This post featuring the Grand Marais winter itinerary for families may contain affiliate links. Please read my Disclaimer & Disclosure Policy.
It’s no secret that Grand Marais, Minnesota, is my happy place. Nestled along the shores of Lake Superior, with the Sawtooth Mountains to the south, and positioned at the start of the Gunflint Trail, you could say Grand Marias is primed to be a destination of adventure, relaxation, and connection. And during the winter months, there is nowhere more magical than Grand Marais!
We are lucky to consider this unique place a home away from home, as my husband’s parents live in Grand Marais. In the nearly 20 years that I’ve known him, we’ve visited countless times, making the 4.5-hour trek from Minneapolis in every season.
I love the North Shore and Grand Marias in every season…but winter might just be my favorite. While summer sees tourists hitting the hot spots, Grand Marais in the winter sees locals come alive and reclaim their favorite joints. I love that you can wear snow pants to Voyageurs, and no one bats an eye. I love the hygge feel of cozy nights by the fire, after days spent exploring quiet forests. Simply put, I am my best self here.
If you’re hoping to visit Grand Marais with kids this winter, I’ve created an itinerary just for you! It includes all my favorite things to do in Grand Marais in the winter, from hiking and exploring downtown to unique experiences like curling and Nordic saunas. At the end of the itinerary, I’ve also shared a few more things to do, restaurants, and places to stay to help you create the ideal itinerary for you and your family. Keep reading to learn more about how to plan a fantastic Grand Marais winter itinerary!
Tips + Packing List for Grand Marais this Winter
Before diving into my Grand Marais itinerary, you should know a few things about visiting during the winter months. Here are a few tips to ensure a successful winter visit to Grand Marais with kids.
It is Considered the “Off Season”
Winter is still considered the off-season in Grand Marais. As such, expect restaurants and shops to have irregular or varying hours. This is especially true during the stretch between Thanksgiving and the New Year. Many restaurants close entirely during this time. Google may not always be accurate, too; check each website for updates.
I recommend plotting your restaurants out ahead of time, as many of them have specific days they are closed. You don’t want to be surprised or caught off guard on a day when many of your top picks are closed. My Sister’s Place, Voyageur Brewing Company, and Cascade Restaurant & Pub tend to have the most consistent hours.
On the bright side, I’ve never had to wait long for a table in the winter! Tourist crowds are slim in the winter. Instead, you are more likely to come across friendly locals out for a pint or a pizza.
Weather
Grand Marais is pretty far north (only 45 minutes from the Canadian border). As such, the weather in Grand Marais is generally cooler than in the Twin Cities metro, or other parts of the United States. The weather can be unpredictable, and driving can present a challenge during the winter, but it is still worth a trek to spend a few days exploring and finding ways to enjoy the long winter months we have in Minnesota.
Here is the monthly average high/low temperature (in Fahrenheit) for Grand Marais during the winter months (November – April). However, it’s important to note that temps can vary widely depending on where in Grand Marais you are. For example, it is always cooler near the lake than up the Gunflint Trail. Don’t let the summer averages fool you, either. While the area by the lake can remain cooler, it can reach 100° up the Gunflint Trail (and even in town sometimes). Conversely, in the winter, you can reasonably expect some sub-zero temperatures, especially in early January.
- November 39° / 25°
- December 27° / 12°
- January 23° / 5°
- February 26° / 8°
- March 35° / 18°
- April 46° / 30°
Packing
Your exact packing list will depend on the things you want to do in Grand Marais this winter. To get you started, though, here are a few things I know you will need:
- Layers: Weather can change often and quickly on the North Shore. No matter what season you visit, pack layers. It can be cooler down by the lake than in other parts of the area, so be prepared. In the winter, make sure you pack 3-4 layers for outdoor adventures, including base layers (Merino wool or synthetic), fleece mid-layers, and a protective outer shell (heavy winter coat, best if wind- and water-resistant). Down vests can be a great secondary mid-layer!
- Hats, wool socks, mittens, balaclavas, and other accessories. To pair with your layers, make sure your extremities are covered, too!
- Hiking Gear (including winter boots and ice cleats) if you plan to hit the trails. Some people may also want to bring snowshoes or hiking poles
- Seasonal protective items like sunscreen, sunglasses, bug spray, etc. You will still need sunscreen in the winter, especially if you plan to ski.
