While the winter season in Minnesota is the perfect time to curl up with a good book by the fireplace, sometimes you may feel a little stir crazy and look for some fun escapes to spend your time during the winter months. Luckily, there are plenty of places throughout the state where you can enjoy the season and take a vacation.
Bluefin Bay Resort
Situated along the north shore of Minnesota, the Bluefin Bay Family Resorts are the perfect way to experience the beauty of Lake Superior in full luxury. You will have access to the lake, Sawtooth Mountains, and the Superior National Forest. The resort is the perfect place to relax and unwind with rooms boasting whirlpool baths, fireplaces, and amazing picturesque views. You can choose from economy accommodations to full condos and townhomes. Some of the most popular resort activities include snowboarding, cross-country skiing, downhill skiing, ice skating, and even dog sledding.
Giants Ridge
Located in Biwabik, Giants Ridge is the perfect weekend getaway for those who enjoy the outdoor activities that winter has to offer. The resort is tucked in the Northwoods of Minnesota and is known for its skiing, ice-fishing, snowboarding, and fat tire biking along the majestic pines of the Superior National Forest. There is a wide range of accommodations to choose from to fit any budget. You can choose to stay at the Lodge at Giant’s Ridge, the Residence Clubhouse, or Green Gate Guest Houses.
Ely
The college town of Ely, located on the Vermillion Iron Range, is a small community and home to many types of snow sports and activities as well as some great winter photo opportunities. The destination is a popular location for dog sledding trips and includes other local activities such as the American Bear Center, the Dorothy Molter Museum, Sheridan Street, Bear Head Lake State Park, the International Wolf Center. The downtown area is the perfect place to shop local boutiques to find the most unique gifts.
Detroit Lakes
A fun-filled weekend getaway in the state is taking a trip to Detroit Lakes. The town is home to many restaurants, pubs, and bars. Some of the most popular spots are The Fireside, Hub 41, and Taps & Tastes. You can also enjoy horse-drawn sleigh rides throughout the season and make sure to attend the Polar Fest which is a local event that occurs in February. The event includes dinners, a lighted ice palace, fireworks, an ice fishing derby, and the infamous polar plunge that occurs in Detroit Lake. It is an event the whole family can enjoy.
Bayfield & Apostle Islands
The quaint town in northern Wisconsin makes the perfect getaway for anyone from the Midwest. Avid skiers can test their skills on the slopes of Mount Vahalla. Those looking to enjoy some scenery, or even just get a little exercise, can cross-country ski through the public forest trails or hike the Apostle Island ice caves. You can also spend a half or full day on a dog sledding excursion or a snowmobile trip along the bay county trails. If you are looking to enjoy a unique sight, be sure to bring your camera to the ice road on Madeline Island.
If you are planning a trip in February, you can check out the annual dog sled race held February 2nd and 3rd of this year. The event is thrilling to watch, and when it’s done, you can warm up around the large fire pit.
Hawks View Cottages
Those looking to enjoy a peaceful and romantic escape, you can make a trip to the Hawks View Cottages located in the river town of Fountain City. The cottages sit high atop a steep bluff to provide treehouse-like views along the river’s valley. The cottages are electronic free and make the perfect place to relax, unwind, un-plug, and enjoy some beautiful surroundings with your loved one. Grab a bottle of wine, a good book, and some great company and book your cottage weekend.
Whether you are looking to relax and unwind, do a little shopping, or enjoy some of the amazing outdoor winter activities the area has to offer, you can plan your winter weekend getaway at one of the top escapes listed above.