Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Lakeside Escape in Duluth, MN
Gardenwood Motel & Cabin Court, established in 1929, offers a unique lakeside retreat on the scenic North Shore of Lake Superior in Duluth, Minnesota. Our family-owned resort provides cozy cabins and motel rooms equipped with essential amenities, emphasizing a rustic yet comfortable experience for families and travelers seeking connection with nature. For over nine decades, we have maintained a tradition of exceptional hospitality, offering year-round accommodations in the Manager House and seasonal options in our cabins and motel units.Our property features direct access to Lake Superior, complimentary firewood, community bonfires, and pet-friendly policies to accommodate diverse guest needs. Strategically located 10 miles from Downtown Duluth and adjacent to McQuade Safe Harbor, we serve as an ideal base camp for exploring the North Shore's natural attractions and cultural landmarks.
Services
Cabin rentals
Motel rooms
Pet-friendly stays
Lake Superior access
Complimentary firewood
Details
- Year established: 1929
Highlights and features
- Family-owned operation since 1929 with deep local knowledge
- Direct Lake Superior access with designated walking path
- Pet-friendly accommodations with complimentary firewood
- Strategically located near major attractions and bike paths
- 24/7 availability for urgent booking assistance
What people say
Unparalleled service
Clean and cozy
Great location
Complimentary firewood
Friendly owners
Services
Cabin rentals
Our rustic cabins provide comfortable lodging options with essential amenities. Each unit features unique configurations accommodating 2-5 guests, including kitchenettes, private fire pits, and Lake Superior views. Complimentary charcoal grills and picnic tables enhance outdoor living experiences for families and groups.
Motel rooms
Seasonal motel accommodations offer convenient lodging with kitchenettes and sleeping arrangements for 3-4 guests. Units feature modern conveniences like air conditioning, private bathrooms, and scenic vistas of Lake Superior from designated rooms.
Pet-friendly stays
We accommodate well-behaved pets with designated units and amenities. A $50 fee per dog applies for cleaning and maintenance, with two-pet maximum per unit. Our location provides access to pet-friendly trails and dining options in nearby Canal Park.
Lake Superior access
Direct access to Lake Superior through adjacent McQuade Safe Harbor. Paved sidewalks and a designated walking path connect guests to the lakefront, offering boating, fishing, and scenic viewing opportunities just steps from accommodations.
Complimentary firewood
Unlimited firewood available for guest use with designated fire pits. The resort provides community firewood storage and safety equipment, including extinguishers and protective gear, to ensure enjoyable and responsible outdoor fireplace experiences.
People
Dan Motschenbacher
Co-owner & Operations Manager
Dan oversees daily resort operations, leveraging his local expertise to enhance guest experiences since the family's 2020 acquisition of Gardenwood Resort.
Darcy Motschenbacher
Co-owner & Design Director
Darcy manages interior design decisions while maintaining full-time employment with the Duluth school district, contributing to the resort's rustic aesthetic since 2020.
Questions
What are the check-in and check-out times?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM, with check-out required by 11:00 AM. Early or late access may incur additional fees based on availability.
Are pets allowed in the cabins?
Yes, we welcome well-behaved dogs in designated units for $50 per dog. Maximum two pets per accommodation with mandatory supervision.
What amenities are included in cabins?
All units include bathrooms with showers, bedding, cooking appliances, and outdoor furniture. Specific configurations vary between cabin types.
How does the firewood policy work?
Complimentary firewood and communal fire pits are available throughout the property. Guests must extinguish fires by 11:00 PM per quiet hours policy.
What nearby attractions are accessible?
We're 10 miles from Downtown Duluth near McQuade Harbor, providing access to Lake Superior trails, Gooseberry Falls State Park, and historic Glensheen Mansion.
