Minnesota Bed and Breakfast

History

On May 11, 1858, Minnesota became the 32nd state in the United States. Following the Civil War, settlers flocked to the area to farm and log. The economy started to boom, and the state became known as the ‘milling capital of the world’. The discovery of ore in the northern part of the state also fueled its popularity. Sadly, the Great Depression pushed the state into a dramatic economic downturn, and it would not recover until after the World War. Soon, technology moved into Minnesota with early computer companies like Cray, Sperry Randy, and Control Data taking up residence. The state’s Twin Cities also became a hub for arts and culture.

Activities

Minnesota is an outdoor lover’s paradise. You can golf, bike, fish, and boat. In Two Harbors, take the time to explore the breathtaking tiered waterfalls at Gooseberry Falls State Park. You can bike, hike, and picnic.Red Wing is a lovely town on the banks of the Mississippi River. You can hike the trails that lead to the Barn Buff to soak up the outstanding city views. Explore the Pottery Museum of Red Wingto learn about the area’s diverse clay history. From the city, head west to the Welch Village Ski Resort for outdoor wintertime fun. Bird watchers will love Frontenac State Park.In Minneapolis shop at the famous Mall of America. If you love art galleries then check out the Minneapolis Institute of Art or the Walker Art Center. If you want to escape the big city then head to the southern area to explore Minnehaha Falls.In St Paul, take the time to explore the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory.  You’ll also want to check out the Minnesota State Capital. If you love animals then head to theDuluth Great Lakes Aquarium.

Natural Features

Minnesota is an amazing state filled with diverse natural features. You’ll find acres of forestland, fields of wildflowers, evergreen trees, and shimmering lakes filled with fish. Even the region underground is amazing. In the town of Harmony, there is the Niagara Cave where you can hike deep underground to explore formations that were created by Mother Nature millions of years ago. There is even an underground stream that turns into a 60ft waterfall.The state is referred to as the ‘Land of 10,000 Lakes,’ but none of the smaller bodies of water stand out like the mighty Lake Superior. It is the largest freshwater lake in the world, and it boasts a surface area of 31,700 square miles. You can explore Lake Superior from Minnesota with ease.Gooseberry Falls sits by North Shore which is located a little way north of Two Harbors. The amazing waterfall is a sight to behold, especially after the spring snowmelt when the waterfall turns into a stunning roaring beast. In the fall months, tourists flock to the area to see the decision trees change their foliage colors to brilliant hues of yellow, orange, and red. When winter arrives, the falls start to freeze which creates a stunning picture.

Things to do

In the city of Minneapolis, you’ll want to explore the historic district to soak up the unique architecture, explore the many shops, and grab a bite to eat. The original Main Street Historic District spans 10 blocks. At the Minnesota Capital in St. Paul, you can take tours Monday through Friday.Why not take the family to bike on the 42 mile Root River Trail. The paved roadway takes you through diverse landscapes. While riding, stop to explore the Mystery Cave which remains a crisp 48 degrees Fahrenheit year-round.In Duluth, explore Canal Park where you can view the 1900s Aerial Lift Bridge. If you are lucky, you’ll see the historic bridge lift and close as it allows ships to enter Lake Superior from the Mississippi River. From the city, you can also stop at the Jay Cooke State Park with diverse hiking, biking, and horse trails. In the winter it is a favorite location for snowmobiling and cross-country skiing.

Weather

Minnesota is well known for its cold winters and warm summers. During the summer months, it is often warm and wet but when winter arrives, you can expect freezing weather, snow, and wind. The state is prone to cloudiness with much of the state shrouded in cloud cover at least half of the year. The temperature averages 9 degrees Fahrenheit to 83 degrees Fahrenheit. On occasion, it can dip to below -11 degrees Fahrenheit and then in the summer the temperature has been known to top 92 degrees Fahrenheit.

Food and Drink

Located in the far north, Minnesota is well known for its Scandinavian cuisine. You’ll find plenty of Swedish meatballs on menus across the street. Food such as rosettes, krumkake, lingonberries, lefse, gravlax, and kransekake is also exceedingly popular. Much of the state was also settled by German immigrants who brought along their favorite recipes which remain popular. Dishes like lebkuchen, Shoofly pies, bratwursts, stollen, potato pancakes, larzipan, and gingerbread remain popular.The state is also known for its juicy apples. Three apple varieties have been developed which are Sweetango, Honeycrisp, and Haralson. All three can survive the bitter winters of the state and flourish in the summer.

Minnesota Bed and Breakfast FAQ

Why Stay at a Bed & Breakfast in Minnesota?

Whether you are celebrating your elopement, planning romantic getaways, or a family vacation, you’ll want to consider staying at a bed & breakfast in Minnesota or a boutique hotel. The guest rooms range from Victorian beauties to modern decor. If you are vacationing with the family then you might need larger accommodations so you should consider a guest house or carriage house to comfortably hold everyone.Typically, bed and breakfasts feature a dining room where you can enjoy breakfast or some even provide room service. When you check-in, be sure to ask the innkeeper if there is a full breakfast. You can also inquire about other amenities such as private bathrooms or a jacuzzi.Nowadays, many travelers are concerned about COVID-19 so be sure to ask the innkeeper about their precautionary steps and cleaning protocol.

What type of amenities can I expect when booking a bed and breakfast in Minnesota?

The wide assortment of b&bs in the state guarantee that you can find accommodations to fit your unique needs. Do you want a private entrance? Maybe you are traveling with Fido and need a pet-friendly establishment. You’ll want to call ahead to ask about such amenities. Many b&bs have rooms in the main house and then guest houses. This is especially true of Victorian homes.Many bed and breakfasts feature a private entrance, private baths with soaking tubs, whirlpool, in-room Wi-Fi, daily linens, and a gourmet breakfast. You can also find rooms with a shared hot tub or a private hot tub in your room.

How can I get around Minnesota?

Minnesota is a big state, so you’ll probably want to rent a car to get around easily. You can ride an Amtrak train across the state if you want to soak up the region’s vista such as the lush forestland and wide-open prairies.In the Twin Cities, there are ample public transportation options such as bus service and light rail. You can even explore the city on foot or via a bike.The state is a favorite location for bike riders to explore the countryside. Many will pedal hundreds of miles from town to town. The roadways are remarkably bike-friendly.

What Are the Different Types of B&Bs in Minnesota?

Are you on the hunt to find the best bed and breakfast in Minnesota? If you plan on exploring the entire state then why not book a B&B in every location.  You can pick a historic bed and breakfast in Minnesota or go for a more modern boutique hotel.If you are craving something unique then head for the Round Barn Farm located in Duluth. The unique establishment is a perfect wedding location. A favorite bed and breakfast in North Minnesota, the lodging choice features 35 peaceful acres where you can escape if you are seeking a tranquil location.The St James Hotel is in Red Wing. The luxurious hotel offers views of the bluff and the Mississippi River. The historic Bed and Breakfast in Minnesota can trace its history back 150 years. Mark Twain and Bob Dylan both stayed at the hotel.  At the establishment in you in the heart of the historic downtown.TheAG Thomson House is in the Historic Congdon Mansion District. Each guest room features modern conveniences set in a luxurious setting. The lovely bed and breakfast in Central Minnesota is the ideal romantic setting.If you plan on staying in Bluff Country along the Root River then check out the Habaerstad House. Built in 1897, the breathtaking Queen Anne Victorian has guest rooms with private baths.There are many styles of Minnesota bed and breakfasts to pick between. Be sure to pick an area to narrow your search.