Thomsonite Inn Review for Families: Read this before booking!

This post, featuring my review of Thomsonite Inn on Lake Superior in Grand Marais, Minnesota, may contain affiliate links. This article was also written after a hosted stay on the property (this article is not part of the requested deliverables)-all thoughts and opinions about the stay are my own. For more, please read my Disclaimer & Disclosure Policy (linked below).

A woman and her young daughter enjoy a view of Lake Superior while staying at Thomsonite Inn.

When your in-laws live in Grand Marais (like mine do!), you don't usually think much about hotels. But if we ever were going to book a stay, Thomsonite Inn on Lake Superior is a serious contender. We recently stayed here, and I think it is a very underrated choice for North Shore stays (especially for families). This Thomsonite Inn review features my thoughts based on our stay, along with a few things you should think about before booking.

A Quiet Beauty near Grand Marais

Thomsonite Inn peeking through the trees near Grand Marais.

Thomsonite Inn is tucked along Lake Superior, just outside of downtown Grand Marais. It's about 7 minutes from downtown. This little gem (literally!) feels like a quiet retreat while still keeping you close to the best of the North Shore. It's one of those rare hotels in Grand Marais, Minnesota, with kids that doesn't feel chaotic or crowded-it feels like your own little slice of Lake Superior.

What makes it extra special is that the shoreline here is dotted with "Minnesota's Gemstone"-Thomsonite. First discovered in 1879, this mineral gives the rocky shoreline a magical feel, especially at sunset when the colors pop. You won't find another Thomsonite Inn review that doesn't gush about the setting, because the views are truly endless.

Inside one of the cozy rooms at Thomsonite Inn.

The property itself is simple, peaceful, and made for families who want both comfort and nature. With just 11 units, it feels intimate and uncrowded. Whether you're flipping pancakes for a family breakfast, watching waves roll in, or just enjoying the iconic quiet of the North Shore, Thomsonite Inn with kids is a reminder that sometimes less really is more. For anyone wondering where to stay on the North Shore, read this to better understand why Thomsonite Inn is one of the best places to stay on the North Shore for families.

About Thomsonite Inn in Grand Marais, Minnesota

Here's a snapshot of what you need to know about while reviewing if Thomsonite Inn on Lake Superior is the right stay for your family.

Location: Grand Marais, Minnesota

Accommodation Type: 11 traditional hotel units, each sleeps 2 – 6

Season: All accommodation types are offered year-round.

Best for: Any type of group or traveler! From romantic getaways to family trips with kids, there are accommodations perfect for your next getaway at Thomsonite Inn.

Snapshot of Amenities for Thomsonite Inn

Rooms sleep 2 – 6
Some rooms offer kitchenettes, balconies, wood-burning fireplaces, and other features
Some rooms have been recently renovated
Epic views of Lake Superior
Wood-burning Sauna (ability to reserve a time, no age restrictions)
Nightly bonfires with views of the lake (s'mores included!)
Complimentary use of bicycles and snowshoes
Wifi
Access to the Bluefin Bay Activity Program (located in nearby Tofte)

Please note that pets are not allowed.

My Review of Staying at Thomsonite Inn with Kids

A dad and his young daughter roast marshmallows together while staying at Thomsonite Inn.

Would we recommend Thomsonite Inn for other families? Overall, yes, but there are a few drawbacks to staying here. If you're wondering where to stay on the North Shore, keep reading this review to decide if Thomsonite Inn is a good fit for your family.

More on What We Loved at Thomsonite Inn with Kids

A young girl gets syrup ready to put on her pancakes.

Thomsonite Inn strikes a balance between being peaceful enough for parents who want to rest and still being fun for kids. The first thing we fell in love with was just how quiet it is. You can hear the lapping waves of Lake Superior from nearly every corner of the property, and that soundtrack never gets old.

The rooms are comfortable and welcoming for families. Many have been recently renovated, giving each stay a fresh and modern feel without losing that North Shore charm. There's also plenty of space for kids to run around and play, whether it's swinging in the lakeside swing or roasting marshmallows at the bonfire pits. You can also (carefully) walk down to the shoreline if desired. If you choose to go down to the rocks, keep your kids within arm’s reach. It's rocky here, and the waves can be unpredictable.

The sauna peeking through the trees at Thomsonite Inn.

And then there's the wood-burning sauna (a total highlight for us!). Facing Lake Superior, it's the perfect place to warm up after a breezy evening by the water or after a fun day of hiking. Sitting in the sauna with that view is an experience in itself. There is also a rooftop with chairs over the sauna when you need a break or a quick cool down.

For families with kids searching for hotels in Grand Marais, Minnesota, Thomsonite Inn has everything you want: comfort, space, no crowds, and a front-row seat to Lake Superior. These are just some of the features that make it one of the best places to stay on the North Shore for families.

Things of Note

My Thomsonite Inn review would be remiss without a few notes. Before you book, a couple of practical things to keep in mind.

First, Thomsonite Inn isn't downtown. If your idea of a perfect North Shore getaway is being in the middle of Grand Marais' shops, restaurants, and galleries, this probably isn't the spot for you. That said, being just outside of town is precisely why we love it.

Second, there's no pool. If your family's vacation is synonymous with cannonballs and poolside fun, this might feel like a miss. For us, the lake, bonfire pits, cozy rooms, and sauna more than make up for it. But they may not override the need for a pool for your family.

