Finding a place to stay can be one of the most frustrating and exciting parts about planning a vacation- whether you are traveling with family, children, your dog, partner or solo. Between Airbnbs, VRBO, vacation rentals and hotels, all the options can make your head spin. Sometimes there is the question of, “does this really look the same in person?”. For me, finding cabin rentals is one of my favorite parts because it can be an experience all of it’s own! (For budgeting and availability purposes, I also advise to plan ahead- especially if you are looking for a lake front vacation stay on the shores of Lake Superior along Highway 61.)
The goal of this post is to give you a list of some of the best places to stay from each town along Highway 61 by Lake Superior. Places I have chosen to feature either have the best reviews or I have first-hand experienced them myself. Rental cabins from Cascade Vacation Rentals, VRBO or Airbnb are either places I have stayed (be prepared for a lot of lakefront views!) or that are on my wishlist for our future family vacations or solo travel. Make sure to comment or leave feedback about any places you are adding to your wishlist!
*Please note I am not choosing to feature every vacation rental, just the ones on my Wishlist for each town. It should also be noted prices for each place may not be listed because the price varies during each season, whether or not you stay on a weekend or week day and for hotels, which room you request.
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Welcome to Two Harbors
1. Lighthouse Bed and Breakfast
How many people can say they have woken up inside a light house before? Built in 1892, you can stay in a working light house and have 24/7 beautiful views of Lake Superior. Also, profit from guests goes back towards preserving the light house.
Click here to view: View Lighthouse Bed and Breakfast
2. Country Inn of Two Harbors
If you are someone who is more comfortable staying somewhere similar to a hotel, Country Inn of Two Harbors is a great option for you. It comes with access to a hot tub, swimming pool, golf course and beautiful views. It also has a convenient location to a large amount of restaurants, hiking trails and outdoor activities.
Vview Country Inn of Two Harbors
3. Breezy Point Cabins on Lake Superior
Winning the Traveler’s Choice Awards on Trip Advisor, Breezy Point Cabins offer some of the most beautiful lake lure views from your cabin in Two Harbors.
4. Superior Gateway Lodge
Enjoy staying in beautiful, hand crafted cabins featuring indoor/outdoor fire place, fully equipped kitchen to cook up a storm and outdoor cabanas to relax and enjoy the fresh lake air.
5. Grand Superior Lodge
Another Traveler’s Choice Award Winner, Grand Superior Lodge, is located closer to Castle Danger. They also feature dog-friendly cabins, but reservations need to be in person or over the phone.
6. The Lazy Loon
This Airbnb has a cozy, hygge vibe with a natural palette color scheme. It features a sauna, private patio/balcony and nearby access to the shores of Lake Superior. If you have 8 or less people going, this 4 bedroom Airbnb may be the place for you!
7. Classic Vintage Log Cabin on Lake Superior
If you are looking for a lake front view on 2.5 acres for 6 people or less, check out the Vintage Log Cabin. There is also a private sauna and indoor fire place. It is conveniently located by restaurants, breweries and shops.
8. Destination 135
If you are looking for a smaller property with a chic vibe, you will enjoy this home located near Agate Bay. It is kid-friendly, with a large backyard area. A perfect investment if you plan to spend most of your time on the North Shore out and about exploring!
9. Cozy North Shore Getaway
If you are looking for a downtown, cozy getaway for 5 people or less, this updated apartment should be on your list! It is near Castle Danger and the decor makes you feel like you are stepping into a Home Living magazine.
10. Harbor Rail Loft
Have you ever heard of a roof top Airbnb on Lake Superior? Well, now you have because this luxurious, trendy, upscale loft is ready to go for a party of 6 people or less. It offers a gorgeous view of Lake Superior, a private sauna- oh, and pets are allowed too! This one is pretty high up on my list for a trip with friends!
Treat Yourself to the Silver Bay and Beaver Bay Area
1. Lake Superior Cove Point Lodge (very family friendly!)
This Scandinavian style retreat features expansive, panoramic views of Lake Superior by the Beaver Bay area. They feature continental or Scandinavian breakfasts with special breakfast options for kids. Other features are trek bikes guests can rent, an indoor pool, hot tub and sauna as well as lakeside campfires with s’mores provided.
