8 Incredible Minnesota Resorts & Hotels That Belong on Your Family’s Bucket List
Looking for unforgettable family getaways in Minnesota? We have just what you need! Minnesota’s bucket-list hotels and resorts offer fun, comfort, and adventure for families with kids of all ages. Imagine splashing in the lakeside outdoor pool at Bluefin Bay in Tofte, exploring a private island at Ludlow’s Island Resort, or sleeping in a real train car at the Northern Rail Traincar Inn in Two Harbors.
Whether you’re craving lakeside relaxation, epic outdoor adventures, or hands-on activities, this guide covers some of the best hotels in Minnesota with kids. Each family-friendly Minnesota resort is designed for maximum fun, relaxation, and connection! Ready to make lasting memories together?
Keep reading to learn about these unique family vacations in Minnesota with kids.
Grand View Lodge, Nisswa
Address: 23521 Nokomis Ave, Nisswa, MN 56468
Looking for the perfect spot to kick off your family’s next adventure? Grand View Lodge on Gull Lake is one of our favorite bucket list hotels for families in Minnesota. This lakeside gem offers endless year-round attractions for all ages, from its indoor waterpark to seasonal outdoor activities. With cozy cabins, boutique hotel rooms, and spacious townhomes, Grand View Lodge has accommodations to fit every family’s size, style, and budget.
Seasonal events and diverse dining options make it one of the top picks for unique family vacations in Minnesota with kids. Spend your days hiking, biking, ziplining, or horseback riding. Or, head to the water for paddleboarding, banana tubing, and swimming. Winter visitors also have no shortage of options for family fun, from snowshoeing and sledding to ice skating.
Little ones will love the Kids Club for ages 3–11, featuring engaging activities and lunch with expert supervision (additional fee, summer only). When it’s time to unwind, parents can relax at the on-site spa or fitness center while kids splash at Northpark, the indoor waterpark with a massive pool and waterslide. With so many activities for all ages, it’s no wonder this is a top pick for families amongst the best lake resorts in Minnesota.
Great Wolf Lodge Water Park Minneapolis / Bloomington, Minnesota
Address: 1700 American Blvd E, Bloomington, MN 55425
For one of the best hotels in Minnesota for families with young kids, look no further than Great Wolf Lodge Water Park in Bloomington! This all-in-one resort is packed with nonstop fun, making it a top pick for weekend getaways with kids in Minnesota. Families can relax in themed suites with bunk beds or spacious multi-bedroom options that sleep up to nine. Whether you’re visiting the Twin Cities on your next family vacation or planning a fun staycation, Great Wolf Lodge offers endless ways to play, relax, and make memories—all under one roof!
The 75,000-square-foot indoor water park is the star of the show. It features thrilling water slides, a lazy river, splash zones, and zero-depth entry pools perfect for little ones. Plus, you can start splashing even before check-in!
The fun continues beyond the water park with several more interactive attractions like MagiQuest, where kids use magic wands to complete adventures. There is also a mini bowling alley, ropes course, arcade games, and character meet-and-greets.
When it’s time to refuel, choose from nine on-site dining options, including pizza and burgers, ice cream, and Dunkin’ Donuts.
Bluefin Bay Family of Resorts, Tofte
Address: 7192 MN-61, Tofte, MN 55615
For a North Shore escape that truly belongs on your bucket list of fun hotels in Minnesota with kids, the Bluefin Bay Family of Resorts in Tofte offers a unique mix of adventure and relaxation. This lakeside resort provides family-friendly accommodations ranging from cozy guest rooms to spacious townhomes with full kitchens and living areas. Families seeking comfort and convenience will find what they need for an incredible stay. Even better—many rooms even have views of Lake Superior!
Outdoor-loving families can explore guided hikes and sea kayaking on Lake Superior or simply unwind by the water while kids splash and collect rocks. In the summer, Bluefin Bay’s kids’ program keeps young adventurers busy with age-appropriate activities. Meanwhile, parents can join yoga classes, guided nature hikes, or indulge in a relaxing spa treatment. Winter brings snowshoeing, ice skating, and complimentary shuttles to Lutsen Mountains for skiing.
After a full day, gather around a lakeside bonfire for s’mores or enjoy on-site dining with lake views. Whether you’re chasing summer sunsets or snowy adventures, Bluefin Bay offers endless ways for families to connect and make unforgettable memories in all seasons.
Ludlow’s Island Resort, Cook
Address: 8166 Ludlow Rd, Cook, MN 55723
For a one-of-a-kind family escape, Ludlow’s Island Resort in Cook stands out among unique hotels in Minnesota with kids. Nestled on a private island on Lake Vermilion, this resort offers families an unforgettable stay. Adventure begins with a boat ride to your handcrafted lakeside cabin. Each cabin, designed by the Ludlow family, is full of rustic charm, with cozy fireplaces, screened porches, and stunning lake views—perfect for making family memories.
As one of the best lake resorts in Minnesota for families, Ludlow’s offers endless outdoor fun. Kids will love the floating waterpark with waterslides and inflatable towers, while the whole family can paddle around on hydrobikes, canoes, and paddleboards. Fishing off the dock, tubing, or cruising the lake on a pontoon keeps the fun going all day. After a day of play, parents can unwind at the on-site spa or gather the family for lakeside bonfires and s’mores.
Whether catching a first fish, swimming in the clear lake, or simply relaxing in a lakeside cabin, Ludlow’s Island Resort is a place where family traditions are born and lifelong memories are made.
Keep reading to discover more Minnesota resorts that belong on your bucket list!
