15 Best Resorts in Minnesota for Outdoor Enthusiasts

When it comes to outdoor adventure, Minnesota has a lot to offer. From hiking and biking trails to lakes and rivers, there is no shortage of ways to get outside and enjoy the fresh air. And, with so many great resorts to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect spot to relax and recharge.

To help you plan your next Minnesota getaway, we’ve put together a list of the best resorts for outdoor lovers. Whether you’re looking for a place to kick back and relax or an adventure-filled vacation, these resorts have something for everyone.

If you’re planning a trip to the Land of 10,000 Lakes, then you’ll want to check out one of these amazing resorts. From rustic cabins to luxury suites, there’s something for everyone. And, with so many great amenities, you’re sure to find the perfect fit for your next getaway.

So, without further ado, let’s take a look at the best resorts in Minnesota!

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The top resorts in Minnesota

Sugar Lake Lodge

Address: 37584 Otis Ln, Cohasset, MN 55721
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Located in the heart of the North Woods, near Grand Rapids, Sugar Lake Lodge is the perfect place to get away from it all. With miles of hiking and biking trails, a championship golf course, and access to some of the best fishing in the state, this resort has something for everyone.

SugarLooking to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life? Look no further than Sugar Lake Lodge! Their wooded lakeside setting is the perfect place to reconnect with family and friends. You’ll find spaces for rich social engagement as well as cozy spots for privacy.

While everyone else is busy building concrete jungles, they’ve doubled down on the greenery and tranquility.

They have a variety of accommodations, including cabins, hotel-style rooms, and golf course villas. And their Otis’s Grill & Bar features a lakeside patio – perfect for enjoying the stunning views. Sugar Lake was even voted the Start Tribune’s “Best Beach in MN”!

And there’s no shortage of activities to enjoy while you’re there. Sit in the heated outdoor pool and relax, and or join in on their daily activities like lakeside yoga, nature hikes, golf clinics, and more.

Play a round of golf on their 18-hole championship course overlooking the lake or sit next to their outdoor bonfires!

So if you’re looking for the best resort in Minnesota, you need to check out Sugar Lake Lodge!

Madden’s on Gull Lake

If you’re looking for a truly luxurious experience, then you’ll want to check out Madden’s on Gull Lake. This resort is home to The Classic at Maddens, a Golf Digest 100 and 5-star golf course. They also have a world-class spa and a variety of dining and shopping options.

Madden’s on Gull Lake is one of the best resorts in Minnesota and it’s easy to see why. With more than three miles of Gull Lake shoreline, three beaches, and endless recreation, Madden’s On Gull Lake is an idyllic vacation spot.

Take to the water for guided fishing, a cruise around the lake, or improve your skills at its Waterski School.

As well as the newly added Pavilion, Madden’s is the Brainerd Lakes Area’s newest lakeside event facility and spans over 10,000 square feet. This event center is the perfect setting for weddings, meetings, and family reunions. Really, anything event would surely shine in this space that faces the sparkling shores of Gull Lake.

There’s also lawn bowling, shuffleboard, volleyball, and basketball! Or spend the day relaxing at the Spa at Madden’s.

You’ll see why Madden’s on Gull Lake is one of the best resorts in Minnesota.

Porch at Maddens On gull Lake — Photo’s Courtesy of Madden’s on Gull Lake

Bedroom — Photo’s Courtesy of Madden’s on Gull Lake

Cragun’s Resort on Gull Lake

Cragun’s Resort is the perfect place to enjoy all that the Brainerd Lakes area has to offer. With 11 lakes to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect spot to fish, swim, or just relax.

Cragun’s Resort on Gull Lake, is where guests have been making “friends and memories” since 1940! Cragun’s Resort is the perfect place for a family vacation, business meeting, or wedding reception.

Their lakeside setting is unrivaled, and all of their lodgings overlook beautiful Gull Lake. Their half-mile sandy beach and marina are perfect for a day of swimming, sunbathing, or boating.

For golf enthusiasts, they offer 54 holes of golf on their Legacy Courses. Both of their 18-hole courses were awarded Golf Digest’s 2008-2009 “Best Places to Play” designation.

In addition to its stunning setting, Cragun’s Resort also offers an indoor sports center, indoor and outdoor pools, kids’ programs, and more. They were “Property of the Year” and an Audubon International Signature Sanctuary.

