Cabins & House Rentals in Minnesota

With its continental climate, extreme temperatures are characteristic of the state. If you're lucky you may be witness to some of Minnesota's thunderstorms. Do pay attention to weather updates as weather conditions can change very quickly.

Temperatures also dip well below freezing winter and native Minnesotans are taught from a young age to respect the winter climate. Visitors traveling outside metropolitan areas should pack sufficient warm winter gear and keep from venturing out when the snow is heaviest.

1. The Minnesota Children’s Museum

The Minnesota Children’s Museum in Saint Paul provides a stimulating environment for kids, with its numerous interactive exhibits. The museum also has a rooftop park and a display of the state's various ecosystems. Visit FlyOver America at the Mall of America, where your family will enjoy simulated flight rides taking you over the nation's picturesque landscapes and landmarks.

2. Summerland Family Park

Summerland Family Park in Sauk Rapids is all about fun, with bumper boat rides and huge water slides. There's even a mini golf area, go-karting, and a moonwalk arena. Eagan's Cascade Bay Water Park is another spot for family-friendly enjoyment. The slides, bubblers, and the lazy river will provide endless smiles.

3. Como Park Zoo and Conservatory

Saint Paul's Como Park Zoo and Conservatory is a prime destination for nature lovers. Experience South and Central America’s rainforests in the simulated environment here, and walk amidst numerous plant species that play important roles in our lives. There's also a collection of animals including giraffes, and several athletic fields.

4. Bde Maka Ska Park

Bde Maka Ska Park in Minneapolis is a multipurpose facility on the banks of Lake Calhoun, or Bde Maka Ska. It includes trails, soccer and softball fields, and canoe and kayak rentals. The beautifully landscaped spots next to the adjoining Chain of Lakes are ideal for enjoying leisurely picnics.

5. The Legacy of the Lakes Museum

The Legacy of the Lakes Museum in Alexandria showcases a lineup of vintage boats. You'll learn about the fascinating history and traditions of the lake country, as well as the heritage resorts serving them. The museum hosts kids' crafts programs, and live music in the summer.

Minnesota's center of commerce, Minneapolis, looks like a sleepy city on the surface, but there is actually plenty get stuck into. The Guthrie Theater overlooks the Mississippi River and serves as a center of performance art as well as a public space with restaurants and cafés. Head up the escalator to the 178ft Endless Bridge for the best view of the city.

Walk, drive, bike, paddle or even swim around Minneapolis' Chain of Lakes which can be found throughout the heart of the city. Some lakes like Cedar Lake, Lake Calhoun and Lake Nokomis have public beach fronts which are perfect for outdoor activities like picnicking, volleyball, kayaking and windsurfing.

If you’re looking to be even closer to nature, Minnesota has nearly 5,000 campsites scattered around the state. Make a reservation and you can pitch a tent for a night or two. Better yet, find your perfect vacation home-away-from-home in the heart of the woods.

It's always a great time to book a cabin in Minnesota, which hosts a variety of events all year round. The largest and best event is perhaps the annual State Fair, which is held between St. Paul and Minneapolis. It runs for 12 days from late August to early September. A variety of attractions, entertainment and competitions are featured. Not to be forgotten are the snacks and food, which often comes on a stick.

The St. Paul Winter Carnival is held in January every year. Events include snow and ice sculpting as well as a medallion hunt where 12 clues are printed in the local newspaper over 12 days and participants race to the place they think the clues are pointing to. There is even a Royal Coronation where the King Boreas is crowned and the queen and princesses are selected through a pageant-style coronation.