10 Romantic Winter Weekend Getaways in Minnesota in 2024
Looking for a winter weekend getaway that will take your breath away? Minnesota is the place to be! From the icy shores of Lake Superior to the indoor adventure of the Twin Cities, Minnesota has something for everyone.
The chilly weather is finally here, and that means it’s time to start planning those Minnesota winter getaways!
Winter getaways in Minnesota can be a tricky time of year for Minnesotans. Do you go all in on the weather, or do you try and escape it to someplace warm?
I’m not going to lie, by the time spring break rolls around, I’m usually clamoring to feel the sun on my face again.
But if you lean in a little more, and dress the part, we have some epic Minnesota destinations in the winter.
10 Winter Weekend Getaways in Minnesota
If you’re looking for some ideas, we’ve got you covered. If you like chilling in a warm cabin with a good book next to wood-burning fireplaces and a hot drink, we have you covered too.
Or if you’d prefer to hit the trails with the rest of the cross-country skis, you’re all set too!
Here are 10 winter weekend getaways in Minnesota that will take your breath away:
Lutsen Mountains
If you’re looking for a winter wonderland, you need to check out Lutsen Mountains. This beautiful resort town is nestled in the heart of Minnesota’s North Shore It’s the perfect place to enjoy some winter activities like skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.
Lutsen Resort has one of the best hills in Minnesota, located in the Saw Tooth Mountains. They have five different runs to downhill ski on, including Uller Mountain, Eagle Mountain, and Moose Mountain.
Snowboarders love the freestyle course, allowing them to create their own challenging adventure.
They have miles of backcountry trails, with cliff drops, jibs, and jumps. In addition to skiing, you can also do Dog Sledding and snowmobiling!
And when you’re ready to warm up, head to one of the many cozy cabins or lodges in the area.
Red Wing
Nestled along the banks of the Mississippi River, Red Wing is a beautiful small town in southern Minnesota that’s perfect for a winter getaway.
There are plenty of things to do in Red Wing, from exploring the historic downtown to visiting the World’s Largest Boot.
Hike to the top of Barn Bluff, or bring your snowshoes and explore Frontenac State Park. Not only do they have epic views but they are a great hike!
Get some fresh baked bread and donuts from Hanisch Bakery and Coffee Shop.
Spend some time finding out why they are known for Pottery at the Red Wing Pottery Museum. It’s completely free to enter!
And of course, no visit to Red Wing would be complete without taking a scenic drive along the Great River Road.
For more fun things ideas in Red Wing check out: 24 Entertaining Things To Do in Red Wing MN
Minneapolis
Minneapolis is a great city to visit in the winter. This city is home to several great attractions with plenty of things to do, from shopping and dining to exploring the great outdoors.
Visit the Stone Arch Bridge and take pictures of the frozen Mississippi River.
Visit one of the many museums, such as the Walker Art Center or the Mill City Museum, for some culture.
Take a walk around Theodore Wirth Park and enjoy nature, even when it’s cold outside.
Go ice skating at Loring Park or Lake of the Isles. Enjoy the Holidazzle Celebration every December.
You can also find a number of great hotels and resorts in Minneapolis. Find some great places to stay by clicking here.
St. Paul
St. Paul is the perfect place to enjoy a winter weekend getaway, thanks to its many attractions.
Take a stroll through the scenic Como Park Zoo and Conservatory, explore the Minnesota State Capitol, or visit one of the city’s many museums.
And when you’re ready to hit the slopes, don’t forget to check out Afton Alps. It’s one of the best ski resorts in the Midwest.
Check out the St Paul Winter Carnival and find out why we love the season so much! They have ice fishing competitions, snow sculpting and ice skating.
There are plenty of great places to stay in St Paul. One of my favorites is the St Paul Hotel. This historic hotel is in the heart of downtown and within walking distance of a lot of great activities.
Mall of America
The Mall of America is a hotbed of activity year-round but never is it busier in the winter months. You may think that it dies down after the holidays, but you’d be wrong. That’s because of the warm indoor amusement park
Enjoy Nickelodeon Universe with an Unlimited Ride wristband and go on all the coasters. Zipline through the middle of the mall or do the pirate’s plunge ropes course. The whole family will find a ride they love.
Try out an escape room and see how fast you can get out. Do a round of mini golf at the two golf courses in the MOA.
They have the brand new Illusion Museum in the MOA that is so much fun to do too!
