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Minneapolis/Lake Nokomis/Minnehaha Park "THE COTTAGE" Your Scandinavian Oasis

Photo gallery for Minneapolis/Lake Nokomis/Minnehaha Park "THE COTTAGE" Your Scandinavian Oasis

A house with a white exterior, a compass sign on the front, and a garden with white flowers and a tree.
A garden patio with a stone pathway, potted plants, a statue, and outdoor seating.
Cottage garden 2025.
A modern living room with a flat-screen TV, a comfortable armchair, a small table with a plant, and a kitchen area in the background.
A green glass bird-shaped outdoor light fixture on a post.

Reviews

10 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% of guest reviews in this area

Highlights

  • The great outdoors
    Guests love the outdoor space here.
  • Firepit available
    One of the few properties with a dedicated outdoor firepit.
  • Centrally-located
    You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.
  • Discover nearby landmarks
    Walk to Minnehaha Park
1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 2

Popular amenities

  • Garage parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Air-conditioning
  • Barbecue
  • Deck or patio

Explore the area

View map
Minneapolis, MN
  • Place, Lake Nokomis
    ‪15 min walk‬
  • Place, Minnehaha Park
    ‪17 min walk‬
  • Place, Minnehaha Falls
    ‪5 min drive‬
  • Airport, Minneapolis, MN (MSP-Minneapolis - St. Paul Intl.)
    ‪8 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 2)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Bidet · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Minneapolis/Lake Nokomis/Minnehaha Park "THE COTTAGE" Your Scandinavian Oasis


Lake Nokomis * Minnhaha Falls * Private * Safe * Sparkling Clean * 5 Stars

1 Bedroom I 1 Bathroom I 2 Guests I One-Level Living

OVERVIEW:
Welcome to Minneapolis' The Cottage, the city’s premier standalone rental, backed by a Top 10% VRBO Host with hundreds of 5-star reviews. Featured on HGTV for its creative layout, this private, ONE-LEVEL Scandinavian home features a stunning garden patio and a separate heated studio ("The Nordic Nook"). Tucked away in a safe South Minneapolis neighborhood with a small town vibe, The Cottage is just steps from our beloved Lake Nokomis & Minnehaha Falls at The Mississippi River - one of the very most popular areas in Minneapolis/St Paul. Close (but not too close) to MSP and major highway thoroughfares, makes getting around Minneapolis/St Paul & surrounding suburbs (almost) effortless. Walking distance to wonderful local restaurants, bakeries, coffee cafes, library and fun popular shops. Grocery and liquor store are just blocks away. Walk to metro transit & the light rail (blue line). Perfect for couples, professionals, and solo travelers - especially women.

ABOUT:
Discover a meticulously clean, secure, and uniquely Scandinavian "hygge" experience. Freshly updated for 2026, Minneapolis' The Cottage is a fully standalone one-level home offering complete privacy with no shared walls, a private entrance, its own private driveway. It is NOT a condo, duplex, or apartment. The Cottage is ideal for every guest - especially those with physical limitations.

Perfectly "sandwiched" between the Twin Cities' most iconic natural landmarks, Minneapolis' The Cottage offers effortless walkability. An easy, beautiful walk to both Lake Nokomis and Minnehaha Falls at the Mississippi River.

Book with absolute confidence because we are ranked in the Top 1% on VRBO with hundreds of 5-star reviews. Nestled in a quiet South Minneapolis neighborhood with a charming small-town vibe, Minneapolis' The Cottage provides a flawless home-away-from-home experience paired with authentic "Minnesota Nice" hospitality.


HOW WE FEEL ABOUT HOSTING:
We realize people may not remember everything we do as hosts - but they will remember how we made them feel as guests. Welcome!

INDOOR SPACE:
Vaulted ceilings provide an open spacious feeling in the living areas and sun tunnels flood the room with beautiful natural light. Soft thoughtful lighting, cozy touches and attention to every little detail help create a warm welcoming "home away from home" experience you will never forget.

Plush sofa and chair with large Samsung Smart TV and complimentary Netflix & Amazon Prime Video will make guests feel right at home. A BOSE speaker enhances your entertainment experience and allows guests to stream your own music.

Ultra-comfortable Queen bed with built in drawers for maximum storage of guest's belongings. Reading lights and optional heated mattress for cozy winter nights.

A fully equipped kitchen with island seating, Keurig coffee maker, dishwasher, microwave, range, refrigerator/freezer and all the cooking & dining essentials are there. Napkins, paper towels, dishwasher pellets, salt, pepper, spices, soap and "welcome coffee" are provided so guests can pack light.

