I must confess – when we walked into Eddy’s Resort, it was nothing like what I expected. As we toured the state of Minnesota with Explore Minnesota and arrived at beautiful Lake Mille Lacs, I expected a hotel styled in rustic tones and decorated with fishing memorabilia. Instead, we were greeted by a roaring fire in a red-tiled fireplace, a lobby with boutique-hotel panache, and an eclectic mix of colors and designs.

Fresh off of a huge renovation, Eddy’s Resort has molded its rich history that dates back to 1960 into a fun, warm, and inviting resort with a definite cool factor. Huge Jenga games loom on industrial-style tables in the lobby. The walls are covered with reclaimed wood salvaged from the original buildings on the property prior to the remodel. Contemporary metal chairs with bright red fabric are blended with plaid touches and stripes. And, those sitting in those comfortable seating arrangements are treated to amazing lakeside views.

The rooms & suites

The comfortable, stylish design is continued throughout the guest rooms and suites, with splashes of red co-mingling with plaids and industrial accents. Our suite was quite large with a couch, coffee table, flat-screen television, desk, coffee pot, mini-fridge, and a microwave. The king-sized bed was outfitted with crisp, white linens, comfy pillows, and good-sized nightstands. The bath was spacious, with a free-standing shower, tub, and a long granite vanity.

Rooms on the first floor have walk-out patios, while second and third-floor rooms have walk-out balconies. Our third-floor, lakeside room delivered breathtaking views of the lake.

Dining & beverages at the Launch Bar & Grill

We spent our evening at Eddy’s enjoying dinner and drinks at the Launch Bar & Grill while watching the lake shimmering lake colors change as the sun as it disappeared for the day.

Starting with cocktails and a tasty Thai Chili Hummus that packed a little punch, we then moved on to awesome walleye sandwiches. The food was great, the service excellent, the atmosphere fun, and the views spectacular.

Things to do at and near the resort

While the hotel has a modern, urban look and feel, one step out the door, and you are once again immersed in the natural beauty of the area. A great place for enjoying drinks and conversation, a large patio and fire pit are located just outside the restaurant and bar.

For those wanting to get in a bit of fishing or simply explore the lake by boat, Eddy’s offers launch trips and boat charters. Never fished before? No problem. For first-timers, Eddy’s holds a fishing class on Saturdays that is free to hotel guests.

The hotel also has a fitness room on-site, a free coffee bar in the lobby, and for some family fun time, a selection of games are available to check out.

For those looking to try their hand at some games of chance, the Grand Casino Mille Lacs is just down the road.

Also nearby is the Mille Lacs Indian Museum & Trading Post, a wonderful museum that tells the history of the Ojibwe people and a trading post with authentic American Indian arts & crafts.

Eddy’s Resort

Location: 41334 Shakopee Lake Rd, Onamia, MN 56359

Design: Contemporary eclectic

Rooms: 64 rooms and suites, 1 parlor suite, 4 cabins

Additional services and amenities: restaurant, bar, launch services, fitness center, games 

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Disclosure & Disclaimer: Special thanks to Explore Minnesota and Eddy’s Resort for hosting us as their guests. The opinions expressed are entirely our own. Reviews are based only on our assessment and we accept no responsibility for how the information is used. We do not accept paid posts although some posts may contain information regarding businesses where we have previously been compensated.