Is this the most charming small town in the US?

The North Woods of Minnesota is a stunning part of the country. It’s also a surprisingly affordable place to visit. There are so many outdoor activities to do and the town of Grand Marais is the perfect place to hang around, especially in the summer months. At the first hint of warm weather, the town comes alive and the action doesn’t stop until well into fall. Locals come out of hibernation and reopen their shops and restaurants, and visitors flock from near and far to take in the stunning views of Lake Superior and enjoy all the outdoor activities. From hiking to wine tasting, there’s truly something for everyone in Grand Marais, and tons of delicious eats to go along. The next time you find yourself in northern Minnesota, follow this guide for 3 perfect days in Grand Marais.

RELATED: Here’s how to spend 3 perfect days in Minneapolis

DAY 1

Arrive in Grand Marias and check in to Cobblestone Cove. Set on the shore of Lake Superior, you’ll feel right at home in these apartment-style accommodations. The best part about staying at Cobblestone Cove is that, unlike many other accommodations, this property is right in town. Once you’re all settled in, head out to explore the neighborhood!

Upstate MN | Photo by Compass + Twine 

Like any good small town, you’ll find a candy shop, souvenir store, a shop filled with anything you might need from cookware to clothing, and a few hidden gems. Our favorite is a boutique called Upstate MN. The eclectic and highly curated offerings will have you whipping out your wallet a few times before you’ve gathered all the goodies.

Voyageur Brewing Co | Photo by Compass + Twine 

Wander down to Voyaguer Brewing to sample the local flavor. If the weather is nice, head up to the second story deck and sit al fresco to take in the gorgeous views of Lake Superior while sipping local beers. Once you’ve quenched your thirst, it’s time to eat dinner. Just across the street you’ll find Angry Trout Cafe.

Angry Trout Cafe | Photo by Compass + Twine

Casual and great for groups, this restaurant has nice outside tables on the dock, where you can enjoy the sunshine and just-caught lake trout or whitefish. Head home and get plenty of rest because tomorrow will be filled with activities!

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DAY 2

World’s Best Donuts | Photo by Compass + Twine 

You’ll be burning lots of calories today, so don’t feel guilty about starting out with sugar and carbs. Appropriately named World’s Best Donuts, the confections here are simply delicious. Snag a few of their signature glazed cake donuts and eat them on the walk down to the shore. There’s no better way to see Grand Marais than from the water, and a kayak is the perfect mode of transportation. There are plenty of outfitters to choose from and many allow you to choose between going solo or taking a guided tour. Either way, you’ll enjoy views of the gorgeous craggy coastline and get a good arm workout in!

Kayaking on Lake Superior | Photo by Compass + Twine 

Post kayak, pop into the Crooked Spoon Cafe for a quick lunch, and then head towards the Superior Hiking Trail. There are dozens of trailheads around Grand Marais, so you just need to decide the level of difficulty you’re in the mood for that day. Our favorite is the Oberg Mountain Loop along the Superior Trail. It begins a bit steep and delivers some stunning views at the top. The entire loop is just over 2 miles, so it’s fairly quick while also providing a pretty good workout.

Views on the Oberg Loop | Photo by Compass + Twine

Enjoy dinner at Blue Fin Grille, with more views of Lake Superior and delicious local fare, before hitting the hay after a long, glorious day of adventure outside.

DAY 3

The shores of Lake Superior | Photo by Compass + Twine 

Sleep in, then head to the beach. Unless you’re visiting in late summer, the water will likely be too cold to swim. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a beach day. Find a spot on the pebbled shore and pass the morning with a good book, watching as gaggles of geese swim by. Bring a picnic to feast and play along the waterfront as the waves of Lake Superior gently kiss the shoreline.

North Shore Winery | Photo by Compass + Twine 

Next, drive over to Lutsen and explore this mountain town. Stop and take a ride down the Alpine Slide or pop in to North Shore Winery to taste some vino. Set in a ultra modern building at the end of a gravel road, North Shore Winery’s white and red wines are made on site with California-grown grapes. On a hot summer day, you can’t beat sipping their crisp Viognier while enjoying their live music outside. Pizza night at Sven & Ole’s is the perfect way to end a wonderful long weekend in Grand Marais. Now you’ll know all your favorite spots for the next time you visit…because we’re sure this place will steal your heart and you’ll already be planning a trip back.

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Tagged: Midwest, Minnesota