter guests can enjoy skating, snowshoeing, nearby access to hundreds of miles of snowmobile trails, and ski trails on the property. Plus, there’s plenty to explore in the surrounding Brainerd Lakes area throughout all four seasons, including Mount Ski Gull, nearby golf courses, and more.
1685 Kavanaugh Drive, Brainerd, 800-562-7061, kavanaughs.com
BEST FOR OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
Breezy Point Resort
No list of Minnesota getaways would be complete without Breezy Point, a 100-plus-year-old resort that once drew 1920s movie stars like Clark Gable and Carole Lombard. Located on the shores of northern Minnesota’s Pelican Lake, Breezy Point is a true four-season destination with endless recreational opportunities.
In the warmer months, guests can enjoy three golf courses, swimming beaches, volleyball and tennis courts, and a boat marina complete with canoes, kayaks, and fishing boats for rent. Or take a cruise with your crew on the Breezy Belle, a paddle-wheel excursion boat accommodating up to 80 passengers. If you prefer snow to sand, fear not—Breezy Point caters to winter enthusiasts, as well, with on-site snowmobile and cross-country ski trails, ice fishing house rentals, an ice arena, lighted outdoor skating rink, the Polar Plunge, and the annual Ice Fest.
Breezy Point has about 250 rental units to accommodate any kind of stay—from hotel-style lodging and condos to private cabins and vacation homes. When you’re not enjoying the great outdoors, visit the Serenity Spa, indoor pools, game room, golf simulators, or a variety of restaurants and bars with live entertainment.
9252 Breezy Point Drive, Breezy Point, 218-562-7970, breezypointresort.com
Courtesy of Breezy Point Resort
BEST LUXURY FOR LESS
Bluefin Bay on Lake Superior
For a true North Shore getaway, head to Bluefin Bay in Tofte. This pet-friendly resort offers guestrooms, suites, studios, condos, and townhomes just steps from the shore of Lake Superior, lined by a cobblestone beach where guests can enjoy bonfires, s’mores, and live music. For more scenic views, take the property’s lakewalk and watch the waves hit the shoreline, or enjoy Minnesota’s only year-round outdoor pool and hot tub overlooking Lake Superior.
Bluefin Bay’s activities calendar is packed with interactive classes, guided hikes and tours, and other free activities to help visitors explore the area and make the most of their stay. Plus, there’s complimentary recreation equipment available for all four seasons, including mountain and road bikes, ice skates, snowshoes, and more. After a day in nature, unwind with a massage, facial, or sauna session at Superior Spa.
With two award-winning restaurants on-site, there are food options aplenty, but barbecue grills are also available for picnics and cookouts. Foodies should also check out Bluefin Bay’s seasonal Food & Wine Lovers Weekends for a unique culinary experience—the next event is scheduled for May 2-3, 2025.
7192 MN-61, Tofte, 218-663-7296, bluefinbay.com
Courtesy of Bluefin Bay on Lake Superior
BEST FOR FAMILIES
Grand View Lodge
Stepping into the charming log-cabin exterior of Grand View’s Main Lodge is a transportive experience—immersing guests in the rich heritage of this 100-year-old family-owned tradition, a staple of Gull Lake’s waters since 1916. Now preserved on the National Register of Historic Places, the 20-plus-acre lodge, spa, and golf resort is a must-see landmark of Minnesota in and of itself. Dive into a four-season luxury stay that fully encompasses the diversity of northern Minnesota, with year-round adventures that range from skiing, ice skating, and horse-drawn carriage rides to tennis, zip-lining, horseback riding, and golf. Venture onto Gull Lake’s icy surface in the winter with Grand View’s heated ice fishing houses, Ice Fishing 101 classes, and snowmobile rentals, and when the ice thaws, enjoy boat rentals, guided fishing tours, paddleboarding, banana tubing, kayaking, and more.
Luxury shines at Grand View’s 15-plus dining experiences, which meld stunning views with award-winning cuisine. Revel in French-style fine dining at Cru, enjoy beachside bites at Tanque Verde Cantina, or dine in a cozy, fairy-lit igloo during the winter months. A true golfer’s paradise, Grand View Lodge is home to two picturesque courses that combine top-notch facilities with elevated clubhouse dining. Relax after a round of golf at the on-site Glacial Waters Spa, an award-winning sanctuary that offers a range of holistic healing, relaxation, and beauty services. Each spring, Grand View Lodge’s De’Vine Wine and Culinary Weekend features exclusive dinners with renowned winemakers, educational seminars, and more. Pets allowed in select accommodations for an additional charge.
23521 Nokomis Ave., Nisswa, 866-801-2951, grandviewlodge.com
Courtesy of Grand View Lodge
BEST FOR GOLFING
Cragun’s Resort
Treasured traditions abound at Cragun’s Resort on Gull Lake, a 90-plus-year-old resort and golf destination that immerses guests in the adventurous spirit of Minnesota’s lake life. Situated on a mile-long stretch of sandy beach bordering the bustling 15.3-mile-long Gull Lake, Cragun’s is brimming with signature experiences that cater to every interest and season. In the winter, guests can enjoy the thrilling chill of Cragun’s outdoor winter adventures, including guided snowmobiling and cross-country skiing, dogsled and horse-drawn trolley rides, outdoor skating on Cragun’s groomed skating rink, ice fishing in on-site heated ice houses, and much more.
