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Lake Retreat 4 Miles from State Fair - Free Bus

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A view through a window with a wooden fence, bare trees, and a frozen body of water.
A living room with a sofa, ottoman, and chairs, a small table, a kitchen in the background, and a view through the window.
A covered patio with a table and chairs, a view of a body of water, and a wooden fence.
A building with a view of a lake.
A bedroom with a large window, a bedside lamp, and a potted plant.

Reviews

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful

Entire home

3 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 81745 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Dryer
  • Pet friendly
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning

Explore the area

View in a map
Arden Hills, MN
  • Place, Lake Johanna
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, U.S. Bank Stadium
    ‪12 min drive‬
  • Place, Mall of America
    ‪24 min drive‬
  • Airport, Minneapolis, MN (MSP-Minneapolis - St. Paul Intl.)
    ‪25 min drive‬

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About the neighborhood

Arden Hills

Located 3 mi (4.8 km) from Rosedale Center, this cottage is within a 10-minute drive of University of Minnesota, Twin Cities. The cottage includes a kitchen, a patio, and a refrigerator.
View more Cottages in Minneapolis - St. PaulOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Lake Johanna - 1 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • University of Minnesota, Twin Cities - 7 min drive - 4.4 miles
  • U.S. Bank Stadium - 12 min drive - 9.9 miles
  • Target Field - 15 min drive - 9.9 miles
  • Mall of America - 24 min drive - 22.2 miles

Getting around

  • St. Paul - Minneapolis Station - 11 min drive
  • Westgate Station - 11 min drive
  • St. Paul, MN (STP-St. Paul Downtown) - 17 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Panda Express - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬4 min drive

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Lake Retreat 4 Miles from State Fair - Free Bus

Lake Retreat 4 Miles from State Fair | Free Bus

Available August 28–September 3 — during the first week of the Minnesota State Fair!

Enjoy the best of both worlds: spend the day at the Minnesota State Fair, then come home to a peaceful retreat overlooking beautiful Lake Johanna.

We’re just 4 miles north of the State Fairgrounds, and you can walk to free State Fair bus transportation—skip the traffic and parking and enjoy an easy ride to and from the Fair.

The home is clean, bright and comfortable, with abundant natural light and wonderful views across Lake Johanna. Private lakefront and dock are directly across the street, giving you easy access to fishing, relaxing by the water and enjoying the lake.

The regional park and beach are also just across the street, with additional recreation including kayak and sauna rentals.

Exceptionally convenient location:

• Minnesota State Fairgrounds — 4 miles
• Walk to FREE State Fair bus transportation
• Bethel University — less than 1 mile
• University of Northwestern — visible across Lake Johanna
• University of Minnesota St. Paul Campus — about 3 miles
• Downtown Minneapolis — about 8 miles
• Downtown St. Paul — about 9 miles
• Regional park and beach across the street
• Private Lake Johanna lakefront and dock
• Fishing
• BBQ
• Off-street parking
• Shopping and restaurants nearby

Come for the Minnesota State Fair and enjoy something most Fair visitors don’t get: a quiet lake retreat to come home to at the end of the day.
The cottage is air-conditioned and features a kitchen, 2.5 bathrooms, and a patio, and there's space to spread out with 3 bedrooms. Guests can expect to find free WiFi and a Smart TV with a DVD player. Other standard amenities include a washing machine, a coffee maker, and an ironing board.

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Property amenities

Beach

  • On the beach
  • Beach towels

Ski

  • Cross-country skiing nearby

Internet

  • Available in the cottage: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee grinder
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Lobster/crab pot
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 3 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 2.5 bathrooms
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • DVD player
  • Smart TV
  • Stereo

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Firepit
  • Patio

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Work spaces

  • Desk

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • Welcoming dogs only
  • 2 pets total

Suitability/Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Upper floors accessible by stairs only
  • Smoking not allowed

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board
  • Meal delivery service

Location highlights

  • Near a zoo
  • On a lake
  • On the waterfront

Things to do

  • Tennis
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Ice skating nearby
  • Jet skiing nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Parasailing nearby
  • Sailing nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Water skiing nearby
  • Water tubing nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby
  • Windsurfing nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • Recycling
  • Some LED lighting used
  • Unit size: 1,745 square feet

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 25

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Check-out instructions

The host requires you complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks, and take out the trash
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Change the heat or ac to a energy saver setting
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Rules

Take off your shoes. The floors are clean before you arrive. Dishes in dishwasher. Laundry: In laundry baskets.
No parties. No smoking of any kind. Read the welcome letter for more guidelines and instructions. Be kind.
Control your pets. No pets upstairs. No pets in bedrooms. Keep pets off the furniture. Clean up after your pet.

