22 Winter Date Ideas
November 3rd, 2020
Snowy Lutsen remains one of the most beloved winter getaway destinations in Minnesota. And historic Cascade Lodge plays an integral role in luring romance-starved couples and adventurous families to the region, regardless of the season. There’s no denying that winter is here to stay, even if a brief, albeit welcomed “pastrami summer” is headed our way. Minnesotans embrace winter’s arrival as it remains an essential season for romance, recreation, and solitude. It’s quite common for couples to compile as many winter date ideas as possible before the holidays pass in hopes of making the most of this crisp, undeniably beautiful season.
Winter Date Ideas: The North Shore Edition
In combination with the season’s general coziness, winter’s frosty aesthetic has a spellbinding impact on out-of-state visitors, especially if you plan to visit Minnesota’s jaw-dropping North Shore. It’s only a matter of days before the lake-effect snow accumulates and reaches mid-season form, effectively drawing thousands of skiers, snowshoers, and snowmobilers to the area. Many of these visitors are couples who authentically value these chilly months. Thus, we’ve pieced together 22 winter date ideas that will assuredly enhance your next getaway to Lake Superior’s Cascade Lodge.
- Snowshoe through Cascade River State Park under the moonlight.
- Observe local artisans hard at work inside the Grand Marais Art Colony.
- Enroll in an Adirondack chair-building, artisanal cheesemaking, or bead embroidery course at the North House Folk School.
- Sample an array of award-winning varietals at Lutsen’s own North Shore Winery.
- Hike the awe-inspiring Oberg Mountain loop.
- Cross dog sledding off of your bucket list after embarking on an unforgettable adventure through Points Unknown.
- Enjoy dinner and drinks at Cascade Restaurant & Pub. Daily specials range from sirloin steak to seared, teriyaki-glazed salmon and homemade meatloaf.
- Go alpine skiing in the Lutsen Mountains, a 95-run, four-mountain winter wonderland.
- Embark on a self-guided frozen waterfall tour with stops at High Falls, Devil’s Kettle Falls, and Cascade River Falls.
- Learn how to curl right here in Cook County, the birthplace of so many American Olympians.
- Savor a flight of craft beer inside Voyageur Brewing Company’s sleek taproom.
- Try ice climbing (if you have a wild side).
- Bake a pan of your favorite cookies while simultaneously heating the cabin.
- Indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments at LutZen Reflections or Ancient Traditions Healing.
- Craft a couple of outrageous, holiday-inspired drinks in your cozy cabin. “Thrown on” a cheeky Christmas flick while you’re at it.
- Stroll along Pebble Beach en route to frozen Ellingson Island (as pictured), home to the best views of world-famous Split Rock Lighthouse.
- Lace ‘em up and go ice skating on the Cook County Community Center’s outdoor rink in nearby Grand Marais.
- Make a snowman beside your cabin. Don’t forget the carrot, top hat, charcoal, and scarf.
- Plan a surprise indoor picnic, complete with charcuterie, cheeses, crackers, champagne, and light sandwiches.
- Build gingerbread houses together, even if Christmas is in the rearview mirror.
- Makes s’mores, cleverly utilizing your wood-burning fireplace.
- Start a two-person book club. Take turns reading and reflect for 15 minutes after each chapter. You’d be surprised how quickly you can finish an authentic page-turner.
Four-Season Lodging in Lutsen, MN
Hopefully, these 22 winter date ideas provide a proper glimpse into what makes the North Shore so incredibly enticing. Remember that Cascade Lodge boasts an on-site restaurant, many group-friendly (and pet-friendly) lodgings, and free access to neighboring Cascade River State Park. For several more winter date ideas, please visit our blog page, which touches on everything from snowshoeing to breweries and waterfalls.
Because so many Midwesterners are wholeheartedly embracing the outdoors and semi-remoteness these days, Cascade Lodge only has limited availability this winter. Please don’t hesitate to book a cabin, guest room, or luxury room, as they’re selling fast (especially on weekends and holidays). Rest assured, our online reservation system is fast and easy! Simply click the Book Now button to check availability.