Winter Weekend Getaways in Minnesota with Kids: 8 EPIC IDEAS

This post, featuring some of the best winter weekend getaways in Minnesota with kids, may contain affiliate links. For more, please read my Disclaimer & Disclosure Policy.

A young girl in winter gear looks out onto Lake Superior in Grand Marais, one of the best winter weekend getaways in Minnesota with kids.

As a Minnesota mom with a tween daughter who loves a good adventure, winter is one of our favorite times to explore the state together! There’s just something magical about bundling up, hitting the road, and discovering cozy towns and snowy landscapes. Whether ice skating on a frozen lake, warming up by a fireplace after a day of exploring, or experiencing a local winter festival, Minnesota is packed with kid-friendly winter getaways perfect for making the most of the season.

To help you plan your winter escape, we’ve scouted out some of Minnesota’s best winter weekend getaways for families. Each destination showcases unique winter activities, like stunning snowy hikes, charming small-town main streets, ice skating, dog sledding, and more. So, grab your warmest mittens and pack your bags—these 8 bucket list winter vacation ideas in Minnesota will have you and your family embracing the cold and making memories that’ll last long after the snow melts!

Grand Marias

Grand Marais in winter is pure magic! It’s one of my all-time favorite Minnesota weekend getaways for families in the winter. With Lake Superior’s icy waves and snow-dusted forests, Grand Marais is an excellent choice for a kid-friendly getaway if you’re looking for outdoor adventures, enchanting small towns, and lake views.

I’ve been visiting Grand Marais for nearly 20 years—it has become our home away from home (my in-laws live here!). My favorite winter activities include bundling up for a hike or snowshoe adventure along the quiet trails. Keep an eye out; you might spot moose or lynx tracks in the fresh snow (we’ve seen both!). Kids will also love searching for frozen waterfalls!

And there’s nothing better than cozying up by the fire after a day spent exploring. Whether hiking along quiet trails, enjoying a meal together at Voyageurs, or soaking up hygge vibes, Grand Marais is undoubtedly one of Minnesota’s best winter bucket list vacation ideas with kids.

Best Winter Things to Do in Grand Marais with Kids

Antonia and her daughter tucked into a sled, pulled by a dog sled team near Grand Marais, one of the best winter weekend getaways in Minnesota with kids.

Here are a few of my top picks for fun things to do in Grand Marais, one of the best winter weekend getaways in Minnesota with kids:

Walk out to the Grand Marais Lighthouse or along the Artists’ Point trails (watch for slick trails, the water can freeze atop the breakwall). The winter sunsets over the Grand Marais Lighthouse are the best!
Go hiking or snowshoeing! Our favorite winter trails include Cascade River State Park and Oberg Mountain Trail. Read this article to discover more excellent hikes near Grand Marais.
Learn something new together at Grand Portage National Monument, which features exhibits on the history and culture of the Anishinaabe people, along with the impact of the fur trade in the region.
Book a sauna session with older kids and teens at Sisu and Löyly. This Nordic sauna experience by Lake Superior is phenomenal! Open to ages 10+.
Embark on a thrilling dog-sledding adventure with Points Unknown (open to all ages).
The Cook County Curling Club offers open curling every Tuesday evening and Wednesday afternoon—it’s a must-try. Instructors are on hand to teach you how to play.

Best Places to Eat in Grand Marais this Winter with Kids

Wondering where to eat in Grand Marais with kids? Here are some of our favorite winter eats:

Java Moose Espresso Cafe is perfect for coffee or a low-key lunch.
Crosby Bakery offers some of the best pastries in town!
Voyageur Brewing Company is a must every time we are in town! Get the Reuben eggrolls – they are my favorite!
The Fisherman’s Daughter offers a menu filled with delicious, fresh-caught fish.
My Sister’s Place for pizza and other American fare (like burgers and pizza).
Angry Trout Cafe is best for a nice dinner with excellent lake views.

Find more great eats in Grand Marais by reading my guide: Foodie Family Approved: 16+ Best Restaurants in Grand Marais with Kids

Best Places to Stay in Grand Marais with Kids

Here are our top recommendations for hotels and places to stay in Grand Marais with kids:

Gunflint Trail

Though technically part of Grand Marais, the Gunflint Trail deserves its own spot on this list of the best winter weekend getaways in Minnesota with kids. This stunning stretch of wilderness is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Minnesota, with its towering pines, frozen lakes, and endless opportunities for adventure.

