Enjoy A Scenic Train Ride And Spend The Night In A Rail Car At This Little-Known Minnesota Railroad
Discover a scenic train ride on the North Shore Scenic Railroad and stay overnight in a repurposed railcar at the Northern Rail Traincar Inn in Minnesota.
Although you'd have to hop an interstate passenger train for a true onboard sleeping experience, you can still make your own overnight rail adventure in Minnesota with one of the most scenic train rides in Minnesota to Two Harbors and an overnight stay in an authentic railcar. So, hop aboard the North Shore Scenic Railroad and start your journey!
Start your adventure in Duluth at the Lake Superior Railroad Museum.
Arrive early so you can spend some time exploring the museum's collection of historic trains and memorabilia. You may even wish to spend the night nearby in Duluth's Canal Park, so you can get a jump on the adventure!
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Then you'll board a train for the 28-mile excursion on the North Shore Scenic Railroad.
Take some time to explore the downtown area, or relax with a cold beverage at Castle Danger Brewery.You can preview your trip to and from Two Harbors in this YouTube video from North Shore Scenic Railroad:
Once you've had time to stretch your legs in Two Harbors, make your way to the Northern Rail Traincar Inn.
The inn offers several room sizes and themes from which to choose. Visit the inn on the web for additional details and for reservation information.
Of course, upon reaching Two Harbors, you don't have to stay in a railcar. You could choose to spend the night in a lighthouse, instead. Regardless, be sure to take some time to explore Two Harbors and its environs. For example, your accommodation is within easy reach of three of the best pie shops in Minnesota. You'll also be super close to Silver Creek Cliff and its spectacular tunnel. Hike along the trail on the lakeside of the cliff - which, prior to the 1990s, was the right of way for the North Shore Scenic Byway (talk about a white knuckle drive - I'm glad the tunnel's there now!). And, perhaps most significantly, you'll be only a few minutes away from Gooseberry Falls State Park, an icon of Minnesota's North Shore.
Have you had a chance to ride the North Shore Scenic Railroad or spend a night at the Northern Rail Traincar Inn? What other unique accommodations have you visited in the Land of 10,000 Lakes? Let us know in the comments!
Just about everyone knows that the Land of 10,000 Lakes is a land of extremes, where we can experience scorching summers and some pretty long, and often harsh, winters - they don't call us Minne-snow-ta for nothing, right? But one of the things that I really appreciate about living here is that it's by no means a hunker-down-and-wait-until-its-over state. We get outside and enjoy it all year long! (And, frankly, if we didn't, we'd spend more time hibernating than bears do.) So, if you're like me and enjoy Minnesota camping in the shoulder seasons as much as you do in summer - or if you're hardier than me and don't mind a campsite covered in snow - you'll appreciate this all-season campground in Minnesota's Bear Head Lake State Park.
You'll find Bear Head Lake State Park a few miles east of Tower and about half an hour southwest of Ely, stretched along the shoreline of its eponymous lake. Adjacent to both Bear Island State Forest and Superior National Forest, the park truly feels like "the land of sky blue waters" - beautiful, clear lakes, encircled by miles of Northwoods. The park slowly comes to life in the springtime. In summer, though, it's a perfect place to spend a long weekend - or more - camping, fishing, hiking, or getting out on the water. Boat, motor, canoe, kayak, and paddle board rentals are seasonally available here.
The park is a fall foliage wonderland when autumn rolls around. There's nothing quite like hiking through the woods with the smell of fall in the air, leaves crunching underfoot, and nary a mosquito to be seen.
During the winter months, the park is fantastic for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing on nine miles of trails (seven of which are groomed), and ice fishing. Snowshoe rentals are available for park visitors.
Bear Head Lake is even open for winter camping. Unlike many other state parks, Bear Head Lake offers year-round drinking water, electric hook-ups, and even firewood. Folks who prefer solid walls in inclement weather will appreciate the five all-season camper cabins and guest house that are available for rental.
