Top reasons to visit Grand Marais
- Outdoor Adventures: Grand Marais is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as skiing, hiking, and fishing amidst breathtaking landscapes.
- Picturesque Harbour: The scenic Grand Marais Harbour is perfect for relaxation and photography, showcasing stunning views of the water and surrounding mountains.
- Historic Lighthouse: Visit the charming Grand Marais Lighthouse, a historic landmark that adds to the town’s rich heritage.
- Vibrant Downtown: Explore the quaint shops and delightful cafes in the charming downtown area, ideal for unwinding and enjoying local culture.
- Cozy Accommodations: A variety of inviting lodgings offer comfort and easy access to the area's natural beauty, ensuring a memorable stay.
Find great hotels in Grand Marais
Experience the charm of Grand Marais, Minnesota, where a range of delightful lodgings awaits you. From cosy hotels to inviting lodges, there’s something to suit every adventurer and family vacationer. Enjoy access to beautiful beaches and outdoor activities while relaxing in one of the area's top accommodation options, perfectly designed for your memorable stay in this picturesque destination.
- Aspen Lodge: Nestled in the scenic surroundings of Grand Marais, Aspen Lodge is an inviting budget-friendly option with a guest rating of 8.2 out of 10. This hotel caters to those with a passion for adventure, offering a variety of outdoor activities both onsite and in the vicinity. Guests can indulge in thrilling pursuits such as rock climbing, downhill skiing, and windsurfing, making it an ideal base for the adventurous traveller. The lodge's welcoming atmosphere ensures a comfortable stay after a day of exploration in the great outdoors.
- Aspen Inn: A charming budget-friendly motel, Aspen Inn is perfectly positioned for ski enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Located conveniently in Grand Marais, guests can easily access ski shuttles and lifts, making it an excellent choice for winter sports aficionados. The inn offers a range of recreational activities nearby, including horse riding, mountain biking, and snowboarding. With its warm ambience and focus on outdoor adventures, Aspen Inn provides a cosy retreat for those eager to explore the area's natural beauty.
- Harbor Inn Self Check-in Hotel: The Harbor Inn Self Check-in Hotel presents a modern, budget-friendly lodging option for visitors to Grand Marais. This hotel is tailored for adventure lovers, offering easy access to a range of activities such as kayaking, sailing, and fishing. The self check-in feature provides convenience, allowing guests to settle in at their own pace. With its proximity to snowy landscapes, it is also a great spot for snowshoeing and snowboarding enthusiasts. The Harbour Inn ensures a relaxed and enjoyable stay for those looking to immerse themselves in outdoor adventures.
Where to stay in and around Grand Marais
For an unforgettable escape, Grand Marais, Minnesota, offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventure and tranquil scenery. Stroll through the charming downtown, where quaint shops and lovely cafes invite relaxation. The surrounding areas beckon with stunning landscapes, perfect for hiking, fishing, and exploring. With its great and convenient location, Grand Marais serves as an ideal base for discovering the enchanting natural beauty of the North Shore and beyond.
- Lutsen: Situated 27km from Grand Marais, Lutsen is a vibrant city renowned for its adventure sports and outdoor activities. While visitor numbers can be quite steady throughout the year, peaks occur in July and from December to January, making it a popular destination for skiing enthusiasts. The nearby Lutsen Mountains offer excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities, while the stunning scenery of the surrounding national state park and lakes provides ample chances for hiking and exploration during the warmer months. The local visitor centre serves as a great starting point to discover all that Lutsen has to offer.
- Croftville: Nestled within the vicinity of Grand Marais, Croftville is a charming village that attracts outdoor lovers and those seeking scenic beauty. With a seasonal influx of visitors peaking from July to September, Croftville is a perfect base for enjoying recreational activities such as skiing and exploring the nearby national state park. The village is also home to a local history museum that offers insights into the area's rich heritage. The picturesque lakes and recreational areas surrounding Croftville make it an idyllic spot for a peaceful retreat amidst nature.
- Hovland: Located 34km from Grand Marais, Hovland is a quaint city that draws visitors for its stunning outdoor scenery and adventure opportunities. Similar to Croftville, Hovland sees a seasonal rush from July to September, making it a prime location for those who enjoy skiing and recreational activities. The area boasts beautiful parks and national state parks that provide excellent hiking trails and scenic views. Whether you’re exploring the local history museum or enjoying the natural splendour, Hovland offers a unique blend of adventure and tranquility.
Things to do in Grand Marais
Shopping
In the heart of Grand Marais, you can explore local shops like the Art Colony and the North House Folk School for unique gifts. If you're up for a drive, visit the Cook County Market for an array of artisanal products and souvenirs.
Recreation
In Grand Marais, the North Shore Wellness offers yoga classes and holistic therapies in a serene environment. For outdoor enthusiasts, the lush trails of Judge C. R. Magney State Park provide opportunities for hiking and relaxation amidst stunning natural beauty.
Adventure
The stunning Gunflint Trail offers scenic drives and hiking trails through the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, perfect for spotting wildlife. For a thrilling experience, try rock climbing at the nearby cliffs or kayaking along the picturesque shores of Lake Superior, where the views are simply breathtaking.
Nightlife
The nightlife in Grand Marais offers a charming blend of local taverns and live music venues. Enjoy a laid-back evening at the Gunflint Tavern for hearty fare and drinks, or catch a performance at the North House Folk School, where community spirit thrives amidst folk tunes.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Find the best attractions in Grand Marais
Grand Marais is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking breathtaking scenery. Visitors can explore the Grand Marais Recreation Center for activities, admire the historic Grand Marais Lighthouse, and enjoy the picturesque Grand Marais Harbour. The area offers a perfect blend of adventure, romance, and rich history, with opportunities to experience stunning lakes and majestic mountains, making it a delightful retreat for all types of travellers.
- Eagle Mountain Trailhead: Experience the breathtaking vistas and invigorating outdoor vibes at Eagle Mountain, Minnesota's highest point. The trail offers a rewarding hike through diverse landscapes, leading to stunning panoramic views that showcase the natural beauty of the surrounding wilderness.
- Gunflint Trail Historical Society: Immerse yourself in local culture at the Gunflint Trail Historical Society. This museum highlights the rich history of the area, featuring exhibits that celebrate the heritage and stories of the Gunflint Trail and its early inhabitants.
- Cook County Court House: Discover the architectural charm of the historic Cook County Court House. This civic building, with its distinctive design, serves as a reminder of the region's history and is a lovely spot for a leisurely visit.
Best time to go to Grand Marais
The best time to visit Grand Marais can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Grand Marais falls in August, when visitor numbers are high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Grand Marais falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with no rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Grand Marais
Flying into Grand Marais, Minnesota, you have several airport options. Thunder Bay International Airport (YQT) is situated 103km away, with nearby hotels like Valhalla Hotel & Conference Centre, 966m from the airport, offering airport shuttle services. Duluth International Airport (DLH) is 172km away, with Fitger's Inn, located 8km from the airport, providing complimentary airport transportation. Hancock County Memorial Airport (CMX) is 153km distant, with the Hampton Inn & Suites Houghton, also 8km away, offering convenient lodging. Each of these locations provides various transport options, ensuring easy access to your destination.