Meticulously clean spa-inspired bathroom with a luxury bidet, rainfall shower, and heated fan. In-unit washer and dryer. Quality towels, shampoo, conditioner, body soap, hand soap, toilet paper, "Kleenex" and detergent are provided.

OUTDOOR LOUNGE & NORDIC NOOK:
Private patio featuring a pergola, canopy, mature organic gardens and propane fire table. Guests are welcome to pick fresh strawberries, herbs, and flowers. Guests also have exclusive use of our studio, "The Nordic Nook", which is a heated/cooled separate living space adjacent to The Cottage and outdoor lounge. The Nordic Nook is perfect for guests who enjoy yoga or crafts or just want a "change of space" to read, watch a movie, nap - or just hang out.

PARKING:
Private driveway parking next to The Cottage with space for multiple cars. One car garage available for longer stays (negotiable). Free safe on-street parking is also available.

QUICK FACTS:
- Complimentary cleaning: provided every other week for longer stays +10 nights.
- Winter ready: professional snow removal triggered at 1 inch of snow.
- Garage: available for +1 month stays (negotiable).
- Discounts: price reduction applied automatically for weekly and monthly stays.
- Special requests or questions? Just ask!

HOUSE RULES:
- No Animals: no pets allowed.
- Adults: not suitable for children.
- Age Limit: 29+.

HEADED UP NORTH? Experience our outstanding 5-star Lakeshore Cottage on Lake Superior!
www.vrbo.com/396237

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 29
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Adults only
No children under the age of 18.
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
This is a 100% smoke-free property.
A signed lease agreement is required.

Important information

You need to know

Property Registration Number RLIC108019
Property # 763153vb
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room

About the area

Minneapolis

Located in South Minneapolis, a neighbourhood in Minneapolis, this holiday home is near theme parks and on a river. Target Center and Orpheum Theatre are cultural highlights, and some of the area's popular attractions include Nickelodeon Universe and Como Park Zoo and Conservatory. Looking to enjoy an event or a game? See what's going on at U.S. Bank Stadium or Target Field. Take in the nearby slopes with cross-country skiing and snowboarding, or try out other outdoor activities such as ice skating and sledging.
View more Holiday homes in Minneapolis - St. PaulOpens in a new window
Map
Minneapolis, MN

What's nearby

  • Lake Nokomis - 15 min walk - 1.3 km
  • Minnehaha Park - 17 min walk - 1.5 km
  • Minnehaha Depot - 17 min walk - 1.5 km
  • Lake Nokomis 50th Street Beach - 18 min walk - 1.5 km
  • Minnehaha Falls - 5 min drive - 2.2 km

Getting around

  • 50th Street Minnehaha Station - 2 min drive
  • St. Paul - Minneapolis Station - 12 min drive
  • Minneapolis, MN (MSP-Minneapolis - St. Paul Intl.) - 8 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Tacos Tacuba - ‬12 min walk
  • ‪Burger King - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Sea Salt - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Parkway Pizza - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Rick’s Coffee Bar - ‬15 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Minneapolis/Lake Nokomis/Minnehaha Park "THE COTTAGE" Your Scandinavian Oasis pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Minneapolis/Lake Nokomis/Minnehaha Park "THE COTTAGE" Your Scandinavian Oasis?

As of 3 August 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Minneapolis/Lake Nokomis/Minnehaha Park "THE COTTAGE" Your Scandinavian Oasis on 17 August 2026 start from NZ$907, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at Minneapolis/Lake Nokomis/Minnehaha Park "THE COTTAGE" Your Scandinavian Oasis?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Minneapolis/Lake Nokomis/Minnehaha Park "THE COTTAGE" Your Scandinavian Oasis?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Minneapolis/Lake Nokomis/Minnehaha Park "THE COTTAGE" Your Scandinavian Oasis?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Minneapolis/Lake Nokomis/Minnehaha Park "THE COTTAGE" Your Scandinavian Oasis located?

Located in South Minneapolis, this holiday home is within 1 mile (2 km) of Lake Nokomis and Minnehaha Park. Minnehaha Falls and Mississippi River are also within 2 miles (3 km). 50th Street Minnehaha Station is 21 minutes by foot and 46th Street Station is 23 minutes.

