10 Best Things to Do in Duluth
What is Duluth Most Famous For?
The best things to do in Duluth range from the thrills of whitewater rafting and snow-tube races to sunset cruises on the world’s largest freshwater. This pretty Midwest city is known for its array of outdoor activities, spectacular scenery, and the immense Aerial Lift Bridge that never fails to impress.
With vast areas of natural beauty and a long shoreline overlooking Lake Superior, Duluth is a popular spot for hiking and biking in the warmer months, as well as skiing and snowshoeing once the cold snaps begin. Discover photogenic slopes and trails and fantastic spots to explore in this guide.
What are the best things to do in Duluth?
1. Glensheen Historic Estate
A majestic lakeside mansion
Good for: History, Photo, Luxury
Visit Glensheen Historic Estate and discover how one of the Midwest’s wealthiest families lived in the early 20th century. This magnificent, 39-room mansion has been immaculately preserved, even down to the carefully folded sheets in the linen closet. Explore spacious rooms with exquisite soft furnishings and take in spectacular views over Lake Superior as you stroll through the landscaped grounds.
Download the Glensheen app if you’re planning a self-guided tour or reserve the Lock & Key guided tour to discover more fascinating facts about the Congdon family who lived in this opulent mansion. On a sunny day, it’s nice to enjoy a picnic by the fountain or stop by the gift shop for delicious ice creams.
Location: 3300 London Rd, Duluth, MN 55804, USA
Open: Hours vary by season
Phone: +1 218-726-8910
Glensheen Historic Estate
2. Canal Park
Waterfront shopping and dining
Good for: Photo, Shoppers, Food
Head to Canal Park and discover a vibrant neighborhood packed with art galleries, breweries, and charming boutiques. Shop for handmade jewelry and chocolates, unique toys, and original Minnesota souvenirs. Then, feast on fresh lobster or share a pizza as you admire sweeping views across the water.
The highlight of a trip to Canal Park is undoubtedly viewing boats pass under the historic Aerial Lift Bridge. Check the shipping schedule online and plan your visit to see one of the massive “Laker” ships, measuring over 100 ft long. You’ll be astounded watching it steer under this masterpiece of engineering. You can snap some incredible photos of the bridge raising, and it’s very pretty when it’s lit up at night, too.
Canal Park
3. Boat Trip on Lake Superior
Spectacular views from the water
Good for: Nightlife, Adventure, Photo
Taking a boat trip on Lake Superior is one of the best things to do in Duluth if you love breathtaking scenery. You’ll find trips to suit all budgets, ranging from an hour-long tour of Duluth harbor and North Shore to a sunset cruise with fine dining, live music, and even a fireworks display. The narrated tours are an excellent choice, too, if you’re interested in ecology and local history.
The world’s largest freshwater lake is ideal for exploring on a sailboat, and you can charter a boat overnight for an unforgettable experience. Even on the sunniest days, it can get breezy on the lake, so dress in layers and don’t forget your sunscreen.
Boat Trip on Lake Superior
4. Duluth Lakewalk
Strolls through stunning scenery
Good for: Budget, Photo, Families
Duluth Lakewalk is best visited in summer when you can take advantage of the balmy weather to hike or bike the 8-mile stretch. Much of the pathway leads you along the pretty shoreline of Lake Superior. You’ll get to see towering lighthouses, the westernmost point of this immense lake, and sobering war memorials, as well as delightful butterfly gardens.
Check out unique sites along the way, including Uncle Harvey’s Mausoleum, jutting out of the lake. On hot days, you’ll see local daredevils jumping off this concrete structure into the cool water. The trail ends at Brighton Beach, but if you’re looking for a quieter place to swim, turn at 42nd Avenue East and head down to the beach there.
Duluth Lakewalk
5. Lake Superior Railroad Museum
A day of train trivia and exciting rides
Good for: Families, History, Photo
In the heart of downtown Duluth, Lake Superior Railroad Museum is a fun day out for all the family. Kids will love climbing in the cabs of the huge locomotives and learning how trains work through the interactive exhibits. Discover the important role the railroads played in local history, especially during World War II, and browse an impressive collection of model trains.
Check the events calendar online before visiting, as there are frequent events for children, such as toddler train stories. A train ride on the North Shore Scenic Railroad is highly recommended, too. In summer and fall, there’s even a pizza party ride along the lakefront, with live music and a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere.