The Gunflint Trail is a unique winter vacation spot in Minnesota, offering cozy cabins, untouched wilderness, and a slower pace of life. Winter on the Gunflint Trail also means spotting wildlife (like moose!), exploring quiet, snow-covered trails, and soaking in the serenity of the Northwoods.

Planning a winter getaway here can feel daunting due to its remote location, but it’s well worth the effort. I’ve rounded up my favorite kid-friendly hikes, cozy dining spots, and helpful tips to make planning your trip a breeze. Keep reading to discover why a winter escape to the Gunflint Trail should be on your family’s list!

Best Winter Things to Do on the Gunflint Trail with Kids

A man and his young daughter play a game in a cozy cabin on the Gunflint Trail, one of the best winter weekend getaways in Minnesota with kids.

Here are a few of the best things to do on the Gunflint Trail this winter with kids:

Hike (or Snowshoe) Honeymoon Bluff. The view is worth the climb!
Trek through the snow along Moose Viewing Trail – watch for the vintage car hidden in the woods!
Embrace hygge vibes by playing board games together near the fireplace.
Go snowmobiling. Snowmobile rentals and guided tours are available from the Gunflint Lodge & Outfitters.
Enjoy a night under the stars and watch for the Northern Lights. Check the Northern Lights forecast for details during your visit.

Best Places to Eat on the Gunflint Trail this Winter with Kids

A few restaurants are still open on the Gunflint Trail during the winter. Here’s where to eat:

Justine’s at Gunflint Lodge is a fantastic option for supper club vibes and a view of the Gunflint Lake. This is one of the only restaurants on the Gunflint Trail open year-round without closures.
White Pine Lodge for pizza. They are the only other restaurant on the Gunflint Trail open year-round without closures.
Trail Center At Poplar Lake is great for homestyle food and burgers.
Poplar Haus, try anything with walleye!
Hungry Jack Lodge for pub grub in a cabin-styled dining room.

Best Places to Stay on the Gunflint Trail this Winter with Kids

Wondering where to stay? Book one of these properties:

Norfee Cottage (we loved our winter stay here!)
White Pine Lodge
Hungry Jack Lodge & Campground
Gunflint Lodge & Outfitters

Ely

A young girl observes a wolf at the International Wolf Center, one of the best things to do in Ely with kids.

Ely is a winter wonderland that offers the perfect mix of adventure and cozy relaxation for families in Northern Minnesota. As a gateway to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW), Ely is ideal for exploring snowy trails and spotting local wildlife like wolves and deer.

We were blown away by the area’s beauty and charm during our recent visit. As one of the best Minnesota winter vacation spots, there are so many fantastic activities for all ages. Whether you’re hiking, snowshoeing, or visiting the International Wolf Center to learn about Minnesota’s wildlife, Ely provides endless opportunities for winter fun. Plus, the downtown area is super cute! There are several shops and restaurants to enjoy during your visit.

With its welcoming small-town vibe, cozy cabins, and stunning landscapes, it’s one of our favorite winter weekend getaways in Minnesota for families seeking a quiet escape. Don’t wait as long as we did—plan your Ely adventure now!

Best Winter Things to Do in Ely with Kids

A young girl walks along a trail in Bear Head Lake State Park near Ely, one of the best winter weekend getaways in Minnesota with kids.

Here’s what to add to your itinerary in Ely with kids, one of the best winter weekend getaways in Minnesota with kids:

The International Wolf Center offers a small but informative museum, an observation area where you can see the ambassador wolves, and daily talks about wolf behavior and conservation.
Hiking and snowshoeing galore! Ely is best explored on its many trails, like Trezona Trail Head or Kawishiwi Falls.
Love exploring state parks? Add Bear Head Lake State Park to your itinerary. It offers several lovely scenic trails weaving through secluded pine forests and around frozen lakes.
Go stargazing – the night sky is wonderful in Ely!
Stay in a cozy cabin. This way, you can spend your days snuggling by the fire, reading books, and playing games together.

Best Places to Eat in Ely with Kids

Wondering where to eat in Ely with your kids? Here’s what we recommend:

Boat House Brew Pub & Restaurant for pub grub and pizzas (with a dedicated kids’ menu).
Northern Grounds, located in downtown Ely, offers a top-notch selection of breakfast pastries, coffee, and other food and drinks.
Evergreen Restaurant is the on-site restaurant at the Grand Ely Lodge with views of Shagawa Lake. It serves fresh-caught fish and has great lake views! They have a dedicated kids’ menu too.
Insula Restaurant offers classic American fare with a modern twist, including bison burgers, walleye sandwiches, and more (they have a kids’ menu, too).