In the warmer months, Cragun’s attracts skilled golfers from across the country to its three unique Legacy Golf Courses, designed by PGA Tour Professional Tom Lehman and boasting a total of 45 holes. When things heat up, guests can experience the summertime excitement of Gull Lake aboard signature cruises on Cragun’s North Star Luxury Yacht, which is also available for private charters and events. When they’re not reveling in Brainerd’s outdoor bliss, guests can bask in luxurious amenities including an indoor pool and hot tub, spacious arcade and game area, fitness center, tennis courts, and five signature dining experiences that boast top-tier cuisine and stunning lake and golf course views.
11000 Craguns Drive, Brainerd, 866-988-0562, craguns.com
Courtesy of Cragun’s Resort/Peter Wong
BEST FOR WINTER ACTIVITIES
Quarterdeck Resort
Recently revamped with a striking Mountain Modern design, Quarterdeck Resort on Gull Lake embraces friluftsliv—the Norwegian idea of enjoying the outdoors in all seasons. Try a modern, luxurious experience with Quarterdeck’s all-new five-bedroom, seven-bathroom lakefront lofts. Situated just 75 feet from the lake, these stunning multistory lofts feature floor-to-ceiling glass windows across all three levels, providing breathtaking panoramic views of Gull Lake, particularly from the primary bedroom. The loft is designed to accommodate up to 14 guests, making it an ideal choice for larger groups or families.
Guests can enjoy both private and communal spaces, with ample room to relax and unwind. The open layout creates a welcoming atmosphere, enhanced by contemporary design elements and natural light. The loft is also conveniently located within walking distance of the Main Lodge, The Quarterdeck Grill, and the QD Social area, where guests can enjoy the outdoor heated pool, sauna, hot tub, and more. Kayaks and paddle boards are available for free, while the Gull Chain of Lakes offers ample opportunities for both fishing and golfing with 20 nearby courses. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore scenic trails like Pillsbury State Forest or book a guided fishing tour with local guides. Pets allowed in select accommodations for an additional charge.
9820 Birch Bay Drive SW, County Road 77, Nisswa, 218-963-2482, quarterdeckresort.com
BEST PLACE TO UNPLUG
Naniboujou Lodge
Naniboujou Lodge, nestled on Minnesota’s rugged North Shore, is a historic retreat that transports guests back to the 1920s. Originally conceived as an exclusive private club, its dining room is a work of art, with a striking 30-by-80-foot technicolor ceiling painted in bold Cree Indian designs by artist Antoine Goufee. The room’s centerpiece is the state’s largest native rock fireplace, standing 20 feet and crafted from 200 tons of Lake Superior stone, offering warmth and charm to all who gather around.
Surrounded by nature, Naniboujou sits near Judge C.R. Magney State Park, offering miles of scenic trails and the breathtaking Devil’s Kettle Waterfall. The lodge provides a tranquil, unplugged experience, with rooms free of phones, TVs, and internet—encouraging guests to disconnect and immerse in the peaceful environment.
For nearly a century, the lodge has been a haven for those seeking relaxation and reflection. Today, it remains a unique and historic escape, now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, offering a serene, nature-filled getaway on the shores of Lake Superior. Check online for summer and winter availability.
20 Naniboujou Trail, Grand Marais, 218-387-2688, naniboujou.com
Courtesy of Naniboujou Lodge
Minnesota Lodges & Resorts Directory
Looking for the perfect getaway? Discover a collection of Minnesota’s best lodges and resorts, offering everything from serene lakeside escapes to outdoor adventure hubs.
