Soak Up Lake Superior’s Rugged Beauty At This Epic Resort In Minnesota

The venerable Lutsen Resort has been welcoming guests to the property since 1886, when the resort’s Swedish immigrant founder first opened his home to travelers. This tradition of hospitality, combined with a stunning Lake Superior location, where the Poplar River flows into the lake near the small community of Lutsen, make this property one of the best North Shore resorts in Minnesota.

Editor’s Note: The Lutsen Resort burned down in February 2024, though the owner is hoping to rebuild.

Originally built as a homestead in the 1880s by C.A.A. Nelson, a Swedish immigrant to the area, Lutsen Resort has been a favorite destination for North Shore visitors for well over a century.

Today, guests enjoy strolling the resort’s pebble beach, relaxing in Adirondack chairs, or sifting through shoreline stones in search of agates.

The resort has an onsite restaurant, The Strand (which means “shore” in Swedish), so guests never have to leave this outstanding property.

Apart from the lodge, the resort offers townhome-style accommodations, some of which can be reached by a covered bridge that crosses the Poplar River.

The resort offers many activities to its guests, ranging from sea kayaking from the beach to excursions into the nearby Superior National Forest.

Fly fishing for trout and salmon is a popular pastime along the North Shore’s swift-moving rivers.

Beach bonfires are a favorite tradition at Lutsen Resort.

On days when the weather keeps you indoors, you can enjoy a fireside book or game in the lodge’s historic great room.

Or enjoy a swim in the indoor pool, a soak in the hot tub, or a steam in the sauna.

One of my favorite things about the lodge is the verandah, where you can sit out of the elements and still enjoy the lake, the beach, and the fresh air of the North Woods.

Lutsen Resort is open year-round and, with its proximity to Lutsen Mountains ski resort, it is an ideal destination for a winter weekend getaway.

A stay at Lutsen Resort offers a classic North Shore experience, which is why we think it’s one of the best resorts in Minnesota. For more information or to make a reservation, visit Lutsen Resort's website.

Have you stayed at Lutsen Resort? What was your experience like? What are some of your favorite resorts in Minnesota?