Minnesota
Stays|Vacation Rentals

Here Are The 19 Absolute Best Places To Stay In Minnesota

A curated list of top vacation rentals in Minnesota, highlighting unique features and amenities for families and couples.

Updated Jun 27, 2024

Written by 

Chris Muras

If you haven't been to Minnesota, there is a whole lot more going on than frozen ponds and the Mall of America. Minnesota is known for its beautiful natural areas, including breathtaking lakes, natural forests, hiking trails, and the Mississippi River. What better way to explore Minnesota than planning a family vacation or romantic weekend in some of the finest cities in the state? Here are some of the best places to stay in Minnesota from the twin cities area of Minneapolis and Saint Paul to some charming small towns in MN.

Best Places to Stay in Minnesota for Families

Minnesota is one of the most family-friendly states with charming cabin getaways, woodland lodges, waterslide hotels near the Mall of America, and beautiful homes on the lake. The only problem is deciding where to stay in Minnesota first.

1. The Lakehouse, Crow Wing County

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Management/Vrbo
  • Location: Crow Wing County, MN
  • Size: 4 bedrooms, 4 baths (sleeps 13)
  • Price: $866/night
  • Amenities: Wi-Fi, chef's kitchen, heat & air conditioning, game room, grill, fire pit, kayaks, paddle boards
  • Rating: 5.0 stars
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[affiliatelink url="https://www.vrbo.com/582364"]More Info and Photos[/affiliatelink]
This absolutely beautiful cabin on Pelican Lake will treat you right. With more lakes in the area than you can shake a stick at you'll have plenty of opportunities to land the big one, or simply hang out in your spacious backyard around the fire pit. The outdoor adventures you'll have here are only limited by your imagination. Several golf courses are in the area as well if you want to book a tee time and hit a few balls. This Pelican Lake lodge has plenty of room for a multi-family getaway or family reunion too.

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2. Lake Burntside Log Cabin, Ely

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Management/Vrbo
  • Location: Ely, MN
  • Size: 2 bedrooms, 2 baths (Sleeps 10)
  • Price: $235/night
  • Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, gas fireplace, full modern kitchen, washer & dryer, barrel sauna by the lake, kayak/canoe, fire pit, patio overlooking the lake
  • Ratings: 5.0 stars


[affiliatelink url="https://www.vrbo.com/2106797"]More Info and Photos[/affiliatelink]
This stunning 1,700-square-foot lakeside log cabin is an outdoorsy family's dream vacation! In the warmer months, enjoy boating, kayaking, fishing, and swimming right out your front door. In the winter cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and ice fishing await. Then cozy up to the indoor fireplace and play games with the family. This could just be one of the best places to stay in Minnesota.

3. Multi-Family Getaway, Plymouth

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Management/Vrbo
  • Location: Plymouth, MN
  • Size: 7 bedrooms, 6 baths (Sleeps 20)
  • Price: $1,500/night
  • Amenities: 500 Mbps Internet, gas fireplace, custom chef's kitchen, multiple TVs, washer & dryer, hot tub, fitness room, game room, theater, family board games, patio overlooking the lake, heated 3-car garage (room for 4), additional parking in driveway
  • Ratings: 5.0 stars
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[affiliatelink url="https://www.vrbo.com/1254635"]More Info and Photos[/affiliatelink]
If you have a large family, are looking for a multi-family getaway, or are planning a family reunion, I have this Minnesota palace for you! This 7,400+sq ft home is absolutely stunning. With gorgeous lake views, an 18+ person movie theater, bar area, game room, hot tub, and custom chef's kitchen you have the makings of a memorable family getaway.

4. River Chalet, Crosby

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Katherine/Airbnb
  • Location: Crosby, MN
  • Size: 3 bedrooms, 3 baths (Sleeps 10)
  • Price: $373/night
  • Amenities: River view, waterfront, kitchen, Wi-Fi, dedicated workspace, free parking on premises, private sauna, washer, dryer, air conditioning
  • Ratings: 4.97 stars
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[affiliatelink url="https://airbnb.pvxt.net/c/4195550/567379/4273?u=https://www.airbnb.ca/rooms/793475101537603005&sharedid=best-places-to-stay-in-minnesota"]More Info and Photos[/affiliatelink]

Discover the peaceful and cozy River Chalet, where Scandinavian design meets family-friendly comfort. Enjoy relaxing by the warm wood fire or unwinding in the brand-new cedar barrel sauna. Step outside to a large deck and firepit, perfect for enjoying the starry night sky. Make the most of your stay with complimentary kayaks and snowshoes for outdoor adventures, or take a short 10-minute drive to Cuyuna Recreational State Park for hiking and exploring. The chalet has large windows facing south, cozy heated floors, king-sized beds, and a loft with a queen bed and day bed, all with beautiful views of the Pine River.

Best Affordable Places to Stay in Minnesota

Going on a wonderful weekend getaway in Minnesota doesn't have to cost an arm and a leg. There are many lovely homes, lofts, apartments, condos, and even cabins for rent for an affordable price.

