The North Shore of Lake Superior is one of the most scenic places in Minnesota – and for a good reason. Between the lush forests of cedar and firs to the jagged rock outcroppings nestled along the shore of the lake, the North Shore is truly a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and their pets.
There’s plenty of wonderful sights to explore here. Not only will you have an abundance of hiking trails to walk with Fido, but you’ll also have ample opportunities to get out onto the lake. Kayaking, canoeing, and boating are just a few water-based activities that you can enjoy on Lake Superior.
For this reason, it’s no surprise that Minnesota is a popular destination for pet owners, which is why we put together this list of pet-friendly lodging in North Shore MN. Whether you’re looking to spend a week in a rustic, country-style cabin or a long weekend in an upscale waterfront villa, we know that there’s a rental for every taste, style, and budget.
1. Chic Architectural Home in Desirable Grand Marais Neighborhood
Fees: None listed.
Policies: Dogs must be crated if left unattended. No dogs on the furniture without a fresh blanket. Dogs must be kept on a leash in the neighborhood at all times.
Fence: No.
Built by the famed Minnesota Nordic architect David Salmela, this sleek Airbnb is one of our favorite homes in the North Shore. This 1 bedroom 1 bathroom home is completely detached, which makes it much more spacious than it initially seems. There are small architectural details throughout the home, including the Douglas fir ceiling, the modern slate floors, and original artwork crafted from North Shore locals.
In addition to the bedroom, you’ll have a private work area, a wood-burning fireplace, and a full-size washer and dryer. From the living room, you’ll have sweeping views of the Lake Superior harbor and beach, which draws in a lot of natural light. While the home is cozy enough never to want to leave, we recommend stepping outdoors to the dry-stacked bluestone private patio, where you can enjoy the fresh, salty breeze every morning.
2. Luxury Home with Private Pebble Beach Access
Fees: None listed.
Policies: None listed.
Fence: No.
This stunning North Shore home is luxury at its finest. Perched on a small hill steps away from the shore, you’ll be treated to unobstructed views of the water from almost every single room. You can access the lake by a private staircase, which takes you to your very own pebble beach, where you can enjoy the surroundings in complete privacy. As you make your descent towards the shore, you’ll see berry patches, wildflower bushes, and even a small babbling creek.
With 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, this lakeside home can comfortably sleep up to 8 guests. From the locally handcrafted furnishings to the relaxing heated floors, you can tell that the owners spared no expense when it came to building this home. We know you and your pet will enjoy your stay here with access to the beach, the woods, and plenty of winding nature trails to explore, right outside your front door!
3. Scandinavian-Style Cabin on Caribou Lake with Private Sauna House
Fees: None listed.
Policies: None listed.
Fence: No.
Calling all design lovers! This stunning 3 bedroom 3 bathroom rental is the perfect mix between traditional and modern, with sophisticated touches of Scandanavian influences scattered throughout. Enjoy the views from the floor to ceiling cathedral ceilings in the master bath, or snuggle up by the ultra-chic fireplace in the great room. Or head to the sauna house, which is located in its own building on the property, for a relaxing evening of pampering.
Located right on Caribou Lake, you’ll feel completely secluded with nothing but mother nature surrounding you. You’ll wake up every morning to the chirping of birds and fall asleep to the sound of rustling trees outside your window. The owners have graciously provided canoes for your stay, so you go for a short paddle right from the private dock. When it comes to beautiful cabins in North Shore, this cozy cabin just can’t be beaten.
4. Duplex Apartment Next to Shopping and Nature
Fees: None listed.
Policies: None listed.
Fence: No.
Sleep in the heart of all the action when you stay at this adorable 1 bedroom duplex in Two Harbors. This Airbnb sits one block from the bustling 7th ave, where you’ll find a plethora of shops, restaurants, and cafes. You’re also within walking distance of the lake, as well as 15 minutes to Gooseberry Falls and 35 minutes to the dog-friendly Tettegouche State Park.
The home itself has been tastefully updated and decorated with modern decor and high-quality furnishings. And when you come back from an afternoon of outdoor adventure, you’ll have a TV and high-speed internet to keep you entertained. It might be hard to decide between vibrant village life and serene natural surroundings, but with this duplex, you won’t have to!