Book a stay and see why their guests keep coming back year after year!

Grand View Lodge

Located on beautiful Gull Lake, Grand View Lodge is a perfect choice for those looking for a luxury experience. With a championship golf course, a full-service spa, and a variety of dining and shopping options, this resort has everything you need for a perfect getaway.

Looking for a breathtaking resort in Minnesota that offers everything you could possibly want on a vacation? The Grand View Lodge has been making for over 100 years on Gull Lake. No matter what you’re looking for – be it romance, golf, family time, or just some relaxation – Grand View will take care of you from start to finish.

They have two championship courses and a nine-hole resort course. Stop into their Glacial Waters Spa. It’s amazing.

The 110-foot indoor water slide, connecting pools, and hot tub are one of the top indoor waterparks in the state. The kids will have a blast!

If you love rustic luxury, this is it. The Main Lodge and its 65 cabins, many of which are situated near the 2500-foot natural beach on beautiful Gull Lake, create a perfect combination of soaring designs, historical touches, and meticulous attention to detail.

So what are you waiting for? Come check out Grand View Lodge and see for yourself why it’s one of the best resorts in Minnesota!

Arrowwood Resort

Arrowwood Resort is the perfect place to enjoy all that the Alexandria area has to offer. With access to several beautiful lakes, a championship golf course, and a variety of dining and shopping options, this resort is a great choice for your next getaway.

You’ll find an array of delightful three- and four-bedroom townhomes here, perfect for family vacations, reunions, and group getaways. Ideally, their accommodations are equipped with all modern amenities and guaranteed to make everyone in your group feel right at home. When you’re not lounging indoors and reconnecting with each other, you’ll find that Arrowwood Resort offers endless onsite recreation to entertain even the most reluctant family member.

Enjoy a round on their newly-renovated 18-hole executive putting course or the Atikwa championship golf course. A full-service marina on the shores of Lake Darling makes it easy to venture out for a day on the water, while the Big Splash Indoor waterpark is sure to be a hit with the kids!

End your day with a massage at the new Darling Reflections Spa before dining at their amazing restaurant.

What are you waiting for? Book your stay at Arr o wwood Resort and Conference Center today for an unforgettable Minnesota vacation!

Arrowwood Resort Waterpark — Photo Courtesy of the Arrowwood Resort and Conference Center

Giants Ridge

Address: 6373 Wynne Creek Drive Biwabik, Minnesota 55708
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Giants Ridge is the perfect place to enjoy all that the Duluth area has to offer. With two championship golf courses, miles of hiking and biking trails, and a variety of dining and shopping options, this resort is a great choice for your next getaway.

The Lodge at Giants Ridge is the perfect Minnesota getaway for outdoor enthusiasts! The Lodge at Giants Ridge is located in the beautiful Superior National Forest, northeast of the mining communities of Virginia and Eveleth. The lodge is a three-hour drive from the Twin Cities, making it the perfect place to escape.

The lodge offers a variety of activities for guests to enjoy, no matter the season. In the winter, hit the slopes at Giants Ridge Ski Resort, which offers 35 alpine runs and Minnesota’s best snowboard terrain park. In the summer, swing the clubs at The Legend at Giants Ridge, a stunning, pristine course with phenomenal views of the Superior National Forest.

No matter the season, you’ll enjoy the indoor swimming pool, spa, salon, modern amenities, and easy ski or golf access at The Lodge at Giants Ridge. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head to The Lodge at Giants Ridge for the Minnesota getaway of a lifetime!

Breezy Point Resort

Address: 54852 State Hwy. 34 Osage, Minnesota 56570
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Breezy Point Resort is the perfect place to enjoy all that the Brainerd Lakes area has to offer. With miles of hiking and biking trails, a championship golf course, and a variety of dining and shopping options, this resort is a great choice for your next golf resort getaway.

Breezy Point Resort is the perfect place to enjoy a quiet, tranquil getaway with your family. Set on the edge of the magnificent Smoky Hills State Forest, the resort offers stunning views of Straight Lake and the surrounding area. It’s also a great place for fishing, with all the equipment you need for a successful trip.

Kids will love the play fort, swimming raft, and game area at Breezy Point Resort. They’ll be entertained for hours on end! And if you’re looking for more things to do in the area, there are plenty of options, including golf and horseback riding.