5. Due Drop Inn, Cass County

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Management/Vrbo
  • Location: Cass County, MN
  • Size: 1 bedroom, 1 bath (sleeps 3)
  • Price: $78/night
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Sleep In A Historic Jail When You Book A Stay At This Small-Town Airbnb In Minnesota

Published Aug 15, 2024

Written by 

Trent Jonas

Most folks would balk at the notion of spending a night in jail - I know I would! - but there's a small-town Airbnb in Minnesota that lets you do just that... and then release yourself on your own recognizance when you're ready. So, when you feel up to spending a night or two in the slammer, just make a reservation at the Historic Wykoff Jail Haus, and make your way to the charming community of Wykoff, on the edge of southeastern Minnesota's Bluff Country.

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The town of Wykoff, MN is located 15 minutes or so west of Preston in the Bluff Country of southeastern Minnesota.

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Management/Airbnb

The town owns a historic, 19th century jail that, in recent years, it's operated as a vacation rental. And this is one jail you're going to want to spend a night in!

The Historic Wykoff Jail Haus can accommodate up to four guests but is probably most comfortable for a couple.

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Management/Airbnb

The interior space includes a small dinette.

A kitchenette area offers a microwave, small refrigerator, and coffee maker.

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You won't whip up any gourmet meals here, but you're way ahead of the folks who had to spend the night here in the 1800s.

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You'll find three beds - a queen and an up-down bunk bed.

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The decor is distinctly "jail."

There's also a full bath with a shower.

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My favorite touch, though, is the fire pit, where you can enjoy a little camaraderie outside the confines of the cellblock.

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Management/Airbnb

While you're in town, be sure to take some time to explore Ed's Museum, a former general store left to the town of Wykoff, MN when its proprietor - Ed - passed away. It's a quirky collection of the downright wacky alongside the simple and mundane. If you're looking for a great spot for dinner in the area, head over to the Branding Iron Supper Club in nearby Preston - you'll be glad you did!

To learn more about the Historic Wykoff Jail Haus or to book your stay, visit the property's Airbnb listing. Have you visited Wykoff and stayed in this small-town Airbnb in Minnesota? Let us know in the comments, and be sure to share some of your favorite quirky and unique vacation rentals in the Land of 10,000 Lakes.

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7 Last-Minute Getaways In Minnesota For A Fun End-Of-Summer Retreat

Published Jul 22, 2024

Written by 

Trent Jonas

When warm weather peaks in the Land of 10,000 Lakes, it seems the urgency to squeeze the most out of what's left of summer in Minnesota increases - at least it does for me. Lazy, early summer complacency gives way to grinding out weekends in the lakes and woods, before I have to shift to autumn mode. If you feel the same way and are looking for a late summer retreat in Minnesota, I think you'll appreciate these seven Airbnbs. As of this writing, all had availability in August and/or September, and none of them cost more than $203 per night. In fact, the most affordable rental on this list came in under $100 per night.

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1. Lakefront Cabin in the Woods - Sturgeon Lake

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Management/Airbnb

This classic Up North retreat is tucked between Sand Lake, which it overlooks, and the Moose Lake Golf Course, so it's the perfect basecamp for an active getaway. Bring along the family or up to five friends to join in the adventure.

2. Classic Log Cabin - Cromwell

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This beautiful log home sits on a gorgeous northern Minnesota lake. With a sauna and a fire pit, you'll have all you need to relax. Bring your own canoe or kayak for water-based adventures. Although the cabin sleeps up to six, it's most comfortable with four or fewer.

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3. Charming Cottage with Private Beach Access - Glenwood

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This charming cottage offers a peaceful - and affordable - summer getaway. The cozy property can accommodate a couple and offers plenty of amenities, including nearby access to a private beach on fabulous Lake Minnewaska.

4. Cozy Cabin in the Trees - Walker

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If you're looking for a getaway where you can really get away, you'll appreciate the Brown Bear Cabin. Tucked into four acres of Minnesota Northwoods, this property is perfect for you and up to three companions to escape into nature for a few days, surrounded by woods, and recharge.

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5. River Retreat - Crosslake

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Couples and small families will love this riverfront cottage. It's only five miles outside of Crosslake, but it feels a world away. Revel in nature with trees, stars, and the sound of the river surrounding you. Two kayaks and a fire pit will aid in your enjoyment of the outdoors.

6. Lake Superior Cabin - Schroeder

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Management/Airbnb

If rustic is your vibe, this cliff top cabin on the North Shore of Lake Superior is perfect for you. Although it lacks running water, there is a porta potty on site, and nearby options for showering are available. Up to four guests will enjoy bonfires, sweeping views of the lake, and stargazing under expansive night skies.

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7. Private Island on Lake Vermilion - Tower

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Management/Airbnb

Escapes don't get more "escapey" than this private island retreat on Lake Vermilion. The retreat can accommodate up to four guests, who will enjoy dark skies, lapping water, and if so inclined, world-class fishing. Bring your own boat to access the island or rent one from the owner. Either way, a few days spent here is a great way to bid summer farewell.

For more information or to make a reservation, simply click or tap on any of the images above, and you'll be linked to the property's Airbnb listing. Then get out and enjoy more of the natural beauty we're blessed with in the Land of 10,000 Lakes. Be sure to book your late summer retreat in Minnesota soon, as these affordable Airbnb escapes probably won't last long.

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