6 Best Hostels in Minnesota

The land of 10,000 lakes, Minnesota, beckons us budget travelers with its wild northern forests and vibrant urban neighborhoods. What’s more, it has a warmth that defies its famously frigid winters. When it comes to staying on a budget, a great hostel can make all the difference, and hostels in MN turn a good trip into an unforgettable one. Gone are the days of dingy dorms and lukewarm showers. When we headed to Minnesota, the best hostels in the state blended affordability with genuine character, offering a host of features that made our stay as comfortable as it was memorable. Right from communal kitchens that buzz with travel stories to cozy common rooms perfect for staying in on cold evenings, Minnesota’s hostels truly impressed us.

Of course, the cherry on top was the staff, who knew every hidden gem that even the guidebooks had missed. From the buzzy streets of the Twin Cities to the rugged shores of Lake Superior, these welcoming pit stops attract solo adventurers, road-tripping couples, and curious wanderers from every corner of the globe. So, whether you’re a first-time backpacker pinching pennies or a seasoned traveler who simply values community over luxury, Minnesota’s hostel scene delivers outstanding value without sacrificing comfort or soul. Pack your layers, embrace the Minnesota nice, and let the adventure begin.

Vermilion Park Inn, Soudan

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We begin with the Vermilion Park Inn in Soudan, a rather different take on a hostel. This rare find in Minnesota’s Iron Range is an affordable and welcoming lodging option near the shores of Lake Vermilion. So, it was the perfect base for us to go fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and snowmobiling in winter.

On the inside, we loved the relaxed and unpretentious atmosphere, which paired beautifully with the lush gardens outside. In fact, the gardens are where we’d enjoy complimentary continental breakfasts in the mornings when the weather was nice. On the inside, we were connected all the time, thanks to the free Wi-Fi. It also helped us explore what we could see and enjoy the next day in the region. When it came to the rooms, we had the choice of single and double rooms, all of which came with interconnected and shared bathrooms. Not only were they air-conditioned and with garden views, but they also had TVs, wardrobes, and carpeted floors. What more could we ask for?

The Hungry Hippie Farm & Hostel, Grand Marais

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Most unique. How would you like to stay in a hostel-farm in what is called the  “Coolest Small Town in America”? Welcome to the Hungry Hippie Farm & Hostel, one of the most distinctive and memorable places we’ve ever stayed in! Tucked just outside the artistic harbor town of Grand Marais, this working farm and hostel blended sustainable living with genuine backpacker hospitality.

We had a wide variety of choices when it came to the cozy accommodations, including the campground, the bunkhouse queen suite, and the private rooms. Two-and-a-half shared, but impeccably clean, bathrooms ensured that we were extremely comfortable. However, we loved the communal areas and activities more than anything else. This included the primitive kitchenette, the cozy lounge, and the farm life — collecting eggs, helping tend the garden, and enjoying communal meals made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. So, if you’re looking for an authentic, off-the-beaten-path Minnesota experience, this hostel is hard to beat.

Swedetown European Style Hostel by Heirloom Boutique Collection, Duluth

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Most luxurious. Swedetown European Style Hostel by Heirloom Boutique Collection in Duluth is part of the Boutique Collection by Heirloom. The brand has a bunch of restored Duluth properties under their wind that pair local history with easy, modern comfort. So, whether you stay in an industrial loft or a grand mansion, every stay feels welcoming and personal. Staying at the Swedetown European Style Hostel was no different, as it was different from your typical hostel offerings. Since it was part of the Heirloom Boutique Collection, it was a thoughtfully designed, European-influenced, and aesthetically pleasing budget accommodation in Duluth.

The property featured carefully curated interiors, highly comfy beds, and an overall ambiance that felt more like a boutique guesthouse than a standard dormitory setup. We had the choice of multiple rooms, which featured single, twin, and double beds, making it ideal for us who wanted the social aspects of hostel life but didn’t want to compromise on comfort and style. Moreover, the facilities and amenities were amazing, including the bar, the fitness center, and the sauna. Rounding things up were facilities like the lift and private check-in and check-out services, which greatly enhanced our stay.

