Looking for a romantic getaway less than 30 minutes from the Twin Cities?

Recently, we stayed at the Corn Crib Cottage in Cottage Grove, Minnesota. We had won it in a school auction earlier in the year without really looking into the spot prior. Luckily, it did not disappoint! Corn Crib Cottage was a beautiful retreat with a mix of stunning nature and a cozy atmosphere, located right outside the Twin Cities. We spent the afternoon prior to check-in exploring the stunning landscapes of Hastings at Schaar’s Bluff, Vermillion Falls, and Carpenter Nature Center. Words can’t fully capture how much the scenery left us all in awe. I’d highly recommend exploring these areas when you make a trip to the Corn Cribbage Cottage.

Driving into the property, we were greeted by an absolutely breath taking wedding venue with the Corn Cribbage Cottage and tree house directly behind it. The sun was starting to set behind the venue as we arrived and I imagined the weddings here must be incredibly memorable with this amazing backdrop. We immediately checked out the Corn Crib. The hosts had made check-in seamless and easy with no contact needed from them.

Walking in the doors, we were greeted by the sweetest sound of our favorite Christian music station playing lightly in the background for the perfect inviting ambiance. Details around the cottage welcomed us in. A living room area, stairway, kitchen, sitting area, and an upstairs consisting of a swing and a two person jacuzzi greeted us right away. Winding around the hallway, there was a bathroom with a beautiful rain shower and the master bedroom. The hosts had put so much thought into the smallest features, such as the mugs, plates, and decor. We loved the idea of having board games, books, and puzzles accessible to guests. In fact, we completed an entire 500 piece puzzle while we stayed. It was the most relaxing thing to do while we sat and talked and listened to the gentle sound of the music on the surround sound system.

Another sweet touch was the mug that they allow you to take as a souvenir. What a special way to remember our stay every time we use it! After we explored the inside of the Corn Crib, we took a little walk around the property. It’s easy to see why people love this location as a wedding venue as the views are absolutely stunning. The outdoor venue has to be breath-taking in spring, summer, and fall. We also, ventured down to visit the goats. They quickly came to greet us and were so sweet! Watching the sunset as we walked back into the Corn Crib was a perfect idea to wind down our night.

Waking up, we had a lazy morning drinking coffee, finishing the puzzle, watching nature outside (turkeys were out in the field when we opened the blinds), and packing up. This spot was the perfect oasis right outside the Twin Cities which allowed chances to explore, as well as enjoy the beautiful nature surrounding this area.

There are so many hidden gems! Other spots I’d suggest checking out is Camel’s Hump Park and if you have kids, Strawberry Fields Park and Wood Ridge Park.

In full disclosure, we brought our two oldest kids (8 and 5) as it’s pretty challenging for us to be kid-free for any amount of time. I did cry leaving the youngest, despite it being less than 24 hours away. Even though it was a romantic location, the kids loved the spot too. They helped us with the puzzle and loved exploring the little details the Corn Crib had to offer. There were many kid-friendly and adult spots to enjoy in Cottage Grove, Hastings, and Woodbury.

Overall, if you’re looking for a romantic getaway less than thirty minutes from the Twin Cities…this is your spot! Book your stay now! Centrally located between nature, large cities, and basically anything you want to do, this can be a great spot to completely relax or just rest your head for the night. It’s sure to give you great memories either way of the beauty of the location and the house.

Until my next adventure,

Allie