The 15 Best Minnesota Getaways for a Romantic Escape

Whether you're planning a special anniversary, a surprise weekend trip or simply craving quality time together, Minnesota getaways are a romantic choice. With its sparkling lakes, forested trails and charming small towns, Minnesota offers a dreamy backdrop for connection and relaxation. In warmer months, you can soak up the outdoors on a sunset boat ride or take a waterfall hike. Come winter, snuggle up by the fire, snowshoe under the stars or enjoy a couple's massage. Regardless, the Land of 10,000 Lakes makes falling in love over and over again effortless.

Craving the intimacy of a North Shore lodge? An all-inclusive resort near a lake? The amenities of a sleek hotel near the Twin Cities? We've got all the options and more with our roundup of some of the best Minnesota getaways for couples.

Romantic Getaways In This Article:

• Romantic Weekend Getaways in Minnesota
• Romantic Cabin Getaways in Minnesota
• Romantic Hotels in Minnesota
• Romantic Lodges in Minnesota
• Romantic Resorts in Minnesota

Romantic Weekend Getaways in Minnesota

Only have a few days for a trip? Whether you're looking for something quaint and charming or luxe and pampering, there are plenty of places for quick Minnesota weekend getaways. Try one of these three.

FEATURED VIDEO FROM THE KNOT

Beacon Pointe on Lake Superior, Duluth, Minnesota

Photo: Beacon Pointe on Lake Superior

If you want unobstructed Lake Superior views, you'll find them at Beacon Pointe. Situated along Duluth's Lakewalk, the hotel's condo-style lodging has balconies, spa baths and fireplaces—perfect for waterfront romance. Outside of your room, you can relax in the sauna or adventure with one of the hotel's excursions, from kayaking on the lake to craft brewery hopping. At night, cozy up with bonfires and s'mores. How does that sound for a Minnesota romantic getaway?

Things to do: Canal Park, stroll the Lakewalk, Glensheen Mansion, North Shore Scenic Railroad, Enger Park and Ely's Peak Trail.

2100 E Water Street, Duluth, MN 55812

4.5 stars: Read Reviews

The Covington Inn, Saint Paul, Minnesota

Photo: The Covington Inn

How much more romantic can you get than a boutique bed-and-breakfast converted from a river towboat docked along the Mississippi? The Covington Inn makes for a special couples' getaway in Minnesota, with just a handful of suites featuring fireplaces, plush bedding and (obviously) direct river views. Its downtown setting makes it an intimate way to experience Saint Paul's historic charm. Relax on the deck with a glass of wine at night or head across the river for a dinner out on the town.

Things to do: Science Museum of Minnesota, dine along Selby Avenue or visit the Ordway Center or Fitzgerald Theater.

100 Harriet Island Road B3, Saint Paul, MN 55107

4.4 stars: Read Reviews

Hotel Ivy, Minneapolis, Minnesota

Photo: Hotel Ivy

If you're looking for some city fun in Minneapolis, then you'll want to spend a weekend at Hotel Ivy. With a full-service spa, rooftop lounge and fine dining, the ultra-luxe hotel has everything. But its downtown location means that you can find even more right outside your door, from shopping and theater to riverfront walks. That's if you even want to leave—we can't blame you if the plush beds and Byredo bath amenities are calling your name.

Things to do: Mill Ruins Park, North Loop, Lake Harriet, Minneapolis Institute of Art and Minnehaha Falls.

201 South Eleventh Street, Minneapolis, MN 55403

4.5 stars: Read Reviews

Romantic Cabin Getaways in Minnesota

Minnesota's timeless lakes and whispering pines set the perfect stage for a cozy, romantic cabin retreat. Whether you're warming by a toasty fireplace on the North Shore, stargazing from the lake or toasting marshmallows over a rustic firepit, these romantic cabins in Minnesota will help you both slow down and reconnect.

Fenske Lake Resort Cabins, Ely, Minnesota

Photo: Fenske Lake Resort Cabins

At Fenske Lake Resort Cabins, you can catch some peace and quiet as often as you can catch some truly stunning sunsets. These serene cabins combine rustic charm with modern amenities, with private decks overlooking the water, fast internet and dining at the lodge. If you're looking for some downtime, relax by the firepit. Or if you want to adventure together, take the canoe out on the lake or go hiking. Either way, it promises a stress-free retreat that will help you both unwind.

Things to do: North American Bear Center, Onamani Overlook, Soudan Underground Mine State Park, Bear Head Lake State Park and Echo Trail.

