I have a reservation in Superior, Wi for June 14. Planning a day trip up along the North Shore of Lake Superior on the 15th (a Friday) to Manitou State Park then come back to Superior to spend the night before heading to Mall of America the next day.

Unfortunately for us, there is a marathon in Duluth on Saturday the 16th, and there are NO rooms available in the Duluth/Superior area for the night of the 15th. Can't stay north of there because I think that's the marathon route.

Don't think I want to drive 3-4 hours to Bloomington from the North Shore, but I can't find anyplace along the way to spend the night. Hinckley is about half way, but looks like it only has hotels tied to the casino (we have 2 kids with us). Everything north of Hinckley is booked. Found an Americinn Inn in North Branch, but that's only an hour north of MofA.

Any suggestions.

richbutnot - that is not just any marathon, but Grandma's Marathon, one of the most popular in the country. It is an event in and of itself, which is why there are no hotels available.

My recommends would be:

1. Stay along the north shore, around the apex of your drive. Look at Lutsen, Grand Marais, or Gunflint Trail. It will give you a destination along the drive, and allow you to relax and not have to drive like mad and feel stressed.
2. Book the Casino Hotel. they usually actually have decent accomodations, and if it is just for a quick night, it isn't like you'll be immersed in the casino stuff.
3. Try a B&B in the Taylors Falls area. Again, not for from MInneapolis, but at least gives you someplace that isn't just a chain suburban hotel.

By the way, I'm a fan of Caribou HIghlands in Lutsen, but there are several other decent hotels around there.

Sorry for so many posts, but I'm just thinking that if you've already spent a couple days on the north shore, the twin cities are only another 2 1/2 hours. Have one last night dinner on the north shore and then head to the cities on Saturday night..

I don't know about any motels being available in Two Harbors as that is where the race starts, but you might be able to stay at either Grand Superior Lodge or Cove Point which are between Two Harbors and Silver Bay. There is also an Americinn in Silve Bay which is new and looks nice. I don't know if you are going up as far as Tofte, Lutsen and Grand Marais since you mentioned Manitou Springs State Park, but if you are, there are many places to stay in those areas. Also, I believe there are a couple motels in Hinckley besides the Grand Casino. I think there is an Americinn right by Tobies. If you can't find it listed you might call Tobies and ask what the name of the motel next to them is - I kind of think it might be owned by them. Have a good trip.