Minnesota offers a wealth of romantic anniversary getaways, from serene lakeside retreats to vibrant city escapes.
At Up North Property Management, we’ve curated a list of the most enchanting destinations for couples seeking to celebrate their love in the Land of 10,000 Lakes.
Whether you’re dreaming of a cozy cabin on Lake Superior or a luxurious hotel in downtown Minneapolis, our guide to anniversary getaways in MN has something for every couple.
Where to Find Romantic Lakeside Retreats in Minnesota
Minnesota’s lakes provide the perfect backdrop for couples who want to celebrate their anniversary. The serene waters and lush forests create an intimate atmosphere for love to flourish.
Lake Superior’s North Shore Luxury
The North Shore of Lake Superior showcases some of Minnesota’s most breathtaking scenery. Surrounded by spectacular vistas, you’ll find cozy cabins, beautifully appointed townhouses and lodge rooms, fireplaces and exceptional meals. These high-end accommodations often include private decks, hot tubs, and floor-to-ceiling windows to maximize the lake vistas.
Bluefin Bay Resort in Tofte offers lakeside suites with fireplaces and whirlpool tubs. Guests can enjoy couples’ massages, guided hikes, and kayak tours.
Brainerd Lakes Area Coziness
The Brainerd Lakes Area, famous for its chain of over 465 lakes, offers a more laid-back atmosphere for couples. Cozy cottages line the shorelines, providing intimate settings for anniversaries. Many feature screened porches, private docks, and boat rentals for exploring the pristine waters.
Madden’s On Gull Lake, a historic resort, offers couples’ packages. Other romantic options in the area include Breezy Point Resort, Lost Lake Lodge, and Grand View Lodge Resort.
Lake Vermilion’s Secluded Escapes
For couples who seek ultimate privacy, Lake Vermilion in northeastern Minnesota is hard to beat. This sprawling lake, with its 365 islands and 1,200 miles of shoreline, offers numerous secluded resorts and cabins. Many are accessible only by boat, ensuring a truly intimate experience.
The Pehrson Lodge Resort on Lake Vermilion provides lakeside cabins with modern amenities while maintaining a rustic charm. Couples can enjoy private fishing expeditions, stargazing from their docks, and romantic bonfires on the beach.
When you plan your lakeside retreat, consider the season. Fall offers stunning foliage, while winter provides opportunities for cozy indoor activities and snow sports. Spring and summer are ideal for water activities and hiking.
As you explore these romantic lakeside retreats, you might wonder about the equally enchanting city escapes Minnesota has to offer. Let’s move on to discover the urban romantic getaways that await couples in the Land of 10,000 Lakes.
Urban Romance in Minnesota’s Cities
Minnesota’s cities offer a different kind of romantic getaway, blending modern luxury with historic charm. From the bustling streets of Minneapolis to the quaint riverside town of Stillwater, urban escapes provide couples with unique anniversary experiences.
Minneapolis: A Metropolis of Love
Downtown Minneapolis boasts some of the most luxurious accommodations in the state. The Hewing Hotel, located in the North Loop neighborhood, offers a rooftop lounge with breathtaking panoramic views of downtown Minneapolis. Their restaurant, Tullibee, serves Nordic-inspired cuisine, perfect for a romantic dinner.
Art-loving couples will appreciate Le Meridien Chambers. This boutique hotel doubles as an art gallery, featuring rotating exhibitions throughout the year. The hotel’s Library Lounge bar provides an intimate setting for evening cocktails.
Stillwater: A Step Back in Time
Just 30 minutes east of the Twin Cities, Stillwater offers a charming small-town atmosphere along the St. Croix River. The Lora Hotel, built into the sandstone bluffs overlooking the river, provides a unique blend of history and modern luxury. Its restaurant, Feller, focuses on locally-sourced ingredients for a true taste of Minnesota.
The Water Street Inn captures the essence of Victorian romance. With antique furnishings and river views, it’s a favorite among couples celebrating special occasions (and for good reason).
