Weekend Getaways from Minneapolis, Minnesota
Searching for the best weekend getaways from MSP? Well, you are in the right place! One of the best things about living in Minneapolis is how many amazing weekend escapes are just a short drive away, both in Minnesota and Wisconsin. Here are some of my top weekend getaways from Minneapolis, and I hope you enjoy them too.
St. James Hotel
For me, this hotel is perfect for stepping back into a timeless story and it's become one of my favorite weekend getaways from Minneapolis. I loved how its historic charm wrapped around me the moment we walked through the grand entrance.
Chris and I both admired the Victorian details everywhere—the ornate woodwork, and antique furnishings. In addition, the way our room had its own personality was a standout, which made the experience feel truly unique.
I spent time wandering through the hallways and felt as though I was part of history, yet I still had all the modern comforts I needed, from plush bedding to attentive service that made the stay so joyful.
The rooftop patio quickly became my favorite spot, where we sipped wine and looked out over the Mississippi River, soaking in the views that made Red Wing feel even more special.
In addition, I loved how the hotel’s central location made it easy for us to stroll along the river, pop into local shops, and explore the town’s historic downtown without ever needing to drive.
I especially enjoyed visit cultural attractions such as the Sheldon Theatre and the Red Wing Arts Center.
What I loved best:
Dinner at the hotel’s Port Restaurant one evening was the absolute best combination of cozy ambiance and elevated cuisine—we lingered long after dessert just to savor the moment.
Ruttger's Bay Bay Lake Resort
We found ourselves instantly charmed by this resort in Deerwood—it felt like discovering a hidden piece of Minnesota’s soul nestled beside Bay Lake that completely won me over.
I felt welcomed by a warm, cozy atmosphere that’s rooted in generations of tradition, and it still carries that “treating guests like family” vibe.
We stayed in a comfortable cabin for five blissful days, which came with a kitchen, air-conditioning, and a fireplace, making this weekend escape feel like a home away from home.
I was delighted by the variety of onsite activities: two full golf courses, a 9-hole course, a full marina with pontoon and fishing boat rentals, plus guided fishing, and even an ice cream parlor on the historic Main Street.
We loved lounging on the sandy beachfront just steps from our door, paddling kayaks or canoes, and relaxing by bonfires under the wide northern sky—moments like these made the resort feel like one of the most joyful escapes we’ve experienced.
After a day exploring, I felt pampered with ease at the spa, or winding down over a meal at one of the resort’s restaurants or bars.
What I loved best:
60-minute massage at the spa after kayaking was the best!
In addition, we appreciated that there was always something happening—from Kids Kamp and youth programs (for our son) to peaceful adult retreats. I thought it was wonderful that this Deerwood weekend getaway offered something special for every generation.
Northern Lights Resort
Richville, MN has just 77 full time residents so I'm pretty sure this is as off-the-beaten path as you can get in the Midwest. It was one of my favorite places to visit on our last minute family getaway. You'll find heaps of lakeside beauty, a cozy cabin, and that signature "Up North" peace.
I love that in addition to lakeside cabins, you can choose from seasonal and affordable RV sites at the Northern Lights Resort to suit any travel style (and budget!). I instantly thought our journey was worth it! I have to warn you that on summer weekends, RV sites go pretty fast because they are cheap. So be sure to have reservations!
We drove about 3 hours north from Minneapolis towards Voyageurs National Park to reach Northern Lights Resort. Chris, our son and I stayed in a lakeside cabin for a 3-day long weekend. The cabin was very comfortable, with air-conditioning, and a fully equipped kitchen.
If you love to stay active on the water, visiting in the summer is a must! You get access to a sandy beach, paddle boards, kayaks, a water trampoline, and even a bait barn. The snack store makes it easy (and affordable) to keep the kids fed.