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 250 out of 255 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 5 out of 255 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 255 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 255 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 255 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Cathy T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very clean and charming with tons of storage.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Kathy N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
It's a beautiful place. All the amenities.dish washer and washer dryer. Very cozy. Outside area with fire place, grill and sitting comfy. Beautifully decorated. Walked to wonderful breakfast cafe 2 short blocks away. Quiet neighborhood. Would use again.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 25 July 2026
Thank you for the 5 star review. So glad you mentioned the breakfast cafe on the next block. Fresh, quality ingredients is why it’s a popular place to eat and is just a stones throw away! Thanks also for commenting on the quiet neighborhood. Guests notice and appreciate the small town feeling and “Minnesota Nice” vibe. It was a pleasure hosting you! 🙂
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Tom D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The home was clean, host was very responsive to questions, we enjoyed the outdoor space. Very well decorated. Good location. Good restaurants nearby, host had a list of suggestions on where to eat. We will stay there again. Very good experience.
Stayed 8 nights in Jun 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 11 July 2026
Thank you for the 5 star review. So glad you enjoyed the outdoor spaces and our Minnesota Nice weather during your stay. The restaurants in the area are wonderful and guests appreciate being in a neighborhood that is walkable and feels safe. Close to our beloved Lake Nokomis & Minnehaha Falls - the most popular places to visit in our beautiful Cities of Lakes. We hope you come back to visit us!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Jim R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This was the best extended stay of 10 that we’ve been to so far. Carolyn gets all the credit for creating a warm and comfortable environment that has every detail thought of and supplied to the highest level of quality. Inside and outside is amazing. The Nook must be checked out also. Her booklet of things to see and do and eat was awesome . A very quiet neighborhood. An easy decision to stay here now and definitely in the future.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Mary P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We loved our stay The Cottage. It was comfortable and had everything we needed for a four night stay. The VRBO had a very welcoming and homey feeling. The outside patio was magical, and we enjoyed spending our evenings there. It was convenient to things in Minneapolis that we wanted to do but situated in a well established and quiet neighborhood near Lake Nokomis. We couldn't have asked for more and will definitely return next time we're in the city. Thank you for your hospitality, Carolyn!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Heather M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This was absolutely an amazing experience from start to finish. The cottage is so cozy and all the colors, lighting and decorative touches really made it special. I highly recommend this location - the neighborhood is nice and quiet and close to so many things. Our host was very communicative and available if needed. They really thought of everything to make your stay perfect!
Stayed 5 nights in May 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 22 June 2026
Thank you for the 5 star review and recognizing the effort it takes to be a top 1% host. We love hosting and glad it shows! Thanks also for mentioning the quiet, convenient location. It certainly was a pleasure hosting you - visit anytime! 🙂
Verified review

8/10 Good

Mariea B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The property was extremely nice, clean and airy. The outside environment very inviting and calming. If you like to sleep in this is not the place however. The skylights let the room be full light by 5:30 am and the planes start roaring overhead at 430 am. If I were a heavy sleeper and had a eye mask this would have been one of the best stays.Just a beautiful place and great host for sure.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 10 June 2026
As advertised, the property is located close to Minneapolis/St Paul, which is very convenient and an attraction to most guests. In over 10 years, we have not heard airplane noise at 4:30 AM and it has not been reported at The Cottage or sister property so we are surprised to hear this. The property sets off major airline transit routes so is actually quite peaceful as many guests have commented about. Of course there is occasional airplane traffic everywhere in the cities and if you want to avoid it, you need to look outside the Minneapolis/St Paul & surrounding suburbs. The location is absolutely fabulous as reported in the over 250 5-star reviews with our beautiful City Lakes and Minnehaha Falls/Park out the door with so many fun things to do close by. The Cottage & Nook were purposely designed to bring in the natural light, which add to the open, airy feel. We understand your stay was just before the summer solstice in June when the sun rises early. Where many embrace the natural morning light, we grasp not all people are accustomed or grateful for it. Glad you enjoyed your stay.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Donald W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
it was great
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 22 June 2026
So glad you enjoyed your stay and the best reflection of a positive experience is another reservation. Looking forward to your next visit!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

