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Best Places To Honeymoon In Minnesota

It might not be the tropical vacation you've seen in the movies, but a honeymoon in Minnesota is just as stunning. Culture and serenity are found in equal measure, and whether you're looking to relax in the bed of five-star hotels or charm of bed & breakfasts all day long, or get out and try things you've never done, there are plenty of options. Here are a few ideas to get you started.

St Paul Hotel
(credit: CBS)

St. Paul Hotel
350 Market St.
St Paul, MN 55102
(651) 292-9292
www.saintpaulhotel.com

The city that was named "Most Romantic Getaway" by USA Today is perfect for your celebration of marital bliss. Try the Romance Special at the Saint Paul Hotel, where you'll be greeted with chocolate covered strawberries and champagne. You're a few minutes' walk from cultural attractions like the Ordway and Fitzgerald Theaters and the Landmark Center, Science Museum, History Center are right around the corner. Plenty sophisticated and romantic dining options are nearby as well, including the award-winning Meritage Brasserie, Italian fine-dining at Pazzaluna, sushi at the elegant Sakura and more. But really, if you want to just stay in bed all day with your loved one, the hotel is a sight in itself.

Sauntry Mansion Bed & Breakfast
626 4th St. N.
Stillwater, MN 55082
(651) 430-2653
www.sauntrymansion.com

This quaint riverfront city is filled with adorable shops for newlyweds. It also offers dining options like Domacin, voted one of the most romantic in the state. Weather permitting, float down the St. Croix River and take in the beautiful sights. Stroll hand in hand through the historic district. Stay at the romantic Sauntry Mansion Bed and Breakfast or the Water Street Inn right on the riverfront. It's an escape that offers both peace and quiet and plenty of opportunities to make some memories.

Photo Credit Thinkstock
Cotton Mansion Bed & Breakfast
2309 1st St. E.
Duluth, MN 55812
(218) 724-6405
www.cottonmansion.com

Duluth, while a popular tourist destination, may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking honeymoon. Duluth and the surrounding area offers miles and miles of trails for hiking and biking through wilderness for those couples looking to enjoy the rugged outdoors. You can rent a sailboat and sail off into the sunset on Lake Superior. Cotton Mansion is a charming and elegant place to stay on your honeymoon. If you're looking for peace and quiet, you can stay away from downtown, far away from everyone else, but the burgeoning shopping, dining, and drinking choices are always close by. It's the full package for those just married who aren't looking to lie around all day in a hotel room.

Related:  Best Lakeside Getaways Near Minnesota

Bluefin Bay Resort
7192 MN-61
Tofte, MN 55615
(800) 258-3346
www.bluefinbay.com

This is the honeymoon for those who truly want to leave civilization behind. For those who feel Duluth is even too busy. Wake up in the morning the sun shining and the birds chirping and no sounds of people or cars anywhere. Check into Bluefin Bay, where majestic views of Lake Superior will make you feel like you're on the ocean, but surrounded by the lush greenery of Minnesota forests and bluffs. There are plenty of outdoor activities, from hiking and biking, to fishing, and kayaking. You can take a picnic out into the wild and get lost in the wonder around you. But really, it's about you and your loved one, celebrating the joy of tying the knot. No need for distractions.

Mississippi River Bluffs (Winona)
(credit: August Thurmer)

Oakenwald Terrace
218 Winona St. S.E.
Chatfield, MN 55923
(507) 867-3806
www.oakenwaldterrace.com

You don't have to travel north in Minnesota for a one of a kind experience. The southern part of the state is just as majestic. Bluff Country as its called is breathtaking, and the number of parks here and scenic byways for you to enjoy with your loved one is unparalleled. Go hiking in any number of state parks around Chatfield, where the Oakenwald Terrace Bed and Breakfast is an ideal place for a romantic stay. Go fishing, bird-watching, horseback riding as there is an endless list of ways to enjoy the surrounding area. There are even caves for you to explore. The unique topography makes this one of the most interesting parts of Minnesota for you to experience as newlyweds.

Related: Best Cheap Long Weekend Trips In Or Near Minnesota

Adrian Schramm is a resident Saint Paul writer with a passion for all things local. Through his work with Saint Paul Almanac and Minneapolis Examiner at Examiner.com, as well as in the kitchens of bars and restaurants around town, he has discovered what truly makes the Twin Cities tick.

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