Cook County is a family-friendly gem tucked along Minnesota’s North Shore of Lake Superior, where little feet can roam wild and big adventures await. From outdoor activities in Schroeder to the artsy, walkable charm of Grand Marais and the rugged beauty of Grand Portage, there’s something for every age and interest. Our inviting communities make it easy to explore with toddlers and young kids in tow. Parents and grandparents will love the variety of kid-friendly activities, from gentle North Shore hikes to interactive nature centers. Plus, there’s no shortage of comfortable, kid-friendly restaurants and places to stay in Cook County. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or an extended North Shore family vacation, this 3-day Cook County itinerary for families is filled with fun, accessible ways to enjoy summer in the great outdoors—at a pace that keeps even the littlest travelers happy.
Lodging in Cook County for Toddlers and Young Kids
When planning your family’s Cook County itinerary, you’ll find several accommodations well- suited for traveling with toddlers and young kids. From family resorts to rustic cabins tucked in the woods, Cook County offers something for every travel style and budget. Families can choose from traditional hotels, lakeside cabins, and even remote campgrounds to sleep under the stars. Whether you're after convenience, comfort, or a little wilderness charm, you’ll find plenty of hotels and lodging options in Cook County that welcome families with young kids. You name it, Cook County’s got it! Click here to discover our family-friendly lodging options.
Day 1 in Cook County with Toddlers and Young Kids
We want to make it easy for you to plan a memorable North Shore family vacation this summer! This weekend guide highlights some of the best kid-friendly activities and stops in Cook County. Day 1 is all about our commercial fishing history and getting on the water with your little ones. Both stops provide fun ways for you and your family to learn more about our fishing culture and history, while experiencing Lake Superior for yourself!
Learn Something New at the North Shore Fishing Museum
7136 MN-61, Tofte, MN 55615 (right next to Bluefin Bay Family of Resorts and Coho Cafe & Bakery)
Start your Cook County itinerary with a family visit to the North Shore Commercial Fishing Museum, located right in Lutsen. It’s an enriching stop, whether you're staying nearby or just need a roadside break as you continue up the North Shore with your kids. This museum brings to life the fascinating maritime heritage of Lake Superior and the people who depended on it. It allows families to imagine a time when rowing was more common than driving and the lake was better known than the land.
The museum replicates the historic Twin Fish House that once stood in Tofte (built in 1905 after a storm destroyed the original one). Inside, kids and adults alike can learn how early fishers worked, dried nets, and passed down traditions. The North Shore Commercial Fishing Museum is a meaningful and memorable stop that connects young visitors with the people and stories that shaped life on the North Shore.
Embark on a Sailing Tour Aboard the Hjørdis
500 W Hwy 61, Grand Marais, MN 55604
Later in the day, climb aboard one of the most thrilling summer things to do in Grand Marais with toddlers and young kids. Embark on a sailing tour aboard the Hjørdis! This charming, purple-sailed, traditionally-rigged schooner sails daily from the docks at North House Folk School (near downtown Grand Marais).
Aboard the Hjørdis, you’ll set sail from the harbor and experience Cook County from the water. The sailing excursion offers a unique perspective for kids and adults alike! Gentle and family- friendly, the voyage lasts around 1 hour and 45 minutes—just the right length to keep little ones engaged. During the voyages, kids will marvel at the endless lake views and seagulls dancing across Lake Superior’s waves. Brave little ones may even be able to help steer the schooner! Along the way, learn more about Cook County’s maritime history. The captain and crew are full of stories and happy to answer questions. It’s an unforgettable highlight on any Cook County visit with toddlers and young kids.
Families can bring snacks and drinks aboard the Hjørdis. If you're bringing a child under 50 pounds, you must provide a life jacket for them. Otherwise, life jackets are provided for everyone (though families may prefer to bring ones their kids are already comfortable with). Finally, dress warmly! The temperatures on the water are typically much cooler than those in town.
Day 2 in Cook County with Toddlers and Young Kids
Welcome to Day 2 of this Cook County itinerary for families! Today’s adventures include hiking and exploring near Grand Portage, followed by downtown fun in Grand Marais. Pack snacks and plenty of water for your trek up to Grand Portage (stops along the way are limited). We also recommend letting someone know your plan for the morning, as cell reception can be limited for many carriers.
Feel free to flip the order depending on your preference and nap schedules. If Day 2 is on a Saturday and you’re little ones love a good story, we recommend flipping the day. Drury Lane Books offers a lovely Saturday morning story time at their shop in downtown Grand Marais!
Grand Portage National Monument
170 Mile Creek Rd, Grand Portage, MN 55605
A visit to Grand Portage National Monument is one of the most fun and meaningful summer things to do in Cook County with toddlers and young kids. Located in Grand Portage, this national monument boasts hands-on learning, hiking trails, and the chance to learn about local indigenous cultures.