Northeast Minneapolis: Trendy and Intimate
The Northeast neighborhood of Minneapolis, known for its vibrant arts scene and craft breweries, offers several boutique accommodations. The Alma Hotel, part of a restaurant and cafe complex, provides an intimate setting with only seven guest rooms. Each room has a unique design, ensuring a one-of-a-kind stay.
Couples looking to explore the local beer scene might enjoy the 612 Brew apartment on Airbnb. It offers a loft-style space above one of the area’s popular breweries. It’s an excellent base for touring the Northeast’s many taprooms and art galleries.
Dining and Entertainment Options
Each city offers a wealth of dining and entertainment options. Minneapolis boasts world-class restaurants like Spoon and Stable, while Stillwater’s historic Main Street is lined with charming cafes and boutiques. In Northeast Minneapolis, couples can explore the local art scene during the annual Art-A-Whirl festival in May, which welcomes 1,400+ artists to the area.
These urban escapes offer plenty of romance, but they’re just the beginning of what Minnesota has to offer for anniversary celebrations. The state also provides unique experiences that can elevate your anniversary getaway to new heights. From wine tasting tours to hot air balloon rides, the next section will explore these extraordinary options for couples seeking something truly special.
Unforgettable Anniversary Adventures in Minnesota
Minnesota offers couples a variety of unique experiences to celebrate their anniversaries. From wine tasting to spa treatments and hot air balloon rides, these activities create lasting memories.
Wine Tasting in the Upper St. Croix Valley
The Upper St. Croix Valley boasts a thriving wine scene. Northern Vineyards Winery in Stillwater invites couples to taste their wines. Visitors can enjoy a picnic on the grounds and use credit cards for their purchases.
The St. Croix Valley Wine Trail presents a more comprehensive experience. This self-guided tour encompasses seven wineries across Minnesota and Wisconsin. Each location offers a distinct tasting experience, allowing couples to compare various styles and flavors (perfect for wine enthusiasts).
Spa Retreats in Northern Minnesota
Northern Minnesota resorts offer world-class spa treatments for couples seeking relaxation. The Grand View Lodge in Nisswa, founded in 1916, provides memorable vacation experiences in the Brainerd Lakes area.
Bluefin Bay Resort on Lake Superior tempts couples with the “Superior Romance” package. This includes a couple’s massage, followed by a private dinner with lake views. The resort’s Waves of Superior Spa uses locally sourced ingredients in their treatments (connecting guests with the natural surroundings).
Hot Air Balloon Rides Over the Mississippi River Valley
For a truly unforgettable anniversary experience, couples can take a hot air balloon ride over the Mississippi River Valley. Minnesota Balloon Rides offers sunrise and sunset flights, providing breathtaking views of the river, bluffs, and surrounding countryside.
Flights typically last about an hour, concluding with a traditional champagne toast. Some companies, like Hot Air Balloon Rides Minnesota, offer private flights for couples, ensuring an intimate experience.
Planning Your Anniversary Adventure
Couples should book these unique experiences well in advance, especially during peak seasons. Many of these activities depend on weather conditions, so flexibility in scheduling is important.
These experiences represent just a small sample of what Minnesota offers for romantic getaways. The state’s diverse landscapes and vibrant cities provide endless opportunities for couples to celebrate their love.
Final Thoughts
Minnesota offers diverse anniversary getaways, from tranquil lakeside retreats to vibrant urban escapes. Couples can explore the shores of Lake Superior, enjoy the charm of Brainerd Lakes, or discover the secluded beauty of Lake Vermilion. Cities like Minneapolis and Stillwater provide unique experiences that blend luxury, history, and modern trends for unforgettable anniversary celebrations.
The state elevates romantic getaways with wine tasting tours, indulgent spa treatments, and hot air balloon rides over picturesque landscapes. Each season in Minnesota presents its own unique charm for anniversary getaways (fall colors, winter wonderlands, spring blooms, and sunny summers). These experiences create lasting memories and strengthen bonds between partners.
Up North Property Management offers exclusive vacation rentals in Northern Minnesota for exceptional anniversary getaways. Their meticulously maintained properties and concierge services ensure a stress-free and memorable celebration. Minnesota’s romantic destinations welcome couples year-round, providing the perfect backdrop for rekindling love and creating cherished moments.