Best Places to Stay in Ely with Kids this Winter

When you’re ready to book your stay in Ely with kids, consider staying at:

Piney Woods Retreat
Grand Ely Lodge
Moose Track Adventures
Canoe On Inn
Check Vrbo for family-friendly options in Ely

Duluth

Duluth, nestled along Lake Superior’s shoreline, is one of my favorite winter weekend getaways in Minnesota with kids. It’s an outstanding option for families looking for epic outdoor adventures and city vibes. My husband and I met in Duluth during college, so we love revisiting this special place with our daughter.

Duluth offers endless family fun, from snowshoeing at nearby Jay Cooke State Park to exploring the Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center. If you want to take your kids downhill skiing or snow tubing, there are options for that, too. Additionally, there are several fantastic museums suitable for all ages.

Plus, Duluth’s hillside location provides stunning lake views wherever you go. Duluth is a must-visit destination for families craving winter activities. The city also offers excellent dining and cozy cafes!

Best Winter Things to Do in Duluth with Kids

A French dip sandwich, plated with au jus and chips, from Sir Benedicts Tavern in Duluth, one of the best winter weekend getaways in Minnesota with kids.

Planning one of the best winter weekend getaways in Minnesota with kids? Here’s what to do once you get to Duluth:

Explore Canal Park! Simply meandering the area and watching the huge ships pass through the aerial lift bridge is enough to have fun in Duluth with kids. Don’t miss checking out Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center.
Go snow tubing at Spirit Mountain!
Visiting the Great Lakes Aquarium is a must with kids. It features many fun, hands-on exhibits. If you travel with littles, add the Duluth Children’s Museum, too.
Glensheen Mansion has self-guided tours of its historic home. The well-preserved rooms and estate are beautiful (the indoor tour is likely best for older kids and teens).
Duluth offers several fantastic trails for hiking and snowshoeing, too! Kid-friendly trails can be found at Chester Park Loop, Lester Park Trail, or Hartley Nature Center (which offers rentals).
Nearby state parks include Jay Cooke State Park (20 minutes away) and Gooseberry Falls State Park (45 minutes away)

Best Places to Eat in Duluth with Kids

When you’re ready to eat, here are some of my favorite places to eat in Duluth:

Uncle Loui’s Cafe for a dynamite hometown breakfast.
Canal Park Brewing Company for apps and drinks. It’s right in Canal Park!
Vitta Pizza, in Canal Park, features wood-fired, Neapolitan-style pizza—delicious!
Sir Benedicts Tavern on the Lake is one of our go-to eateries. This English-style pub offers exceptional sandwiches (and a kids’ menu, too).
Hungry Hippie Tacos is located in the up-and-coming Lincoln Park Craft District. Go for the iconic puffy tacos!

5 Best Places to Stay in Duluth with Kids

Here’s where to stay in Duluth with kids this winter; most hotels offer pools and great locations.

Enger Lofts Hotel
Edgewater Hotel and Waterpark (has an indoor waterpark)
Canal Park Lodge
Pier B Resort Hotel
Holiday Inn & Suites Duluth-Downtown, an IHG Hotel

Chisago Lakes

A young girl swings on an interactive art installation at Franconia Sculpture Park.

If you’re searching for family-friendly winter destinations near Minneapolis, look no further than Chisago Lakes! Just an hour’s drive north, this area is home to five charming communities, including Chisago City, Lindström, and Taylors Falls.

Chisago Lakes is the ideal destination for families craving outdoor adventure mixed with cozy, small-town vibes. You can explore beautiful state parks with kid-friendly hiking trails, go ice skating on frozen lakes, or even try your hand at ice fishing. Not to mention, Taylors Falls boasts one of the best downhill ski hills and snow tubing runs in Minnesota!

Each town in Chisago Lakes offers unique places to grab a bite, warm up with hot cocoa, and shop for local treasures (from Scandinavian-inspired gifts to unique vintage finds). For a fun-filled family weekend, Chisago Lakes has it all! No wonder it’s one of Minnesota’s best winter vacation spots for families!

Best Winter Things to Do in Chisago Lakes with Kids

A pizza meal at Schoony’s Malt Shop & Pizzeria in Taylors Falls.

Here are just a few of my favorite winter things to do in Chisago Lakes for families:

Explore the whimsical art installations at Franconia Sculpture Park. Some of the pieces are even interactive! Plus, the park is free all year round.
Hike at Interstate State Park or don your snowshoes at Wild River State Park. Both offer fantastic family-friendly trails and snow-covered views.
Go snowtubing or downhill skiing at Wild Mountain in Taylors Falls.
Glide across the ice on skates at Chuckie Lundquist Park.
Shop at one of the many antique or vintage shops, Scandinavian-inspired boutiques, or art galleries.
Spend the afternoon playing games and trying local wines at Winehaven Winery. It’s a kid-friendly spot with plenty of food and N/A options.