2. Wild Pines
Wild Pines cabin is a beautiful A-frame cabin you can rent for 6 or less people at a very affordable price. It’s an off-the grid property featuring a stunning lake view. On Airbnb.com it is listed as being in Two Harbors, but it actually is closer to Beaver Bay. This has also been at the top of my list for places to rent in 2023. You can follow the owners on Instagram at @wildpinescabin for some travel inspo!
3. Highway 61 Revisited
If you want space, privacy and a panoramic view of Lake Superior (for 6 guests or less). this Airbnb should be on your wishlist! This property is dog-friendly and located near the Gitchi-Gami trail. If you are a kayaker, hiker or biker this property is a convenient stay. The deck on the property is made to accommodate children and anyone with disabilities.
4. London Crossing Cabin
If you are looking for a simple-style cabin located on 20 acres of woodland (for 5 people or less) London Crossing Cabin is a quaint stay that offers everything you need and more. For an average of $145 a night, this place is a steal!
5. Captain’s Cove MN
Captain’s Cove is unique because it is actually the site of Captain’s Cove Historic boat tours prior to its renovation. Captain’s Cove is for 6 guests or less and is kid-friendly, even offering a “kids’ suite” room along with an open floor plan house. You also have a private beach great for paddler boarders and kayakers. The home also features a beautiful deck with even more stunning views of Lake Superior.
6. The AmericInn
Located on the lakefront of Lake Superior in Silver Bay, the AmericInn hotel is unlike any other you have stayed in before. This pet-friendly hotel also has a wonderful pool area equipped with water slides, free breakfast and a perfect location.
Fall in Love with the Tofte, Lutsen and Schroeder Areas
1. Bluefin Bay (also check out Surfside from Blue Fin Bay)
Bluefin Bay is a resort on the shores of Lake Superior in Schroeder. If you are looking for luxurious getaway, this is the place! They feature a stunning heated pool and hot tub that overlooks Lake Superior along with indoor pools, hot tubs and saunas. They are also connected to the Waves of Superior Spa. If you are able to, I urge you to try their restaurant as well. Their menu is unique, using fresh ingredients from local suppliers.
2. Cobblestone Cabins
Located on the waterfront of Lake Superior in Tofte, Cobblestone cabins consist of 6 family-owned cabins built in 1926. After being closed last summer due to COVID-19, they have announced they are officially reopening this summer (2022)!
3. Eagle Ridge Resort
What would this list be without mentioning resorts at the infamous Lutsen Mountains? Eagle Ridge Resort offers heated outdoor pools, hot tubs, saunas, hiking trail shuttles, s’mores by the campfire provided, live music and guided canoe tours. Packages are available for activities at the ski resort.
4. Lutsen Resort
The Lutsen Resort offers a venue for family vacations, weddings, reunions and retreats. Located in Lutsen, the resort boasts amenities such as a spa, beach bonfires, swimming pool, fly fishing, bikes, tandem sea kayaking, guided hikes and canoeing, golf, snowshoeing and ice skating. Packages are also available depending on what your interests are.
5. Nordkapp on Lake Superior
Nordkapp (Norwegian for “north cape”) is a traditional northwoods chalet that can accommodate for up to 6 people. The views are stunning, with a private deck overlooking the lake along with a sauna. There is also a trail that leads down to a lower private viewing deck over the lake. I’m a sucker for large lake windows and this place is packed with them! Drinking a cup of coffee by the lake and listening to the waves crash in the morning was my favorite part of this stay. There are also trails you can walk which lead to Onion River. This rental is through Cascade Rentals- currently they are offering 20% off your next rental for subscribing to their emails- take advantage of this deal!
Get 20% off Nordkapp with Cascade Vacation Rentals
6. Lake Superior Cabin
At an average rate of $207 per night, Schroeder offers this 4-guest cabin with a beautiful deck facing the shoreline of Lake Superior. This is a small, simple cabin equipped with everything you need. If you are someone looking for low-key getaway with a view, this would be a rental cabin to check out!