3788 Fenske Lake Road, Ely, MN 55731

4.9 stars: Read Reviews

Larsmont Cottages, Two Harbors, Minnesota

Photo: Larsmont Cottages

The beauty of Minnesota romantic getaways is their proximity to nature. Set right on the rocky North Shore, less than a three-hour drive from the Twin Cities, Larsmont Cottages offer just that. Inside, you'll find cozy fireplaces; outside, you'll find private balconies with sweeping Lake Superior views. Blending rustic elegance with relaxed lakeside romance, they're ideal for candlelit evenings by the firepit and strolls along the water. Book a trip in late spring through early fall, when hiking and kayaking are in full swing.

Things to do: Agate Bay Beach, Castle Danger Brewery and Cedar Coffee Co., Two Harbors Lighthouse, hike Palisade Head, Gooseberry Falls State Park, and tour Split Rock Lighthouse and State Park.

596 Larsmont Way, Two Harbors, MN 55616

4.5 stars | Read Reviews

Burntside Lodge, Ely, Minnesota

Photo: Burntside Lodge

Burntside Lodge is perfect for couples seeking bucolic charm and northern solitude. Historic log cabins line the shores of Burntside Lake, offering wood-burning fireplaces, knotty pine interiors and waterfront decks with lake views. Enjoy peaceful evenings by the dock, gourmet meals in the main lodge and stargazing from the front porch. If you visit in the summer, take advantage of the pool or beach. Visit in fall or winter and cozy up after a ski or snowshoe trek.

Things to do: International Wolf Center, Ely State Theater, hike Kawishiwi Falls or Vulkan Lake and Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.

2755 Burntside Lodge Road, Ely, MN 55731

4.7 stars | Read Reviews

Romantic Hotels in Minnesota

Whether you're craving skyline views in the city or historic charm along the Mississippi, you can find the romantic hotel escape of your dreams in Minnesota. Just look at this selection of the best romantic hotels in Minnesota, from the modern to the vintage.

The Saint Paul Hotel, Saint Paul, Minnesota

Photo: The Saint Paul Hotel

This century-old Renaissance revival landmark exudes timeless elegance: think soaring ceilings, grand chandeliers and sumptuous marble baths. At The Saint Paul Hotel, enjoy refined ambiance, award‑winning afternoon tea service and romantic views of nearby Rice Park. Just ten minutes from downtown Minneapolis, it's close to nearly everything, from theaters to fine dining to ice skating—perfect for urban explorers who want a dose of culture in their weekend escape.

Things to do: Explore Summit Avenue, Como Park and Conservatory, dine in Cathedral Hill, Palace Theatre and the Minnesota History Center.

350 Market Street, Saint Paul, MN 55102

4.6 stars | Read Reviews

The Lofton Hotel, Minneapolis, Minnesota

Photo: The Lofton Hotel

If you're looking for something sleek and slick, try The Lofton Hotel. Nestled in Minneapolis' North Loop, it merges industrial‑chic design with intimate comforts: spacious suites, plush bedding and warm lighting all set a romantic tone. Book the Poet Suite, which not only sounds romantic by name, but is artfully decorated with luxe details. Head to the chic dining room for an elevated, romantic dinner followed by cocktails in the lounge. Or, with the city at your doorstep, you can always head out for date night and a walk along the riverfront.

Things to do: Walk the Stone Arch Bridge, Guthrie Theatre, jazz at Dakota, Minneapolis Sculpture Garden and Walker Art Center.

601 N 1st Avenue, Minneapolis, MN 55403

4.4 stars | Read Reviews

St. James Hotel, Red Wing, Minnesota

Photo: St. James Hotel

A historic gem overlooking the Mississippi River, the St. James Hotel offers Victorian rooms inspired by classic riverboats, complete with ornate moldings, antiques and wood-paneled walls. Around since 1875, the historic hotel exudes a romantic ambiance that somehow manages to be both luxe and cozy. Grab a Prohibition-style cocktail at The Port, its cocktail lounge, or stroll along the riverfront promenade at sunset. We suggest visiting in the fall and spring, when Red Wing's bluff‑top views and boutique shops are most inviting.

Things to do: Sheldon Theatre, Frontenac State Park, Cannon Valley Trail, browse antique shops, skiing and snowboarding.

406 Main Street, Red Wing, MN 55066

4.3 stars | Read Reviews

Romantic Lodges in Minnesota

Minnesota's romantic lodges are rich in wilderness charm and cozy comfort—ideal if you're seeking connection and quiet. From crackling fireplaces to starry lakefronts, these lodges promise a peaceful escape full of romance and plenty of things to do together.