- Books + games! Don’t forget you’re on vacation – have some fun games and books available for downtime.
- Not sure what else you’ll need? Ask me! Or, reach out to your accommodations; they will have great ideas, too (not to mention, know what they have on-site for you already).
Find Winter Gear We Love Here!
Day 1 in Grand Marais with Kids this Winter
Once you arrive in Grand Marais, get settled at your accommodations. There are plenty of hotels in (and near!) Grand Marais to choose from, as well as several Vrbo and Airbnb properties. I’ve shared a few of my favorites below. Though, admittedly, because my in-laws live in Grand Marais, we haven’t stayed at any of them.
After you’re settled, if you have time for an activity before dinner, I recommend wandering the downtown area. It’s a great time to check out the local sights, including Artists’ Point and the Grand Marais Lighthouse. Likewise, it’s a great time to check out the harbor beach. Studded with fun-looking ice, kids will have a great time searching for rocks to skip across the ice or into the open water (depending on the season). If you need even more ideas to fill your first day, I’ve included several more things to do in Grand Marais with kids this winter below!
Then, your first dinner should be at My Sister’s Place. This is SP’s favorite restaurant in town. She loves their lemon arugula pizza. Meanwhile, I love their Reuben – it’s SO good! They also offer great take-out options if you don’t want to dine in. My Sister’s Place is also one of Grand Marais’s most reliably open restaurants in winter.
READ NEXT: 12+ Best Things to Do in Grand Marais this Winter for Families
Day 2 in Grand Marais with Kids this Winter
Day two starts with breakfast at Java Moose Espresso Cafe. Located in downtown Grand Marais, this iconic establishment has been a local favorite since 1992. They have an excellent coffee menu (I wholeheartedly recommend the maple latte!). Then, they also offer a collection of scones and muffins for breakfast, and sandwiches for lunch.
When you travel to Grand Marais with kids, Java Moose is also an excellent stop for its puzzles and games! You can find them on a shelf near the bathroom in the second room. My daughter has been a huge fan of visiting Java Moose and spending the morning putting puzzles together or playing checkers for years.
Hike Magnetic Rock
One of the best things to do in Grand Marais this winter is hiking or snowshoeing! One of my favorite hikes near Grand Marais is Magnetic Rock Trail. The trailhead is located near the end of the Gunflint Trail. It is about an hour from downtown Grand Marais. There is a small parking lot near the trailhead. And, there is no entrance fee.
Magnetic Rock Trail is a moderate 4.3-mile out-and-back trail. Home to a scientific marvel and a true North Shore hidden gem, this trail will thrill kids and adults alike. The hike twists and turns around boulders, streams, ancient lava flows, and woods. Along the trail, you can also enjoy several gorgeous views of the valley below. In fact, my kiddo has declared this one of her “favorite hikes ever”, so I know it will be a hit with your kids too!
The piece de resistance, however, is the 60-foot monolith at the end of the trail. Remember to bring a magnet and a compass to test against this magnetic stone. This hike will take half a day for the experience (minimum), so plan accordingly. It’s best to plan to hike it in the morning. Afterward, Trail Center At Poplar Lake or Poplar Haus Restaurant & Bar are the best lunch options with kids on the way back to Grand Marais.
Because winters can be cold and shop hours vary, make sure your gas tank is full (and one of the restaurants on the way back to town is open) before embarking up the Gunflint Trail. Additionally, keep blankets, snacks, and water on hand in the car. Watch for moose, too!
Finally, if you would prefer a shorter hike or one closer to town, I’ve included more hiking options near Grand Marais for families below.
READ NEXT: 8+ Exciting Things to Do on the Gunflint Trail this Winter with Kids
Explore Downtown Grand Marais
After you return to town, it’s a great time to rest back at your hotel. Alternatively, if you still have the stamina to explore, it’s also a wonderful time to go shopping or wander around the Grand Marais Lighthouse.
Here are my favorite local shops to peek into:
- The Big Lake Life, Grand Marais (I rarely leave town without stopping here!)
- Upstate MN, Grand Marais
- Drury Lane Books, Grand Marais
- Sivertson Gallery, Grand Marais
- Stone Harbor Wilderness Supply, Grand Marais
- Gunflint Mercantile, Grand Marais
- The Fisherman’s Daughter, Grand Marais
- Beth’s Fudge & Gifts, Grand Marais
- Lake Superior Trading Post, Grand Marais
- Joy & Company, Grand Marais
- The North Country, Lutsen
Whether you have spent the afternoon shopping or resting, dinner is at The Fisherman’s Daughter tonight. My husband craves their salmon chowder year round – it’s heavenly! They also offer crowd favorites like fish and chips, fish tacos, and chicken strips. Not to mention, a rotating menu of specials.