5. Adorable Cabin Studio for 2 or 4 People
Fees: $20 fee per stay.
Policies: Pets must be approved beforehand.
Fence: No.
This quaint, colorful cabin has an open floorplan, making it the perfect place to stay for a couple or small family. Originally built in 1927, this charming studio was completely updated a few years ago, with all new wiring, plumbing, and top of the line furnishings. Inside the cabin, you’ll find a Queen sized bed, a kitchen with bar seating, and a living area with a TV and pull-out sleeper sofa.
We love the rustic touches, including the free-standing gas fireplace and the bonfire ring in the backyard. In our opinion, there’s nothing cozier than snuggling up to a crackling fire in the middle of the woods with your pup by your side. There’s also a gas grill located on the deck so that you can enjoy an evening BBQ with your guests and pets. While it may not be the most spacious vacation rentals, this Minnesota cabin is guaranteed to be the perfect setting for a couple or small family.
6. Refurbished Country Cabin Near Cascade River State Park
Fees: None listed.
Policies: Dogs must be crated if left unattended. No dogs on the furniture without a blanket.
Fence: No.
If you’re looking for a quiet, rural escape away from the hustle and bustle of city life, then look no further than The Hawk cabin. Centrally located in between Lutsen and Grand Marais, this rustic is nestled between towering trees and dense forest. You’ll get to enjoy the brisk fog of the morning sunrise as well as the twinkling stars of the evening right from your front porch. And if you’re in the North Shore for some outdoor adventure, you’ll be happy to know that the Cascade River State Park hiking trails are just minutes from home.
Inside, you’ll find 2 bedroom and 1 bathroom, which can easily sleep you, Fido, and five of your closest friends or family members. The modern kitchen and bathroom have been refurbished, although there are still rustic touches like rocking chairs, paneled-walls, and a wood-burning stone fireplace. In the back, you’ll find a fire pit where you can roast marshmallows under the beautiful night sky.
7. Rustic-Chic, Dog-Friendly Cabin Next Door by Lake Superior
Fees: None listed.
Policies: Dogs must be crated if left unattended. No dogs on the furniture without a blanket.
Fence: No.
This historic 1930s cottage makes the perfect home for anyone craving a bit of peace and quiet. Here, Mother Nature reigns supreme with the tree-lined forests and lakeside shores greeting you right outside your front door. The lake is so close that you can even crack open the windows and hear the rumbling of waves. There are also numerous hiking and walking trails nearby, so you and your pet can enjoy a day of fresh air without ever leaving the property.
This 1 bedroom 1 bathroom home has a separate Queen-sized bed and pull-out sofa, which can accommodate up to four guests. The country-style kitchen has everything you need to whip up your favorite meal, while the cozy wood-burning stone fireplace in the living room is the perfect place to cuddle up with your four-legged friend. And for entertainment, you’ll also find board games, books, and puzzles at your disposal.
8. Charming Studio Cabin with Wood-Burning Stone Fireplace
Fees: None listed.
Policies: Dogs must be crated if left unattended. No dogs on the furniture without a blanket.
Fence: No.
The Little Loon Cottage is one of our favorite places for travelers visiting the North Shore. This charming home was built in the 1930s and is littered with nostalgic furnishings everywhere you look. The exposed wood beams on the vaulted ceiling and the wood-burning stone fireplace are just a few features that make this cabin especially cozy. Keep in mind that the floorplan is an open studio, so it only has enough space for a solo traveler or couple.
Location wise, the cabin is located next to many scenic attractions, including Lake Superior and Cascade River State Park. But if you don’t mind snuggling up for a long weekend, we guarantee that spending a few nights in this charming abode will be one of the most memorable experiences you’ll have on the North Shore.
More Pet-Friendly Stays Nearby
- 14 Rustic, Pet-Friendly Lake George Cabins
- 16 Awesome, Pet-Friendly Airbnb Cabins in Pennsylvania
- 10 Rustic, Pet-Friendly Airbnb Cabins in West Virginia
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