Discover Minnesota’s Top Vacation Rentals from Wilderness Cabins to Urban Retreats
Minnesota, known as the Land of 10,000 Lakes, offers many vacation rentals that immerse you in its stunning natural beauty and vibrant culture. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful cabin on the shores of a serene lake, a cozy home in a historic town, or a modern retreat in the heart of a lively city, Minnesota has something for every traveler. From Lake Superior’s crystal-clear waters to Minneapolis’s bustling streets, this state is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and urban explorers alike.
In northern Minnesota, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness near Ely is a paradise for nature lovers. Here, you can rent a rustic cabin on the edge of a pristine lake, where you’ll have easy access to canoeing, fishing, and hiking through untouched wilderness. Further south, the charming town of Grand Marais on Lake Superior’s North Shore offers unique rentals with stunning views of the lake and access to the area’s vibrant arts scene, including the annual Grand Marais Arts Festival and the North House Folk School’s workshops.
Closer to the Twin Cities, the Minneapolis-St. Paul area provides a mix of urban excitement and natural beauty. Vacation rentals here range from chic apartments downtown to historic homes in neighborhoods like Summit Hill in St. Paul. Spend your days exploring the city’s many attractions, such as the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, the iconic Stone Arch Bridge, and the vibrant farmers’ markets. In summer, don’t miss events like the Minnesota State Fair and the Aquatennial, a celebration of Minneapolis’ lakes with fireworks, parades, and boat races. Whether you’re drawn to the wilderness, historic towns, or the energy of the city, Minnesota’s vacation rentals offer the perfect base for your next adventure.
Fun Facts About Minnesota
01
Home of Scotch Tape
Richard Drew, an engineer at 3M in St. Paul, invented Scotch Tape in 1925. The innovative transparent adhesive tape became widely popular for various uses.
02
Fishing Capital of the World
Given its long, cold winters, Minnesota is known as the “Ice Fishing Capital of the World.” Ice fishing is a popular activity, and the state hosts numerous ice fishing competitions.
03
A Giant Cherry Spoon
Minneapolis is home to the iconic Spoonbridge and Cherry sculpture at the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, a symbol of the city’s commitment to the arts.
Must See Attractions
Gooseberry Falls State Park
Nature & Parks
Located along the picturesque North Shore of Lake Superior in Minnesota, this park is renowned for its stunning waterfalls, hiking trails, and scenic overlooks.
Voyageurs National Park
Nature & Parks
Voyageurs National Park, located near the Canadian border, is a water-based park known for its interconnected waterways and lush forests. Visitors can explore the park by boat, kayak, or canoe, discovering its numerous islands, wildlife, and scenic vistas.
Minnehaha Falls
Nature & Parks
Minnehaha Falls is a breathtaking natural wonder. It cascades over limestone cliffs into a scenic gorge and captures visitors with its beauty and serenity.
Where to Sleep
Minnesota Lakes to Discover
1. Lake Minnetonka
Just west of the Twin Cities, Lake Minnetonka is a sprawling, affluent lake with charming waterfront communities, boat-friendly restaurants and resorts.
2. Mille Lacs Lake
Known for its abundant walleye population, this lake is a premier fishing destination and offers a range of recreational activities on its expansive waters.
3. Lake Winona
Nestled in the charming town of Winona, Lake Winona is a serene urban retreat, offering walking trails, scenic parks, and a peaceful ambiance for residents and visitors.
4. Gull Lake
Situated in the Brainerd Lakes region, Gull Lake is known for its family-friendly resorts, sandy shores, and opportunities for boating and fishing.
5. Cass Lake
As one of the largest lakes in northern Minnesota, Cass Lake is a haven for anglers, offering a diverse range of fish species, including walleye, northern pike.
6. Lake Vermilion
Nestled amid the scenic forests of northern Minnesota, Lake Vermilion is celebrated for its crystal-clear waters, rocky shorelines, and a multitude of islands.
7. Lake Superior
As the largest and northernmost of the Great Lakes, Lake Superior is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and maritime history enthusiasts alike.
8. Lake of the Woods
Straddling the border with Canada, Lake of the Woods is renowned for its vast size, numerous islands, and excellent fishing opportunities, including walleye and muskellunge.
Annual Events and Festivals
August 22, – September 2, 2024
Minnesota State Fair
The Minnesota State Fair, held annually in Falcon Heights, St. Paul, stands as a colossal celebration of all things Minnesotan, attracting millions of visitors from near and far. Renowned as one of the largest state fairs in the United States, this event features a myriad of attractions, including thrilling amusement rides, live musical performances, and an array of exhibitions showcasing Minnesota’s agricultural prowess. From the iconic butter sculptures to the Great Minnesota Get-Together’s beloved food offerings—ranging from deep-fried delicacies to artisanal creations—the fair promises a sensory feast for attendees.
