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Some fly south for the winter. Some hunker down and stay put. But the Minnesotans who make the most of the snowy season — whether they’re adventuring or just relaxing — know where it’s really at.
The place is none other than Grand Rapids, just a jaunty three-hour drive north of the Twin Cities in Itasca County.
Unlike some places that close up shop for the winter, Grand Rapids is the city that doesn’t hibernate. From snowy outdoor thrills to cozy comforts to luxury shopping and more, this place has it all for anyone who wants to make the most of their winter. Here’s a taste of just some of what’s in store in Grand Rapids this season:
Winter Wonderland Adventure
Skiing and snowmobiling and mountain biking, oh my! If it can be done in the snow, it can be done in Grand Rapids.
SnowmobilingVisit Grand Rapids
Boasting nearly 200 miles of cross-country ski trails, 300 miles of snowmobile trails and 25 miles of mountain bike paths — plus entire forests of snowshoeing opportunities — there’s enough here to keep you busy all winter.
Check out the Grand Rapids trail map guide for more!
Eat, Drink, & Be Merry
Never underestimate the great indoors in Grand Rapids. With over 50 local eating and drinking spots, Grand Rapids has it all — from rustic to rockin’, from fast eats to fine dining.
Klockow Family DiningVisit Grand Rapids
In 2025 alone two new fine dining restaurants opened up, and there’s no shortage of classic “pub grub” spots, giving visitors a deliciously wide range of options.
Check out all our local restaurant and bars!
Luscious Lodging
From hotels, motels and Bed & Breakfasts to AirBnBs and vacation rentals, there’s so many places to call home during your stay in Grand Rapids. That includes some of the most scenic spots in Minnesota, with countless cabin and home rentals overlooking our stunning frozen lakes. Whether you want to be deep in the wilderness with access to ski trails or you’d prefer to stay closer to town, we’ve got lodging options that fit any family, any budget.
Check out the local lodging options in Grand Rapids!
Winter Night CabinVisit Grand Rapids
Shop ‘til You Drop, Winter Style
Winter Shopping in Grand RapidsVisit Grand Rapids
Locally owned and conveniently located, Grand Rapids boasts a bevy of boutique shops in the beautiful downtown area. From art and fashion to home decor and jewelry and much more, you’ll have no trouble finding what your heart desires in our shopping district.
And you can make a day of it, with close access to even more shopping opportunities in our neighboring towns of Bigfork, Bovey, Coleraine, Deer River, Marcell, Nashwauk, and Pengilly.
See all the stores we’ve got in store!
Local Flavor, Local Fun
Our greatest asset? Arguably our culture. There’s simply no shortage of it in Grand Rapids, with live music, theater, historical attractions and much more to choose from. Catch a show at the state-of-the-art Reif Center, a performing arts venue which hosts more than 40 events a year; check out the MacRostie Art Center, which holds a new art exhibit every month; or take a walk down the Yellow Brick Road at the Judy Garland Museum — to name just a few!
Check out everything going on in Grand Rapids!
Rapids Brewing Live MusicVisit Grand Rapids
No matter what you love doing in the winter, you’ll love doing it in Grand Rapids. Find out more about the entertainment, amenities and lodging options in Minnesota’s favorite winter getaway!
Learn more at VisitGrandRapids.com!
This story was originally published by Bring Me The News on Dec 4, 2025, where it first appeared in the MN Lifestyle section. Add Bring Me The News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.