Minnesota’s lake country comes alive over Memorial Day weekend, making it the perfect time for a waterfront escape. From rustic North Shore lodges to luxury cabin resorts, these six lakeside retreats offer unique experiences for travelers looking to kick off summer in style.
1. Ruttger’s Bay Lake Resort
Web: Ruttgers.com
Address: 25039 Tame Fish Lake Rd, Deerwood, MN 56444
Phone: 218.678.2885
Ruttger’s is one of Minnesota’s most iconic lake resorts and is hosting a dedicated Memorial Day Weekend celebration May 22–24, 2026. Guests can enjoy lakeside cookouts, bonfires, family games, golf, and paddle sports on Bay Lake. Unique amenities include a historic lakeside golf course, marina access, and resort packages with dining credits.
2. Larsmont Cottages on Lake Superior
Web: LarsmontCottages.com
Address: 596 Larsmont Way, Two Harbors, MN 55616
Phone: 866.687.5634
Located along the North Shore of Lake Superior, Larsmont combines Scandinavian-inspired cottages with luxury amenities. Travelers love the private fireplaces, lakefront sauna, and easy access to Gooseberry Falls State Park. The resort’s waterfront walking trails make it ideal for couples and families seeking a quieter Memorial Day getaway.
3. Grand Superior Lodge
Web: OdysseyResorts.com
Address: 2826 MN-61, Two Harbors, MN 55616
Phone: 800.627.9565
This Lake Superior retreat offers rustic-modern cabins with panoramic shoreline views. Memorial Day guests can enjoy hiking trails, kayaking, and nightly lakeside fires. The resort is especially popular for its cedar hot tubs overlooking the water and direct shoreline access.
4. Cove Point Lodge
Web: CovePointLodge.com
Address: 4614 MN-61, Beaver Bay, MN 55601
Phone: 218.226.3221
Nestled between Split Rock Lighthouse and Beaver Bay, Cove Point Lodge is a peaceful lakeside escape known for its dramatic Lake Superior scenery. Amenities include complimentary breakfast, indoor pool access, and cliffside viewing areas perfect for sunrise photography.
5. Clamshell Beach Resort
Web: ClamshellBeachResortMN.com
Address: 35197 S Clamshell Dr, Pequot Lakes, MN 56472
Phone: 218.543.1040
Situated on the Whitefish Chain of Lakes, Clamshell Beach Resort is open year-round and ideal for larger family gatherings over Memorial Day weekend. Unique amenities include luxury lakefront cabins, heated outdoor pools, pickleball courts, sandy beaches, and fishing access.
6. Paradise Resort
Web: ParadiseResort.com
Address: 8677 N Moose Lake Rd NE, Pennington, MN 56663
Phone: 218.341.8268
Paradise Resort on Moose Lake is the perfect combination of rustic seclusion and convenient amenities, including an on-site restaurant, private fire pits at every cabin, fish-cleaning facilities, free Wi-Fi, and water toys for guests.
Key Takeaways
What is the best Minnesota lake destination for families?
Ruttger’s Bay Lake Resort and Clamshell Beach Resort are excellent for families thanks to their kid-friendly activities, beaches, and cabin accommodations.
Are these resorts open during Memorial Day weekend 2026?
Yes. Each retreat listed has confirmed availability or seasonal operations during Memorial Day weekend 2026.
Which retreat is best for couples?
Larsmont Cottages and Cove Point Lodge are popular romantic escapes because of their Lake Superior views, fireplaces, and spa-style amenities.
Do these resorts offer lake activities?
Most offer kayaking, fishing, boating, paddleboarding, or beach access directly on-site.