15 Best Romantic (Weekend) Getaways in Minnesota
Imagine a place where sparkling lakes meet whispering pines, where charming small towns offer cozy escapes, and vibrant cities pulse with romantic energy. Welcome to Minnesota, the Land of 10,000 Lakes, a truly underrated gem for couples seeking an unforgettable weekend getaway. Forget crowded tourist traps; here, you will discover intimate retreats, breathtaking natural beauty, and a surprising array of activities perfectly tailored for two.
From rustic lakeside lodges where you can reconnect with nature to elegant city hotels brimming with sophistication, Minnesota offers a diverse tapestry of romantic experiences. Whether you dream of crisp autumn hikes, cozy winter nights by a fireplace, sun-drenched summer days on the water, or vibrant spring strolls, there’s a perfect time to visit. Fall, with its fiery foliage, and summer, with its endless lake activities, are particularly popular, but the quiet magic of winter and the blossoming beauty of spring offer unique charms. Pack your bags and get ready to fall in love all over again, surrounded by Minnesota’s enchanting allure.
💰 Travel Cost Overview
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (per night) | $80 – $150 | $150 – $300 | $300 – $600+ |
| Food & Dining (per day) | $30 – $60 (Self-catering/casual) | $60 – $120 (Restaurants) | $120 – $250+ (Fine dining/multiple meals) |
| Transportation (per day) | $10 – $25 (Public transport/walking) | $30 – $70 (Car rental/rideshare) | $70 – $150+ (Premium car rental/taxis) |
| Activities & Attractions (average entry fees/tours) | $10 – $30 (Parks/museums) | $30 – $70 (Special tours/rentals) | $70 – $150+ (Spa, unique experiences) |
| Total Daily Budget (per person) | $130 – $275 | $270 – $560 | $560 – $1150+ |
| Weekly Budget Estimates (per person) | $910 – $1925 | $1890 – $3920 | $3920 – $8050+ |
Boyd Lodge
Nestled on the shores of Lower Cullen Lake in Pequot Lakes, Boyd Lodge offers a quintessential Minnesota lakeside experience, perfect for couples seeking tranquility and classic cabin charm. What makes this place truly unique is its timeless appeal, preserving the nostalgic feel of a traditional family resort while providing modern comforts. You can expect to wake up to the sounds of loons, spend your days kayaking on the serene waters, or simply relaxing on your private deck with a good book.
In the evenings, gather around a crackling campfire, sharing stories under a canopy of stars. The resort offers various cabin sizes, many with stone fireplaces and rustic-chic decor, ensuring a cozy and intimate stay. It’s an ideal spot for couples who cherish quiet moments, outdoor activities, and a sense of stepping back in time to a simpler, more connected way of life. The resort’s history as a beloved family destination adds to its warm, welcoming atmosphere.
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Lost Lake Lodge
Lost Lake Lodge, secluded amidst the Chippewa National Forest near Pine River, is a true hidden gem for couples yearning for an exclusive, all-inclusive escape. What sets it apart is its intimate size and unparalleled commitment to personalized service, making you feel like honored guests in a private sanctuary. You can expect days filled with bespoke adventures, from guided fishing trips on the pristine Lost Lake to exploring miles of private hiking trails.
The lodge’s gourmet dining experience, often featuring locally sourced ingredients, is a highlight, with menus tailored to your preferences. Each cabin is thoughtfully designed, offering luxurious comfort and stunning lake views, ensuring privacy and romance. This destination is perfect for couples who appreciate fine dining, outdoor activities without the crowds, and a deeply personalized, stress-free vacation where every detail is taken care of. Its history as a private retreat before becoming a lodge contributes to its exclusive, tranquil ambiance.
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Kavanaugh’s Sylvan Lake Resort
Kavanaugh’s Sylvan Lake Resort in Brainerd offers a vibrant yet relaxing lakeside retreat, ideal for couples who enjoy a mix of activity and leisure. What makes Kavanaugh’s unique is its extensive range of amenities and activities, catering to every interest while maintaining a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. You can expect to fill your days with golfing on their championship course, unwinding at the spa, or enjoying various water sports on Sylvan Lake.
In the evenings, choose from several dining options or catch live entertainment. The resort offers a variety of lodging, from cozy hotel rooms to spacious lakeside villas, ensuring comfort for every couple. This destination is perfect for active couples who love golf, water activities, and appreciate having everything they need right on site. Its long-standing history as a popular family and couple’s resort ensures a well-honed guest experience.
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St. James Hotel
The historic St. James Hotel, perched majestically above the Mississippi River in Red Wing, offers a romantic getaway steeped in Victorian elegance and timeless charm. What makes this hotel truly unique is its rich history, dating back to 1875, combined with meticulously preserved architecture and modern amenities.
