How to Spend a Weekend on Minnesota's North Shore at Bluefin Bay
The weekend before Valentine's Day, Matt and I were looking for a little family getaway to relax from the stress of our recent move. We decided to go to a resort right on the water and spend some time together enjoying the slow as a family.
Minnesota's North Shore is one of the best places to kick back and relax during the weekend. Located about four hours from the Twin Cities depending on where you're located it's a great option to get away for a long weekend or week on the water without having to get on an airplane.
With gorgeous views and endless activities, you'll never run out of things to do in this area. We've compiled a list of how we spent our weekend while enjoying all that Bluefin Bay has to offer!
Our Stay:
We stayed at Surfside a two-bedroom townhome right on the water about a mile down the road from the Bluefin Bay lodging and guest services. The townhome was very clean and spacious with a kitchen, dining area, living room and fireplace, and two bedrooms. The master bedroom had its own bathroom and a king bed, while the second bedroom had two double beds, a loft area with a desk and another bathroom. This was perfect because we made a long weekend of our trip, and Matt was still able to work Friday and then we could get right to playing once he was done!
The wonderful thing about the Bluefin Bay family of Resorts is that no matter the size of your party there is a room that will fit your needs, from King Suites to three bedroom townhomes. Come for a couples weekend or a family retreat- there is room for all.
And if that's not enough, you'll have an unobstructed view of Lake Superior from your bedroom as well (both the master and loft bedroom)!
Amenities/Around Bluefin:
Bluefin Bay Resort has a lot to offer its guests. From a heated outdoor pool and hot tub, to fitness centers and a lake walk, and more Bluefin is the perfect place for any type of getaway. Bluefin Bay also offers many amenities such as:
-Pool/Hot tubs/Saunas: The pool, hot tubs and saunas are an important part of the Bluefin Bay experience. After a long day of hiking, skiing, and exploring, it's a great way to relax and enjoy the views of Lake Superior, warm up or get in some swimming.
If you follow me on Instagram you may have seen the amazing outdoor hot tub at Bluefin Bay, they also have a newly updated pool, hot tub & fitness center. These are available for Bluefin guests, Surfside has their own pool, hot tub, and sauna. So if you're booking for the hot tub experience make sure to book a stay at the Bluefin side!
Our absolute favorite part of the whole trip, aside from the amazing views from the townhome addition to being relaxing and fun in its own right, spending time in the hot tub. It will make you want to come back again and again!
-Walking trail: If you're looking to get out and walk around without having to drive, head down to the lake walk and stroll along Lake Superior. While you're out for your walk, consider taking advantage of the bonfire pit right on the water. Bonus: grab a pack of smore's from guest services or the Surfside pool/spa/cafe building.
-On site restaurants: If you're looking for anything from a snack to dinner Bluefin Bay has anything you may need. Here are a few places we checked out:
Coho Cafe: We stopped here twice, once for coffee and pastries and once for brunch. Both delightful. I got my go-to caramel latte, and if my love of caramel wasn't enough I also got a caramel roll. Seriously, I am on a hunt for the best caramel items currently it's my grandma's homemade caramels, these caramel rolls & Love Creamery in Duluth's Salted Caramel ice cream.
Bluefin Grill: We also stopped here twice, once for lunch and in the evening nightcap, my parents gave Matt and I a little date night. It's so nice having restaurants right on site since the biggest town around is Grand Marais which is about a half-hour north. There are a few restaurants at Lutsen mountain, as well.
- Rentals/Activities: From yoga to guided kayak rentals, Bluefin Bay has daily activities that are included with your stay and just really put your trip over the top. While we were there, the activities ranged from a canvas art painting class, music in the bar at Bluefin Grille, guided hikes and snowshoe trips, and a free shuttle to Lutsen mountain. They also have a hot chocolate/coffee bar and gear rentals in the Guest Services for you to utilize. Before your stay, they will send you a link to all the activities during your trip to sign up for.
Take a day trip up to Lutsen Mountain for skiing and snowboarding.
If you're looking for some fresh air and exercise, head on over to Lutsen Mountain. Located just 15 minutes from Bluefin Bay Resort, it's the perfect place to take in the scenery with some skiing.
The best part? You'll be able to get there without having to worry about driving through any traffic or finding parking--the Bluefin has its own shuttle service that will drop you off at the mountain! Just make sure you sign up for it in the activity email.
In 2023, the slopes will be open until April 9th so there is still plenty of time to book a getaway. Passes range from $95-$105 depending on weekday or weekend. In April, if you're looking to get in some last tracks, you can get a day pass for $75 if you're looking for a more budget friendly option.
Looking for a day trip from Bluefin Bay, Grand Marais is a great place to check out. Full itinerary coming March 2023.
Bluefin Bay is a great place to kick back and relax during the weekend
Bluefin Bay is a great place to kick back and relax during the weekend. Bluefin Bay is a great place to kick back and relax during the weekend. It's also a great place to explore, so if you're looking for something different from your usual routine, this is where you should go! While staying, I heard from many friends and family that this is their absolute favorite place to stay in Minnesota, and I can see why. From the amenities, views that make you feel like your on a cruise ship, and the constant updates mean each time your visit there's something to to check out or an updated space to stay in.
When you come to Bluefin Bay, we want you to feel at home. We're here for you, and we want your experience with us to be memorable. We can't wait for you to see what all we have in store for you!
Looking to see more pictures, videos and stories from the trip? Be sure to check them out on my Instagram page.
This stay was hosted by The Bluefin Bay Family of Resorts but all the opinions are my own.
Surfside Two-Bedroom Unit
We stayed in unit 20A at Surfside. Which is the top two floors of this townhome. The bottom unit is a king suite. You can see three of the four decks in the unit, there is one more overlooking the
