Two Harbors

Why: The “near” North Shore has most of the advantages of the wild winter North Shore, but it’s close to Duluth if the weather’s just too nasty for anything outdoors.

How: About three hours from the Cities on I–35 and Highway 61.

Stay: Larsmont Cottages, a charming, brand-new collection of flexible home-style lodgings, boasts all the amenities a family could need, including fireplaces, TVs, DVD players, and a lodge/restaurant. Rates from $80/night. 866-687-5634

Eat: Just down the road, the New Scenic Café is a bastion of fresh regional fare, served without pretension in an arty, informal setting. 218-525-6274

Pack: Snow gear—if you’re lucky, there’ll be plenty of snowman-making going on.

P.S.: The Great Lakes Aquarium in Duluth is a nice place to warm up a cold weekend. 218-740-2020