Adults go to the fourth floor and enjoy carnival-inspired games and an indoor racetrack at Fair on Four.
Or go underneath the mall and visit the Sealife Aquarium.
The Mall of America is a great place to explore, and if you really want to make a weekend of it stay at the Radisson Blue Mall of America inside the mall or the Great Wolf Lodge Waterpark right across the street.
Bloomington MN has a bunch of other fun things to do. Make sure to explore it all!
Duluth
Duluth is a great city for a perfect winter getaway. The views of Lake Superior are stunning, and there’s plenty to do, from shopping and dining to exploring the great outdoors.
Walk along the famed lake walk in Canal Park and watch the steam come off the water. Get a drink at the Vikre Distillery.
Do some downhill skiing or snowboarding at Spirit Mountain.
Warm up Glensheen Mansion and learn about how the other half lived in 1920’s Duluth!
In December make sure to visit the Bentley Tour of Lights. It’s a free holiday light display on Bayfront Park.
Strap on some skates at the bayfront Festival Park Ice Skating.
There are also a number of great hotels and resorts in Duluth, so you can find the perfect place to stay.
Grand Marais
Grand Marais is another great city to visit in the winter in northern Minnesota. This charming town is located on the shores of Lake Superior. There are plenty of things to do, from shopping and dining to exploring the great outdoors.
With Two Minnesota State Parks on either side of the town, CR Mahoney State Park and Cascade State Park, there is plenty of hiking, snowshoeing, and exploring to do!
Jump on the C.J. Ramstad North Shore State Trail. It’s one of the top rates snowmobile trails in Minnesota with over 150 miles. The trail run from Duluth to Grand Marais, with plenty of opportunities to stop at towns along the way.
You can also find a number of great hotels and resorts in Grand Marais. I love East Bay Resort because it’s right on the lake shore.
It makes for a perfect home base for all the fun things to do there. The guest rooms all have modern amenities, indoor pools and so much more.
For more ideas check out: 12 Exciting Things To Do in Grand Marais MN
Bluefin Bay
If you’re looking for a winter getaway that’s a little more off the beaten path, Bluefin Bay is a great option. This beautiful area is located on the North Shore of Lake Superior.
In winter is becomes a romantic retreat for all things north shore. Warm up at the hot tub or reserve a cozy cabin.
Walk along the boardwalk and watch the ice form on Lake Superior. Go on their private ice skating rink, or roast a s’more by the fire.
What I love about Bluefin Bay resort is they make it easy for everyone with full cross-country skiing and snowshoeing outfitting as a complementary service to their guests. There are also miles of snowmobile trails to enjoy.
They are close to all kinds of trails, like the Superior Hiking Trail, Carlton Peak, Oberg Mountain, and Temperance River State Park.
For cross-country skiing, I recommend doing the Sugarbush Trail system. They have everything from beginner to expert trails.
The north shore has so much to see and do. Make sure you get out and explore it! 28+ Stops on the North Shore’s Highway 61 – Minnesota’s Road Trip
Cragun’s Resort
Looking for a romantic getaway this winter? Minnesota has plenty of options. One of our favorites is Cragun’s Resort, which is located on beautiful Gull Lake in the Brainerd Lakes area.
This resort features cozy accommodations, a variety of dining options, and plenty of activities to keep you busy.
Inside the resort is a beautiful indoor pool overlooking the frozen lake. Don’t forget to do some ice fishing.
If you are adventurous try one of their Dog Sled Rides, do some cross country skiing or play a game of Broomball. They are also on the Paul Bunyan Trail, perfect for 75 miles of snowmobiling.
They have bonfires roaring outside to help you warm up!
If you’re looking for a little extra romance, don’t forget to add a horse-drawn sleigh ride to your itinerary.
Cragun’s Resort has everything you need. But if you’re looking for more to do outside the resort, check out the 38 Fun Things to do in Brainerd Minnesota
Detroit Lakes
Detroit Lakes is a great city to visit in the winter. This charming city is located in the heart of Minnesota’s lake country, and there are plenty of things to do, from shopping and dining to exploring the great outdoors.
Every February, they host the Polar Fest. An annual event that includes winter golfing, ice-fishing tournaments, fireworks, and more!
You can also find several great hotels and resorts in Detroit Lakes.
Start Planning your Winter Weekend Getaway in Minnesota Today
So, there you have it! These are just a few of the many great winter weekend getaways in Minnesota. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your next winter vacation today!