Gunflint Lodge & Outfitters, Grand Marais
Address: 143 S Gunflint Lake Rd, Grand Marais, MN 55604
For families craving unparalleled adventure and tranquility in Minnesota, Gunflint Lodge & Outfitters in Grand Marais is a must on any bucket list. Nestled deep in the wilderness along Gunflint Lake, this historic resort has been a beloved family destination since 1925. Gunflint Lodge offers a range of cozy cabins and spacious lake homes—some with private saunas and hot tubs—creating the perfect balance of comfort and rustic charm.
The resort is ideal for unique family vacations in Minnesota with kids. It offers outdoor adventures year-round. In summer, families can paddle across the lake in kayaks, zip through the trees on ziplines, or hike scenic trails (like the one leading to Magnetic Rock!). Winter transforms the landscape into a snowy playground with cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, ice fishing, and even horse-drawn sleigh rides. Naturalist programs, guided fishing trips, and wildlife spotting make every stay an unforgettable learning experience for all ages.
After a day of exploration, families can unwind by the fire, enjoy hearty meals from the on-site restaurant, and stargaze in the peaceful Northwoods. Gunflint Lodge is where outdoor adventures and family bonding come together for a magical getaway.
The Lodge at Giants Ridge, Biwabik
Address: 6373 Wynne Creek Dr, Biwabik, MN 55708
The Lodge at Giants Ridge in Biwabik is undoubtedly one of the best family resorts in Minnesota. It offers year-round fun for families with kids of all ages. This northern Minnesota gem features 67 spacious condos, ranging from one to four bedrooms, perfect for families of any size.
Nestled in the heart of the Giants Ridge recreation area, The Lodge provides access to some of the best outdoor adventures in the state. Families can tackle scenic mountain biking trails during summer and fall, scale the outdoor climbing wall, or paddle on nearby Sabin and Wynne Lakes. Winter brings over 2,000 miles of groomed snowmobile trails, 35 alpine runs, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing—all just steps from your door. After long days outside exploring the area, head inside to play at the Little Giant Arcade. Or, enjoy the indoor pool. Of course, everyone can enjoy delicious meals at Neighbor’s BBQ Co. at the end of the night.
For a getaway that blends epic outdoor adventures with family comfort, The Lodge at Giants Ridge is one of the best hotels in Minnesota with kids. No matter what time of year you go, it offers unbelievable experiences and easy access to the Iron Range’s stunning natural beauty.
Related Article: Minnesota Parent Hidden Treasures
Northern Rail Traincar Inn, Two Harbors
Address: 1730 Co Hwy 3, Two Harbors, MN 55616
Look no further than the Northern Rail Traincar Inn in Two Harbors for a truly unique hotel in Minnesota with kids. This one-of-a-kind stay features authentic train boxcars transformed into cozy, themed rooms, offering a fun and memorable experience for the whole family. From Victorian and Safari to Lighthouse and Fishing-themed accommodations, each boxcar provides modern amenities while keeping the charm of the past. This hotel can’t be missed if you have train-loving kids!
Nestled in the wilderness along Minnesota’s North Shore, this bucket list hotel is just three miles north of Two Harbors and provides easy access to outdoor adventures. Kids will love exploring the nearby Superior Hiking Trail, Gooseberry Falls, and Split Rock Lighthouse, while the whole family can unwind by the fireplace in the depot-style main building.
Whether you visit in spring, summer, fall, or winter, the Northern Rail Traincar Inn offers a peaceful retreat that combines natural beauty with the excitement of staying in a train boxcar—making it the perfect spot for families looking for a memorable getaway.
Ruttgers Bay Lake Resort, Deerwood
Address: 25039 Tame Fish Lake Rd, Deerwood, MN 56444
Ruttger’s Bay Lake Resort in Deerwood offers families one of the best lake resorts in Minnesota. With a rich history dating back to 1898, this charming lakeside retreat provides everything you need for a perfect family getaway in the Central Lake region. From cozy cabins and lakeside lodges to endless outdoor adventures like kayaking, hiking, and fishing, there’s no shortage of year-round, family-friendly fun.
Located on the serene shores of Bay Lake, Rutgers Bay Lake Resort is an ideal spot for weekend getaways in Minnesota with kids. In fact, you can even book a guided fishing trip to get on the water. Your knowledgeable guide will help you and your kids reel in a big one and have a thrilling day in the sun! Plus, as one of the top golf courses in the Brainerd area, the beautiful greens and knowledgeable staff at Ruttger’s Bay Lake Resort are dedicated to ensuring guests get the most out of their golf season. When you’re not on the water or tee-ing off, everyone will enjoy a game of tennis or pickleball. In the evening, you can unwind with a family-friendly meal at one of the resort’s three restaurants. Of course, families will love ending each night relaxing by a roaring bonfire.
For more excitement, explore the nearby Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area, famous for its mountain biking trails. Whether seeking peaceful relaxation or outdoor adventures, this resort has the best of both worlds, ensuring memorable moments for all ages.
Enjoy Staying at these Minnesota Resorts & Hotels with Your Kids!
From lakeside retreats to authentic train car stays, this guide features some of the best hotels in Minnesota for families with kids. Each one offers unique experiences and endless opportunities to bond as a family. Whether you’re dreaming of a weekend getaway in Minnesota with your kids or looking to check off a few bucket list hotels, these unique stays provide unforgettable experiences for the whole family. With stunning views, exciting year-round activities, and comfortable accommodations, these are some of our favorite family resorts in Minnesota.
No matter the season, there’s always an adventure waiting around the corner at these unique destinations!
Antonia Grant is a Minnesota mom + freelance writer who loves encouraging parents to find ways to connect and make memories with their kids. She’s a firm believer in providing children with experiences over things. You can find more from Antonia and her family adventures on Instagram @knead.to.roam. She shares all things family travel, outdoor adventures, and their favorite foodie finds.
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