Cottage House Inn: A Place to Relax, Unplug, and Feel at Home
October 6, 2025
Nestled in the heart of downtown Lanesboro, Minnesota, Cottage House Inn has been a cherished retreat for visitors seeking relaxation and a touch of small-town charm. With a rich history and a legacy spanning three generations, the inn embodies humble beginnings, heartfelt hospitality, and a steadfast commitment to making every guest feel at home.
A Dream Sketched on a Napkin
In the early 1990s, as Lanesboro began attracting more visitors due to the burgeoning popularity of the Commonweal Theatre and the Root River State Trail, the need for additional lodging became evident. Seizing this opportunity, the Bunge family embarked on a venture to create a welcoming inn. The original building plans were famously sketched on a napkin, laying the foundation for what would become one of Lanesboro’s most inviting establishments.
The name "Cottage House" is a tribute to Lanesboro’s past, inspired by a hotel that once stood in town during the late 1800s. While little is documented about the original Cottage House hotel, Lanesboro has long been a destination for travelers, with hospitality deeply woven into its history. During the late 19th century, as railroads brought visitors to the area, hotels and boarding houses sprang up to accommodate them. The current Cottage House Inn, established in 1993, carries forward this tradition, offering a warm and welcoming retreat that reflects the town’s enduring spirit of hospitality.
An Incubator for Lanesboro’s Entrepreneurs
Beyond providing cozy accommodations, The Cottage House Inn has played a pivotal role in nurturing local entrepreneurship. The Bunge family has rehabilitated historic buildings in downtown Lanesboro, transforming them into new opportunities for aspiring business owners. This commitment to economic and social sustainability has fostered a spirit of community and growth, contributing to the town's vibrant and dynamic character.
Their impact goes beyond the inn’s walls—the family has been actively involved in the Lanesboro Area Chamber of Commerce, the Lanesboro Business Promotion Group, and more, for years, doing their part to ensure that Lanesboro and the surrounding area continues to support a strong, thriving local economy.
The inn itself also provides a unique community asset: its meeting room. While designed as a gathering space for groups staying at the inn—ideal for reunions, presentations, and workshops—it also doubles as a community hub. Local organizations and groups regularly use the space for meetings, further reinforcing the inn’s role as both a welcoming retreat for visitors and a cornerstone of community life.
Simple Comforts, Thoughtful Touches
At Cottage House Inn, every detail is designed with comfort and relaxation in mind. The inn offers 13 spotless guest rooms and two spacious suites, each thoughtfully furnished to create a cozy retreat after a day of exploring Lanesboro and the Root River Valley. While the décor is simple and inviting, the emphasis is always on cleanliness, comfort, and a good night’s rest.
Guests can choose from a variety of room options, including family-style accommodations with multiple beds, perfect for group getaways or cycling trips along the Root River State Trail. The inn’s signature touch is its quiet, TV-free environment in most rooms, encouraging visitors to unplug, slow down, and soak in the small-town charm.
Amenities include complimentary Wi-Fi, air conditioning, a welcoming front porch with Adirondack chairs, and a spacious community room ideal for gatherings, games, or simply sharing stories from the day. The inn also provides secure bike storage, making it a favorite among trail riders. From a fresh cup of morning coffee to the chance to watch the world go by from the porch, Cottage House Inn blends the comforts of home with the care and hospitality of a family-run business.
The Cottage House Experience: Relax, Unplug, and Watch the World Go By
In today's fast-paced world, Cottage House Inn offers a sanctuary where guests can slow down and savor life's simple pleasures. The inn's brand is built on relaxation, cleanliness, and comfort, ensuring that every guest feels at ease from the moment they arrive. Visitors can unwind in cozy, spotless rooms, enjoy a quiet morning with a cup of coffee, or sit on the inviting front porch, watching the world go by. The absence of televisions in most rooms encourages guests to unplug and fully immerse themselves in the tranquil surroundings.
Cottage House Inn believes that the best vacations aren't about checking items off a list—they're about feeling at home, even when away. Whether guests are exploring the Root River State Trail, browsing Lanesboro's charming shops, or simply taking a break from the hustle and bustle, Cottage House Inn ensures that every stay is as restful and memorable as possible.
📍 Location
Cottage House Inn
209 Parkway Avenue North
Lanesboro, MN 55949
📞 Contact
Phone: (507) 467-2577
Website: www.cottagehouseinn.com
✨ Come for the charm, stay for the comfort, and leave feeling refreshed—just as it should be.
👉 Book Your Stay Today >>