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A Fall Stay at Ruttger’s Bay Lake Lodge, Minnesota

This fall, I was invited to stay at the beautiful Ruttger’s Bay Lake Lodge. Located in Deerwood, Minnesota, this resort has been open since 1898. (How amazing is that?!)

Steeped in Minnesota history, this resort has a lot to offer both old and new.

Just a two hour drive from the cities, Ruttger’s makes for the perfect getaway for families, couples or friends. And the drive is beautiful in the fall.

Ruttger's Bay Lake Lodge

I brought my dad along for the trip to Ruttger’s! He is an avid golfer and they are home to the most scenic golf course in the Brainerd area, Jack’s 18.

We were happy to see, the course did not disappoint. And especially since it was peak fall foliage time!

Ruttger's Bay Lake Lodge
Ruttger's Bay Lake Lodge
Ruttger's Bay Lake Lodge

For me, the highlight of the trip was to be able to explore such a beautiful property at fall time.

Excellent Staff

The staff was also incredibly kind and welcoming. For the entire duration of our stay, we had excellent service from the bartenders to the servers and everyone in between.

It was the staff who recommended some great little spots in the nearby town Crosby like Red Raven where you can get mountain bike rentals for the nearby trails.

Ruttger's Bay Lake Lodge
Ruttger’s Bay Lake Resort

The property has an outdoor pool overlooking the lake for the warm summer months. And for the cooler months, there is a pool and hot tub located inside just below the game room.

Ruttger's Bay Lake Lodge
Ruttger's Bay Lake Lodge

Ruttger’s Restaurants

While you could go out to eat in the nearby town of Crosby, we loved the onsite restaurants. I highly recommend the Walleye Po’boy at White Oak Grill!

  • Ruby’s Dining Room: breakfast daily + dinner on Friday & Saturday.
  • Bear Pine Bar: indoor and outdoor seating overlooking the lake, open daily for full bar and kitchen.
  • White Oak Grill: my personal favorite restaurant with views overlooking the golf course.
Ruttger's Bay Lake Lodge

Ruttger's Bay Lake Lodge
Enjoying sunset from the dock!

Oktoberfest at Ruttger’s Bay Lake Resort

If you’re looking to visit during a special occasion, be sure to check out their Oktoberfest event.

It is hosted each October on their property! It draws a big crowd and is a fun tradition on the resort.

This year, the event is taking place October 22nd-24th, 2021.

A fantastic fall stay

Our highlights included a pontoon ride on the lake, chatting with the friendly staff and experiencing the fall colors on the golf course.

Ruttger's Bay Lake Lodge
Ruttger's Bay Lake Lodge

Book your stay here.

Ruttger's Bay Lake Lodge

Thank you to Ruttger’s for hosting me during my stay.
As always, all thoughts and opinions are my own.

Other fall favorites in Minnesota:

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Emily Rose

Hi, I'm Emily Rose! In 2018, I sold all my stuff and moved into my suitcase to travel full time and work around the world! Follow along for the best travel jobs, photos to fuel your wanderlust and epic adventures!

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