Sometimes the best way to reconnect—with yourself, with your partner, or with nature—is to take just a short drive from the city. Living in Minneapolis, we’re lucky to be surrounded by lakefront lodges, small-town charm, and cozy inns that make weekend escapes feel effortless. Whether we were hiking along quiet trails, sipping coffee by the water, or wandering through historic towns, each getaway offered a welcome change of pace. One Sunday evening, while packing up to return home, I caught myself thinking, “I didn’t realize how much I needed that reset.”
Best Weekend Getaways from Minneapolis, Minnesota:
St. James Hotel in Red Wing - 1 hour from Minneapolis, Minnesota
Perched above the Mississippi River in Red Wing, the St. James Hotel wraps you in old-world charm the moment you step through the door. With its vintage wallpaper, antique furniture, and views of the riverboats drifting by, the place feels like a bridge between centuries. Walking through the quiet hallways, I found myself thinking, “This is where time slows down just enough to catch your breath.” The creak of the floorboards, the hush of the lobby—everything invited us to relax and savor.
What I Loved Most: Watching the sun dip low over the water from the rooftop patio while the town lit up below, golden and quiet.
My highlights? Dinner at The Port, the hotel’s elegant restaurant. I had the duck breast with cherry glaze, wild rice pilaf, and roasted carrots. Every bite was beautifully done, and the low lighting and hushed dining room made the evening feel extra special.
Travel Tips:
- Location: 406 Main St, Red Wing, MN 55066
- Vibe: Historic, refined, romantic
- Best For: Couples seeking a classic stay with river views and small-town charm
- Amenities: On-site dining, spa services, river-view rooms, boutique shops nearby
- Cost: $$ – Rates from ~$190/night
- Tip: Book a riverfront suite and ask about seasonal events or special wine tastings
Ruttger's Bay Bay Lake Resort, Deerwood
Set on the peaceful shores of Bay Lake, Ruttger's Bay Lake Resort felt like a retreat built around the art of slowing down. Mornings began with mist curling off the water and ended with the sound of a crackling bonfire. There was something grounding about being surrounded by pine trees and laughter drifting from the dock. One evening, while watching the sunset melt into the lake, I thought, “This is the version of life I wish I could bottle.”
What I Loved Most: Paddling a canoe at golden hour, watching loons glide across the still water, completely undisturbed.
My highlights? Dinner at Ruby’s on the Lake was hearty and comforting—I had the walleye sandwich with lemon aioli and a side of beer-battered fries. Simple, satisfying, and perfect after a full day outdoors.
Travel Tips:
- Location: 25039 Tame Fish Lake Rd, Deerwood, MN 56444
- Vibe: Lakeside, relaxed, family-friendly
- Best For: Couples or families wanting lake recreation and Minnesota nostalgia
- Amenities: Golf course, beach, water sports, dining, cozy cabins
- Cost: $$ – Rates from ~$160/night
- Tip: Try to visit in early fall when the leaves are just starting to turn
Grand Ely Lodge - 4 hours from MSP
At the edge of the Boundary Waters, Grand Ely Lodge is where the wild meets warmth. The crisp air, pine forests, and glassy lake invite you to leave your phone behind and step into the now. Sitting by the fireplace in the lodge, I caught myself thinking, “Maybe this is what it means to feel completely untethered.”
What I Loved Most: Early morning hikes on nearby trails, followed by hot coffee with a view of Shagawa Lake.
My highlights? The lodge’s Evergreen Restaurant served up a generous plate of blueberry pancakes, thick-cut bacon, and real maple syrup. It was the kind of breakfast that makes you linger over each bite.
Travel Tips:
- Location: 400 N Pioneer Rd, Ely, MN 55731
- Vibe: Rustic, remote, nature-first
- Best For: Nature lovers, couples looking for a quiet escape
- Amenities: Lake access, boat rentals, hiking, restaurant, sauna
- Cost: $$ – Rates from ~$180/night
- Tip: Bring binoculars—wildlife sightings are common around the lake
The Water Street Inn - 35 minutes
In the heart of Stillwater, The Water Street Inn offers vintage romance along the St. Croix River. With its turreted architecture and riverside views, it felt like we stepped into a postcard. Walking hand-in-hand through the historic downtown, I remember thinking, “This is the kind of place where even ordinary moments feel special.”
What I Loved Most: Sipping wine on the private balcony while riverboats floated by below and jazz music played from a nearby patio.
My highlights? At Charlie’s Restaurant inside the inn, I had the steak frites with garlic herb butter and a glass of local red wine. Elegant, but cozy enough to make you feel at home.
Travel Tips:
- Location: 101 Water St S, Stillwater, MN 55082
- Vibe: Historic, romantic, riverfront
- Best For: Couples who love small towns and scenic views
- Amenities: On-site dining, riverfront rooms, downtown walkability
- Cost: $$ – Rates from ~$200/night
- Tip: Request a room with a whirlpool tub and river view for extra indulgence
Edgewater Hotel & Waterpark - 2 hours 15 minutes
In Duluth, where Lake Superior stretches endlessly to the horizon, the Edgewater Hotel and Waterpark offers playful energy and family-friendly comfort. From the moment we checked in, it was all about fun—bright colors, excited kids, and the splash of water echoing down the hall. Standing on the Skywalk after sunset, I thought, “Sometimes joy is loud, and that’s just what we needed.”
What I Loved Most: Watching the sun rise over Lake Superior while sipping coffee outside the room—peaceful before the waterpark chaos resumed.
My highlights? The on-site Tiki Tom’s Oasis & Grill offered loaded nachos, a big grilled chicken sandwich, and frozen lemonade—quick bites that kept everyone happy between pool sessions.
Travel Tips:
- Location: 2400 London Rd, Duluth, MN 55812
- Vibe: Lively, kid-friendly, energetic
- Best For: Families looking for nonstop entertainment near the lake
- Amenities: Waterpark, arcade, lake access, casual dining
- Cost: $$ – Rates from ~$170/night
- Tip: Plan at least one off-site excursion to Canal Park or the Lakewalk for balance
Wisconsin Dells - Baker’s Sunset Bay Resort - 3 hours 30 minutes
Nestled near Wisconsin Dells, Baker’s Sunset Bay Resort surprised us with how cozy and relaxing it felt. Far enough from the bustle, yet close enough for adventure, the lakeside location offered sunsets that stopped us in our tracks. One evening, watching fireflies over the water, I found myself quietly thinking, “This feels like summer the way I remember it.”
What I Loved Most: Roasting marshmallows by the campfire while the lake reflected the stars—it was simple and magical.
My highlights? A short drive brought us to a local tavern for fish fry night—crispy perch, coleslaw, and buttery rye bread that tasted like tradition on a plate.
Travel Tips:
- Location: 921 Canyon Rd, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965
- Vibe: Lakeside, nostalgic, welcoming
- Best For: Couples or families wanting nature + Dells fun
- Amenities: Indoor/outdoor pools, campfires, lake access, game room
- Cost: $$ – Rates from ~$160/night
- Tip: Bring beach towels and your own snacks for lakeside picnics
Plan Your Own Minnesota Escape
From historic riverfront inns to family-friendly resorts with waterparks, the region around Minneapolis offers something for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re chasing peace and quiet or playful adventure, these weekend getaways deliver just the right balance of rest and discovery. Just a few hours in the car can transport you somewhere that feels far from everyday life—and sometimes, that’s all we really need.
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