Properties in lake-recreation areas over two hours away from Minneapolis, where the Super Bowl will be played on February 4, have reported an uptick in reservations, from visitors who want to get away from expected traffic as well as Twin Cities residents who have rented out their homes. Some extra revenue has also come from media outlets that have booked stays to capture local flavor, such as the largest charitable ice-fishing contest, that will be used to help set the stage for the game and its unique winter setting.

Last July, a storm felled 150 trees at the Nisswa, Minn., property and heavily damaged a deck. The resort began construction in November on a new, two-tiered outdoor dining venue called On the Rocks that expands dining capacity and has been a hit among guests. For the past three years, July in Minnesota has brought…