connie h.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The cottage is so charming and warm and comfortable. Carolyn in a great hostess.
Stayed 20 nights in Jan 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Stacy V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great property; actually seemed a little larger than pictured. Everything I would expect from a great host. Instructions were very clear and everything was well labelled. If I had to comment on one thing, it would be how narrow and deep the drive was is to get to the cottage. Anyone who is not comfortable backing up their vehicle or has a large vehicle may find it easier to park on the street. The neighborhood is quiet and beautiful to spend time in. There may be some noise from the airport, but it is mostly heard at night when things quiet down. There is lots to see and do as well as great restaurants that are conveniently listed in the guide/manual in the suite.Very much enjoyed my time at the cottage and regret not having more time to spend there. Thank-you for a wonderful stay and experience.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 24 July 2026
Thank you so much for the 5 star review. We are happy you found the cottage larger than pictured and appreciated the clear instructions and well-labelled space. We appreciate you mentioning the driveway leading to The Cottage. Most guests do not have a problem and are instructed to park anywhere along the driveway, which is outlined in the entry instructions. We are glad the neighborhood felt quiet and beautiful, and that any airport noise felt minimal during your stay. Thank you again for being our guests - you are welcome back anytime!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Melissa S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great communication with Carolyn, our host. Enjoyed it even more the 2nd time now that we were familiar with what came in the unit and how everything worked. Like an Ikea showroom, small but very comfortable and has everything you need. Will definitely stay here again.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 2 March 2026
Thank you for the 5 star review. The Cottage & Nook exemplifies Scandinavian design & living with an open feel and cozy, clean styling. The owner’s home in Northern Norway is the inspiration for the Nordic decor & peaceful setting. It was a pleasure hosting you again. 🙂
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Lynsey B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful stay

We loved our stay at The Cottage! Very comfortable, appreciated the amenities and the beautiful garden space.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 24 June 2025
Thank you for the 5 star review and being my guests. I am glad you enjoyed the private garden space. It’s a perfect place to rewind and relax — and especially magical at night with the lighting and fire table. It was a pleasure hosting you! 🙂
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Jane M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A very walkable neighborhood, great breakfast place just a 5-mi walk. The rooms were spotless. Had everything we needed and then some!
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Florian F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
It was so clean, and a totally adorable cottage and patio. So peaceful! I would stay there time and time again! Great location!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 20 October 2025
Thank you for the 5 star review. So glad you enjoyed your stay. The Cottage is a peaceful retreat in an excellent location that guests appreciate when visiting our beautiful City of Lakes. It was a pleasure hosting you! 🥰
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Katherine A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The cottage was spotless and very efficient. The decorations were lovely. Everything was just as we would’ve wanted it.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Chris A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The 242 reviews before mine were not wrong. "The Cottage" was spotless & provided everything I needed for a 20 day stay. It was also close to nearby conveniences, peaceful, bright & beautiful. The furniture & bedding were very comfortable. I really appreciated the washer & dryer !!! The garden looks like it will be amazing during the warm weather. Caroline was the best host ever !!!!!!
Stayed 20 nights in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
It was a great little spot to relax and retreat. But close to good walking trails and lakes.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Nancy M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful home with all the extra added things I love about a nice VRBO, careful decorating, welcoming treats and notes. Little touches that make it feel like someone is glad to host you.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 26 December 2025
We ARE glad to host you! We pay attention to the “added extra things” because we realize guests may not always remember everything you do as a host — but they will remember the way you made them feel. So we are glad you felt welcomed. Thank you for being our guests. 😌
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Darlene S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely cottage in a nice neighborhood. Very convenient and comfortable.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 28 November 2025
Thank you for the 5 star review. The Cottage is located in a wonderful, walkable neighborhood “close to most” of what Minneapolis/St Paul offers. Guests will appreciate the newly remodeled spa-inspired bathroom with lots of storage, bidet & washer/dryer. It was a pleasure hosting you. 😌
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Kathy C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Carolyn is a great host, quick to respond to all communications. The cottage is in a great area with a small town feel. Local grocery store, hardware store, coffee shops and restaurants all in walking distance. There is even a bowling alley! Cottage is cost and well stocked. The Nordic Nook is an additional perk.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 19 February 2026
So glad you enjoyed your stay. The neighborhood has a very special feel with the local shops, library and bakeries close by. Guests also enjoy being near to our beloved Lake Nokomis & Minnehaha Falls at The Mighty Mississippi River. And it's true - the brew pub down the street has the coolest retro bowling alley! We try our best to provide guests a cozy "home away from home" experience and we are pleased you recognized the effort it takes. Thanks again for being our guests!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Victor O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great place.

It was a pleasure to stay. Quite place, very clean and many little lights
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Nathan C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Enjoyable lodging

A repeat boarder, a delightful property!!
Stayed 11 nights in Apr 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 3 May 2025
Repeat host, delightful guest! It is always a pleasure hosting you. 🙂
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Jason's S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing!

Best VRBO I’ve ever stayed at
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 7 July 2025
Thank you. It was a pleasure hosting you. 😌
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Kendra M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect!

Absolutely perfect place! Great area, beautiful place to stay!
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

John B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Visit to family

Very nice location and excellent host.
Stayed 10 nights in Feb 2024

About the host

Hosted by Carolyn

Host profile image

Languages:

English, Norwegian

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
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