Fun Things to Do in Grand Marais | Travel Guide (2024) | Best Places to Visit
Grand Marais Travel Guide
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- Grand Marais Travel Videos
- Plan Grand Marais Trip
- Things To Do In Grand Marais
- Tours And Activities In Grand Marais
- Best Time To Visit Grand Marais
- Flight Calendar For Grand Marais
- Best Areas To Stay In Grand Marais
- Hotels Map Of Grand Marais
- Transportation To Grand Marais
- Nearby Destinantion From Grand Marais
Welcome to Grand Marais, a charming town located on the shores of Lake Superior in the United States. Known for its breathtaking natural beauty and vibrant arts scene, Grand Marais offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience. As you explore this picturesque destination, you'll be captivated by the stunning views of the lake, the towering cliffs, and the lush forests that surround the town. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast looking to hike along the Superior Hiking Trail or a lover of the arts seeking inspiration at the North House Folk School, Grand Marais has something for everyone. With its friendly locals, cozy cafes, and a wide range of recreational activities, this hidden gem is the perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful and rejuvenating getaway.
Grand Marais Travel Videos
We've curated authentic Grand Marais videos for inspiration and practical tips. Discover all the amazing places to visit and things to do in Grand Marais in 2024. Make your own Itinerary, like a Pro.
![Grand Marais, Minnesota | Things to do & Attractions [4K HD]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/0gw8z1lJOe8/hqdefault.jpg)
![North Shore, Minnesota | Top Things to Do [4K HD]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/hJIa4TeV9TI/hqdefault.jpg)
Plan Grand Marais Trip
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Things To Do In Grand Marais
Grand Marais is a charming town located on the shores of Lake Superior in northeastern Minnesota. It offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Here are some things to do in Grand Marais:
1. Explore the Lake Superior shoreline: Grand Marais is known for its stunning natural beauty, and the best way to experience it is by exploring the Lake Superior shoreline. Take a leisurely stroll along the beach, collect seashells, or simply admire the breathtaking views of the lake.
2. Visit the Grand Marais Art Colony: This art colony is a hub for creativity and artistic expression. Visit the galleries and studios to admire the work of local artists, or even participate in a workshop to learn a new artistic skill.
3. Hike the Superior Hiking Trail: The Superior Hiking Trail is a scenic trail that stretches over 300 miles along the North Shore of Lake Superior. Hiking enthusiasts can explore a variety of terrains, from dense forests to rugged cliffs, and enjoy spectacular views of the lake.
4. Visit the Grand Marais Lighthouse: The Grand Marais Lighthouse is a historic landmark that offers a glimpse into the town's maritime past. Take a guided tour to learn about the lighthouse's history and enjoy panoramic views of the lake from the top.
5. Go fishing: Grand Marais is a popular fishing destination, with plenty of opportunities to catch a variety of fish species. Rent a boat or join a fishing charter to experience the thrill of angling on Lake Superior.
6. Explore the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness: The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness is a vast wilderness area located just north of Grand Marais.
Tours And Activities In Grand Marais
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Best Time To Visit Grand Marais
The best time to visit Grand Marais is during the summer months from June to August. This is when the weather is the warmest and most activities and attractions are open. The average temperature during this time ranges from 60°°F to 75°°F. Additionally, July and August are the driest months, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and boating. However, it is important to note that summer is also the peak tourist season, so the town can get quite crowded. If you prefer a quieter experience, spring and fall can also be great times to visit. During these seasons, the weather is still pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 40°°F to 60°°F. Spring offers the opportunity to witness the blooming wildflowers, while fall showcases the vibrant colors of the changing leaves. Winter is another option for those who enjoy snow activities such as skiing and snowshoeing. The average temperature during winter ranges from 10°°F to 30°°F, and the town is less crowded, providing a more peaceful and serene atmosphere.
Flight Calendar For Grand Marais
Use our flight calendar to discover the Cheapest Days and Months to Book Flight to Grand Marais.
Best Areas To Stay In Grand Marais
Grand Marais is a charming town located on the shores of Lake Superior in northeastern Minnesota. It is known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. When it comes to accommodation, there are several best areas to consider.
1. Downtown Grand Marais: This area is the heart of the town and offers a variety of accommodation options, including hotels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals. Staying in downtown Grand Marais allows easy access to the town's shops, restaurants, and art galleries. Additionally, it is within walking distance to the picturesque harbor and the famous Grand Marais Lighthouse.
2. Lake Superior Shoreline: For those seeking a more tranquil and scenic experience, staying along the Lake Superior shoreline is a great choice. There are numerous beachfront cabins and cottages available for rent, providing breathtaking views of the lake. This area is perfect for nature lovers and offers opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and enjoying the spectacular sunsets.
3. Gunflint Trail: If you prefer a secluded and wilderness retreat, the Gunflint Trail area is ideal. Located just outside of Grand Marais, this area is surrounded by the superior national forest and offers a range of rustic cabins and lodges. It is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with access to hiking trails, fishing spots, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
4. Cascade River State Park: For a unique accommodation experience, consider staying in one of the campgrounds within Cascade River State Park. This area is known for its waterfalls and scenic beauty. Camping here allows you to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy activities such as hiking, fishing, and picnicking.
Overall, Grand Marais offers a diverse range of accommodation options to suit different preferences. Whether you prefer the convenience of downtown, the tranquility of the lake shoreline, the wilderness of the Gunflint Trail, or the natural beauty of Cascade River State Park, you are sure to find the perfect place to stay in this charming town.
Hotels Map Of Grand Marais
Use our All-in-one Map to find Best Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Tours, Activities and Restaurants in Grand Marais.
Transportation To Grand Marais
There are several transportation options to Grand Marais, depending on your starting location:
1. By Car: Grand Marais is accessible by car via Minnesota State Highway 61. The drive from Duluth takes approximately 2.5 hours, and from Minneapolis, it takes around 4.5 hours.
2. By Bus: Arrowhead Transit operates bus services to Grand Marais from various locations in northeastern Minnesota. You can check their website for schedules and fares.
3. By Air: The nearest airport to Grand Marais is the Grand Marais/Cook County Airport (GRM), which offers limited commercial flights. Alternatively, you can fly into Duluth International Airport (DLH) or Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) and then drive or take a bus to Grand Marais.
4. By Ferry: During the summer months, you can take a ferry from Grand Portage, Minnesota, to Isle Royale National Park, which is located in Lake Superior near Grand Marais. This option is ideal for those looking to explore the national park.
It is recommended to check the availability and schedules of transportation options before planning your trip to Grand Marais.
Nearby Destination From Grand Marais
1. Lutsen - A charming village known for its ski resort and scenic hiking trails.
2. Tofte - A small town with stunning views of Lake Superior and access to the Superior Hiking Trail.
3. Schroeder - A peaceful village surrounded by forests and offering access to the Cross River and Temperance River State Parks.
4. Hovland - A remote community with beautiful beaches and access to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.
5. Gunflint Trail - A scenic byway that winds through the wilderness and offers outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and canoeing.
6. Two Harbors - A harbor town with a historic lighthouse and access to Gooseberry Falls State Park.
7. Silver Bay - A coastal city with a picturesque marina and access to Split Rock Lighthouse State Park.
8. Ely - A gateway to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, known for its outdoor recreation opportunities and wildlife.
9. Duluth - A vibrant city located on the shores of Lake Superior, offering a variety of attractions including the Aerial Lift Bridge and Canal Park.
10. Thunder Bay - A Canadian city across the border, known for its stunning waterfront, Fort William Historical Park, and Kakabeka Falls.