July 23 – 26, 2025
Minneapolis Aquatennial
The Minneapolis Aquatennial stands as a hallmark summer celebration in the City of Lakes, encompassing a diverse array of events that highlight the city’s water-rich environment. From parades and fireworks to water-centric events and cultural showcases, the Aquatennial offers a blend of family-friendly fun and community engagement. One of its signature events is the Torchlight Parade, featuring illuminated floats winding through downtown streets, creating a magical spectacle enjoyed by residents and visitors alike. The festival’s emphasis on water-related activities underscores Minneapolis’s unique geographical identity, inviting people to revel in the beauty and vitality of its aquatic landscape.
August – September 2024
Minnesota Renaissance Festival
The Minnesota Renaissance Festival, held annually in Shakopee, transports visitors to a bygone era, inviting them to experience the magic and splendor of the 16th century. Running from late August through late September, this immersive event sprawls across a recreated medieval village, complete with enchanting streets, costumed characters, and thematic stages. Attendees are greeted by jousting tournaments, elaborate period costumes, and a lively marketplace offering artisan crafts and delectable treats. The festival is only one of many festivals scheduled for the fall, so pick one and make it a weekend getaway.
Top Hiking Trails
Fifth Falls and Superior Hiking Trail Loop
Two Harbors, Minnesota
This hike offers a captivating adventure for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a blend of rugged terrain and picturesque waterfalls. This scenic loop encompasses the tranquil woodlands and rocky cliffs along Lake Superior’s North Shore. The three-mile hike takes just over an hour to complete.
Oberg Mountain Loop Via Superior Hiking Trail
Superior Hiking Trail, Tofte, Minnesota
This 2.2-mile loop, renowned for its panoramic views and diverse landscapes, takes adventurers through forests, across bubbling streams, and ultimately to the pinnacle of Oberg Mountain. As hikers ascend, the Superior Hiking Trail reveals views of Lake Superior, the Sawtooth Mountains, and the surrounding forests, especially captivating during the vibrant autumn foliage. The loop is well-marked, making it accessible for hikers of various skill levels, and the serene beauty of the landscape, combined with the crisp mountain air, creates an invigorating experience.
Superior Hiking Trail: Bean and Bear Lake Loop
Silver Bay Trail Head, Superior Hiking Trail, Silver Bay, Minnesota
This scenic loop, located near Silver Bay, takes hikers through forests, babbling brooks, and up the challenging ascents of the Bean and Bear Mountains. The loop is particularly enchanting during the fall, as the surrounding foliage transforms into a kaleidoscope of vibrant colors. With its well-maintained trails, varied terrain, and the allure of two pristine lakes, the Bean and Bear Lake Loop is a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts seeking an immersive experience in the untamed beauty of Minnesota’s North Shore wilderness.
Best Golf Courses
Giants Ridge – The Quarry
6325 Wynne Creek Drive, Biwabik, Minnesota
Situated in the heart of Minnesota’s Iron Range near Biwabik, this premier golf destination seamlessly combines natural beauty with a challenging and memorable course. Designed by renowned golf course architect Jeffrey D. Brauer, The Quarry takes full advantage of the region’s rugged terrain, creating a course that winds through reclaimed mining land, featuring dramatic elevation changes, pristine lakes, and rock formations. The course’s signature hole, the par-3 17th, is perched atop an abandoned quarry, providing a stunning backdrop for a memorable golf experience.
The Wilderness At Fortune Bay
1450 Bois Forte Road Tower, Minnesota
The Wilderness at Fortune Bay golf course, nestled on the shores of Lake Vermilion in Tower, Minnesota, was designed by renowned architect Jeffrey D. Brauer. The course features fairways that wind through forests, dramatic elevation changes, and panoramic views of Lake Vermilion. The layout incorporates the region’s natural features, including exposed rock outcroppings and undulating terrain, providing golfers with a visually striking and engaging round. The signature hole, the par-3 17th, requires a shot over a picturesque cove of Lake Vermilion, adding an extra layer of challenge and scenic beauty.
The Jewel Golf Club
1900 Clubhouse Drive, Lake City, Minnesota
Crafted by renowned architect Hale Irwin, this 18-hole championship course unfolds over rolling hills, offering stunning views of Lake Pepin and the surrounding bluffs. The course seamlessly integrates into the landscape, utilizing the area’s natural contours, extensive hardwood forests, and water features.
