Consider driving south for your microcation. The unique cabins in Whitetail Woods Regional Park can accommodate up to six people, plus trails are plentiful on the Dakota County Parks grounds. Photo: Dakota County Parks
Microcations offer an opportunity to escape the everyday.
Sometimes, you just need a break—but your schedule might laugh at the idea of a week-long getaway. Enter the microcation. Whether you’re craving a spa-like staycation, a cozy cabin vibe or a day of exploring, there’s no need to go far. Closer-to-home spots brim with hidden gems, quick retreats and mini-adventures that make it easy to hit refresh without the hassle of flights or packing stress. Consider this your sign to upgrade your getaway game—without going too far out of the Metro.
Stay North
Take a breath of fresh air and enjoy the great outdoors—while staying close to home at the Minneapolis Northwest KOA Journey. This KOA property, located in Maple Grove, features 20 acres of maple and oak trees, plus a playground and game room, mini golf, horseshoes and basketball, a dog park and seasonal holiday hayrides. Lodging includes two one-room camping cabins that sleep up to four people, as well as tent camping and RV sites. From seasoned campers to first-timers, there’s a little something for everyone. Maple Grove; koa.com
Located between Minneapolis and Duluth, the Postcard Cabins in Kettle River welcomes lodgers to stay in a tiny home, nestled under the stars and among the trees. Each tiny cabin is equipped with one or two queen size beds; mini kitchens, featuring a mini fridge, stovetop, cutlery and dishware, a kettle and more; a bathroom (including a shower!); provisions, such as coffee, insect wipes, firestarters or s’mores kits (at an additional cost); a cellphone lockbox (for a true escape!); and air conditioning and heat—so you can get away in nature at any time of the year. Don’t forget about the bonfire pit, and its close distance to many serene hikes. Willow River; postcardcabins.com
Nestled on a quiet property on the St. Croix River, Wilder Retreat in Shafer is an Airbnb destination for peace and relaxation. A stay at the Writers Cabin includes a woodfired sauna and hot tub, plus river access. The sleeping loft in the small pine cabin fits two, and the space includes a propane cooktop, pump sink and basic cooking pans and utensils. The cabin is solar powered and a fireplace keeps the space warm in the winter. You won’t want to leave—but if you do, nearby activities include Franconia Sculpture Park, canoe and kayak rentals and great hiking trails. Shafer; airbnb.com/slink/ebfcqt0s
Travel East
Now is your chance with the Tree House Luxury Stay, where nature meets nostalgia. This treehouse is perched atop a 150-year-old burr white oak tree, and the home is 1,200 square feet, featuring two bedrooms and overlooking 500 acres of nature. Custom-designed with the game of chess in mind, owner Michael Bushilla says the treehouse features unique steps in every one of its seven spaces, including a hidden room, that delights travelers. Cottage Grove; treehouseescape.com
Drive South
Campers who want to stay connected to the internet as well as nature can find that balance in the Whitetail Woods Regional Park cabins operated by Dakota County Parks. Pick from five cabins—three in the pines and two on the prairie, both of which have heat and air conditioning. The cabins accommodate up to six people, and reservations are available four months in advance. Young campers will love building forts and water dams in the Fawn Crossing Nature Play Area. Farmington; dakotacounty.us
Experience the joy of camping without the hassle of a tent at the Camper Cabins in nearby parks. Four new cabins opened in October at Cedar Lake Farm Regional Park. The cabins, which accommodate up to six people, are available year-round and can be reserved up to one year in advance. In the summer months, enjoy swimming and fishing in Cedar Lake, as well as hiking and biking throughout the park. There’s also kayak, canoe and stand-up paddleboard rentals available on summer weekends. New Prague; threeriversparks.org
Go West
Enjoying the lake life experience doesn’t need to include packing up for an extended road trip to Minnesota or Wisconsin’s lake countries. For Metro travelers, boating, fishing, swimming and other lake-centric activities are easily at your sandy feet with a stay at Lake Minnetonka’s The Shoreline. The aptly named boutique hotel offers guests stunning views, beach access, boating (including a pontoon with a captain if needed), kayaks, paddleboards, surf lessons and more. For land lovers, bike rentals are available to hit the nearby Dakota Rail Regional Trail (bike or run/walk). Cabana Anna’s features indoor and outdoor breakfast, lunch and dinner service. What more do you need? Spring Park; shorelinehotel.com
“Nature has a fantastic way of bringing people together—helping them connect with each other, and reconnect with themselves,” according to the YMCA. Camp Ihduhapi, situated on 175 acres of vibrant maple forest along the shores of Lake Independence, is just a skipping stone away from the West Metro. Discover nature and a new way to connect with family members, whether for a reunion or another special occasion—all while communing with the camp’s natural prairie, wetland and woodland surroundings. Loretto; ymcanorth.org
Book accommodations in every kid’s dream home at the Double Domes. Two geodesic domes connect to create a unique space with six bedrooms that sleep up to 18 guests. The home is also tricked out with playful features, including an indoor tube slide, a putting green hallway, bubble hockey, ping pong, a movie theater room and a fitness room. The domes sit on about 2 acres, and outdoor attractions include a fire pit, trampoline, 200-foot zipline and a tube slide off the deck, as well as landscaped waterfalls, ponds and fairy gardens to explore. Eden Prairie; thedoubledomes.com
Stay Close
Treat yourself to a luxurious staycation in the heart of Minneapolis’ trendy North Loop neighborhood. The Hewing Hotel offers chic, industrial-style rooms, a rooftop all-season bar and lounge that offers panoramic views of the city. The rooftop also has a spa pool and a Nordic sauna. Dine at the hotel’s Nordic-inspired restaurant, Tullibee. Or if you seek adventure, explore the area’s vibrant dining scene with award-winning restaurants like Spoon and Stable and chic boutiques just steps away. Minneapolis; hewinghotel.com
For an elegant escape filled with old-world charm, the Saint Paul Hotel is the perfect place to unwind. This historic hotel offers elegant rooms and exceptional service. Spend your weekend sipping cocktails in the lobby’s luxurious atmosphere, or treat yourself to traditional afternoon tea. The hotel is also situated perfectly for exploring St. Paul’s historic district, including the James J. Hill House or a show at the Ordway. St. Paul; saintpaulhotel.com
Take a Day Trip
Northfield is a charming and family-friendly getaway that offers something for everyone. Start your Saturday morning at the Riverwalk Market Fair, where the scenic Cannon River sets the stage for a vibrant mix of local artwork, live music, a farmers market and delicious local treats. The fair is every Saturday from mid-May through mid-October except on September 6. After lunch, step back in time at the Northfield Historical Society where you can learn about the infamous defeat of Jesse James and the town’s rich history. If you’re visiting on the third Sunday of the month, don’t miss dinner at the Red Barn Farm—a must for pizza lovers and animal enthusiasts alike. Savor fresh-from-the-oven pizza while the kids delight in meeting the farm’s friendly chickens, roosters, outdoor cats and horses. For an even more memorable trip, plan your visit for September 3–7 to experience the town’s iconic Defeat of Jesse James Days, a lively celebration filled with events and activities for the whole family. Northfield; northfieldmn.gov