You can expect to wander through beautifully appointed rooms, dine in exquisite restaurants with river views, or explore the charming boutiques and art galleries within the hotel itself. Each room is individually decorated, often with antique furnishings, providing a unique and intimate atmosphere. This destination is perfect for couples who appreciate history, architectural beauty, fine dining, and a sophisticated, unhurried pace. Its location in the picturesque town of Red Wing also allows for leisurely strolls along the riverfront and visits to local shops, adding to its appeal.
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The Grand Hotel Minneapolis
The Grand Hotel Minneapolis, located in the heart of downtown, offers an urban romantic escape with a touch of classic sophistication. What makes this hotel unique is its blend of historic elegance, housed in a magnificent architectural landmark, with modern luxury amenities including an expansive athletic club and spa. You can expect to indulge in a couples massage, take a dip in the indoor pool, or enjoy a gourmet meal at the hotel’s restaurant.
The rooms are spacious and elegantly furnished, providing a serene retreat from the bustling city outside. This destination is perfect for couples who enjoy city life, appreciate refined service, and want easy access to Minneapolis’s cultural attractions, dining scene, and entertainment venues. Its location provides a perfect base for exploring the city hand-in-hand, from theater shows to art museums.
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Birch Forest Lodge
Birch Forest Lodge, nestled among towering pines on the quiet shores of Pelican Lake near Orr, offers an authentic Northwoods experience for couples seeking solitude and natural beauty. What makes this lodge truly unique is its rustic charm combined with comfortable, well-appointed cabins, providing a genuine “up north” escape without sacrificing comfort. You can expect peaceful mornings watching the sunrise over the lake, days spent fishing, canoeing, or simply enjoying the quiet of the forest, and evenings by a crackling fire.
The lodge’s smaller scale ensures a more personal and intimate experience. This destination is perfect for couples who love nature, outdoor activities, and desire a tranquil retreat away from the hustle and bustle. The lodge has been a cherished family-run establishment for generations, imbuing it with a sense of history and genuine hospitality.
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Grand Ely Lodge
Grand Ely Lodge, perched on the edge of Shagawa Lake in Ely, offers a grand yet cozy retreat amidst Minnesota’s pristine Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness gateway. What makes it unique is its impressive lodge architecture, featuring soaring timber ceilings and a massive stone fireplace, combined with breathtaking lake views and easy access to the wilderness. You can expect to enjoy panoramic lake vistas from your room, dine at the lakeside restaurant, or unwind in the indoor pool and sauna.
The lodge is a perfect base for exploring the wild beauty of the surrounding area, from hiking trails to canoeing adventures. This destination is ideal for couples who love outdoor adventure, appreciate comfortable lodging after a day of exploration, and seek a blend of rustic charm and modern amenities. Its role as a gateway to the BWCA adds to its adventurous spirit.
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Water Street Inn
The Water Street Inn, located in the historic downtown of Excelsior, offers a charming and intimate boutique hotel experience just steps from Lake Minnetonka. What makes this inn unique is its blend of classic elegance and modern comfort, housed within a beautifully restored historic building. You can expect to enjoy individually decorated rooms, many with fireplaces and whirlpool tubs, perfect for a romantic escape.
Stroll hand-in-hand to the nearby shops, restaurants, and the lakefront, soaking in the quaint small-town atmosphere. This destination is ideal for couples who appreciate boutique lodging, enjoy exploring charming towns on foot, and desire proximity to the beauty of Lake Minnetonka without the hustle of a large city. Its location in a vibrant, walkable historic district adds to its appeal.
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East Silent Resort
East Silent Resort, nestled on the tranquil shores of East Silent Lake near Dent, offers a serene and authentic Minnesota resort experience focused on relaxation and natural beauty. What makes this resort unique is its commitment to providing a classic, unpretentious lakeside getaway, perfect for unplugging and reconnecting with your partner. You can expect to spend your days swimming, kayaking, or paddleboarding on the clear lake, enjoying the peaceful surroundings, or simply lounging on your cabin’s porch.
The resort emphasizes a laid-back atmosphere, allowing you to set your own pace. This destination is perfect for couples who cherish quiet moments, enjoy simple pleasures like bonfires and lake activities, and seek an escape from technology and daily stresses. Its long history as a family-run resort ensures a welcoming and comfortable stay.
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W Minneapolis – The Foshay
The W Minneapolis – The Foshay, housed within the iconic Foshay Tower, offers a chic and sophisticated urban romantic escape in downtown Minneapolis. What makes this hotel truly unique is its stunning Art Deco architecture, providing a glamorous backdrop for your stay, combined with modern, stylish design and vibrant nightlife. You can expect to sip cocktails at the Prohibition-era inspired speakeasy, enjoy panoramic city views from the observation deck, or dine at the hotel’s upscale restaurant.
