A winter getaway on MN’s North Shore ft. Thomsonite Inn
Welcome to MinneSnowta, land of 10,000 lakes, summers that many dream of and winter’s that can scare some people all the way to Florida. If you are one of the brave souls who is ready to look the cold, wind and snow in the face you will be treated to less crowds, epic experiences, stunning views and memories that will last a lifetime.
Every winter Matt and I make it a point to go up to Duluth to see the lights at Bentleyville and go on a few winter hikes. This year we decided to make a longer weekend of it because I had a client content shoot up in Lutsen. We took advantage of the time to stay at a new place. While it was a short trip it was an amazing addition to our journey and it put us in the best location to do some exploring in both Lutsen and Grand Marais.
Thomsonite Inn is located right in the middle between both Lutsen and Grand Marais, MN (about 5-8 minute drive from each) and from the onsite amenities to local highlights you can’t go wrong with a stay here.
We stayed in Unit 9 which has been recently remodeled and has a small kitchenette, king bed and Lake Superior views. It was perfect for our one night and would be the perfect basecamp for a couples weekend. For a longer weekend we’d love to check out Unit 10. Unit 10 was recently completely remodeled and expanded. The revived unit features a bedroom with a king size bed overlooking Lake Superior. Additionally, the unit has a completely updated kitchen and bathroom. Unit 10 features a wood burning fireplace and sleeps up to 4 people. Honestly, all the remodeled units look amazing, because when I travel I love having a kitchen and some space for naptimes, to cook and work (yes I’m one of those people).
Currently units, one, eight, nine, ten and eleven have all been remodeled and I believe they are working on the remaining units soon.
If the newly updated rooms and view isn’t enough to convince you, I promise you the sauna on site will. This sauna looks like a small shipping container and has a roof top deck. You sign out your times so you can get some extra TLC and self care on your vacation. Matt watched Adayla while I got an hour session in and it was so relaxing- I’d go back just for the sauna session!
Another amazing perk guests of Thomsonite Inn have access to is more outdoors amenities, because they are a company under Bluefin Bay, you also get access to their amenities.
Wood-burning Sauna overlooking Lake Superior
Nightly Bonfires on Lake Superior – w/ s’mores!
Complimentary use of road bicycles & snowshoes
Bluefin Bay Activity Program:
Sea Kayaking
Inland Kayaking
Hiking Tours
Nature Programs
Mountain Biking Tours
Kids Programs
Canoeing Excursions
Yoga
While we loved our visit here in the winter, I’m already dreaming of coming back in the summer and fall to take advantage of all the activities. If you plan on taking a trip during these times, make sure you get booked early because this is a super popular place for summer family vacations and fall leaf peeping, and I’m sure they are going to fill up super quick. Don’t miss your opportunity to check out this amazing stay!
Winter in Grand Marais One Day Itnairy:
Coffee & Breakfast: Java Moose in Grand Marais (closed Sunday’s and Monday’s) or Fika Coffee in Lutsen
Hike: Judge C.R. Magney State Park or go skiing at Lutsen Mountain
Lunch: Hungry Hippy Tacos
Afternoon: Sauna and hot chocolate back at the Inn to warm up
Shop: North Country
Drinks and Dinner: Voyager Brewing Company
This stay was hosted by Thomsonite Inn but all opinions are my own. See our full north shore weekend, photos and video on Instagram.
