What can be better than a weekend in "the land of sky blue waters:" Minnesota's Heartland Lakes? It's a land of tall pines, sparkling lakes, charming people, and the headwaters of the Mississippi River. So come with us and explore the Heartland Lakes, experience what the region has to offer, and check out an especially unique place to stay near Itasca State Park, Minnesota.
Start your visit to the area with a visit to the heart of Heartland Lakes, Park Rapids.
A visit to the charming town of Park Rapids, with its quaint downtown area and hometown friendliness may just cause you to think you’ve stepped backward in time.
Next, get your blood flowing by immersing yourself in the region’s tall pines at the Character Challenge Course. It’s a ropes course in the great the North Woods, just outside of town.
Visit Character Challenge Course on the web to book your adventure.
Grab a meal in the village of Dorset, just a few minutes away.
It’s the self-proclaimed Restaurant Capital of the World, so you’re sure to find something you like. It’s hard to go wrong with Dorset House Family Restaurant or La Pasta Italian Eatery. If you visit during the first week of August, be sure to stick around for Taste of Dorset.
Once your cravings are satisfied, head a few miles north of Dorset to your refuge for the night: the Birch cabin. It’s a mini-cabin on the shores of Big Sandy Lake.
We think this tiny home cabin may just be one of the most unique places to stay in Minnesota.
The cabin sleeps up to three, with a queen bed downstairs and a twin in the loft.
It’s perfect for a romantic getaway to the Heartland Lakes.
On cooler nights, switch on the gas fireplace and snuggle up on the sofa…
as you watch the sun set over Big Sandy Lake.
Once you’ve had your coffee and enjoyed some fresh morning air on the shores of the lake, spend the day at the area’s crown jewel.
Itasca State Park is the oldest in Minnesota and the second largest in the system - so, there’s plenty of history and nature to explore.
See some of the largest old-growth pines in Minnesota, and visit the park’s historic fire tower.
And, of course, when you’re at Lake Itasca, you must visit the headwaters of the Mississippi River - which is right here in the park.
A weekend in the Heartland Lakes region promises to be a quintessential "up north" Minnesota experience. Be sure to reserve the Birch Cabin well in advance of your visit - it books up quickly, especially during the summer.
Have you spent time in this part of Minnesota? Share your favorite experiences with us in the comments.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!