Celebrate 20 Years of BringFido! $20 off a $250+ pay-now hotel rate with promo code PAWTY

BringFido's Ruff Guide to Minnesota

Posted 7/26/2021 by Jason Halliburton • Suggest an edit

Thinking of hanging with your Husky on a trip to Minnesota? If so, he’s one lucky dog. The editors at BringFido have dedicated themselves to digging up the dog-friendliest things to do in the North Star State, as well as the rest of the country. And we've assembled it all in the latest edition of our book, Ruff Guide to the United States.

Now in its second edition, the book features over 365 of the best places to stay and play with your dog in all 50 states. Order your copy today and save 50% off the retail price when you use the discount code DULUTH.

For a preview of the book, here are a few of our editors' top picks for dog-friendly things to do in Minnesota:

Snow Hikes, Kayaking and Fishing with Fido

Grand Marais, MN

“I would help, but I don’t have a doggy paddle.” Photo by @stlclimber

No matter the season, treat your canine companion to a Northwoods adventure at Gunflint Lodge, located 40 miles up the Gunflint Trail from the dog-friendly town of Grand Marais. In the warmer months, snag a trophy walleye on a guided fishing trip, rent a pontoon boat to explore Gunflint Lake at your leisure, or take advantage of the resort’s free use of canoes and kayaks. Pups are also welcome to play in the sand and cool off with a swim in the lake. In winter, the lodge offers a dog-friendly ski trail for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Hiking trails are open year-round, and reservations can be made for a dog hike with a naturalist guide. Plan your visit during one of the popular ‘Dog Lover’s Weekends’ when the lodge offers classes and seminars geared toward man’s best friend. At the end of the day, enjoy sunset views and dinner with your furry friend on the patio of the resort’s lakeside restaurant.

Your dog-tired pup won’t have far to walk after your day of adventure in the Minnesota Northwoods. Gunflint Lodge offers a variety of pet-friendly accommodations to keep you warm at night. Standard cabins feature wood-burning fireplaces, plush bedding, and kitchenettes. For a budget-friendly experience, rent one of the rustic Voyageur cabins, which offer four individual bunks and shared bathroom facilities (bring your own sleeping bags and towels).

Discover Minneapolis’ Marvelous Parks and Gardens

Minneapolis, MN

“This photo is the cherry on top of my vacation!” Photo by @lucyloutherescuedog

Dogs are welcome to join their owners as they tour the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, located in a lovely 11-acre park setting on the Walker Art Center campus. Snap a pic of your pup by the iconic “Spoonbridge and Cherry” by artists Claes Oldenburg and his wife, Coosje van Bruggen. For a more enriching experience, download this free self-guided tour before you go. After indulging Fido’s artsy side, let him run wild at Minnehaha Park. The largest off-leash park in the city features lots of wooded trails and even a beach along the Mississippi where your pooch can go for a swim.

Spend the night at Hyatt Centric Downtown Minneapolis, and take an evening stroll with your best friend to nearby Lakes & Legends Brewing Company to sample craft beer in their VIP (Very Important Paws) area. Bowls, treats, beds, and crates are available upon request.

Ready for a Road Trip?

Photo by Linda Segerfeldt

If this Ruff Guide to Minnesota preview left your dog drooling for more, we hope you check out our new book - Ruff Guide to the United States. Remember to use discount code DULUTH to save 50% on your copy. Happy Travels!