The rooms are sleek and contemporary, offering luxurious comfort. This destination is perfect for couples who thrive in an urban environment, appreciate design and history, and seek a lively atmosphere with easy access to Minneapolis’s premier attractions, dining, and entertainment. The Foshay Tower’s fascinating history as a symbol of early 20th-century ambition adds to its allure.
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Alexander Mansion Bed & Breakfast
Alexander Mansion Bed & Breakfast, nestled in Minneapolis’s historic Lowry Hill neighborhood, offers an opulent and intimate romantic escape in a truly grand setting. What makes this B&B unique is its magnificent Victorian architecture and meticulously restored interiors, transporting you back to a bygone era of elegance and charm. You can expect to stay in individually themed rooms, each exquisitely decorated with antiques and luxurious touches, and enjoy a gourmet breakfast served in the formal dining room.
Explore the mansion’s lavish common areas, relax in the drawing-room, or stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens. This destination is perfect for couples who adore historical homes, appreciate personalized service, and seek a tranquil, sophisticated retreat within a vibrant city. The mansion’s history as a prominent family home adds a layer of fascinating stories to your stay.
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Northern Rail Traincar Inn
The Northern Rail Traincar Inn, located in the charming town of Two Harbors, offers a truly unique and whimsical romantic getaway. What makes this inn special is its lodging in meticulously restored and repurposed train cars, providing an unforgettable and novel experience. You can expect to stay in a cozy, themed train car suite, complete with modern amenities, and feel like you’ve stepped into a storybook.
Explore the historic town of Two Harbors, visit the lighthouse, or drive along the scenic North Shore of Lake Superior. This destination is perfect for adventurous couples who enjoy quirky accommodations, appreciate history, and want a memorable base for exploring the dramatic beauty of Minnesota’s North Shore. The creative transformation of these train cars into comfortable lodging is a testament to ingenuity and adds to its unique charm.
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Cragun’s Resort and Hotel
Cragun’s Resort and Hotel on Gull Lake in Brainerd is a Minnesota institution, offering a comprehensive and active lakeside romantic getaway. What makes Cragun’s unique is its vast array of amenities and activities, from a championship golf course and indoor waterpark to multiple dining options and a full-service marina. You can expect to fill your days with golfing, boating, swimming, or simply relaxing by the lake.
In the evenings, enjoy live entertainment or a romantic dinner. The resort offers various lodging types, from hotel rooms to private cabins, catering to different preferences. This destination is perfect for active couples who enjoy a wide range of activities, appreciate convenience, and want a resort where everything is at their fingertips. Its long-standing reputation as a premier Minnesota resort speaks to its quality and enduring appeal.
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Fair Hills Resort
Fair Hills Resort on Pelican Lake near Detroit Lakes offers a classic, welcoming Minnesota resort experience, perfect for couples seeking a relaxed and authentic lake vacation. What makes Fair Hills unique is its enduring charm as a family-run resort since 1906, fostering a strong sense of community and tradition. You can expect to enjoy simple pleasures like swimming, boating, and fishing on the lake, participating in resort activities, or simply unwinding in your cozy cabin.
The resort is known for its friendly atmosphere and regular themed events, including popular Hootenanny nights. This destination is perfect for couples who appreciate a laid-back, traditional resort experience, enjoy social activities, and seek a genuine escape to the lakeside. Its long history and commitment to guest experience make it a beloved destination.
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Archer House River Inn
The Archer House River Inn, a historic landmark in downtown Northfield, offers a charming and sophisticated romantic escape in a vibrant college town setting. What makes this inn unique is its rich history, dating back to 1877, combined with beautifully updated rooms that blend historic character with modern comfort. You can expect to stay in individually decorated rooms, many with unique architectural details, and enjoy the inn’s central location.
Stroll hand-in-hand through Northfield’s picturesque downtown, explore its unique shops, art galleries, and cafes, or walk along the Cannon River. This destination is perfect for couples who appreciate history, enjoy a walkable small-town atmosphere, and seek a blend of cultural exploration and relaxed charm. Its connection to Northfield’s famous “Defeat of Jesse James” story adds a fascinating historical layer.
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Plan Your Visit
From the tranquil shores of secluded lakes to the vibrant heart of metropolitan cities, Minnesota truly delivers an incredible array of romantic getaways, each with its own unique charm and story. You’ve journeyed through historic inns, luxurious urban retreats, and classic Northwoods lodges, discovering how each destination offers a distinct flavor of romance.
Whether you crave adventurous days on the water, intimate evenings by a crackling fire, or sophisticated city explorations, Minnesota has a perfect spot waiting for you and your loved one. Don’t just dream about it; start planning your escape today! With the detailed cost information provided, you can tailor your trip to fit any budget, ensuring your Minnesota romance is as stress-free as it is unforgettable. Pack your bags, leave your worries behind, and prepare to create cherished memories in the captivating Land of 10,000 Lakes.
