Victorian Retreat in Historic Anoka

Step back in time in this lovingly cared-for 1881 Victorian home nestled in the heart of historic Anoka, Minnesota — where the Rum and Mississippi Rivers meet and a Prairie Home Companion come to life. Cozy 2-bedroom retreat blends vintage charm with modern comfort, offering a peaceful, low-tech escape for professionals, couples, and small-town explorers. Enjoy the rhythm of small-town life — antique shops, local cafés, public transportation, and riverfront life within walking distance. The space If you’re seeking perfection and polish, this isn’t it — but if you love homes with character, history, and heart, you’ll feel right at home here. The Whole Bear House offers: 2 bedrooms (1 queen / 1 full + twin) 1.5 bathrooms Fully equipped gourmet kitchen Formal dining room & giant formal parlor Luxurious den Peaceful side porch and patio Each space is designed for comfort and calm, decorated in warm autumn tones and more natural materials for an easy-on-the-senses environment. The Mama Bear Room features a queen moderately soft bed and garden views, while the Papa Bear Room offers cozy charm, firm full and moderately soft twin beds and some vintage flair. This is a low-tech, low-toxin, and spirit-friendly home — perfect for writers, professionals, and guests needing rest or creative recharge. (The former Baby Bear Room is now the craft studio and remains closed to guests.) This could change, but would also change the rental rate. Guest access You’ll have access to: The two guest bedrooms 1.5 baths Kitchen, dining room, den, and parlor Laundry area Side porch, patio, yard, and seasonal vegetable and herb garden There’s street and driveway parking (two spaces) plus a 24/7 public lot behind the home. Please don't park overnight on the street, it's a town ordinance. TV and Wi-Fi are provided, Wi-Fi extenders throughout the home, tv in parlor. This is an intentionally low-tech, restful environment — perfect for reconnecting with yourself or loved ones, Other things to note This is an 1881 Italianate Victorian — please treat her gently. The house is on the Anoka Ghost Tour route; a few friendly spirits have been noted, but they’re peaceful presences. No pets, smoking, vaping, drugs, or illegal activity allowed — this is a safe, energetically clean space. Lead paint has been largely encapsulated, though trace elements may remain in windows and exterior paint. No overnight street parking in Anoka as a town ordinance (please park in driveway or lot behind house). Guest is responsible for clearing steps during snow and salting as needed and when less than 1 inch of snow falls. Anoka is one of Minnesota’s most charming small towns — famous as the Halloween Capital of the World, previous home to Garrison Keillor of the Prairie Home Companion fame, and home to historic architecture, river views, antique shops, live music, and seasonal festivals - all 1-2 blocks away. It’s a 30-minute drive to the Twin Cities, 45 minutes to the Mall of America and MSP Airport, and an easy walk to downtown cafés, bars, tea shops, and the theater. Garrison Keillor, of Prairie Home Companion, went to high school in town and was photographed on the property for Time Magazine cover and featured article (November 4, 1985)— the home still carries that timeless “Minnesota nice” spirit. NOTIFY HOST of anything that does not work, is broken, or anything you need changed or replaced. If you moved furnishings, put them back to their original places before checkout. Thank you and come again!