Explore The Best Hotel In Minnesota: Maddens On Gull Lake

While Minnesota is known for its 10,000 Lakes, the North Star State is also home to a sizeable number of hotels. But only one has just been ranked as the best in the entire state.

After taking a hit during the pandemic back in 2020, Minnesota's hospitality industry has started to rebound, though challenges still exist. In the five years since those shutdowns, the North Star State now has over 2,040 hotels and motels, according to industry data from IBISWorld.

These businesses add a lot to Minnesota's economy. The hotel industry in Minnesota is projected to reach a market size of $2.8 billion by the end of 2025, employing around 19,840 individuals, according to this SC Times story.

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But out of all those hotels and motels, we now know just which one is the very best. U.S. News and World Report releases an annual survey of the best hotels in every state. To compile their rankings, U.S. News and World Report said, 'Our travel rankings are based on an analysis of expert opinions and traveler reviews. We also rely on our in-destination writers and editors for their recommendations and insider knowledge.'

And according to their 2025 Best Hotels in Minnesota list, Madden's on Gull Lake is the top hotel in Minnesota this year.

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Here's what the U.S. News and World Report survey had to say about this classic resort located near Brainerd:

The main attraction at this Minnesota resort is its wealth of golf options. Madden's on Gull Lake is home to four courses, each with a unique layout. Other seasonal activities include paddleboarding, fishing, tennis, biking, trap shooting and a kids club.

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Madden's also offers a spa and three different restaurants, as well. U.S. News and World Report also ranked Madden's as the number-one resort in the Bold North for 2025 as well.

Madden's is a seasonal resort, operating April through October, and just opened its 96th season in business! The classic resort first opened back in 1929 as a 'Northwoods golf course and modest hotel,' its website says.

Madden's is located on Gull Lake, one of the more well-known of Minnesota's over 10,000 Lakes. But do you know just *which* of those lakes have the most common names in the state? (Hint: There are a *lot* of Mud Lakes in Minnesota!) Keep scrolling to check out the rest!