Pets

  • This property welcomes pets
  • Dogs only
  • 2 total pets
  • Service animals exempt from fees
  • Note from host: See pet rules in STR rental addendum.

Children and extra beds

  • Note from host: House is not baby proofed. Remember safety first.

Events

Events allowed: family gatherings, birthday parties, weddings

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site; maximum attendees: 10
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
  • Check-in: 4:00 PM
  • Check-out: 11:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 25

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 10.
  • Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • There are no elevators.

Property is also known as

Vrbo Property Arden Hills
Vrbo Property Private vacation home
Vrbo Property Private vacation home Arden Hills

Frequently asked questions

What's there to see around this cottage?

This cottage is located in Arden Hills, close to Minnesota State Fairgrounds, Como Park Zoo and Conservatory, and Huntington Bank Stadium. You'll also find Rosedale Center and Heights Theater within a short drive.

Is there parking available at Active Family Launch Pad?

No, there isn't parking at this cottage.

Is this cottage next to a casino?

No, this cottage is not connected to a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at this cottage?

No, there is no indoor pool at this cottage.

What do couples enjoy most about Active Family Launch Pad?

Amenities that appeal to couples at this beachfront cottage include a kitchen and a smart TV in each cottage, and some feature beach view.

Are there hot tubs at Active Family Launch Pad?

No, this cottage doesn't have a spa tub.

Does this cottage include breakfast service?

No, this cottage doesn't offer breakfast.

Will this cottage allow pets to stay free of charge?

Although dogs can't stay for free, they are welcome at this cottage.

Are there connecting rooms at Active Family Launch Pad?

No, this cottage doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

How close is the airport from this cottage?

The closest major airport to this cottage is St. Paul, MN (STP-St. Paul Downtown), which is 13.4 mi away (17 minutes by car). Another top airport is Minneapolis - St. Paul Intl. Airport (MSP), which is located 21 mi away (31-minute drive).

Are there rooms with balconies at Active Family Launch Pad?

Yes, every cottage at Active Family Launch Pad comes with a patio and some offer beach views.

Lake Retreat 4 Miles from State Fair - Free Bus Reviews

Reviews

9.0

Wonderful

Rating 10 - Excellent. 17 out of 26 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 5 out of 26 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 3 out of 26 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 26 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 26 reviews

9.2/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

mike s.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great place to stay

Everything was as advertised—very convenient location.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Julie C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Enjoyed our stay

great location and accomodating and functional space
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2023
Verified review

8/10 Good

Gerald B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

GOOD LOCATION

Property was well maintained and very close to hiking trails around the lake. Well stocked and comfortable.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Chris P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Vacation

Great house near walking trails lake and beach. Quiet and peaceful yet not far from many attractions.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Kelley V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great owner

William was very communicative and kind throughout the stay. Recommended.
Stayed 18 nights in Dec 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Kellie B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect college visa

Had a great time property is close to Mall of America and The U. My son is deciding on where to attend college and was a great location to bring the family (myself, husband, younger brother and dogs)
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Sara Z.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Awesome location

The beach is literally across the street and you can see it from the front yard. The lake is super clean and warm. The house is large and has plenty of space for everyone to have their own area. Highly recommend!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Sarah S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peacefully Perfect

We loved our stay here and would come back in a heartbeat. Everything was clean and labeled well, there was ample space for our group, and the lake is so close by! Exactly as listed.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023
Verified review

6/10 Okay

Hilary M.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cozy Cottage

We had a good trip. The interior was quite clean. The surrounding yard and plants could've used some TLC to gain a greater view of the lake and to enable our small children to use the yard space.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Suzanne C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Overflow housing during graduation