Cottages at Breezy Point Resort come with private dock access, so you can enjoy the lake at your leisure. This is truly a Minnesota paradise!

Want more ideas? There are some great guidebooks to help. Check out some of my favorites: 10 of the Best Minnesota Travel Guides Every Day Tripper Needs

Ruttger’s Bay Lake Lodge

Ruttger’s Bay Lake Lodge is the perfect place to enjoy all that the Brainerd Lakes area has to offer. With two championship golf courses, a full-service spa, and a variety of dining and shopping options, this resort is a great choice for your next getaway.

Looking for a charming Minnesota destination on the shores of a beautiful lake? You need to check out Ruttger’s Bay Lake Lodge! This refreshing, natural setting is the perfect place to unwind and get away from it all.

At Ruttger’s, you can choose from a cozy cottage, villa, or condo, each with its own set of amenities that will make you feel right at home. Of course, you don’t have to spend all your time indoors – there are plenty of outdoor recreational activities waiting for you!

Hike or bike on the hundreds of trails close by, or you can borrow a canoe or kayak from the resort’s marina and paddle around the tranquil lake. Anglers of all ages are sure to catch a great variety of fish such as crappie, walleye, and bass.

When you need a break from the lake, grab your club and head out onto the 18-hole championship golf course, designed by Joel Goldstrand. After a long day, refuel with a meal at one of three onsite restaurants.

Lutsen Resort

Address: 5700 West Hwy. 61 Lutsen, Minnesota 55612
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Located on the shores of beautiful Lake Superior, Lutsen Resort is the perfect place to get away from it all. With miles of hiking and biking trails, a championship golf course, and direct access to the North Woods!

Looking for the perfect blend of Northwoods seclusion and outdoor excitement? This lakeside landmark offers a plethora of aquatic adventures, including fishing, swimming, boating, and water sports. If you prefer solid land, hike the tree-lined nature trails, swing away at the Superior National Golf Course, or horseback ride through the scenic Minnesota backwoods.

When the winter arrives, explore the grounds on a cross-country skiing trip, or do one of their guided snowshoeing trips. Or stay back and sip cocoa by the stone fireplace in your room.

No matter the time of year, you’ll appreciate the wealth of amenities. Stay in their historic lodge, condo, villa, log cabin, or townhouse. Spend the day enjoying the lakeside decks, Jacuzzis, and massage treatments!

The Lutsen Resort is an in-demand resort. Make sure you plan your trip well in advance!

Gunflint Lodge

Gunflint Lodge is a great choice for those who love to fish. Situated on the shores of Gunflint Lake, it offers excellent fishing for both novice and experienced anglers. There are also plenty of other outdoor activities to enjoy, including canoeing, hiking, and bird watching.

Looking for a breathtaking and romantic Minnesota resort? This secluded lodge offers families, fishermen, and outdoor enthusiasts alike a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy the beauty of Minnesota’s North Shore.

With its convenient location near the Canadian border, Gunflint Lodge is the perfect jumping-off point for exploring the Boundary Waters Canoe Area, the largest canoeing wilderness in the United States. Guests can also enjoy guided fishing and naturalist excursions, horseback riding, snowshoeing, and more.

In the winter, the Gunflint Trail comes alive with 200 kilometers of cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails. And when it’s time to relax, guests can retire to their cozy cabins or lake homes, complete with fireplaces, music systems, and whirlpool spas.

But that’s not all! Gunflint Lodge also boasts a full-time massage therapist, making it the perfect place to unwind and recharge.

So what are you waiting for? Head to Minnesota’s North Shore today and experience the Gunflint Lodge difference!

Eagle Nest Resort

Address: 5108 Poplar Ave Nisswa, Minnesota 56468
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Eagle Nest Resort is another great option for those looking for a Minnesota resort. Situated on the shores of Lake Superior, it offers stunning views and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. The resort has its own private beach, as well as a range of water sports equipment for hire.

Eagles Nest Resort is the perfect Minnesota getaway for outdoor enthusiasts! With its small-town charm, old-world woods, and stunning lakeside scenery, Eagles Nest Resort offers something for everyone.

Whether you’re looking to relax in a hammock by the lake, build sandcastles on the beach, or explore the great outdoors, Eagles Nest Resort is the perfect place for you. And with cabins that accommodate groups of all different sizes, Eagles Nest Resort is perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation.