7. Morning Light
Listed on Airbnb but hosted by Cascade Vacation Rentals in Tofte (which is always a good sign- I have never been disappointed by them!), Morning Light is a cabin we have been trying to rent for awhile (it gets booked quickly!). This cabin has a spacious lake-facing deck, adorned with huge lake windows to let in natural light. There is also beach access to this home. Make sure to review what this house has vs. what it does not offer before renting. It’s truly meant to be a place to unplug.
Get 20% off Morning Light with Cascade Vacation Rentals
8. Tranquility
Located in Lutsen close to Temperance River State Park is a cabin with a beautiful deck facing the lake. Tranquility is a studio cabin able to accommodate 4 people or less.
Airbnb
9. Light-filled Lake House
I dream of visiting this cabin just for the decor inspiration. This cabin looks like it was transported out of Pinterest into the North Woods. This property is located in Lutsen, 20 minutes from Grand Marias off the shores of Caribou Lake. Light-filled Lake House is unique because it has over 500 feet of shoreline, surrounded by water from two sides. This is another property high up on our wishlist!
10. Superior Escape (Tiny House)
Are you someone who is interested in the tiny house trend? If so, look no further! Superior Escape can house up to 4 people with the tiny house experience. The layout of the house still offers plenty of space. Superior Escape is nearby Lake Superior on 4 acres of wooded land. The Tiny House experience charges an average of $174 per night.
Airbnb
11 . Bailey’s on Lake Superior (kid-friendly)
Enjoy a 180 degree view of Lake Superior at this beautiful cabin. Fall asleep on the day bed to the lake- or wake up to the beautiful sunrise! The lakeview windows makes it feel like you are outside hovering over Lake Superior. Bailey’s can accommodate up to 6 guests and includes bunk beds for kids, as well as a calming walk to the beach.
12. Yurt and Dome Options (Something different!)
Are you feeling daring, adventurous and ready to try something new? Consider trying a stay in one of the 4 domes providing a one of a kind experience from a 25 acre farm focusing on reforestation. You can also hang out with some of the farm animals too! Visit the website to get a tour of the dome and see which ones are available. On average, the cost is $347 per night.
Located in Lutsen is a 4 person Yurt meant for people wanting to hike and experience the “off the grid” lifestyle. The theme of the Yurt is Scandinavian minimalist, with views of Lake Superior. On average, you can rent the Yurt for $88 per night.
Hello, Grand Marais.
1. The Mayhew Inn
There is no downtown experience quite like the trendy Mayhew Inn. Guests are able to focus on their downtown experience in Grand Marais and take in the harbor views. One of my favorite things about this place is the rooftop views and hangouts. You can hang out at one of the fire pits at night while gazing out over the lake and night sky.
2. East Bay Suites
One of the best part about East Bay Suites is the location. Not only was it built right on the shoreline of Lake Superior, but it is located near everything downtown. While parking can be difficult during the summer months, a stay at East Bay Suites allows you to be near everything and walk around town. They are also kid and pet friendly!
3. The Hungry Hippie Hostel
When I first heard of the Hungry Hippie, I had thought it was just a restaurant. They have the most delicious Mexican cuisine serving the best tacos made from ingredients at their farm. Well, you can actually rent a room there too! You have the options of a private room, shared bunks or renting the entire hostel, which sits on a hillside overlooking Lake Superior. Make sure to check the hostel and restaurant out! (A new taco shop will be opening in Duluth soon!)
4. Eve’s Place Cabin (Close to Grand Marais- this place is a STEAL!)
Eve’s Place Cabin is a small, charming cabin cabin off Colvill Road. It is across the street from a staircase that gives you private access to the Lake Superior shore. The view is stunning, with an endless shoreline of the lake. It’s a perfect place to view the sunrise, sunset or the moon over the lake. There is also a nice fire pit. The price is on average is $200 to $220 per night. For the view, amenities and how close this is located to Grand Marais, that price is good!
5. Wolf Track Den
Located at the foot of Gunflint Trail you will find this cozy cabin that sits on 3 acres of land. This cabin is well equipped to accommodate up to 5 guests, especially kids and dogs! This cabin books far in advance, so it would be a good one to book for a year out.