Arrowwood Lodge at Brainerd Lakes
6967 Lake Forest Road, Baxter
218-822-5634
lodgeatbrainerdlakes.com
Arrowwood Resort & Conference Center
2100 Arrowwood Lane NW, Alexandria
320-762-1124
arrowwoodresort.com
Bearskin Lodge
124 E. Bearskin Road, Grand Marais
800-338-4170
bearskin.com
Best Western Premier – The Lodge on Lake Detroit
1200 E. Shore Drive, Detroit Lakes
218-847-8439
thelodgeonlakedetroit.com
Big Sandy Lodge & Resort
20534 487th St., McGregor
218-426-5040
bigsandylodgeandresort.com
Bluefin Bay on Lake Superior
7192 MN-61, Tofte
218-663-7296
bluefinbay.com
Border View Lodge North
2605 River Lane NW, Baudette
800-776-3474
borderviewlodge.com
Boyd Lodge
36539 Silver Peak Road, Crosslake
218-543-4125
boydlodge.com
Breezy Point Resort
9252 Breezy Point Drive, Breezy Point
218-562-7970
breezypointresort.com
Brindley’s Harbor Resort
9530 Pine Point Road NW, Walker
218-547-1721
brindleysharbor.com
Caribou Highlands Lodge
371 Ski Hill Road, Lutsen
218-663-7241
caribouhighlands.com
Cedar Valley Resort
905 Bench St., Whalan
507-467-9000
cedarvalleyresort.com
Chase on the Lake
502 Cleveland Blvd., Walker
888-242-7306
chaseonthelake.com
Clamshell Beach Resort
35197 S. Clamshell Drive, Pequot Lakes
218-543-1040
clamshellbeachresortmn.com
Cragun’s Resort
11000 Craguns Drive, Brainerd
866-988-0562
craguns.com
Dickerson’s Lake Florida Resort
13194 Second St. NE, Spicer
320-354-4272
dickersonsresort.com
Douglas Lodge
36750 Main Park Drive, Park Rapids
866-857-2757
dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks
Eagle Nest Lodge
58671 Eagle Nest Road, Deer River
218-246-8701
eaglenestlodge.net
Eagle Ridge Resort at Lutsen
450 Ski Hill Road, Lutsen
800-360-7666
eagleridgeatlutsen.com
East Silent Lake Resort
30424 410th St., Dent
218-758-2716
eastsilentresort.com
Fair Hills Resort
24270 County Hwy. 20, Detroit Lakes
800-323-7638
fairhillsresort.com
Grand Ely Lodge
400 N. Pioneer Road, Ely
218-365-6565
grandelylodge.com
Grand Superior Lodge
2826 MN-61, Two Harbors
800-627-9565
grandsuperior.com
Grand View Lodge
23521 Nokomis Ave., Nisswa
866-801-2951
grandviewlodge.com
Gunflint Lodge
143 S. Gunflint Lake Road, Grand Marais
800-328-3325
gunflint.com
Half Moon Trail Resort
34881 County Hwy. 46, Park Rapids
888-732-0272
halfmoontrail.com
Kavanaugh’s Sylvan Lake Resort
1685 Kavanaugh Drive, Brainerd
800-562-7061
kavanaughs.com
Larsmont Cottages
596 Larsmont Way, Two Harbors
866-687-5634
larsmontcottages.com
The Lodge at Giants Ridge
6373 Wynne Creek Drive, Biwabik
218-865-7170
lodgeatgiantsridge.com
Lost Lake Lodge
7965 Lost Lake Road, Lake Shore
800-450-2681
lostlake.com
Ludlow’s Island Resort
8166 Ludlow Road, Cook
218-666-5407
ludlowsresort.com
Madden’s on Gull Lake
11266 Pine Beach Peninsula, Brainerd
218-829-2811
maddens.com
Naniboujou Lodge
20 Naniboujou Trail, Grand Marais
218-387-2688
naniboujou.com
Nelson’s Resort
7632 Nelson Road, Crane Lake
218-993-2295
nelsonsresort.com
North Star Lake Resort
37948 Northstar Road, Marcell
218-832-3131
northstarlakeresort.com
Northern Pine Lodge
14588 230th St., Park Rapids
218-732-5103
northernpinelodge.com
Oveson’s Pelican Lake Resort & Inn
4675 U.S. Hwy. 53, Orr
218-757-3613
ovepelicanlakeresortandinn.com
Pehrson Lodge Resort
2746 Vermilion Drive, Cook
218-666-5478
pehrsonlodge.com
Peters Sunset Beach Resort
20000 S. Lakeshore Drive, Glenwood
320-634-4501
petersresort.com
Pier B Resort Hotel
800 W. Railroad St., Duluth
218-481-8888
pierbresort.com
Quarterdeck Resort
9820 Birch Bay Drive SW, County Road 77, Nisswa
218-963-2482
quarterdeckresort.com
Royal Starr Resort
19222 Echo Ridge Drive, Nevis
218-652-3821
royalstarrresort.com
Ruttger’s Bay Lake Resort
25039 Tame Fish Lake Road, Deerwood
218-678-2885
ruttgers.com
Ruttger’s Birchmont Lodge
7598 Bemidji Road NE, Bemidji
218-444-3463
ruttgersbemidji.com
Sportsman’s Lodge
3244 Bur Oak Road NW, Baudette
800-862-8602
sportsmanslodges.com
Sugar Lake Lodge
37584 Otis Lane, Cohasset
218-327-1462
sugarlakelodge.com
Timber Trail Lodge & Resort
629 Kawishiwi Trail, Ely
218-365-4879
timbertrail.com
Train Bell Resort
21489 Train Bell Road, Merrifield
800-252-2102
trainbellresort.com
Superior Shores Resort
1521 Superior Shores Drive, Two Harbors
800-218-8589
superiorshores.com
White Birch Resort
18882 N. Blackduck Lake Road NE, Hines
218-835-4552
whitebirchresort.net
Wilderness Point Resort
6208 Wilderness Road, Pequot Lakes
218-568-5642
wildernesspointresort.com
