Winter Magic in Lanesboro: Cozy Adventures & Warm Hospitality at Stone Mill Hotel & Suites
December 15, 2025
When winter settles over the Root River Valley and the bluffs take on their quiet, snow-covered glow, Stone Mill Hotel & Suites becomes one of the coziest destinations in Bluff Country. Located in the heart of downtown Lanesboro, this beautifully restored limestone mill offers warmth, comfort, and history—along with immediate access to the region’s best winter experiences. Snow-dusted streets, festive shop windows, and serene winter trails are all just steps from your suite, making Stone Mill the perfect home base for a winter getaway.
Winter Trails, Scenic Strolls & Outdoor Fun
The Root River State Trail may be a biking haven in warmer months, but in winter it transforms into a peaceful corridor of quiet beauty. With 60 miles of paved trail stretching through the Driftless Region, visitors enjoy:
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Winter walking and snowshoeing through river valleys and wooded bluffs
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Nature photography opportunities with frosted trees and winding river views
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Cross-country skiing on stretches of the trail when there's sufficient snow
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Year-round trout fishing, as the area’s cold-water streams remain open
For those seeking a truly unique winter experience, occasional opportunities for winter paddling arise when conditions allow—offering surreal, still-water views of snow-covered cliffs and forests.
Small-Town Charm, Winter Edition
There’s a special kind of magic that comes with Lanesboro’s winter season. Guests staying at Stone Mill Hotel & Suites can easily stroll through downtown to enjoy:
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Warm drinks and hearty meals in downtown Lanesboro
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Locally owned shops and galleries decorated for the holidays
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Winter performances at Commonweal Theatre Company, just a block away
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Seasonal exhibits at Lanesboro Arts and Driftless Fiber Arts Collective
And right inside the hotel, visitors will find Stone Mill Clothing & Gifts—a charming women’s clothing boutique featuring cozy winter apparel, stylish accessories, jewelry, gifts, and thoughtfully curated items. Whether you’re treating yourself or finding the perfect holiday present, the boutique offers a personal and relaxing shopping experience without ever stepping outdoors.
As evening falls during the holiday season, Sylvan Park glows with holiday lights, and seasonal events—like winter markets, concerts, and festive community gatherings—add warmth and cheer to your visit. For many, wandering Lanesboro after a fresh snowfall becomes a memory worth savoring.
Suites Full of History—And Warmth in Every Season
Stone Mill Hotel & Suites features 13 uniquely themed rooms and suites, each crafted to reflect the history and character of the 1885 limestone mill and its adjoining grain building. From exposed stone walls and reclaimed wood to antique accents and hand-curated décor, every room offers a one-of-a-kind stay—perfect for a cozy winter getaway in Lanesboro, MN.
Whirlpool Suites: The Ultimate Winter Retreat
For guests seeking extra relaxation, Stone Mill’s Whirlpool Suites—including the Crate, Egg, Farm Loft, and Boat Suites—are some of the most popular winter choices. These suites feature:
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King-sized beds
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Double jetted tubs ideal after a snowy walk or day outdoors
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Fireplaces in select suites
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Lofted sitting or sleeping areas (Farm Loft & select others)
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Décor inspired by Lanesboro’s agricultural and milling heritage
These rooms create a warm, intimate atmosphere that’s perfect for couples and winter travelers.
Buffalo Bill Suite: A Frontier Legend Brought to Life
Rich with local history and Western charm, the Buffalo Bill Suite pays tribute to Buffalo Bill’s friendship with Lanesboro’s own Doc Powell—whose collaboration in town helped inspire the very first Wild West Show. This spacious suite includes two inviting sitting areas, a cozy fireplace, kitchenette, private bath, and a king bed in its own private bedroom, along with a private exterior entrance that feels especially convenient in winter.
For larger groups or families, the adjoining Bill’s Bunkhouse can host up to six additional guests, creating a flexible multi-room setup ideal for winter gatherings, retreats, or holiday stays.
Historic Mill & Grain Rooms: Cozy, Character-Rich Comfort
The hotel’s historic Mill Rooms and Grain Rooms highlight the building’s original mill architecture with exposed limestone walls, timber beams, and thoughtful décor that nods to the region’s past. These rooms offer:
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Queen beds
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Private baths
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Warm, inviting design perfect for a peaceful winter retreat
Standard Rooms: Thoughtfully Designed & Full of Charm
Stone Mill’s Standard Rooms—including the Garden, Laundry, Grain, Blue, and Water Rooms—combine comfort with distinctive themed décor. Each includes:
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Private bath
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Cozy bedding
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Unique styling tied to local history
These rooms provide excellent value while preserving the hotel’s signature character.
The Bicycle Suite: A Trail Lover’s Favorite—Even in Winter
Celebrating Lanesboro’s beloved Root River Trail, the Bicycle Suite features fun, trail-inspired décor and a bright, welcoming layout. Even when the bikes are resting for the season, it remains a cheerful, guest-favorite space.
Flexible Options for Groups & Longer Stays
For families or couples traveling together, Stone Mill offers a Family & Guest Room Combination, giving guests extra space and privacy—perfect for multi-day winter vacations, holiday visits, or small-group getaways.
Amenities Designed for Comfort
No matter which room you choose, all guests enjoy:
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Mini-fridge, microwave, and coffee maker
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Free Wi-Fi
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Flat-screen TV
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Select rooms with private entrances or patios
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A continental breakfast each morning
Historic mill details—like grain chutes, original stonework, and mill machinery accents—add authentic charm you won’t find in standard hotels.
Familiar Faces, Renewed Energy
Stone Mill Hotel & Suites is now guided by new owners Annie Kang and Adam McCabe—though for returning guests, Annie’s warm hospitality is far from new. A longtime staff member known for her kindness and attention to detail, Annie brings a deep knowledge of the hotel and community. Together, she and Adam are dedicated to preserving everything guests have loved about Stone Mill for decades, while infusing the property with fresh energy and ideas.
Where Winter Adventure Meets Cozy Comfort
Whether you’re planning a romantic winter weekend, a quiet retreat in nature, or an adventure-filled stay in Minnesota’s Driftless Region, Stone Mill Hotel & Suites offers the ideal blend of charm, comfort, and convenience. Wake each morning to snow-covered bluffs, explore at your own pace, shop local, take in a show, and return each evening to a suite that feels like a true winter haven.
Stone Mill isn’t just a place to stay—it’s where your Lanesboro winter begins.
📍 Address
Stone Mill Hotel & Suites
100 Beacon Street East
Lanesboro, MN 55949
📞 Contact
Phone: (507) 467-8663
Website: stonemillsuites.com
🛏️ Lodging Details
Choose from 13 themed rooms and suites, including Whirlpool Suites, the Buffalo Bill Suite, historic Mill Rooms, and cozy Standard Rooms—each offering a unique blend of comfort and character.
🛍️ Onsite Boutique
Stone Mill Clothing & Gifts, located inside the hotel, features women’s clothing, accessories, and curated gift items.