Let’s be honest—Lake Superior kind of does its own thing. One minute it’s all blue skies and sunshine, the next it’s rolling in with mist, fog, and a little drama. But honestly? A rainy day on the North Shore can be just as good (maybe better) than a sunny one. It’s the perfect excuse to slow down, stay in, and soak up a different kind of cabin magic.
Here are a few of our favorite ways to enjoy a rainy day at (or near!) Island View Resort:
1. Let the Cabin Be the Main Event
When the rain starts to fall, there’s nothing better than settling in and getting cozy. Throw on your comfiest clothes, make a warm drink, and enjoy the sound of raindrops on the roof. If it’s just a light sprinkle, grab a blanket and a mug of coffee and sit on the porch—it’s seriously peaceful.
A lot of our cabins have full kitchens, screened porches, and spots to sprawl out with a good book or a board game. Bring snacks, a deck of cards, or just take a well-deserved nap. No schedule, no rush—just you, the lake, and a little downtime.
2. Cook Something Cozy
Rainy days are perfect for comfort food. Every cabin has a full kitchen, so it’s easy to whip up something warm and simple. Make a pot of soup, throw together a grilled cheese, or bake something sweet if you packed the ingredients.
If you’re the type to plan ahead, bring supplies for a “cabin dinner night”—sheet pan nachos, baked mac and cheese, chili, or maybe even a cast iron skillet cookie for dessert. Nothing fancy, just good food and a cozy vibe.
And if the rain’s just a light sprinkle or takes a break? Fire up the grill or cook something over the fire pit. Foil packet meals, campfire chili, or toasted marshmallows hit different when you’re surrounded by the sound of the lake and fresh air.
3. Explore Local Shops & Galleries
Not into sitting still all day? No problem. Rainy days are great for checking out some of the local spots nearby:
- 47 Degrees Art Gallery (Knife River): Local art, handmade gifts, and a laid-back atmosphere. It’s close by and perfect for a slow wander.
- Russ Kendall’s Smoke House: Grab some smoked fish or local snacks to bring back to your cabin.
- Shops in Two Harbors: Look for books, antiques, gifts, or souvenirs. Don’t miss Cedar Coffee Company if you need a warm-up.
Or hop in the car and head into Duluth—Canal Park is extra charming when the weather turns moody. Hit a few galleries, sip something hot at a café, and enjoy the lake views from under your umbrella.
4. Take a Rainy Day Drive
Just because the skies are gray doesn’t mean your day has to be! Throw on some good tunes, pour yourself a thermos of coffee or cocoa, and go for a scenic cruise along Highway 61. The lake is seriously something else when it’s moody—think foggy trees, crashing waves, and that wild, untamed vibe.
Some favorite detours if you’re up for a little adventure:
- Split Rock Lighthouse – The lighthouse against a foggy sky? Pretty unforgettable. The waves below get wild when it rains.
- Gooseberry Falls – Less foot traffic and even more water flowing over the rocks. Bring a raincoat and go for it!
- Tettegouche State Park – The visitor center’s a good rainy-day stop, or just chill in the car and watch the lake do its thing.
5. Make It an Indoor Day to Remember
Rainy days are perfect for slowing down and having some low-key fun inside. Play a board game, work on a puzzle, sketch something, or write in a journal. Got kids? Build a blanket fort, have a movie night with popcorn, or make a game out of spotting things around the cabin.
Feeling creative? Pick up some supplies in Duluth or Two Harbors and have your own little “art night.” Paint a lake scene, make something with driftwood—just let the creativity flow.
6. Grab a Warm Drink and a Sweet Treat
There’s nothing like a cozy café when the rain is falling. Head into town and find something warm, sweet, and comforting:
- Cedar Coffee Company – Tucked back in the trees in Two Harbors. Good coffee, great baked goods, and a relaxed vibe.
- Duluth Coffee Company – A little more urban, but super cozy. Plus, they roast their own beans!
- Great! Lakes Candy Kitchen – This one’s a must, no matter the weather. It’s just a short walk from the resort, and the homemade fudge, caramels, and turtles are totally worth it.
7. Do… Nothing at All
One of the best parts of a rainy day? It kind of gives you permission to just be. Sit by the window. Watch the mist roll across the lake. Listen to the rain. Take a nap, stretch out, breathe deep, and let yourself slow down. This kind of quiet is hard to find—and that’s what makes it so special.
Let the Rain Work Its Magic
Rain might not be what you pictured for your North Shore trip, but trust us—it’s not a bad thing. Whether you stay in and get cozy or explore from the car, a rainy day brings its own kind of magic. And here at Island View Resort, you’re in the perfect place to enjoy it.