Best Places to Eat in Chisago Lakes with Kids

Wondering where to eat in Chisago Lakes with kids? Here are some of our favorite eateries in the area for cozy winter meals.

Northwoods Roasterie (Lindström) has excellent coffee and pastries.
Gustaf’s On Main Eatery (Lindström) features a wonderful all-day breakfast menu, plus sandwiches, wraps, and other lunch items. They also have great pie!
Schoony’s Malt Shop & Pizzeria (Taylors Falls) is a great spot for pizza and malts.
The Northern Lake Tavern & Grill (Chisago City) is a cabin-style eatery, featuring a menu filled with yummy appetizers, wraps, flatbread pizzas, and more (with a kids’ menu).
The Stone Inn (Chisago City) has an extensive menu, from burgers to broasted chicken. They also have a dedicated kids’ menu.

Best Places to Stay in Chisago Lakes with Kids this Winter

For one of the best winter weekend getaways in Minnesota with kids, book your stay in Chisago Lakes at:

Moonlight Cove is a lakefront home rental in Lindström. We loved our stay here, as it offers a game room, dock, and more. Plus, the house sleeps up to 11.
Nordic Harbor Inn
Wannigan Point Cabins
Check Vrbo for more family-friendly options in Chisago Lakes

Brainerd

A beloved summer getaway, Brainerd is also a fantastic family-friendly winter destination. Just a couple of hours from Minneapolis, this area transforms into a snowy playground during the colder months. It’s sure to become a family favorite for everyone in your adventure crew!

You can try everything from snowmobiling and ice fishing on the lakes to downhill skiing and snow tubing at nearby resorts. If you’re looking for something a little more low-key, take your kids hiking at a local state park. Or, spend time ice skating together. For a unique experience, check out the annual Ice Fishing Extravaganza or the Winter Fest in Breezy Point.

When hunger strikes, head into town to dine at one of the many excellent restaurants! After a full day of adventure, complete your experience with a cozy stay at a kid-friendly resort. With so much to do, Brainerd makes for a perfect winter weekend getaway in Minnesota with kids!

Best Winter Things to Do in Brainerd with Kids

A man and his daughter play in the snow at a cabin near Brainerd.

Brainerd is filled with fun winter things to do with kids. Here’s where to start:

Crow Wing State Park is an excellent spot for winter hiking or snowshoeing with kids. We love the historic buildings and interpretive signs. Not to mention, the river views!
Go ice skating together. There are several rinks to choose from in the area, many offer warming houses, too!
Try downhill skiing, snowboarding, or tubing at Mount Ski Gull.
Take your kids snowmobiling. Explore 1,200 miles of groomed trails winding through Brainerd’s scenic forests, across rolling hills, and around pristine lakes. Several local outfitters offer rentals.

Best Places to Eat in Brainerd with Kids this Winter

When tummies get hungry, here are our favorite places to eat in Brainerd with kids:

Front Street Cafe is a casual, family-friendly spot for American fare.
Burritos California for quick-service Mexican eats.
Slice On Oak for pizza!
371 Diner for hearty home cooking in nearby Baxter.
Main Street Ale House, in Nisswa, features a huge menu filled with burgers, handhelds, steaks, and more. They also have a dedicated kids’ menu.

Best Places to Stay in Brainerd with Kids this Winter

Ready to book your stay in Brainer? Here are a few of our top picks for winter stays:

Loon Overlook (we loved our stay here!)
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Brainerd-Baxter, an IHG Hotel
Cragun’s Resort
Grand View Lodge Spa and Golf Resort in nearby Nisswa
Nature Link Resort in nearby Nisswa
Check Vrbo for more family-friendly options in Brainerd

Bemidji

Bemidji shines as a fantastic year-round destination for families seeking outdoor adventures and peaceful retreats in the Northwoods. In winter, this Minnesota gem transforms into a snowy paradise for all ages.

Visit Lake Bemidji State Park for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing along snow-covered trails. They even have trails around a wintery bog (this was a highlight for us!)! For a grand winter adventure, head to Itasca State Park. Kids will delight in walking along the frozen headwaters of the Mississippi River. And who can resist meeting Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox near downtown?

