For "Minnesota Nice," Follow Me To Grand View Lodge Spa & Golf Resort

Okay, picture this—you know that iconic movie "Dirty Dancing" with the dreamy 1960s lake resort vibe? That's literally Grand View Lodge Spa & Golf Resort, but make it luxury. Nestled in the tiny town of Nisswa, Minnesota, this place sprawls across 750 gorgeous acres right on the water. Think lawn games, water sports, and that nostalgic summer camp energy—except with a seriously upscale twist. Honestly, people come back year after year, and I totally get why. The memories you make here? They stick with you for a lifetime.

So Minnesota is the land of 10,000 lakes—and I'm not exaggerating, they've got lakes named Christmas Lake, Forget-Me-Not Lake, and even Ice Cracking Lake (how cool is that?!). Anyway, we're heading to the shores of Gull Lake, which is Grand View Lodge's home base. When you spot the sign for Hole-in-the-Day Bay, congrats—you've made it!

Let me paint the scene for you guys: geese casually landing on the lawn, adorable black squirrels darting around the grounds, Adirondack chairs just waiting for you to sink into, and fireplaces that always seem to be crackling away—whether for warmth or just that cozy atmosphere. And the soundtrack? Ravens and crows calling in the background. It's giving pure wilderness retreat, and I'm here for it.

Tip: Grab a complimentary s'mores kit from the front desk the second you check in. Trust me on this one—it sets the whole vibe.

This place has history, you guys. Founded way back in 1916, with the Main Lodge built in 1921, it's grown from a charming retreat into a full-on luxury destination. We're talking dozens of cabins and cottages mixed in with craftsman homes, the 60-room North Hotel (plus the Main Lodge), championship golf, more restaurants than you can count, 2,500 feet of sandy beach right on the lake, and a two-level, full-service spa. Yeah, it's a lot—in the best way possible.

The Main Lodge is the heart and soul of this resort, and it's actually been on the National Registry of Historic Places since 1979. Built from Norway pine right off the property, it's one of the best-preserved examples of early resort log construction you'll find anywhere. And because of its historic designation, they can't just go changing things up—only materials authentic to the early 1900s are allowed. I love that kind of dedication to keeping it real.

The dining scene here is something else—every restaurant is totally unique. Let's start with the Heritage Room (open year-round). Their Grand breakfast is epic: egg dishes, savory meats, French toast, pancakes, fresh-from-the-oven sweet treats that change daily, fruits, cereal... honestly, I couldn't decide what to eat first. It's the kind of morning spread that makes you want to roll out of bed.

Then there's CHAR craft steakhouse (also year-round), and you guys—it does not disappoint. Premium craft steaks, locally-sourced fish, fresh produce, and a wine list that spans both Old and New World vinos plus local picks. Yes, please.

If you're craving something cozy and romantic, Cru (open May through October) feels like stumbling into a French vineyard cellar. There's an intimate wine bar and dining room that just oozes charm. I could've stayed there all evening.

Italian Gardens (May through October) is housed in the cutest little yellow-and-white cottage with lace curtains in the windows—I mean, come on. From savory small plates to hearty sharing platters, the menu takes you on a legit flavor journey through authentic Italian and Sicilian cuisine. I was obsessed.

For a more laid-back, family-friendly vibe, Northwoods Pub (year-round) is where it's at. Tucked in the lower level of the Main Lodge, it's the perfect spot to catch a game, enjoy some chef-inspired dishes, sip local craft brews, and maybe catch some live entertainment. So fun.

On the Rocks (May through September) is the outdoor dining dream. Welcoming patio, cozy fire pits, cascading waterfalls, a chic stone bar... I couldn't help but just breathe it all in. Handcrafted cocktails, shareable appetizers, mouthwatering burgers, and succulent sandwiches—all with stunning views. It's the unwind-in-style spot.

Tanque Verde Cantina (May through September) brings the Southwest straight to the beach, and honestly, I'm not mad about it. Open sunrise to sunset, this is your toes-in-the-sand spot for esquites fritters, street tacos, and Chef Justin's incredible chilaquiles. Beachside tacos? Yes, always.

Over at The Pines Golf Course, Freddy's Sports Grill (year-round) is apparently the best sports bar north of Gull Lake, and I believe it. Eight big screen TVs, pub games, a full-service bar, and seriously tasty fare—try the bacon jam burger paired with the local Castle Cream Ale. You won't regret it.

Tip: Sundays are prime rib night, but here's the thing—they serve it until the slow-smoked meat runs out. So get there early, friends. You've been warned!

Golf lovers, listen up—the resort has two championship courses nestled in some of the most gorgeous forests and wetlands you'll ever see. The Pines offers 27 holes split across the Lakes, Woods, and Marsh nines for variety, while The Preserve's 18 holes are known for elevated tees and tour-speed greens. Honestly, even if you're not a golfer, the scenery alone is worth the walk.

And then there's Glacial Waters Spa—my personal favorite escape. It's consistently ranked as one of the best in the country, and once you step inside, you get why. This dual-level wellness haven has two relaxation lounges, an outdoor jacuzzi, a dry sauna, and the most unique 20-minute Halotherapy treatment. It's the kind of place where you just... exhale.

So this Halotherapy situation? It's basically dry salt therapy in a dedicated room, and it's incredible. Pink-hued Himalayan salt block walls, rock salt flooring, two comfy loungers, and the most restful background music. The benefits are wild—from fighting infection and stress to helping with skin conditions and sleep. It basically detoxes your respiratory system while you just lie there and zen out. I was blown away.

Tip: Ask for Josh Hayes—he's been with Glacial Waters Spa for twenty-one years and he is an absolute master masseuse. Life-changing, honestly.

The Paul Bunyan State Trail stretches more than 100 miles and connects Nisswa with several nearby towns—it's Minnesota's longest paved bike trail. You can bring your own wheels or borrow one from the resort. I loved just pedaling along, taking in the scenery at my own pace.

When it's warm out, there's tennis, sand volleyball, swimming (waterfront pool or the aqua facility—take your pick), paddleboarding, banana boating, kayaking, and pontoon cruises. Oh, and fishing! There are roughly 450 lakes within a 30-mile radius, so yeah, this region is basically angler heaven.

Winter brings its own magic—horse-drawn carriage rides (so dreamy!), sledding, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating, and snowmobiling. Honestly, I'd come back in a heartbeat just for the carriage rides.

The daily activity schedule is always changing, and they've got the most adorable throwback pastimes: paper chain making, biggest splash contests, sidewalk chalk, bingo, Dr. dodgeball, yoga, laser tag... It's like being a kid again, and I was absolutely here for it.

Even with all these activities going on, Grand View Lodge somehow still feels like a hidden sanctuary tucked away in some undiscovered corner of the woods. It's that rare balance of plenty to do but also plenty of space to just be.

Tip: Think about visiting off-peak—winter, spring, or fall instead of summer, and maybe Sundays or Mondays. Some eateries and activities are seasonal, but you'll dodge the crowds and save some cash. Win-win!

As my stay wound down, I just had to give a huge shoutout to those Minnesotan visionaries who saw the magic of this lakes region and built something truly special. Grand View Lodge Spa & Golf Resort is a legacy of leisure, and I'm already dreaming about going back.