Grand Marais

Grand Marais is hard to beat when it comes to the ultimate lake town experience in Minnesota. Grand Marais, located on one of the Great Lakes, Lake Superior, is an utterly charming, gorgeous town filled with unique shops, good eats, scenic lake views, and thrilling outdoor adventures. The small town is stunning regardless of the season (it's popular in the winter because of the skiing options in the Sawtooth Mountains and popular in the summer because of that lake), and it also has a thriving local art community, so you can soak up some culture and see one-of-a-kind artwork on your trip. Grand Marais is one of Minnesota's most photogenic towns.

Of course, because the town is located on Lake Superior, boating, swimming, fishing, and relaxing by the water are all options. Visit the Grand Marais Art Colony, which attracts artists from all over the world. You can even learn from the artisans! Look at Drury Lane Books for an example of a charming store. Even though Grand Marais is on the smaller side, there are plenty of indoor and outdoor activities to keep you entertained in this charming town. Grand Marais is postcard-perfect in any season. It's the ultimate small-town adventure. Minnesota is famous for its lakes and lake towns, but it's difficult to imagine one more charming than Grand Marais. The town has something for everyone, with its artsy vibes, delicious restaurants and bars, lake views, and nearby mountains.