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Okay, Minnesota. We get it. You don’t want us going outside any time soon. While you may have taken our romantic strolls across the Stone Arch and our lazy days in the hot sand on one of your thousands of lakes, you’re going to have to try a lot harder to kill the romance. After all, nothing says “passion” quite like a candlelit bubble bath and a cozy bedside fireplace.
Don’t let Minnesota’s bitter weather keep you cooped up at home. Grab your s/o and check out of this bleak winter and in to one of the state’s most romantic bed and breakfasts.
Around the Twin Cities
Nicollet Island Inn
Want to get away but don’t want to leave the abundance of nightlife, theater, and music? Check in to Minneapolis’ oldest bed and breakfast, Nicollet Island Inn. Located right off of St. Anthony Main, this B&B is situated smack dab in the middle of it all. Grab a bite to eat at the inn’s restaurant, enjoy one of their tasty cocktails in Nic’s Bar and Lounge (I recommend the peartini for an experience that will change your life), or take a short walk to one of the many restaurants or movie theater in the area. With views of the river and downtown, romance packages, and afternoon tea, the Nicollet Island Inn will leave you and your sweetie feeling rejuvenated for weeks to come.
Como Lake Bed and Breakfast
Take in the breathtaking views of Como Lake in one of St. Paul’s finest B&Bs. Owned and operated by Carla Sherman, Como Lake Bed and Breakfast used to be the Sherman family home before she turned the scenic spot into an inn. Overlooking Como Lake and just a short jaunt from the Como Zoo and Conservatory, Como Lake B&B is the perfect spot for a cozy, romantic getaway. Though the inn isn’t too far from downtown St. Paul, its quaint location will give you a lakeside vacation vibe while still offering a bounty of fun activities. Escape the subzero temps by heading to the Como Conservatory where you can surround yourselves with beautiful greenery, humidity, and…wait for it… WARMTH! Sherman also welcomes pets for a fee of $35/night.
Bird House Inn Bed and Breakfast
If you’re looking to escape the bustling city life without the long drive, the Bird House Inn Bed and Breakfast is where you’ll want to plan your romantic weekend getaway. Located in Excelsior, the Bird House Inn offers views of Lake Minnetonka that will give you a true cabin experience without trekking too far north. Its proximity to the Old Log Theater, Chanhassen Dinner Theater, and award-winning restaurants like Yumi’s Sushi or Joey Nova’s Pizza will give you and your s/o plenty of options for a fun night out. More interested in staying in? No problem! Enjoy a complimentary glass of wine beside the fireplace in the living room.
Further out
Ann Bean Mansion Bed and Breakfast
Known for its plethora of restaurants, antique shops, and other specialty stores, Stillwater is the ideal town for shopping, history, and—of course—romance. Check in to the Ann Bean Mansion Bed and Breakfast for a weekend getaway that will leave you feeling refreshed and reconnected to your special someone. With whirlpools, fireplaces, heated marble floors, and rain showers, this B&B is the ideal winter getaway. Right in the heart of Stillwater, the Ann Bean Mansion is a short walk from local shops, bookstores, art, and history. Stop in one of Stillwater’s finest restaurants like Freight House, Grand Pizza, or Marx Fusion Bistro for a romantic bite to eat, or take a wintry stroll along the river—any excuse to warm up with your sweetie!
Summit Inn Bed and Breakfast
Calling all adventurous couples! The Summit Inn Bed and Breakfast in Center City is a short drive from some of Minnesota’s best hiking trails, bluffs, and skiing. Head to Taylor’s Falls for one of its many state parks chockfull of hiking trails along the river, weaving through cliffs and breathtaking bluffs. If you’re a professional skier or just a beginner, the Trollhaugen Ski Area and Wild Mountain Ski Area are two stops you’ll want to add to your list. Return to the Summit Inn after a long day of adventures to cozy up with your honey. Sitting atop a bluff overlooking North Center Lake, the Summit Inn is the ultimate romance experience. Head into town for some Swedish heritage sites, museums, and award-winning wineries.
Pratt-Taber Inn
Leave the work, chores, and other responsibilities behind, and escape to the Pratt-Taber Inn in Red Wing. Built in 1876, this historic inn has everything romance. From private baths and in-suite fireplaces to homemade baked goods and soaps, the Pratt-Taber Inn has everything you and your s/o will need for a romantic, relaxing getaway. Full breakfast is offered daily at any time requested (that’s right, sleep in as late as you want!), and the B&B is nearby several restaurants like The Norton’s, The Port, and Staghead. Get out and do some bird-watching, skiing, snowboarding, or shopping. Then again, you lovebirds might never want to leave the adorable Pratt-Taber Inn.
Way up north
Waller House Inn
This location is perfect for the let’s-go-to-the-middle-of-nowhere-and-forget-all-responsibilities weekend retreat. The Waller House Inn is located in Little Falls, one of the oldest European-American towns in Minnesota. Built in 1897 and restored in 1996, this historic house is the perfect getaway for anyone looking to get some intimate one-on-one time with their s/o. Spend the weekend lounging around the cozy house or get out and explore Charles A. Lindbergh State Park, the Minnesota Fishing Museum, or the Charles Lindbergh House and Museum.
Cotton Mansion Bed and Breakfast
Ah, Duluth. One of Minnesota’s most raved about towns—and for good reason. The Cotton Mansion Bed and Breakfast is located in the mansion district of Duluth, just a short walk from downtown’s restaurants, theater, and other attractions. Built in 1908, this Italian Renaissance mansion is full of rich Duluth history. Enjoy a glass of wine in the living room, cozy up to an in-suite fireplace, or let time slip by as you soak in a two-person whirlpool. Looking for a bite to eat? Try Bellisio’s Italian Restaurant, New Scenic Café, or Black Woods Grill and Bar for some northern favorites.
Lighthouse Bed and Breakfast
Lake Superior’s North Shore is undoubtedly one of the most romantic spots Minnesota has to offer. Explore the scenery, hiking trails, and bluffs in Two Harbors, a quaint northern town just outside of Duluth. The Lighthouse Bed and Breakfast offers a variety of rooms inspired by the town’s famous historic lighthouse. From the Keeper’s Room to the Harbor Room, you really can’t go wrong. Enjoy tea and drinks in the parlor, take in views of the lake, woods, and sunsets, or check out nearby hiking trails. Wherever you go, I guarantee you’ll like the view.
Poplar Creek Guesthouse B&B and Wilderness Yurts
If you’re looking for a truly authentic Northern Minnesota experience, Grand Marais’ Poplar Creek Guesthouse B&B and Wilderness Yurts are the getaway spot for you and your honey. Nestled in the Northwoods along the Gunflint Trail Scenic Byway, this B&B has something for everyone’s adventure level. Looking to relax? Curl up with a blanket and your s/o and take in the views of the Boundary Waters. Want to get outdoors—for a little while? Try some cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and hiking onsite followed by a long soak in your own personal whirlpool. “Adventure” is your middle name? Prove it by braving the great outdoors in one of Poplar Creek’s Wilderness Yurts. They say the perfect time to stay is now through May as it’s peak fishing season. Plus, you’ll get 10 percent off. Whatever “romance” means to your and your partner, Poplar Creek will surely provide.
