White Bear Lake is an idyllic and quick escape from the Minneapolis and St. Paul area, and vacationers will revel in the amount of activities you can do in this lake town.
Nestled in the White Bear Lake area is 7 Vines Vineyard, a romantic and magical setting that exudes Napa Valley vibes, whilst being in the Midwest, that both enchants and transports you as soon as you set foot on the vineyard. This family-owned winery is one of Minnesota’s largest full experience wineries, boasting a sprawling 11 acres of grapes. Come in for a wine tasting and tour, and try their award-winning wines, like the 2021 La Crescent, a dry apricot, white peach wine.
Families love a trip to the local ice cream spot, Cup and Cone, which just celebrated 50 years as a locally-owned family business. Flavors of the day vary from Strawberry Pina Colada to Dairy-Free Pomegranate Dole Whip, or you can share a Sundae, Float, Freeze, or Splash together.
Mizu, which means “water” in Japanese, is in the waterfront entertainment district and is the perfect place to eat dinner. Founded by the same owners who started Acqua, and with outdoor seating and waterfront views of White Bear Lake, the airy and light ambience at Mizu Japanese can’t be beat. The menu lists creative dishes and local favorites, like the Uni Spoon, which includes uni, quail egg, ponzo, and tobiko, and specialty sushi rolls like, the Red Dragon Roll, with shrimp tempura, spicy tuna, and avocado. With fresh ingredients and a flair for creativity, you won’t be disappointed. Don’t forget to order a Leaping Lychee or Koi Cocktail, too.
Across the street from Mizu Japanese, you’ll find laidback, casual Tally’s Dockside. The tiki bar sets the tone for good times with friends and family, with music playing, waterfront views, and delicious drinks and food – no wonder everyone is always in a good mood here. Tally’s celebrates over 80 years in the business with couple Jan and Keith Dehnert, owning it for over 30 years. The couple came to visit White Bear Lake on vacation three decades ago, and never left. Tally’s also hosts guided boat tours with different themes. Wednesdays are Wine & Cheese Night while Thursdays are Craft Beer & BBQ Night. Nothing is more relaxing than a ride in the pontoon boat with the lake breeze in your hair as the sun sets.
Founded in 2009, Big Wood Brewery embraces experimentation while embracing its love for the White Bear Lake. Drink a beer or grab a flight at the outdoor picnic tables. Wheat Bear Lake is a classic wheat bear with a twist, having a lemongrass ginger flavor, or try a Michelada with their Mexican-style lager, Amigo Grande.
Step up the spiral staircase and follow the poised white bear, as you make your way to the local hotspot, Rudy’s Rooftop. With a roaring fireplace on colder nights, this is a place to make memories. The award-winning menu displays an array of light bites and entrees to nosh on, from the large Coconut Shrimp to the Angus Medallions cooked in an iron skillet served with béarnaise sauce, to the buttery Rudy’s Pan-fried Walleye, with cold-water walleye, fresh from Canada.
Locals know to order the generous and tasty Rudytini –a cocktail mixture of raspberry vodka, cranberry juice, and pineapple juice that’s refreshing to taste. Rudy’s Rooftop is conveniently connected to your Best Western Plus White Bear Lake Country Inn; simply take the elevator up to the 3rd floor or ascend the spiral staircase.
Choose your vacation stay at Best Western Plus White Bear Country Inn. Conveniently located in downtown White Bear Lake, near all the shops, theatres, and soft serve ice cream at Cup and Cone, it’s easy to navigate all the fun activities in the area. Come home to your king, jacuzzi suite with a fireplace and sofa bed, for ultimate relaxing. Streaming services give you easy access to all your favorite shows, and complimentary breakfast is served daily, near the indoor pool with Tuscany architecture in the atrium.
Calling all outdoor enthusiasts, foodies, and families – Minnesota is calling, and you must go. The Land of 10,000 Lakes is the perfect playground for your next adventure. Experience “Minnesota Nice” for yourself when you book your stay with Best Western® Hotels & Resorts Minnesota now.