After a day in the snow, warm up with a visit to a local museum, where interactive exhibits will entertain kids and parents alike. With its mix of winter fun and cozy indoor activities, Bemidji is undoubtedly a winter bucket list vacation in Minnesota with kids!

Best Winter Things to Do in Bemidji with Kids

A young girl stand on a trail overlooking a lake at Bemidji Lake State Park.

Here are some of the top winter things to do in Bemidji with kids to add to your itinerary:

Take the easy trek out to the Mississippi River’s headwaters at Itasca State Park.
Hike or snowshoe at Lake Bemidji State Park. They even have trails that explore bogs!
Learn about the local area at the Headwaters Science Center or the Beltrami County Historical Society Museum.
Discover the art of yarn-making at Bemidji Woolen Mills.
Get a family photo with the iconic Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox statues. There is a huge playground near the statues, too!
Explore the self-guided Bemidji Sculpture Walk around downtown.

Best Places to Eat in Bemidji with Kids this Winter

Looking for the best restaurants in Bemidji with kids? Start here:

Minnesota Nice Cafe for breakfast or lunch.
Red Stu Breakfast Bar is one of the best spots to start your day in Bemidji!
Fozzie’s Smokin Bar BQ for savory BBQ-style meats and sides.
Dave’s Pizza is a great spot for pizza with kids.
Wild Hare Bistro and Coffee House for cafe fare like sandwiches, and salads. They also have breakfast!
Wasabi and Slurp Ramen for ramen and sushi.

Best Places to Stay in Bemidji with Kids this Winter

Book your stay in Bemidji this winter at one of the kid-friendly properties:

Crosby (Cuyuna Lakes Region)

Antonia and her young daughter sit along a fence with a view of Crosby in the distance.

I love Crosby, especially in the winter! Just 2 hours from Minneapolis, this hidden winter gem offers the perfect escape for families seeking a quieter, nature-centered getaway. It is simply magical in the winter!

Crosby needs to be on your Minnesota winter bucket list if you love spending your vacation time playing outside with kids all day and curled up in front of a fire at night. From cozy cabins perfect for game nights to snowy trails for hiking or fat-tire biking, it’s a winter wonderland without the crowds.

Plus, the downtown area is packed with dynamite restaurants and cute shops, making filling your weekend with delicious meals and unique finds easy. If you’re searching for fun weekend getaways near Minneapolis for families, Crosby should definitely be on your list.

Best Winter Things to Do in Crosby with Kids

The large serpent in Crosby covered in snow.

Here are my favorite winter things to do in Crosby for families:

Hike to the top of the hill at Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area and take in the views! The road up the hill is closed in winter, so it’s perfect for a quick hike up.
Go fat tire biking. There are plenty of groomed trails at Cuyuna State Recreation Area. Cykel and Red Raven offer winter rentals.
Head to Milford Mine Memorial Park for winter hiking or snowshoeing.
Have a pint and play some games together at The Cuyuna Brewery.
Check out the fun specialty foods and grab ice cream from Victual.
Meet the Serpent in Crosby – you can’t miss it near Serpent Lake! You can also play together at the nearby pirate-themed playground.
Crow Wing State Park is about 30 minutes from Crosby and offers fantastic hiking with kids.

Best Places to Eat in Crosby with Kids

Here are my favorite places to eat in Crosby for families:

Red Raven for coffee + breakfast (try the breakfast burrito!!).
Rafferty’s Pizza for some of the best pizza in Minnesota!
Croft Kitchen and Bar has some seriously good pub grub and pizzas.
Burritos California offers top-notch burritos, tacos, and more.
Cuyuna Brewing Company for a tap beer or cider. They don’t serve food, but you can bring in food from one of the nearby eateries.
Victual has the best lactose-free ice cream in the state!

Best Places to Stay in Crosby with Kids

Ready to book your stay? Here are our top picks for hotels or home rentals in Crosby with kids:

Keep Exploring Minnesota this Winter with Your Kids!

A mom and her young daughter walk along the snow toward Lake Superior in their winter gear.

Minnesota’s snowy season is the perfect time to plan your next family adventure! Each destination on this list of the best winter weekend getaways in Minnesota with kids offers endless ways to make the most of the cold weather. Whether you’re exploring some of Minnesota’s best frozen waterfalls, enjoying the thrill of dog-sledding, or relaxing in a cozy cabin with hot cocoa, these family-friendly winter destinations across the state offer something for everyone. Add these winter bucket list vacation ideas across Minnesota to your travel plans with kids this year. Have fun exploring Minnesota with your kids this winter!

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.

8 EPIC Bucket List Winter Getaways in Minnesota for Families to Play in the Snow