Romance: Best of the Midwest

Your heart can still throb at home too.

February 8, 2009 at 3:55AM
At the Whistle Stop Bed and Breakfast in New York Mills, Minn. The Palace Car was built in 1909 as a club dining car, used by the Northern Pacific R.R. until the 1960s.
At the Whistle Stop Bed and Breakfast in New York Mills, Minn. The Palace Car was built in 1909 as a club dining car, used by the Northern Pacific R.R. until the 1960s. (Star Tribune/The Minnesota Star Tribune)

Can romance blossom without the benefit of Mexican sun or Montreal snow? You betcha. Here are some places that can make your heart throb in the heart of winter.

CANOE BAY, Chetek, Wis.

Tables for two populate the dining room, which overlooks a pristine lake. No children are allowed on this gorgeous plot of land dotted with Frank Lloyd-Wright inspired cottages. Rates start at $350 per night (1-800-568-1995; www.canoebay.com).

GUNFLINT LODGE, Gunflint Trail, Minn.

This Gunflint Trail hideaway offers "romantic cottages," with stone fireplaces, a two-person spa and views of a frozen lake. Cross-country skiing and snowshoes add to the fun. Rates start at $149 per night (1-800-328-3325; www.gunflint.com).

MATTHEW S. BURROWS 1890 INN, Duluth

Beyond Victorian touches such as four-poster beds and clawfoot tubs, this bed-and-breakfast quickens the heart with views of Lake Superior. Rates start at $95 per night (1-218-724-4991; 1-800-789-1890; www.1890inn.com).

WHISTLESTOP BED AND BREAKFAST, New York Mills, Minn.

Old train cars have been tricked out with stained-glass windows and whirlpool tubs at this B&B, where the less adventurous can also find a cozy room in the house. The duo who run the Whistlestop will bring breakfast to your door should you opt to stay in a train car. Rates start at $80 per night (1-800-328-6315; www. whistlestopbedandbreakfast.com).

about the writer

about the writer

Kerri Westenberg

Health and Science Editor

Health and Science Editor Kerri Westenberg edits the Science & Health section of the Sunday newspaper.

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