Finally, when you visit Grand Marais in the winter, you must enjoy at least one sunset at the Grand Marais Lighthouse. The sunsets here are UNREAL! Arrive at the lighthouse about 20-30 minutes before sunset and simply enjoy. Be careful, though. Depending on the recent weather and waves, the lead-up to the lighthouse may be covered in ice. In that case, the parking lot is a great place to enjoy the sunset with a view of the lighthouse.
Alternative Activity: Dog Sledding
An alternative activity near Grand Marais for day two of your winter itinerary is dog sledding. Located in Hovland (about 40 minutes from Grand Marais), Points Unknown offers fantastic dog sledding experiences for all ages. Undoubtedly, it is one of the most extraordinary things we’ve ever done! Not only are the staff and dogs excellent, but the terrain is absolutely stunning.
Imagine racing through the snow in a picturesque winter wonderland as you sit cozily wrapped in warm blankets on the sled. With several tours to choose from, Points Unknown focuses on providing family-friendly experiences by dog sled. And, teaching visitors about their dogs and the Hedlund Husky Preservation Project. Their knowledgeable team also loves sharing tidbits about the terrain and the area’s history. Indeed, it’s an excellent activity for any winter getaway in Grand Marais with kids!
Pack your layers to dress warmly for the experience. Ski goggles are also advised. Helmets are provided for children. They book quickly, so make your reservation in advance of your visit.
Day 3 in Grand Marais with Kids this Winter
Start your final morning at Blue Water Cafe or Coho Cafe & Bakery. Where you go is up to you – both are great! Blue Water Cafe is located in downtown Grand Marais, while Coho Cafe is in Tofte. Where you eat likely depends on your accommodations and plan for the day. Both offer American classics for breakfast to fuel your day.
Slow Morning in Town
After breakfast (or brunch!), take it easy for a bit. If you’re traveling with older kids (or no kids), book a session at Sisu and Löyly. This Nordic sauna experience is right on the shores of Lake Superior, with a view of Artists’ Point! Once you arrive, you can change into your provided robes and slippers. Then, head to your sauna. You can keep it as steamy or dry as you want, as you add your own water throughout the visit. Sometimes, I find it hard to breathe in saunas, so being able to control the steam level was huge for me.
If you need a break from the sauna, you can enjoy the cozy bonfire or indoor lounge. Brave souls may even choose to take a polar plunge in the lake (talk to the front desk about where and how to do it safely). Kids 10 and older can use the sauna. If you’re looking to relax in Grand Marais, this is one of the best places to do it!
Alternatively, if you’re traveling to Grand Marais with young kids, you can use this time to enjoy the hotel pool or play games. Plus, Cook County History Museum continues to be open in winter (Fridays and Saturdays only – closed in November). Here, you can visit the former lightkeeper’s residence, built in 1896. It has a great collection of exhibits to learn more about local history.
Hike or Snowshoe at Oberg Mountain
After your slow morning, it’s time for lunch. We love Cascade Restaurant & Pub! They have a great menu featuring burgers, sandwiches, flatbreads, and more. They also offer a kids’ menu.
Afterward, it’s time to hike or snowshoe Oberg Mountain Trail! This 2.3-mile loop trail with stunning views of Lake Superior takes about 90 minutes (give or take, depending on the pace of your hiking companions). From the parking lot, head across the road to reach the trailhead. The way up (and way back down) can be really steep. Pack ice cleats or snowshoes if there is fresh snow.
At the top, you will be about 1,000 feet above sea level. This makes Oberg Mountain one of the highest points in Minnesota! Kids will love knowing they conquered a mountain! Hike with caution with small kids, though. There are minimal guard rails. The views are STUNNING and are worth every minute of the hike. In fact, there are nine in total!
The entrance is free, and there are rustic toilets available. When you’re building a Grand Marais winter itinerary, this hike is a must for me!
READ NEXT: A Family Guide to the 8 State Parks on the North Shore of Minnesota
Dinner + Games
When you’re ready for dinner, it’s time to enjoy a meal at Voyageur Brewing Company! Located in downtown Grand Marais, this is one of the best restaurants in Grand Marais! And, a must-stop for us whenever we are in town.