If you love the Land of 10,000 Lakes in all seasons - even when the lakes are frozen - you'll really love Bear Head Lake State Park. Visit Bear Head Lake's page on the DNR website to reserve a campsite or heated camper cabin (hey - I'm old; a little comfort goes a long way). Bring along All Trails Plus to keep yourself oriented when you're out hiking, snowshoeing, or cross-country skiing. Pro-tip: Be sure to grab some grub at Vermilion Club near Tower - it's only 20 minutes or so from the park, and it's worth a stop in its own right.
In what seasons have you visited Bear Head Lake State Park? What are some of your other favorite spots for all-season camping in Minnesota? Let us know in the comments.
Here in Minnesota, we eat, live, and breathe the water -- and sleep, too, as there are some spectacular lakefront vacation rentals in MN! Lake life is basically in our blood... it *is* our state nickname, after all. So, we never need an excuse or reason for a quick lakeside getaway. It's always good to change up the scenery, and nothing is more fun than exploring a new small town and lake, not to mention staying at a new cabin! The following are my picks for the best cabins in Minnesota; they're scattered all across the state, guaranteeing that a sublime getaway in the Land of 10,000 Lakes is never far away.
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Affordable Cabins in Minnesota
Enjoy the best of the North Star State without breaking the bank when you check into one of these adorable *and* affordable cabins in MN.
Size: This 1700 sq. ft. cabin has two bedrooms and two bathrooms and can accommodate up to 10 guests.
Price: $236/night
Amenities: This newly remodeled cabin has a fireplace, a fully equipped kitchen, a washer and dryer, great views, and a large patio overlooking the lake, a barrel sauna, and a secluded location.
Escape it all at the Lake Burntside 4 Season Retreat, a well-appointed lakeside cabin that's one of the most affordable rentals in Minnesota. This hand-scribed log cabin sits on two private properties and has 200’ of frontage on the pristine waters of Lake Burntside.
Size: A cozy tiny home that accommodates four guests with two bedrooms, three beds, and one bath.
Price: $169/night
Amenities: This place offers a fully equipped kitchen, Wi-Fi, a dedicated workspace, free parking on premises, a private hot tub available all year and open 24 hours, a 32-inch TV with Roku, air conditioning, and a private patio.
Ratings: 4.95/5 stars
Discover the charm of Tiny Timber, one of the most cozy cabins in Minnesota. This affordable 450-square-foot haven offers modern comforts and stunning nature views, making it an ideal escape. With a fully equipped kitchen, a private hot tub, and a welcoming atmosphere, this cabin provides everything you need for a peaceful getaway. Close to beautiful lakes, outdoor activities, and local attractions, making it the perfect location for a weekend getaway.
Size: Heritage Hideaway has two bedrooms - a loft area with two queen beds and a master loft with one queen bed, for a total of six guests. There is one bathroom.
Price: $130/night
Amenities: Wi-Fi, TV, full kitchen, wood stove, heat & air conditioning, washer & dryer, grill, fire pit, hot tub.
The O'Brien Lake Cabin is *the* place to rent if you're into epic outdoor recreation and adventure. Known for its amazing camping and hiking, William O’Brien State Park (home of the stunning O'Brien Lake), is 1,653 acres of pure Minnesota splendor. The above cabin is the perfect home base for your adventures in this glorious part of the state!
Luxury Cabins in Minnesota
Looking for a luxurious getaway in the Land of 10,000 Lakes? With high-end appliances, smart technology, and added features like hot tubs and fireplaces, it doesn't get much better than these luxury cabins in MN.
Size: This entire home in Mendota Heights accommodates six guests with three bedrooms and two baths.
Price: $2,147/night
Amenities: This home features stunning lake views, waterfront access, a fully equipped kitchen, Wi-Fi, a dedicated workspace, free parking, a private outdoor pool available seasonally, a heated private hot tub, and a private sauna for ultimate relaxation.