Families should start at the Heritage Center. Inside, you can explore several interactive exhibits providing detailed (but easily digestible) information about the Anishinaabe people and the fur trade. There are several places kids can get hands-on, too! Plus, a short, engaging film offers a deeper look into the area’s vibrant history. Don’t miss the Junior Ranger program. This program is perfect for curious little ones to engage with the exhibits and earn a national monument badge!
Next, head outside to explore the historic Depot, a reconstructed 18th-century trading post enclosed within palisade walls. Kids can peek inside the Great Hall, the trading store, and the workshops. There is plenty of room to wander and imagine life long ago.
For an added adventure, take the family-friendly hike up Mount Rose. The 1.2-mile loop offers stunning views of Lake Superior, but keep in mind the trail is steep in places with some stairs—best for confident walkers or toddlers in a carrier. With its mix of history, nature, and hands-on learning, Grand Portage National Monument is a must-stop for families building a Cook County summer itinerary.
Grand Portage State Park
9393 E MN-61, Grand Portage, MN 55605
Just a few minutes north of the Heritage Center, Grand Portage State Park offers an easy, scenic hike with a big payoff. This park is home to one of Minnesota’s most spectacular sights—High Falls on the Pigeon River. Thanks to its wide, stroller-friendly paved and boardwalk trail, High Falls Trail (a 1.1-mile out-and-back hike) is one of the best hikes in Cook County for toddlers. With that said, keep in mind that the trail ends with a set of stairs leading to the dramatic waterfall overlook. We promise the final trek is worth it to see Minnesota’s tallest waterfall!
The final stretch of stairs leads to two incredible viewing platforms overlooking the roaring High Falls. This area also makes up part of the natural border between the U.S. and Canada. You may even see Canadian hikers on the other side of the river! Kids will love the thundering sound of the water and spotting rainbows in the mist!
After your hike, step into the Visitor Center. It features a small but meaningful collection of exhibits highlighting Anishinaabe and Voyageur history. With clean indoor restrooms and a toddler-friendly trail, this ranks highly among North Shore family vacation ideas. Finally, while this park is part of the Minnesota State Park system, it’s one of the ones in the state that does not require a park pass or fee to enter.
Explore Downtown Grand Marais
With a full, adventurous morning behind you, it's time to slow down a bit. Downtown Grand Marais is walkable and stroller-friendly, with plenty of kid-approved spots to grab a snack, watch seagulls, and skip rocks into Lake Superior.
Exploring downtown is one of the most fun and flexible summer things to do in Grand Marais with toddlers and young kids. And, it’s easy to explore, thanks to the compact, walkable layout. Families can move at their own pace, mixing activities based on interest, energy levels, or nap schedules.
Start by walking along the harbor beach or out to the lighthouse for lake views and some fresh air. Expect a light breeze along the water. Along the shore, spot seagulls and other birds, watch for boats on the water (keep an eye out for the Hjørdis!), and snap a family pic with one of our most historic landmarks, the Grand Marais Lighthouse. Be sure to skip a few rocks in the harbor, too! It’s one of the most beloved summer experiences in Cook County for kids and kids at heart.
Then, stop into the Johnson Heritage Post to see rotating art exhibits in a quiet, stroller-friendly space. Curious little ones will also enjoy the Cook County Historical Museum. The museum is a former lightkeeper's residence (built in 1896) and offers wonderful exhibits on local maritime history.
Be sure to check out a few shops too—here’s our shopping guide—for unique finds and souvenirs. And if you're in town on a Saturday morning, don’t miss the Summer Children's Story Hour at Drury Lane Books. It’s a cozy and welcoming experience for families with young kids. Plus, it’s often just outside the shop with views of Lake Superior. Whether you explore a little or a lot, downtown Grand Marais is full of charm and toddler-friendly fun.
Day 3 in Cook County with Toddlers and Young Kids
Day 3 of this Cook County itinerary is all about fresh air and family-friendly waterfall hikes. With easy trails, scenic views, and plenty of places to pause and play, today’s kid-friendly stops make it easy to enjoy the outdoors together before heading home.
Cascade River State Park
West, 3481 MN-61, Lutsen, MN 55612
Kick off your last morning on the North Shore with a gorgeous waterfall hike! Cascade River State Park is a must-stop for fun, kid-friendly hikes in Cook County. The park offers stunning waterfalls, forested trails, and scenic views with minimal effort.
For families with tiny trekkers, the waterfall is only about a five to ten-minute walk from the parking lot (perfect for little legs!). You can even end the hike here, if you want. If not, head to the left and the trail winds through towering pines and over a charming footbridge before looping back to the parking lot.
If you're up for more of a challenge, the Lookout Mountain Loop (3.2 miles) rewards you with both river views and a breathtaking Lake Superior overlook. Or try the Lake Trail Loop (3.3 miles), which is equally scenic and great for active families. The flexible hiking options make Cascade River State Park one of the top summer things to do near Grand Marais with toddlers and young kids.
