How to spend one day in Grand Marais MN

How is Grand Marais even in Minnesota?? We visited Grand Marais MN for the first time last weekend and I’M SO IN LOVE!

When you walk around town, there’s a few signs that say things like “the coolest small town in MN” and they’re absolutely right. This town is located right on the harbor and is sure to wow you with its uniqueness! Here’s how to spend one day in Grand Marais MN. And if you want to know the best places to stop on your way up the North Shore, make sure to check out my post all about it here!

Start your day at World’s Best Donuts

I’m pretty sure the name of this place says it all, but if there’s going to be a line anywhere in this small town, it’s going to be at World’s Best Donuts. The donuts here aren’t elaborate, but they do the basics so well. Think the best Bavarian cream or sugar donut you’ve ever had. I, however, spotted the donut kebab and had to try it – so good and so cheap!

Shop local makers at the Cook County Market

The Cook County Market takes place every Saturday in the summer from 9 -1 pm. Just follow the signs downtown to find it. Here you’ll find artists, crafters, and local makers from the area who are selling things like pottery, vintage clothes, jewelry, and decor. I’m a sucker for markets like this and I even picked up this awesome North Shore necklace. The lady who sells them doesn’t have any online presence, so you can only buy them here!

Find unique art at Joy and Co

If the market isn’t open or if you’re still looking for some unique local art and antiques, stop by Joy and Co. I could have spent hours in this store searching around for fun pieces – there’s so much to look at!

Grab taco mac and cheese at Hungry Hippie Tacos

Tacos on Minnesota’s North Shore? Yep! And they’re amazing! At Hungry Hippie Tacos, you order by the taco ($6.50 per taco) and one is good per person. They’re big and are made with homemade warm, crunchy shells and chipotle sour cream. If you’re up for a few sides to share, get the elote and the taco mac and cheese. Think nachos, but instead of tortilla chips, it’s mac and cheese!

Shop Northwoods modern at UpState MN

My favorite store in Grand Marais is UpState MN. I love modern pieces and seriously could have bought everything in this store! Come here for trendy pieces, like jewelry and decor, and make sure to pick up a little National Parks journal – so cute!

Find a print at The Big Lake

The Big Lake = Lake Superior in case you’re wondering. And this shop is all about it! Come to The Big Lake to find prints of all sizes from different local artists around the state.

Try homemade fudge and candy at Gunflint Mercantile

The Gunflint Mercantile is a busy spot! It feels like you’re in an old time candy store with all the fudge, ice cream, and candy they serve. You can buy gifts here too like these cute Paul Bunyan mugs! NEED.

Have a treat with a view at Sydney’s Frozen Custard

Grand Marais doesn’t get much better than eating frozen custard and looking over Lake Superior. Sydney’s Frozen Custard is on spot that can’t be missed, and it even has wood fire pizza! Make sure to head upstairs to the rooftop to get the best views of the lake while enjoying your food – it’s my favorite!

Skip rocks on the beach

Lake Superior might be the best place in the state for skipping rocks. The flat rocks that are prime for skipping are so easy to find on the beach! We were lucky to visit on a perfect day where the water was like glass so we spent some time taking in the view and having a rock-skipping competition 🙂

Walk to Artist’s Point

For the most amazing views and terrain in Grand Marais, if not the North Shore, take the walk out to Artist’s Point. This is one of my all time favorite things to do in Grand MA The entrance is right in the middle of town and you can get there from the beach. The rocks are so unique and the water is insanely clear. Again, I find myself wondering how this amazing landscape is in Minnesota. Definitely a must do!!

Take a beer break at Voyageur Brewing

One stop we had to do while in Grand Marais was Voyageur Brewing. Order a flight, some food, or a few pints like we did! If you head to the rooftop you’ll have awesome views of town and the lake. Great beer and great views – what more could you ask for!

Eat local fish at Angry Trout Cafe

Wrap up your day in Grand Marais with dinner at Angry Trout Cafe which offers locally sourced food. I ordered the fish and chips which comes with waffle fries and homemade tartar sauce. The trout sandwich is also awesome! Sit outside if you can – the views of the harbor are so pretty! Be advised that they don’t take reservations, but you can grab a glass of wine while you wait!

Explore the North Shore

Looking for more to explore near Grand Marais on Minnesota’s North Shore? Read my post on all my favorite stops along the way here. From hikes, to black sand beaches, to good food and drinks – the North Shore is one of my favorite place in Minnesota and shouldn’t be driven right through.

Grand Marais has officially stolen a piece of my heart. If you’re looking for more ideas of things to do, my friend Lizanne from Lizanne Lately wrote a post about Grand Marais too. She visits on a regular basis and we love to do the same things, so I’m sure you’ll love it! 

Visit my Minnesota page for more ideas for day trips around Minnesota!