We rented this property for family that were in town for my son's graduation. This beautiful home by the lake was a great place for my inlaws to stay. The kids made great memories fishing with grandpa and catching plenty of fish. William is an excellent host. Highly recommend this property
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

alex g.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great

Lived at the dock. Pulled a couple bass and pikes along with a bunch of sunnies. Kids had a blast on lake Johanna. The house is appropriate and as shown on the pictures. William took care of us, he’s a very responsive host. We would stay here again.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Carrie S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great lakefront property

My family of five including three teens had a great week long stay at this property. We had plenty of room for all of us. Morning coffee on the deck looking at the lake and evenings roasting marshmallows around the fire pit were amazing. Afternoons fishing, on the beach or at local attractions provided plenty to do. Easy drive to many attractions. Twin cities kayaking Wednesdays on the water was a big hit. Our hosts were extremely responsive and helpful. If in the area again would stay here again.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2022
Verified review

4/10 Poor

Pat S.

Liked: Location
Disliked: Cleanliness, listing accuracy

Property needs lots of TLC

Their curb appeal needs lots of repairs & upgrades. The bath towels were stained & bleached looking. Best part was to be able to walk across the street to Lake Johanna.
Stayed 8 nights in Jun 2024
Verified review

6/10 Okay

Jeff E.

Liked: Communication, location
Disliked: Listing accuracy

Problems with check in

Not a good place for the price! Totally outdated and the outside wasn't pleasant to look at boat trailer and roofing materials in the driveway,cobwebs everywhere outside spiders and ants just not a place i felt good about
Stayed 4 nights in May 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

James B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Exactly what we needed.

Owners were awesome at responding to my questions about the property. We had enough places to sleep for all of our group. Great kitchen with everything we would need at a house. Weather was good enough to use the lake, but we were glad it was available. Location is close to grocery stores for quick pick ups of supplies. Yard was great for games and a fire. Open air deck in the front and a big covered porch in the back for hanging out while grilling. We would go back in the future if needed.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Diane M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect home for our family vacation!

We enjoyed a delightful family vacation here. Our son lives a few houses away from this home, and we needed an expansion for sleeping. William and Elsie have a lovely home we enjoyed immensely! Cooking utensils are fantastic. We enjoyed the grill! The kids were thrilled with the toys and books there. It is an older home that has been nicely remodeled and has a beautiful view of the lake! We were especially impressed with the cleanliness, and loved the fresh-cut flowers, and the green live plants. William and Elsie were very available for our questions or needs. We will be back!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Felicia R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Awesome place

We really enjoyed this property. Loved how close it was to the lake. The owners were very accommodating. The bedrooms were great and quite comfy.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Michael C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location

We had a blast enjoying the house, and the public beach right across the street. We also caught some nice bluegill’s right of the private dock. The property was very clean, and furnished/equipped with everything we needed. Thank you Wes, we will definitely be back again!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Roberta B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family gathering

This was a beautiful location and met our needs perfectly being next to the park. The house does smell a bit musty. Otherwise everything was great.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2022
Verified review

6/10 Okay

Shobha G.

Liked: Check-in, location, listing accuracy
Disliked: Cleanliness, communication

Overall a pleasant stay

This Beach Cottage in Arden Hills, MN was a wonderful location for our family reunion. It is located across the street from Lake Johanna, with great views of the lake from almost every window. The property is right next to a park with nature trails, paved walking trails, and bike trails within steps of the house, and also a quick drive to shopping and Twin City attractions. All the amenities were as described in the listing, and the beds/furniture were comfortable. It has a private yard and deck for enjoying the outside. We gave it 3 stars because the bathrooms, microwave, and outside grill were incompletely cleaned (in fact, we decided to not grill cause it was dirty). We informed the owners of some of our concerns via a phone call hours into our stay and were informed of where cleaning supplies were if we wanted to clean ourselves. After our stay we provided a detailed message of what we observed and asked for a refund of the $60/day cleaning fee. Initially via a few message exchanges they were surprisingly argumentative and unwilling to refund us; however, ultimately they handled it professionally and did refund us the cleaning fee.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2022

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