A legendary Minnesota resort just made waves nationwide, landing a coveted spot among the top five resorts in the entire Midwest. With nearly a century of lakeside charm and luxury, this classic getaway is proving it still sets the gold standard for relaxation in the North Star State.
After taking a hit during the pandemic back in 2020, Minnesota's hospitality industry has started to rebound, though challenges still exist. In the five years since those shutdowns, the Gopher State now has over 2,040 hotels and motels, according to industry data from IBISWorld.
And, of course, the Land of 10,000 Lakes is famous for its classic resorts, as well. According to data from the Minnesota Department of Revenue, the Gopher State is home to 646 resorts in 2020, down from the massive 1,387 that were in operation back in 1985.
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These businesses add a lot to Minnesota's economy. The hotel industry in Minnesota is projected to reach a market size of $2.8 billion by the end of 2025, employing around 19,840 individuals, according to this SC Times story.
But only one of those resorts has just been singled out by the noted travel site, Conde Nast-- again-- as being one of the Top 5 Resorts in the Midwest: Madden's on Gull Lake, located near Brainerd, Minnesota.
Here's what Conde Nast had to say about Madden's on Gull Lake:
Located on the Gull Lake shoreline two hours from the Twin Cities, Madden's golf courses, gardens, and water activities are a draw for family vacationers. With four golf courses, five swimming pools, three beaches and a lakeside spa, there's plenty of sports and water activities for the whole family.
Madden's also offers three different restaurants, as well. And, even though this is the fifth year in a row Madden's has made this list, it isn't the only list it's landed on; U.S. News and World Report also ranked Madden's as the number-one resort in the Bold North for 2025 as well.
Madden's is a seasonal resort, operating April through October, and is just finishing its 96th season in business! The classic resort first opened back in 1929 as a 'Northwoods golf course and modest hotel,' its website says.
As we noted, Madden's is located on Gull Lake, one of the more well-known of Minnesota's over 10,000 Lakes. But do you know just *which* of those lakes have the most common names in the state? (Hint: There are a *lot* of Mud Lakes in Minnesota!) Keep scrolling to check out the rest!