Grand Superior Lodge, Two Harbors, Minnesota

Photo: Grand Superior Lodge

Perched on the shores of Lake Superior, Grand Superior Lodge boasts rustic log cabins and lodge rooms—many with gas fireplaces to keep you cozy at night and balconies to gaze out on the water during the day. With its serene lakeside ambiance and amenities, such as board games, a pool and spa tubs, there are plenty of ways to connect with your partner. Head here during the summer or fall to enjoy beach walks, agate hunting or curling up indoors with lake views.

Things to do: Silver Cliff Scenic Overlook, Rustic Inn Cafe, Split Rock Lighthouse, Sonju Trail and Gooseberry Falls State Park.

2826 Highway 61, Two Harbors, MN 55616

4.2 stars | Read Reviews

Naniboujou Lodge, Grand Marais, Minnesota

Photo: Naniboujou Lodge

We love Naniboujou Lodge for its historic art deco-meets-Native American style, which blends quirky architecture with lakeside tranquility—perfect if you're looking for an experience that isn't run of the mill. It exudes romance through its dramatic central hall that features a towering fireplace and intricate Cree-inspired murals, while capturing the Jazz Age's whimsical spirit in its iconic, colorful dining room. You can book a stay during the summer or winter seasons, depending on whether you want the quiet forest strolls nearby to be more green-filled magic or a white wonderland.

Things to do: Explore downtown galleries and shops, Voyageur Brewing Company, Artists' Point and Harbor and World's Best Donuts.

20 Naniboujou Trail Grand Marais, MN 55604

4.4 stars | Read Reviews

Cascade Lodge, Lutsen, Minnesota

Photo: Cascade Lodge

A charming, 1920s-era lodge nestled between Lake Superior and Cascade River State Park, Cascade Lodge has homey log cabins with fireplaces, Jacuzzi tubs and access to trailheads right outside your door. Head there in the summer and you can take advantage of canoeing, golfing and romantic strolls through the wildflowers. Or if you have more of a romantic winter getaway in Minnesota in mind, have fun hitting the slopes, ice climbing or dog sledding.

Things to do: Cascade River State Park, Lake Agnes, Lutsen Mountain Gondola, North Shore Winery, canoe lakes in Superior National Forest and watch the sunset at Oberg Mountain Loop.

3719 West Highway 61, Lutsen, MN 55612

4.3 stars | Read Reviews

Romantic Resorts in Minnesota

If you're looking for more of a luxurious getaway, Minnesota has no shortage of romantic resorts, from lakeside retreats to hideaways. Whether you're sipping wine by the water or indulging in a spa treatment, you'll be able to relax at one of these places. One of them might even make a stunning spot for a Minnesota proposal.

Bluefin Bay on Lake Superior, Tofte, Minnesota

Photo: Bluefin Bay on Lake Superior

Set on the edge of Lake Superior, where the blue meets the green, Bluefin Bay is a North Shore gem that blends cozy luxury with serene lakefront charm. Many of its lakeview suites feature in-room whirlpool tubs, fireplaces and private patios—ideal for snuggling at sunset. Together, you can unwind at the Waves of Superior Spa, explore nearby trails in state parks or take a moonlit stroll along the Lakewalk. It's everything you could want from a lake resort in Minnesota.

Things to do: Oberg Mountain Loop, Temperance River State Park, Cascade River State Park and Carlton Peak.

7192 West Highway 61, Tofte, MN 55615

4.4 stars | Read Reviews

Grand View Lodge, Nisswa, Minnesota

Photo: Grand View Lodge

Tucked away on Gull Lake in the heart of the Northwoods, the historic Grand View Lodge dates back to 1916 and combines rustic log architecture with luxury. With more than 200 cabins, a full-service spa, several restaurants and two golf courses, it offers everything from couples' massages to days on the green—the perfect balance of activity and relaxation. It's a prime spot year‑round, with live music and paddleboarding in the summer and horse-drawn rides and ice skating in the winter.

Things to do: Paul Bunyan State Trail, stroll along Main Street, Roundhouse Brewery and rent bikes.

23521 Nokomis Avenue, Nisswa, MN 56468

4.4 stars | Read Reviews

Breezy Point Resort, Breezy Point, Minnesota

Photo: Breezy Point Resort

Set on Pelican Lake in the Brainerd Lakes region, about a two-hour drive north of the Twin Cities, Breezy Point offers lakeside cabins and suites, many with fireplaces and private balconies. If that's not romantic enough, it also offers a Sunset Champagne Package or Honeymoon Package with dinner, champagne and bubbly keepsakes to level up your getaway. Visit in late spring through early fall, when you can enjoy paddleboarding, lakeside fires and sunset walks.

Things to do: Crow Wing State Park, mini golf and rent paddle-wheel boats on Pelican Lake.

9252 Breezy Point Drive, Breezy Point, MN 56472

4.2 stars | Read Reviews