Location: Grand Marais
Top Things to do in Grand Marais
10 Free Things to do in Grand Marais That You Shouldn't Miss
Grand Marais is a city in Cook County, Minnesota, United States. It is a northern village located on the shores of Lake Superior, and a vibrant, bustling town. The population was 1,351 at the 2010 census. It is also the county seat and sole municipality of Cook County. Prior to inhabitation by white settlers and prior to Minnesota’s statehood, Grand Marais was inhabited by the Anishinaable indigenous people, the thriving woodland people also known as the Ojibwe. The Ojibwe name for the area is Gichi-biitoobiig, which means "great duplicate water," "parallel body of water" or "double body of water" (like a bayou), a reference to the two bays which form the large harbor off Lake Superior.
Restaurants in Grand Marais
1. Grand Portage State Forest
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 261 reviews
Located northwest of Lake Superior, this area offers camping, hiking, cross-country skiing and dogsledding.
Reviewed By BCSunflower777 - Chanhassen, United States
The short walk to High Falls is lovely--and the view at the end is spectacular. After driving to the top of Minnesota, why wouldn't you stop to see this? As the highest waterfall in Minnesota, it is a magnificent natural beauty and mesmerizing as most waterfalls are. The visitor center is clean and well maintained, too, with a nice gift shop and interpretive displays about Ojibwe culture. The 1/2 mile trail is paved and has very little elevation gain, making it accessible to nearly everyone.
2. Birchbark Books and Gifts
3. Gunflint Mercantile
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 60 reviews
Grand Marais' Candy and Fudge Shop! Made-from-scratch Fudge, Truffles, Turtles, Peanut Butter Cups and Soup mixes, Retro Candy, Candy Cigarettes, Ice cream, Souvenirs and much more. Stop in for FREE Samples!!
Reviewed By 408randyv - Tofte, United States
Her handmade turtles and wolf-paws are the best add-on present you could hope for (but buy extra cause you'll want some for yourself!). Her fudge is superb as well and the whole place has that classic candy shop feel that makes you want to hang out (and have some ice cream). We send this as presents to our friends around the country and they can't stop raving and wanting more. Located in what was voted the "Coolest Small Town in the United States" this is not to be missed!
4. Artists Point
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 23 reviews
Reviewed By karensSouthernIN - New Albany, United States
I thought this was an artsy place to shop until we got there and found out it’s more for climbing, walking, and enjoying the scenery!! We loved it. We climbed all over the rocks & took tons of pix. You could spend a couple of hours climbing or just sitting on a rock and watching the waves rol in. We walked to the lighthouse at the other end too. There’s also a rocky beach to enjoy if you like. There is a good-sized parking lot with free parking and there is no cost to visit this place. Highly recommend it!
5. Honeymoon Bluff
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 27 reviews
Reviewed By 92lisab
A bit of a hike, but so worth the steps to reach the summit! You can see a wide vista, birds, bees, wild flowers, lakes, feel the fresh breeze and just simply experience nature in it's finest
6. Dockside Fish Market
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 29 reviews
7. Lake Superior Trading Post
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 71 reviews
Our store is located on Lake Superior's rugged and beautiful north shore in Minnesota. The harbor of Grand Marais sits outside our door. We offer a variety of quality clothing and footwear as well as exclusive gifts, books, maps, camping gear, knives, toys, candy, candles, jewelry and much more. If you're in the area, make it a point to walk through our doors. We will greet you with a welcoming smile and offer any assistance you may need. Open year round, 7 days a week.
Reviewed By TravelingGuyfromDC - Washington DC, United States
I’ve been coming here for 30 years and it’s still one of my favorites. They have a great assortment of gifts that are always high quality and unique. They also have quality gear for the outdoors that is fairly priced. The service is always superb.
8. Grand Marais Art Colony
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 35 reviews
Nestled in the harbor-side village of Grand Marais, Minnesota, with direct access to Lake Superior and the BWCA wilderness, the Art Colony is a gateway for people to explore their creativity in a nurturing atmosphere. The Art Colony supports artists and creative seekers at every step of their creative journey from novice to professional artist through a variety of educational opportunities. With over 200 classes, artist talks, family-friendly activities, artist services (including residencies and studio access), and artist-driven community events.
9. Pincushion Mountain Trail System
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 71 reviews
Reviewed By CelticHeather - Saint Paul, United States
Our hosts gave us a route through the park that was a bit off the usual mapped route. Rock face was a bit challenging but worth it for the view.
10. Drury Lane Books
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 22 reviews
Hand-curated selection of new books, quaint storefront on the East Bay of Lake Superior in Grand Marais, MN. Author events, full moon readings, and kid's story hour. Open year around.
Reviewed By Lisa1098 - Minnesota, United States
Great independent bookstore with a large variety. Friendly helpful Staff. This is a must stop every time in town!
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