6. Life As Art properties: The Aurora and The Skyhouse
In the oldest section of Grand Marais you will find some of the most modern vacation rentals. These properties are fully equipped and offers a city line and lake view from an exquisitely designed cabin of the future.
7. River Run (this is a steal!)
Two miles from Grand Marais in a secluded area hides a beautiful A-frame cabin on a 25 acre lot you will have all to yourself. This beautifully decorated and designed cabin is only 1 mile from Lake Superior and offers all the comforts of home while giving an off the grid feeling. I also love the spiraling staircase inside! On average, this amazing cabin is $188 per night- which is a complete STEAL!
8. Shore side
Shore side in Colvill (two miles from Grand Marais) has a special place in my heart. It is one of the first cabins I had ever stayed at on the North Shore. I can’t even describe how amazing it was to have Lake Superior as my front yard, falling asleep and waking up to the sound of the waves. We also had a private beach area, awesome fire pit and a neat trail to walk. Nearby, there is a small pop up shop selling agates and crystals. We found quite a few beautiful gems shore side. I would recommend this cabin any day!
9. Amazing Grace
If you are interested in Shore side and having Lake Superior as your front yard, Amazing Grace is a 6 acre lot that offers panoramic views. It is close enough to the water that you can fall asleep and wake up to the waves crashing on the shore.
10. The Ferny Fern (This is a steal!)
You can find this off-the-grid, rustic cabin half a mile from Grand Marais in the Lake Superior bluffs (accommodates up to 4 people). The cabin has a deck, hammock, campfire and most unique of all, a river falls in your backyard! This is another cabin high up on our wishlist! The best part? On average, the Ferny Fern is $176 per night!
Canada’s Neighbors: Hovland/East Cook and Grand Portage!
- Grand Portage Lodge and Casino
Located by the National Monument in Grand Portage is a casino, lodging, food and events stay! If you are wanting to be in Grand Portage or close to the state park, this is a top choice for you.
Grand Portage Casino & Lodging
2. Tamarack House (kid and dog friendly!)
Twenty minutes past Grand Marais you can find Tamarack House sitting on a 20 acre private lot along Lake Superior. You are able to experience a bay view, lake view and water front. This breathtaking cabin is fully equipped and inviting for parents to bring their children as well as pets.
3. MYSA House
MYSA is a fully equipped A-frame cabin with modern flair, cozy vibes and an open floor plan adorned with a spiraling staircase. The A-frame cabin is located in acres of woods with Lake Superior views. For an average of $289 per night, MYSA can host up to 8 people. Dogs are allowed for an extra $20 per stay. This is a wishlist stay for sure!
4. Off-Grid on Superior
Are you interested in complete solitude, watching loons paddle by on the lake and walking through wildflower fields? Off-Grid Superior in Hovland can host up to 6 bedrooms in this private oasis on the lake. (Note: You will need to bring your own bath towel, sheets and drinking water.)
5. Cabin Sweet Cabin (Such a steal!)
Are you looking for a lake front view with beach access on a budget? Cabin Sweet Cabin offers all of that for an average of $175 per night on the shores of Pike Lake, 15 minutes from Grand Marais. The cabin is fully equipped and pet friendly as well.
6. Mossy Hollow Cove
One of my favorite Airbnb stays is Mossy Hollow Cove in East Cook, about 15 minutes north of Grand Marais. With this cabin, you not only rent a place to stay- you are literally renting your own private cove-which makes up your front yard! There are plenty of rocks to climb to get a great view of the sunset and sunrise. It has an open floor plan and is equipped with everything you can imagine (even your own canoe!). Overall, it has 71 reviews of of the date of this post- and they are still at 5.0 stars! This should be on the wishlist for all travelers on the North Shore.
If you enjoyed this post & plan to travel the North Shore of Minnesota, comment below which of these lodging options you will be reserving or adding to your wishlist! Also, make sure to tag us on Instagram @thetravelingwildflowerr with any pictures you take- we would love to hear from you!
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