Find your romantic oasis in Minnesota: 9 best romantic getaways in the state

In the heart of Minneapolis’ North Loop neighborhood in downtown Minneapolis lies the chic Hewing Hotel. Surrounded by the best fine dining establishments in the state, not to mention art galleries, theaters and the Twins’ stadium, Hewing Hotel is a destination in and of itself. Its fireplace lounge, Tullibee Nordic restaurant, plus contemporary artworks throughout the hotel, thanks to a partnership with Minneapolis gallery Kollman & Pryor, all create a lovely atmosphere that’s uniquely Minnesotan. The biggest highlight is the hotel’s rooftop, with its skyline view, whirlpool and bar, as well as its indoor sauna on the same level for an added spa experience.

The historic nature of the building, once a farm implement warehouse, shines through with accents of exposed brick and timber in both the common areas and the guest rooms, which also boast plush beds and divinely soft sheets.

Built out of an old bank building, The Westin in Minneapolis has a classy, mid-20th century feel. Its facade boasts two giant relief sculptures— a farmer on one side of the entrance and a mechanic on the other— hearkening back to the building’s 1940s beginning as the Farmers and Mechanics Savings Bank of Minneapolis.

Inside, a grand lobby and restaurant awaits, with high ceilings, vintage chandeliers, walnut paneling, a giant oval bar and overall majestic aura. The staff, both at the restaurant and throughout the hotel, are friendly and the common areas feel inviting.

The rooms are comfortable and the bathrooms roomy. You’ll want to make time with your honey to take a swim in the steel swimming pool and jacuzzi.

For something a little different, take your sweetie to Le Meridien Chambers, a hotel that doubles as an art center. Located in the heart of Minneapolis’ theater district, the hotel in on the pulse of downtown nightlife.

This is a hotel where it’s fun to do a little bit of exploring because there are so many different spaces to find. Walking from Mercy Bar and Dining Room, there’s a long white hallway that leads to a courtyard patio, which is enclosed from Hennepin Avenue and surrounded by trees. On the other side of the courtyard you’ll find THE Gallery, which has rotating exhibitions by both Minnesota-based and international artists. You’ll also want to sneak down into the Library Lounge bar for quiet conversations.

The hotel rooms are also furnished with contemporary art designs, while the bathrooms’ showers offer a kind of mini-spa where you feel like you are walking into a rain forest. The heated floors are also a nice flourish.

The St. James Hotel has a stately presence along the Mississippi River. Walking along the river bank, look up to see its majestic building and sign welcoming visitors.

Enter this historic hotel, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and you’ll find all-inclusive hospitality, with two restaurants, a spa, a gift shop, a salon and more.

The hotel once served Red Wing’s thriving wheat economy. Built in the 1870s, its ornate Italianate design beckons you into to its grandeur. The red carpet is rolled out for you to hold your companion’s hand through its decorous hallways.

The rooms, furnished with antique furniture and patterned wallpaper, feel homey and pleasant.

For meals, the fancier basement restaurant is the place to go for a full-course affair, but Jimmy’s on the fifth floor has a knockout beer list, a fresh menu, and a fantastic view of downtown Red Wing. St. James also offers room service, an essential amenity for a romantic weekend.

Stillwater is a quaint location for a romantic trip. The downtown area, where Historic Water Street Inn is located, invites an arm-in-arm stroll through the historic architecture, with its many shops, restaurants and attractions, including the St. Croix Lift Bridge.

The hotel itself has Victorian design and decor, darkened lighting that will get you in the mood and historic photographs that give you a sense of the hotel’s history.

Meanwhile, soak in the romance at Charlie’s Restaurant, whether you’re feeling the breeze from the St. Croix River on the patio or listening to Irish music indoors. The food is casual, but well prepared with fresh ingredients.

Stone Mill Hotel & Suites provides peaceful, quiet and relaxing time with your companion in the artsy Lanesboro, surrounded by bluffs and valleys. It has the warmth of a bed & breakfast with the additional amenities of a hotel in the darling town.

The hotel offers a variety of room options, so take your pick between rooms with double whirlpool jacuzzis, fireplaces, king size beds or lofts. During the day, you’ll enjoy hiking or bicycling, especially around the Root River State Trail and in Amish country, as well as checking out the celebrated Commonwheel Theatre.

Let spectacular nature be the backdrop of your vacation at Afton House Inn, nearby many exploring opportunities in Afton State Park.

The Inn is one of Minnesota’s oldest bed and breakfast establishments, and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Food lovers will relish in the delights of the Current Restaurant or the decadent Swirl Wine Bar, with an ever-changing menu of wines from all over the world. Healthy options abound with innovative vegetables dishes and decadent accents, like duck confit eggs Benedict, gouda fondue or scrumptious truffle fries.

Once a mansion owned by a wealthy lumber baron, Rivertown Inn is now open for guests, where you and your special someone get to enjoy the height of refinement.

You’ll feel like you’re stepping into the 19th century in this lush Inn, where each room draws inspiration from a different classic work of literature. Surrounded by antique decor, choose from rooms that include live-flame gas fireplaces and private spa baths.

Breakfast is a marvelous affair here, and the Inn also serves up small bites, aromatic cheeses, and fine wines later in the day.

You’ll feel like you are in a world apart from everyday life, which is part of its charm. However, you are in fact only a few blocks from downtown Stillwater, which also offers diverting places to visit and see.

The turn-of-the-century Victorian Alexander Mansion has been carefully restored to its former magnificence. Each room has been adorned with historical details, like period antiques, wood fireplaces, bookshelves and European linens. Add classical music and complimentary Bailey’s Irish Cream and chocolate for dinner, and it adds up to a memorable experience.

Meanwhile, you’re surrounded by the serene setting of Southeastern Minnesota in Winona, and the mansion sits near the Mississippi River. So whether you want to relax indoors or do some walking with your love, this is a great place for romance.