As local travel experts, we know what travelers are looking for when it comes to finding the perfect accommodations for their next trip. To compile our lists, we scour the internet to find properties with excellent ratings and reviews, desirable amenities, nearby attractions, and that something special that makes a destination worthy of traveling for.
Minnesota may not be a tropical paradise lined with palm trees and white sand beaches. But that doesn’t mean we don’t have our fair share of excellent places to take a load off and relax. In every region of the state, unbelievable resorts offer comfort and relaxation surrounded by a natural beauty that you can only find in Minnesota. These 13 resorts in Minnesota are just a taste of the dozens of lakefront and countryside destinations that await you on your next vacation.
1. Thunderbird Lodge - International Falls
Way up on the southern shores of Rainy Lake, Thunderbird Lodge is one of the most beautiful - and peaceful - resorts in Minnesota. Guests can stay in the lodge or in one of several private cabins. Either way, anyone who visits is in for a comfortable stay. Even better, Rainy Lake is home to incredible fishing across its 212,000 acres of waterways. Outdoorsmen will love this amazing resort. Address: 2170 County Road 139, International Falls.
2. Kavanaugh's Sylvan Lake Resort - Brainerd
This resort is in Brainerd, right on the shores of the quiet Sylvan Lake. Aside from the comfortable accommodations, guests can enjoy hiking trails, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, tennis and basketball courts, and boat rentals. Address: 1685 Kavanaugh Drive, Brainerd.
3. Dickerson's Lake Florida Resort - Spicer
This little resort in central Minnesota has been around since 1924. It's a favorite of many who enjoy the simple natural beauty of Lake Florida. The resort has 13 lovely cabins to choose from, as well as free canoe, kayak, and bike rentals for guests. Address: 13194 2nd Street Northeast, Spicer.
4. Ruttger's Bay Lake Lodge - Deerwood
This northern Minnesota lodge is absolutely gorgeous. It's a perfect place to visit for those who enjoy relaxing with fishing, golf, or just being in nature. Several cabin options ensure that there is something for everyone. Address: 25039 Tame Fish Lake Road, Deerwood.
5. Fair Hills Resort - Detroit Lakes
Fair Hills Resort is an incredible spot in northern Minnesota that has all you need to create amazing vacation memories. From golfing to tennis to swimming - and more - there is no end to the activities you can enjoy in between total relaxation. Address: 24270 County Highway 20, Detroit Lakes.
6. Northern Lights Resort & Outfitting - Kabetogama
Kabetogama Lake is one of the more popular resort lakes in Minnesota. There are several great vacation spots that make their homes on the lake. Northern Lights is one of the best. This 25,000 acre lake offers incredible recreation opportunities. Fishing and boat rentals are popular options, but there's nothing wrong with spending a few hours enjoying your private cabin. They're all beautiful, cozy oases that will make you feel right at home. Address: 10179 Bay Club Drive, Kabetogama.
7. Pimushe Resort - Bemidji
A dozen private cabins are on offer at Bemidji's Pimushe Resort. Also on offer is the beautiful lake, where guests can fish, swim, and boat to their heart's content. Golfers will also be pleased to know that there are several courses in the area that will satisfy your need to putt. Address: 7376 Pimushe Trail Northeast, Bemidji.
8. Old Barn Resort - Preston
Old Barn Resort isn't on a lake like many other resorts in Minnesota. But it is in southeastern Minnesota, one of the most beautiful regions in the state. Guests love to stay at Old Barn for the rustic charm, lovely scenery, great restaurant, and excellent golf course. Address: 24461 Heron Road, Preston.
9. Maple Island Resort - Glenwood
Maple Island Resort is a small spot in central Minnesota with six private cabins for guests to choose from. The lakeside location will delight those who enjoy swimming or boating. And because there are only a few cabins, you are guaranteed relaxation for the duration of your stay. Address: 13030 Maple Island Drive Southeast, Glenwood.
10. Twin Pines Resort - Garrison
Many who stay at Garrison's Twin Pines Resort do so to enjoy the excellent hunting and fishing that this area has to offer. But even if you aren't much of an outdoorsman, you can still find peace and quiet at this scenic resort. Lakeside cabins offer great views, and each cabin is outfitted with all that you'll need to have a good stay. Address: 7827 Highway 169, Garrison.
11. Waldheim Resort - Finlayson
Waldheim Resort is located on Big Pine Lake in east central Minnesota. The lakeside cabins are rustic yet homey, and the lake offers all the recreation you'll need. Swimming, boating, and fishing are all available here. And at night, you can sit around a campfire and enjoy the stars. Address: 9096 Waldheim Lane Drive, Finlayson.
12. Idlewild Resort - Kabetogama
Here's another beautiful Kabetogama Lake resort that you will fall in love with. There are 11 cabins to choose from, so you'll have plenty of options to make sure your party has the space and accommodations it needs. After you settle in, enjoy fishing, swimming in the resort pool, or just relaxing lakeside. Address: 10060 Gappa Road, Kabetogama.
13. Life of Riley Resort - Buyck
Lake Vermilion is one of the most popular lakes in Minnesota. It is full of excellent resort options that are ideal for a Minnesota vacation. Life of Riley Resort, while small, is a great place to stay. It has a quiet atmosphere and casual feel that you might not get in some of the larger resorts on the lake. But it still has all that you'd expect from a Minnesota lakeside resort, from comfortable cabins to excellent fishing. Address: 3256 Cedar Road, Buyck.
Have you been to any of these resorts? Do you have any other favorites? Let us know in the comments below!
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