With a fireplace and plenty of seating, it’s a cozy spot for dinner and a pint. Not to mention, a card game or two. The menu features many delicious appetizers and small plates, including Reuben eggrolls (a must-eat!), pizza, soft pretzels with cheese, and more. They also have a yummy kids’ menu. After a full day of exploring some of the best Grand Marais things to do with kids, it’s a great place to end the day.
READ NEXT: Foodie Family Approved: 16+ Best Restaurants in Grand Marais with Kids
More Things to Do + Eat in Grand Marais with Kids
Looking for more (or alternative) things to fill your Grand Marais winter itinerary? Here are a few more things to consider adding to your itinerary if you have more time. Then, I have also included some additional restaurants in Grand Marais that are open during the winter. Keep reading to learn more about what to do with kids in Grand Marais this winter.
More Things to Do in Grand Marais with Kids During the Winter
The above itinerary includes just a tiny example of the many things you can do in Grand Marais during the winter with (or without) kids. If you are looking for more ideas, consider adding one or two of these fun things to do:
- Search for frozen waterfalls at Cascade River State Park, Tettegouche State Park, Judge C.R. Magney State Park (where Devil’s Kettle is located), or Grand Portage State Park
- Add a few more hikes to your itinerary at Temperance River State Park or Kadunce River Wayside Trail.
- Hike and visit the Heritage Center at Grand Portage National Monument. As a national monument, kids can even complete a Junior Ranger activity book!
- Curling at the Cook County Curling Club is a great indoor winter activity. They provide open curling on Tuesday evenings and Wednesday afternoons. Whether you’ve played before or this is your first time, kind club members will invite you into a game or teach you to play. Just bring clean shoes!
- Ice skating is fun with kids of all ages. Open skate hours are available at the Cook County Community Center. They have an outdoor arena and a patch of rough ice. Inexpensive skate rentals for kids and adults are available when the warming house is open.
- Cross-country skiing is also a great option. In fact, there are over 400 km of trails in Cook County! Sugarbush Trails are a great option. The trails offer distances and difficulties suitable for everyone, from beginner to expert.
- Alpine skiing at Lutsen Mountains. As the largest ski area in the Midwest, there are a variety of runs for beginners to advanced skiers.
- Wine tasting at North Shore Winery.
- Go fat tire biking on the Northshore Mountains Ski Trail. Some state parks in the area also have designated trails. You can rent fat tire bikes at Sawtooth Outfitters.
- Take a class at North House Folk School. Winter is a great time to learn something new! They even offer family classes throughout the year.
- If you’re lucky, you can also chase the Northern Lights. This is an excellent winter activity for night owls in Grand Marais!
More Places to Eat in Grand Marais for Families During the Winter
If you are looking for more of the best restaurants in Grand Marais with kids, these remaining recommendations are also open in the winter:
- Hungry Hippie Tacos, Grand Marais
- Angry Trout Cafe, Grand Maris (now offering breakfast in the winter too!)
- Superior Creamery, Grand Marais
As a reminder, plot your restaurants before your stay when planning where to eat in Grand Marais. Hours can vary significantly during the winter, and some may close for large stretches of time (especially around the holidays).
Where to Stay near Grand Marais with Kids this Winter
Now that you know what to add to your Grand Marais winter itinerary with kids, here is where to stay! Bluefin Bay on Lake Superior is an excellent option nestled along Lake Superior. It has one of the best selection of accommodation options, as well as incredible views of the lake! Alternatively, families also like staying at East Bay Suites, Thomsonite Inn, Gunflint Lodge & Outfitters, and Skyport Lodge. Finally, families also like budget-friendly options like Best Western Plus Superior Inn.
Keep Exploring!
I hope you found this Grand Marais winter itinerary helpful in planning your own adventures! From its stunning views of Lake Superior to its kid-friendly trails and inviting locals, Grand Marais is genuinely a wonderful place to explore with kids. And, Grand Marais during the winter? Finding a more magical winter wonderland in Minnesota or the Midwest is next to impossible!
Unless otherwise noted, all images within this article were taken by and belong to the blog’s author, Antonia Grant. A reminder that this post may contain affiliate links. Please read my Disclaimer & Disclosure Policy for more information.