If you’re an avid fisherman, you’ll love the opportunity to fish for Sunfish and Northern Pike in the dark, tannin-dark waters of Lower Cullen Lake. Or, if you’re looking to tee off, you can enjoy a round of golf at one of the many nearby golf courses. And for those who love to hike, there are plenty of trails to explore in the beautiful Northwoods of Nisswa.

So whether you’re looking for a relaxing vacation or an opportunity to explore the great outdoors, Eagles Nest Resort is the perfect destination for you!

Quarterdeck Resort

Quarterdeck Resort is a great choice for families. Situated on the shores of Lake Mille Lacs, it offers a range of activities for all ages. There’s a heated indoor pool, a kids’ club, and plenty of opportunities for fishing, swimming, and boating.

Gull Lake is a scenic paradise, with miles of shoreline to explore, fish to catch, and trails to hike. It’s the perfect spot for a calm and serene family getaway.

And if you’re looking for even more activities, the resort is across the street from a golf course. In the winter, you can enjoy cross-country skiing or snowshoe in the area.

The Quarterdeck Resort also has its own recreation center, with a game room and television, for those days when you want to stay in. And when you get hungry, the Boathouse Eatery & Bar is a great place to refuel, with a wide selection of delicious international and American food.

From luxurious lakeside villas to cozy vacation homes, the Quarterdeck Resort has accommodations to suit every taste. And all of their accommodations offer stunning views of Gull Lake that you won’t find anywhere else!

So if you’re looking for a Minnesota resort that has something for everyone, check out the Quarterdeck Resort. The Quarterdeck is a little piece of paradise!

Lost Lake Lodge

Lost Lake Lodge is a great choice for those who love to be outdoors. Situated in the midst of the Brainerd, it offers some of the best hiking trails in Minnesota. The lodge is on Gull Lake, which is perfect for swimming, canoeing, and fishing.

Looking for the best resorts in Minnesota? This all-inclusive resort on the Gull Lake Narrows supplies access to the entire Gull Lake chain and offers a four-course fine dining experience, exquisite wine selections, and a full breakfast off the menu.

Situated on two lakes in Minnesota’s Northwoods, Lost Lake Lodge is an unforgettable escape. The lodge is between its own private Lost Lake and the Upper Gull Lake Chain. This is a great place for both fishing and boating. Take a nature trail through ancient burial grounds. Keep an eye out for wildlife. Don’t forget to listen to the loons.

Take your canoe, paddleboard, kayak, or waterbike out on the water.

The restaurant at Lost Lake Lodge uses only the freshest ingredients.

The Lost Lake Wilderness Lodge uses a great balance of Wilderness, combined with golf and spa services that make it a great getaway for everyone! It’s a great location for those that want to get away from everything without having to rough it!

Cedar Valley Resort

Address: 905 Bench Street Lanesboro, Minnesota 55949
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Finally, Cedar Valley Resort is a great choice for those who want to get away from it all. Located in the heart of the Minnesota River Valley, it offers a range of activities for all ages. There’s a heated indoor pool, a kids’ club, and plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and horse riding.

Cedar Valley Resort is the perfect Minnesota getaway for your next family reunion or group retreat! Situated along the Root River and surrounded by scenic bluffs, the resort offers 30 lush acres of outdoor fun. With the 60-mile Root River Trail running through the property, there’s no better place to enjoy the great outdoors!

Families and groups will love the variety of activities available at Cedar Valley Resort. Go fishing, canoeing, and tubing on the river. Or stay on land and hit the trail for biking, hiking, and cross-country skiing. Forgot your gear at home? No problem! The resort has rentals available for all your outdoor adventure needs.

After a day of fun in the sun, retreat to one of eight spacious cabins for the evening. Ranging from a deluxe eight-bedroom cabin that sleeps up to 40 to three-bedroom cabin villas, there’s plenty of room for everyone.

So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head to Cedar Valley Resort for the best Minnesota vacation yet!

What is your favorite?

We hope you enjoyed our list of the best resorts in Minnesota for outdoor enthusiasts! Whether you’re looking for a place to relax or an adventure-filled vacation, these resorts have something for everyone. So, start planning your next getaway today and see for yourself why Minnesota is such a great place to visit.

15 Best Resorts in Minnesota for Outdoor Enthusiasts