Grand Ely Lodge - 4 hours from MSP
I thought this was one of the best getaways from Minneapolis for the weekend, Minnesota. when we moved to the Midwest Why? Now, first things first, there are the super nice views of Shagawa Lake! In addition, the town of Ely itself is perfection if you are like us and love the outdoors.
You can take the kids hiking, biking, birding, fishing and camping during the warmer season. In the winter, there's no need to stay indoors either! Choose from snowshoeing, skiing and dog sledding. These activities are centered around the Superior National Forest and Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.
Our room for two days at Grand Ely Lodge had everything we needed. The balcony with lake views was my favorite. I thought the pool and hot tub were especially nice to come back to after a day outside.
What I loved best:
Evening sunsets.
A downside? Some activities weren't available due to our shoulder season visit.
Stillwater and The Water Street Inn - 35 minutes from MSP
Don't want to do a lot of driving on your weekend getaway from Minneapolis? Head to Stillwater, a real standout.
I thought that staying at The Water Street Inn in St. Croix over a care-free 48-hour weekend was amazing. Why? First off, I loved being right in the heart of a historic river town (the St. Croix River is literally outside your window!).
In addition, I was charmed by the inn's 19th-century atmosphere (don't worry, you still get all the modern comforts!).
Our room for two days had a whirlpool tub and a fireplace, which is ideal for a romantic weekend for couples, anniversary, or even a honeymoon weekend.
We enjoyed walking right out the door into downtown Stillwater, all just steps away from the inn. You can litaraly walk to local cafes and wineries
My favorite romantic dinner was Charlie’s Irish Pub. They serve hearty food and there's great music too.
What I loved best:
Relaxing the rooftop patio looking at the historic lift bridge of the river.
Edgewater Hotel & Waterpark
This lakeside hotel, tucked right along the shore in Duluth, is one of my go-to picks when I want a mix of excitement, scenery, and convenience.
From the moment we arrived, I knew this was going to be a stay with the best mix of full of fun and weekend relaxation, with Lake Superior views right outside.
Our room for two days was comfortable and spacious, and waking up to the sight of the lake each morning felt like the best way to start the day.
I thought the location was spectacular, just minutes from Canal Park and Duluth’s Lakewalk, making it easy for us to explore the city between waterpark adventures.
One of my favorite moments was floating down the lazy river. In addition, I enjoyed ending our day with pizza from the onsite restaurant and then head back to our cozy room without ever leaving the property.
We also appreciated the family-friendly touches everywhere—from arcade games to outdoor picnic areas—that made the stay joyful for four son too.
I spent time on the deck in the evening, watching the lake and feeling grateful for a place that combined comfort and excitement so effortlessly.
What I loved best:
We loved that the waterpark was connected to the hotel. It was a dream for my son, with waterslides, a lazy river, and splash zones that kept everyone entertained for hours.
Cornucopia, WI and Siskiwit Bay Lodge
Not many people have heard of Cornucopia, WI and that's exactly why it's one of our favorite places to visit in the Midwest. In fact, I felt like we had discovered one of the most peaceful and spectacular spots in northern Wisconsin. Cornucopia, WI is a hidden gem that's perfectly located if you want to explore Bayfield and the Apostle Islands.
Staying at Siskiwit Bay Lodge is a must, right on the South Shore of Lake Superior. Our room for three care-free days came with a whirlpool tub and a private balcony overlooking the water. You can enjoy handcrafted log details, big stone fireplaces, and lake views from nearly every angle.
Bay State Park in La Pointe on Madeline Island
There’s something about this park that instantly made me feel like I’d discovered one of the Midwest’s best-kept secrets. Fall foliage here was completely out-of-this-world spectacular as you can see in my cover photo.
We took a 1.5 hour day trip to Bay State Park in La Pointe on Madeline Island from our home base at Siskiwit Bay Lodge. I though it was one of the best weekend getaways from Minneapolis. Most definitely a great way to get to know the area and enjoy a scenic drive too!