Water Sports
Boat Rentals of America
Boating
Enthusiasts can explore the scenic beauty of the Land of 10,000 Lakes by navigating its pristine waters on boats. Whether it’s a leisurely cruise on a pontoon boat, the thrill of water skiing on Lake Minnetonka, or sailing on the vast expanses of Lake Superior, boating offers a diverse range of experiences for all preferences. With multiple locations across the state, including Lake Minnetonka and Gull Lake, Boat Rentals of America provides a wide selection of rental boats, from pontoons to speedboats, allowing individuals and families to embark on their water adventures hassle-free.
Minnesota Paddleboard
Paddleboarding
With its abundance of serene settings, paddleboarding has become a popular water activity for those seeking a leisurely and peaceful experience. Minnesota Paddleboard is dedicated to providing high-quality paddleboarding equipment and experiences. They offer paddleboard rentals for individuals and groups, allowing enthusiasts to glide across the clear waters of lakes like Bde Maka Ska or enjoy the scenic Mississippi River.
North Shore Windsurfing
Windsurfing
Windsurfing enthusiasts in Minnesota find ample opportunities to harness the wind and glide across the state’s numerous lakes. Based in Tofte, along the shores of Lake Superior, North Shore Windsurfing provides high-quality windsurfing equipment and rentals for both beginners and seasoned riders. With the iconic backdrop of Lake Superior’s vast waters and the prevailing winds, windsurfers can experience the thrill of the sport in a stunning natural setting. North Shore Windsurfing offers top-notch equipment and provides lessons and guidance for those looking to develop their windsurfing skills.
Minnesota Resorts
Grand Superior Lodge
Rustic lodge, Family-friendly
2826 MN-61, Two Harbors, Minnesota 55616
Loon Point Resort
Groups, Recreational
51898 Co Rd 310, Bigfork, Minnesota 56628
Rainbow Resort
Groups, Family-friendly
36571 Country Highway 35 Waubun, Minnesota 58589
Tips on Vacationing in Minnesota
The North Shore
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Lake Superior’s North Shore. Drive along the scenic Highway 61, visit Split Rock Lighthouse, and explore the charming town of Duluth.
Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness
If you enjoy canoeing, camping, and being surrounded by unspoiled nature, consider a trip to the BWCAW. It’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
Visit the Twin Cities
Spend time in Minneapolis and St. Paul, collectively known as the Twin Cities. Visit iconic landmarks like the Mall of America, the Minneapolis Institute of Arts, and the State Capitol in St. Paul.
Frequently Asked Questions about Minnesota
Minneapolis offers several excellent vacation rental options, such as Sonder at Vicinity in the Mill District. This property is wheelchair accessible and child-friendly, providing a comfortable family stay. In St. Paul, Alexander Mansion Bed and Breakfast offers a balcony or terrace for guests to enjoy.
Minnesota, known as the “Land of 10,000 Lakes,” is an ideal destination for lake cabin rentals. Some popular options include Lake Vermilion, known for its glamping experiences and unique properties like wall tents, yurts, and lakefront tent rentals. Other options include resorts like Hollys Resort, which offers pet-friendly accommodations and access to lake activities.
Look for cabins along the shores of Lake Superior. As the largest of the Great Lakes, Lake Superior offers beautiful views, rugged shorelines, and clear waters. Popular for outdoor activities such as kayaking, sailing, and fishing, Lake Superior’s North Shore is adorned with picturesque cliffs and waterfalls, while its crystal-clear waters provide a refreshing backdrop for recreational pursuits.
With charming towns like Grand Marais along its shores and the iconic Split Rock Lighthouse overlooking its waters, Lake Superior encapsulates the essence of Minnesota’s natural grandeur, making it a top choice for those seeking a quintessential Northwoods experience.
Minnesota offers numerous vacation rental options for travelers. Some popular destinations include Duluth, its picturesque Park Point and Lake Superior access; the Mill District in Minneapolis-St. Paul, offering urban amenities and entertainment; and Two Harbors, a charming lakeside town near Duluth. These areas are well-received by guests and boast high ratings.
Cabin rental costs in Minnesota vary depending on the property’s location, amenities, and size. You can expect to pay between $77 and $382 per night. Explore vacation rental listings and compare prices for a more accurate estimate tailored to your preferences and needs.
Searching for pet-friendly cabin rentals in Minnesota is easy. You can use platforms like Lake.com or Rent By Owner, which allows you to filter your search for pet-friendly properties. When viewing listings, look for the “Pet Friendly” label, indicating that your furry friends are welcome. Always double-check the property’s specific pet restrictions or fees before booking.
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