For families wondering where to stay on the North Shore and weighing their options for hotels in Grand Marais, these are the two trade-offs to consider when booking Thomsonite Inn.

4 Reasons I think You Should Book Your Next North Shore Family Getaway at Thomsonite Inn

As you review Grand Marais Hotels, here are four reasons why I think families will love staying at Thomsonite Inn with their kids.

Quiet Stay with Few Crowds

A family of three roasts marshmallows together.

If you've ever felt like hotels are just too loud or busy, Thomsonite Inn with kids is a breath of fresh North Shore air. With only 11 units, it never feels crowded, even on weekends. Enjoy your morning coffee or evening s'mores without dodging other guests.

For families, this means kids can explore safely and parents can actually relax. Honestly, the quiet alone makes it one of my top recommendations for hotels in Grand Marais, Minnesota, with kids.

Outstanding Views of Lake Superior

A young girl looks at Lake Superior from the shores along the property line of Thomsonite Inn.

Every part of the property has a view of Lake Superior, from the rooms to the sauna. There's something magical about watching the waves roll in while the kids play nearby. It's also the perfect backdrop for family photos (no filter needed!). This alone makes Thomsonite Inn rave-worthy review after review. You simply cannot beat the views and proximity to the water.

Amenities Built for Connection

Chairs set in a circle with views of Lake Superior in the background.

Winter coats hanging over adventure-ready boots.

Between the bonfire pits, swing, and the incredible sauna, Thomsonite Inn encourages you to slow down and connect with your family. And, I think that is simply the best part of visiting the North Shore! Grand Marais is best enjoyed slowly and together. Staying here means you can spend evenings roasting marshmallows with your kids. Sneak a quiet sauna session with your partner (or as a family!). Play board games or read stories together. Snuggle in for a movie night. I can't think of better ways to truly embrace what the North Shore is all about!

Proximity to Nature on the North Shore

A waterfall seen at Cascade River State Park.

While it's not right downtown, Thomsonite Inn is still perfectly positioned for nature lovers ready to explore the North Shore. Step outside and you're practically adventure-ready!

For families who want to spend their days hiking, the options near Thomsonite Inn are endless. A short drive will take you to Cascade River State Park. Here, several kid-friendly trails wind past waterfalls and through the woods. Then, Judge C. R. Magney State Park is also within reach. This is where Devil's Kettle can be found (another fantastic North Shore waterfall!).

If you're feeling a bit more adventurous, take a family drive up the Gunflint Trail. This scenic part of Cook County opens up a world of hiking, paddling on inland lakes, and wildlife spotting. Keep your eyes peeled for moose! It's my dream to see one up here. While I haven't seen one yet, I have seen lynx, foxes, and other neat animals along this route.

Even without leaving the property, the grounds encourage outdoor play-there's plenty of space for kids to run, toss a ball, and go on impromptu nature treasure hunts. Whether you're out on a hike or just enjoying lake views from your balcony, you'll quickly see why this quiet retreat is one of the best places to stay on the North Shore for families who want both adventure and relaxation.

Top Things to Do + Eat near Thomsonite Inn with Kids

Looking for fun things to do and restaurants with kids near Thomsonite Inn? Here are some of our favorites within just a few minutes of the property! Knowing these will help you review if Thomsonite Inn is a good fit for your upcoming family trip to Grand Marais.

A Snapshot of Our Favorite (Off-Site) Things to Do near Thomsonite Inn

The Grand Marais Light House in the fall, with the Sawtooth Mountains in the distance.

Hiking, there are tons of trails to choose from (Cascade River State Park is near Thomsonite Inn and is a personal favorite)
Sail aboard the Hjørdis, the flagship schooner with purple sails in Grand Marais
Visit the Heritage Center at Grand Portage National Monument
Catch a sunset from Grand Marais Harbor Beach or the Lighthouse
Meander and shop downtown Grand Marais
Cook County History Museum
Try the gondola or alpine slide at Lutsen Mountains

A Snapshot of Our Favorite Restaurants near Thomsonite Inn

A close up of fish tacos from Fisherman's Daughter in Grand Marais.

Java Moose Espresso Cafe for the best coffee in town (and puzzles for the kids!)
World's Best Donuts is a summer favorite for us, especially for breakfast
Crosby Bakery, one of the newest eateries in Grand Marais, has phenomenal sweet + savory pastries
The Fisherman's Daughter for fish and chips or fish tacos
My Sister's Place has the best pizza and burgers in Grand Marais
Cascade Lodge Restaurant & Pub has everything from breakfast to dinner, and they often have live music
Superior Creamery or Sydney's Frozen Custard for ice cream

Ready to Book or Explore More?

A dad and his young daughter roast marshmallows over a bonfire, while staying at Thomsonite Inn near Grand Marais.

Has my Thomsonite Inn review helped you make your decision? Check pricing, date availability, and book your Thomsonite Inn stay! Check their offers pages to learn more about their current offers, too.

Unless otherwise noted, all images in this article were taken by and belong to the blog’s author, Antonia Grant. This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my Disclaimer & Disclosure Policy for more information.

My Honest Review of Thomsonite Inn on Lake Superior in Grand Marais, Minnesota