For those seeking luxury cabin getaways in Minnesota, the Magical Lake Home has everything you need for total relaxation with its private pool, hot tub, sauna, and sun porch. Enjoy the outdoor firepit, deck, patio, and walking trail, and take advantage of the canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards for some water fun. Plus, it's conveniently close to MSP Airport and the Mall of America, making it a great home base for exploring the Twin Cities.
Size: This cabin has nine bedrooms and three bathrooms and can accommodate up to 20 (!) guests.
Price: $930/night
Amenities: Fully renovated with room for two families/couples, there are two refrigerators, two freezers, a huge living space, a sauna room with a shower, and epic lakeside views.
Does it get any more indulgent and luxurious than a cabin on a private island? We sure don't think so. The perfect blend of old and new, this century-old cottage is the epitome of rustic luxury! And you have miles and miles of Minnesota lakes to explore right from your back steps.
Romantic Cabins in Minnesota
Looking for a romantic little getaway? Cozy up with your special someone at one of these romantic cabins in MN.
Close to the Lutsen Mountains ski area and the North Shore Winery, this well-appointed log cabin is the perfect romantic retreat for outdoorsy couples.
Nestled on the shores of Woman Lake, Overholser Cabin is a treasure of a rental, offering a front-row seat to the 5,516-acre lake that has some of the most stunning sunsets in the state! Talk about romantic.
The Northwoods Log Cabin is the ultimate waterfront cabin in Minnesota. Oozing with historic charm and outfitted with modern amenities, it doesn't get any better than this secluded little rental on the water!
Size: This 2,500 sq. ft. cabin has four bedrooms and three bathrooms and can accommodate up to 10 guests.
Price: $505/night
Amenities: Great Room with a wood-burning fireplace, 48" Italian pro-style gas range in the kitchen, spacious dining table, game room, and sublime lakefront views make this secluded cabin one in a million!
Cedarwood Hollow is a glorious cottage on the shores of Lake Superior that's sure to capture your heart. With its own private beach and views.for.days, you'll have a hard time leaving this cabin when your rental is up!
Cabins in Minnesota with Hot Tub
Soak up the good life -- literally -- when you book one of these cabins in MN with a hot tub. You deserve it!
The aptly named "It's All Good" Cabin at Pike Lake is a total hidden treasure that's the perfect escape for large groups. This modern, clean, spacious home sleeps 10 comfortably and makes a great "home base" for your adventures in The Land of 10,000 Lakes -- Duluth's Canal Park, Spirit Mountain, and the North Shore of Lake Superior are all just minutes away!
Size: This 2,000 sq. ft. cabin has four bedrooms and two full bathrooms and can accommodate up to 10 guests.
Price: $432/night
Amenities: Hot tub, new floors, quartz countertops, new cabinets, appliances, lighting, and updated finishing throughout, with epic views of beguiling Deer Lake, AKA "The Lake of Changing Colors."
This luxury cabin on Deer Lake offers guests the best of both worlds: a remote retreat that feels worlds away from everything, with modern technology and bespoke amenities that make this cabin feel like a resort or spa!
Size: This home in Brainerd accommodates ten guests with three bedrooms, nine beds, and three baths.
Price: $477/night
Amenities: This rental offers lake views, private beach access, a fully equipped kitchen, Wi-Fi, a dedicated workspace, free parking, a year-round private hot tub, pet-friendly accommodations, and a 65-inch HDTV with standard cable.
For a luxurious escape, Leisure Lodge stands out as one of the best cabin Airbnbs in Minnesota. This spacious lakeside retreat is 3,200 square feet and is just a two-hour drive from Minneapolis/St. Paul. It has a hot tub outside that's available all year round. Inside, you will find four large beds, a kitchen with everything you need, and cozy indoor and outdoor areas. It's the perfect place for families and groups who want to relax in comfort and style.
Where do you go when looking for cabin rentals in MN? Do you have any picks for the best cabins in Minnesota that didn’t make the list? Share them with me!
If you're unsure where to go, explore these beautiful, charming small towns in MN. And if you're seeking unique activities to fill your downtime, be sure to check out these one-of-a-kind experiences.