Location: 506 W Michigan St, Duluth, MN 55802, USA
Open: Daily from 10 am to 5 pm
Phone: +1 218-727-8025
Lake Superior Railroad Museum
6. Jay Cooke State Park
For outdoor enthusiasts
Good for: Adventure, Families, Photo
In winter, Jay Cooke State Park is a wonderland of skiing and snowshoeing trails that are loved by locals. But in spring, the snow gives way to lush, green foliage and the hardwood forests are filled with hikers and bikers exploring around 50 miles of paths and 9 miles of cycling routes.
Thrill-seekers can go whitewater rafting and experienced hikers can tackle the Carlton and Thomson Trail with its spectacular, rugged landscapes. The Silver Creek Trail is popular with families looking for an easy hike, and kids of all ages will love the iconic Swinging Bridge over the St. Louis River. Be sure to wear shoes with a good grip as some trails can be slippery, especially around the waterfalls.
Location: 780 E Hwy 210, Carlton, MN 55718, USA
Open: Daily from 8 am to 10 pm
Phone: +1 218-673-7000
Jay Cooke State Park
7. Spirit Mountain Recreation Area
An adventure seeker’s dream
Good for: Adventure, Families
Spirit Mountain Recreation Area is for you if you love racing down ski slopes and shrieking your way along a snow-tubing race. It’s at the southern tip of Duluth and home to an array of fast-action, outdoor activities, but not all of them rely on a Midwest winter.
When the temperatures rise, you can enjoy a scenic chairlift, taking in the far-reaching beauty of Duluth and Spirit Mountain with its dramatic landscapes. For the more adventurous, downhill mountain biking and a ziplining course await, as well as a thrilling alpine coaster through the forest that will take your breath away. Plan to reserve your tickets online to reduce waiting times for the rides.
Location: 9500 Spirit Mountain Pl, Duluth, MN 55810, USA
Open: Hours vary by season
Phone: +1 218-628-2891
Spirit Mountain Recreation Area
8. Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory
Breathtaking nature at this bird-watching observatory
Good for: Photo, Budget
Tucked in the southern end of a vast nature reserve, Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory is a tranquil oasis for gentle walks, beautiful views, and watching migrating birds. Visit in spring to see large raptors arriving and gasp in awe at the sheer size and beauty of the bald and golden eagles. The birds tend to fly low at this time, so you should get great photos.
September is the best time if you want to see hawks migrating. Plan to arrive by mid-morning, as they are usually most active in the middle of the day. The observatory isn’t just for birdwatchers though. You’ll find some wonderful hiking trails around the site, many with amazing views over the forests and lake.
Location: 3980 E Skyline Pkwy, Duluth, MN 55804, USA
Phone: +1 218-428-6209
Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory
9. Enger Park
A scenic spot with incredible views
Good for: Budget, Photo, Couples
Enger Park is best visited on a bright, sunny day. Head to the quirky stone tower and climb up the spiral staircase for unparalleled, panoramic views across Duluth and Lake Superior. You can even see the unique shape of the Aerial Lift Bridge in the distance when the sky is clear.
Locals love Enger Park for its peaceful walks, pretty scenery, and outdoor activities. You’ll see them relaxing in the Japanese Peace Bell Garden, hiking the trails, and climbing the towering boulders with friends. Pack a picnic as this is a lovely place to wander and soak up the views, then enjoy a lazy feast under a shady tree.
Location: 1601 Enger Tower Dr, Duluth, MN 55806, USA
Open: Hours vary by season
Phone: +1 405-314-5693
Enger Park
10. Park Point Beach
A family- and budget-friendly summer destination
Good for: Budget, Families, Photo
The popular Park Point Beach is the perfect getaway from city life on a hot summer day when you can dive into the cool waters of Lake Superior. The long sandy beach offers plenty of space for building sandcastles, enjoying picnics, playing volleyball, and for taking strolls along the shore. If you crave more vigorous exercise, you can hike past the lighthouse to the very end of the peninsula and see its Wisconsin counterpart. Birdwatchers should bring their binoculars and see how many species you can spot.
At this pet-friendly beach, you furry friends are welcome, and there’s a lifeguard on duty during the summer. The beach house has bathrooms, showers, snacks, but do check their opening hours online.
Location: 4750 Minnesota Ave, Duluth, MN 55802, USA
Park Point Beach
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