Zenith Basecamp, Duluth

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Duluth, Minnesota, is one of the premier destinations for hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, and trail running in the Midwest. And as the name suggests, Zenith Basecamp Hostel is designed for adventure-inspired travelers, with a welcoming community, thoughtful amenities, and curated local experiences. 

On the inside, the hostel has a practical, no-fuss setup with a slew of sound-permeable glamping rooms (no dorms), impeccably clean shared bathrooms, and fast Wi-Fi. What’s more, we were welcomed with snack boxes, a tea/coffee tray with creamer and sugar, fresh towels, and even an all-in-one soap and shampoo kit. Plus, the rooms even had coolers stocked with soda, local beer, and ice.

Downstairs, the hostel was even more fun. The communal kitchenette was where we’d whip up quick meals, which we’d enjoy in the community lounge or other gathering spaces. What’s more, there was even an elevated cocktail and wine bar, which was fantastic for enjoying drinks at the end of the day.

Hostel du Nord, Duluth

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Best urban hostel. We loved staying at the family-owned, locally run Hostel du Nord in downtown Duluth. Since it sat just steps from Canal Park, Lake Superior, we were very centrally located to explore the city. We had the choice of private rooms and dorms, which featured twin and full-size bunk beds. What’s more, every bed came with a secure locker, an outlet, a reading light, and even a privacy curtain. If that wasn’t enough, we all also shared thoughtfully maintained bathrooms, all of which came with private lockable rooms with showers and toilets.

The rest of the hostel was equally amazing. We especially loved the fully stocked communal kitchen, where we could whip up light meals while also mingling with fellow travelers. Moreover, the cozy lounge spaces were also wonderful to hang out in, especially after a long day of exploring the city. Plus, when the weather was cold, the sauna was a welcome change. All in all, affordable rates and a friendly, low-key vibe make this hostel a fantastic choice to stay in Duluth.

The Madison House, Minneapolis

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Best overall. It might be a bit of a frat house, but the Madison House has a home-away-from-home feeling that’s hard to find in a hostel anywhere else. Widely regarded as Minneapolis’s best hostel, the hostel sits in one of the city’s most walkable neighborhoods. So, we were within easy reach of everything, right from the First Avenue live music scene and Uptown’s restaurants and boutiques to the Chain of Lakes trail system.

What’s more, the hostel offered us a lovely mix of dormitory beds and private rooms, making it a solid choice whether you’re a solo backpacker or a budget-conscious couple. Plus, they had a solid collection of room choices, even when it came to private rooms, so what more could we ask for? We especially loved the common areas, which were designed for mingling, with the warm, friendly, and knowledgeable staff making for a reliable source for local travel tips. So, if you’re on a budget and visiting Minneapolis for the first time, this hostel is a fantastic, affordable, and centrally located base with a genuine community feel.

Our Verdict!

Here’s a specialized list of hostels in Minnesota depending on what you’re looking for:

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Where to Stay in Minnesota

Minnesota has a wide variety of travel destinations, including the twin cities of Minneapolis/St. Paul for urban culture and shopping, Duluth for Lake Superior views, and charming small towns like Grand Marais and Lanesboro. We begin with Duluth, which is an excellent choice for those who want to explore Lake Superior and its excellent water-based activities. Next, there are the Twin Cities of Minneapolis & St. Paul, which are ideal for urban travelers looking for culture, diverse dining, and a gorgeous landscape. It’s also home to the Como Zoo, one of the world’s largest zoos.

However, the smaller towns are where the actual charm of Minnesota lies. We’re talking about the charming, artistic harbor town of Grand Marais. It’s also the gateway to the Gunflint Trail, making it ideal for those who love nature and exploring. Next, Lanesboro in the picturesque southeast Minnesota’s bluff country is a historic and peaceful retreat. Finally, there’s the extremely small and unincorporated Soudan, which is a true outdoorsman’s retreat.

Also read: Best Hunting Destinations in the USA.

Where are most of Minnesota’s hostels located?

Hostels are found in urban cities and towns. However, there are even a few in rustic locations, such as the Hungry Hippie Hostel, which sits on a farm outside Grand Marais.

Do Minnesota hostels have kitchens?

Yes, most hostels, including the smaller, rural-setting ones, offer shared kitchenette facilities for guests to prepare their own meals.