Sugarloaf Cove Nature Center
9096 West, MN-61, Schroeder, MN 55613
Located near Schroeder, Sugarloaf Cove Nature Center is the final stop on our Cook County itinerary for families with young kids. It offers a mix of hands-on learning and outdoor play. The nature center is great for stretching your legs before hitting the road!
Start your visit inside the cozy log-built nature center. Here, kids can touch animal pelts and bones, explore interactive displays, and chat with friendly naturalists eager to answer questions. Don’t forget to check out the huge collection of bird feeders just outside! Grab an ID guide and see how many feathered friends your family can spot!
Afterward, walk along the 1.3-mile loop trail together. It’s an easy, kid-friendly hike that winds through the woods and leads to Lake Superior’s rocky shoreline. Toddlers will love wading at the cobblestone beach, exploring lava rock outcroppings, and picking through colorful stones.
Meanwhile, parents will appreciate that kids can burn any extra energy before loading back into the car. The trail is stunning all year-round, especially during summer’s wildflower season!
With a low-key vibe, $5 parking, and frequent educational events, Sugarloaf Cove is undoubtedly one of the best things to do on the North Shore with toddlers. It’s a great way for curious kids and nature-loving parents to end any fun North Shore family itinerary.
More Fun Summer Things to Do in Cook County with Toddlers and Young Kids
If you’re looking for even more fun summer things to do with your toddlers and young kids, this list has you covered! Whether you want to swap out activities or add extra stops, Cook County offers plenty of options to customize your trip. These additional family vacation ideas give you the flexibility to create the perfect North Shore adventure for your little ones, no matter your interests, trip length, or nap schedules.
● Enjoy scenic views from the Summit Express Gondola at Lusten Mountains.
● Try Judge C.R. Magney State Park or Temperance River State Park for additional family-friendly hikes.
● Drive up the Gunflint Trail in search of moose, kid-friendly hiking trails, and remote outdoor adventures. Honeymoon Bluff Trail and the Chik-Wauk Museum and Nature Center are fantastic stops for toddlers and young kids.
● Grab a tasty ice cream cone from Coho Cafe & Bakery (Tofte), Superior Creamery (Grand Marais), or Sydney’s Frozen Custard (Grand Marais).
● Go mini-golfing at Putt n Pets Mini Golf in Grand Marais.
● Go in search of agates on one of our public beaches along Lake Superior (like Sugarloaf Point).
● Book a guided outdoor experience. We have plenty to choose from, including fishing, hiking, canoeing, and more!
● Looking for playgrounds? We have those too! Grand Marais has the Cook County Community Center Skate Park Playground and Community Center Park. Or, try Tofte Park in Tofte or Grandview Park in Lutsen.
Family-Friendly Summer Festivals in Cook County to Plan a Trip Around
Adding a family-friendly summer event to your itinerary is an excellent way to boost the fun and community connection on your upcoming Cook County visit. You could easily plan a whole trip around one of our summer festivals (many families do!). If you’re looking for locally-inspired North Shore family vacation ideas, consider attending one of these lively summer festivals on your trip itinerary!
Here are a few kid-friendly Cook County events and festivals to get you started. Then, click here for our full events page to learn more!
● June: Summer Solstice and Wooden Boat Festival, Grand Marais
● June: Annual Pride Celebration, Grand Marais
● July: 4th of July Fireworks, Grand Marais
● July: Tofte Fourth of July Celebration, Tofte
● July: Grand Marais Arts Festival, Grand Marais
● July: Biggest Blueberry Contest, Gunflint Trail
● August: The Fisherman’s Picnic, Grand Marais
● August: Grand Portage National Monument Rendezvous Days and Celebration Pow Wow, Grand Portage
Where to Eat in Cook County with Toddlers and Young Kids
When planning your Cook County itinerary for families, you’ll find plenty of phenomenal kid- friendly restaurants in Grand Marais, Lutsen, and throughout the county. From casual cafés and ice cream stops to cozy diners, our local eateries welcome families with kids! And, many offer kids’ menus to keep little appetites happy. No matter where you stop, you’ll discover diverse dining options that make mealtime easy and enjoyable for everyone. Click here to review our family-friendly dining recommendations across Cook County!
Keep Exploring Cook County with Your Kids!
With so many fun summer things to do in Cook County with toddlers and young kids, this corner of the North Shore is a playground for families ready to explore and make memories together. Whether you’re after tot-sized hikes, family-friendly museums, or cultural experiences, your Cook County itinerary can be as relaxed or adventurous as you like. Use this guide to gather some North Shore family vacation ideas and get ready for a summer filled with laughter and discovery. Not to mention, plenty of BIG adventures for tiny travelers. Cook County is waiting to welcome your family to an unforgettable Minnesota getaway!
