About Things To Do In Duluth MN:
Lined along Lake Superior, peacefully resting amidst tall forests and cliffs, is the Metropolitan city of Duluth; A region in the westernmost state of Minnesota in the USA. Home to the USA’s only freshwater aquarium, this idyllic piece of the planet has something for every type of person.
Art Studio for deep creative souls, delectable cafes for foodies, memorable sea views for families, pubs for fun lovers and art museums for tourists who want to connect with the city’s history; it has it all and much more.
Planning an itinerary can be hectic but not with us. If you are planning to visit Duluth, be sure to read the to-do guide to make your trip a memorable one.
From food buffs to outdoor activities enthusiasts, from history buffs to honeymooners, we would discuss everything in full. So, let’s continue to explore the city together. (things to do in duluth mn)
Table of Contents
Top things to do in Duluth for adventure lovers
Journey is for adventure and discovery; If you don’t, you don’t deserve to be called a tourist. Outdoor activities refresh your spirit and make you independent. These are some of our favorite picks for this category. (things to do in duluth mn)
Canal Park
Covering the shores of Lake Superior, this park offers tourists a wholesome experience. If you only have one day, visiting this park alone might be one of the best things to do in Duluth, Minnesota due to the number of activities it offers. (things to do in duluth mn)
From the fun Playfront park to visualizing the massive ships leaving the harbor, it could easily be an all-day adventure for you with LakeWalk, a 7.5-mile trail designed to walk and bike to the historic model of Erikson’s Viking Ship.
You can also satisfy your love for water sports here, as it allows you to commute with electric boats, canoes and canoes on the lake.
A tip: Morning humidity in the area can go up to 80% in the summer, so make sure you have oil-free moisturizers in your travel bottle.
Spirit Mountain Adventure Park
Whether you are traveling alone, with friends or family, visiting this land of Adventure is nothing short of a must. The Alpine Coaster takes you on an exhilarating journey on a 3200-foot-long track, passing through tall pine trees and gazing at Lake Superior. Then there’s the Zip Line that takes you into the air 700 feet in 90 seconds, the Mini 9 hole Golf course for your family, the Hiking track and the winter ski track. (things to do in duluth mn)
Location: 9500 Spirit Mountain Pl,
Hiking trails in Duluth
Hello to all the hikers out there! There are at least 8-10 hiking trails you can go to in Duluth, Minnesota. Depending on the difficulty level and the time you have, you can choose from the easiest, the Grassy Point Trail, to the 4.2-mile Chester Park Trail. (things to do in duluth mn)
Carry a portable blender bottle with you because climbing steep hills can easily tire you out.
Take a break, capture the picturesque views on your portable camera, grab a quick bite and move on. Since the weather is colder, we recommend that you start the walk in the morning. Watch out for curling creatures and flying insects.
Mountain biking in Duluth, MN
Characterized by unique and challenging trails, Duluth is considered one of the best mountain biking destinations in the Midwest. Mission Creek is a trail filled with planted fields and shady trees. These 7 miles of ups and downs will not only test your cycling skills, but will also bring you closer to nature. (things to do in duluth mn)
The Spirit Mountain trail lets you experience a mix of hard and easy b-lines. Some jump pitches are as high as 6-8 feet here, and you never know whether you’re landing on soft ground or hard rock. Adventure seekers will love the sound of their motorcycle tires slipping and shock absorbers squeaking as they navigate their journeys with expertise and precision.
Another trace; The Piedmont trail is divided into 13 sections and is accompanied by challenging turns, swirling muddy roads and rock-solid beds. It would be better to lower the tire pressure of your bikes to give you better ground grip.
Even if you’re not that big of a bike freak, make sure you visit the Duluth Bike trails and we’re sure you’ll be one of them; they are that heart palpitation. (things to do in duluth mn)
For the history admirers
Duluth Minnesota takes great pride in its historic landmarks because there are so many of them. Usually people find history boring but with Duluth’s monuments you never go down that lane.
Aerial Lift Bridge
No list of Duluth attractions would be complete without mention of the Aerial Lift Bridge. Built in 1905, this moving elevator bridge is an architectural marvel that gracefully sets off over Lake Avenue and connects Duluth and Minnesota Point. Spectacularly designed with triangular beams and steel extensions, this is the “most photographed” spot for tourists. (things to do in duluth mn)
Want to know the best time to visit the bridge? It is when barges and cargo ships pass under it. The ‘raising’ and ‘lowering’ of the bridge to make way for the ships is enough to surprise you. It’s great during the day, but in the dark we like it better when the hundreds of LEDs illuminate the whole ambiance.
It’s like going to France and not visiting the Eiffel tower if you don’t visit. You understand the importance, don’t you?
Location: 601 S Lake Ave,
SS William A.Irwin
We haven’t seen many ships that serve many purposes like this one. Once the flagship of US Steel’s Great Lakes fleet, it has now become a top tourist attraction and visiting it will be one of the top things to do in Duluth, MN. It includes a luxurious dining room and restrooms that are timely filled by the company’s guests. The oak panels are elegantly trimmed with brass and walnut. (things to do in duluth mn)
Visitors can also explore the large engine room, where large pistons move back and forth once. It also serves as a free museum and movie theater.
Location: 2600, 350 Harbor Dr,
Glensheen
This magnificent mansion spans over 27,000 square feet and was once the home of Chester Adgate Congdon. Immersed in a fascinating Jacobin architecture, the house consists of 39 rooms and an attic on a total of three floors.
On the guided tour, which lasts approximately 30 minutes, you encounter airy dining rooms, ornate walls, sumptuous furniture, artistic paintings and traditional-style lighting fixtures. While many of the historic colors have been stripped away by local authorities, they have certainly stood the test of time. (things to do in duluth mn)
This honorable mansion can be rented for a romantic honeymoon stay with your newlywed spouse or for a wedding venue to visit. Authorities also organize special events when the festival arrives, such as candlelit Christmas decorations and a lakeside music concert.
Location: 3300 London Rd,
Lake Superior Railroad Museum
Another of Duluth’s attractions, this Museum located on West Michigan Avenue is a station for long-lived trains, railcars, and passenger cars. It includes a collection of steam, diesel and electric locomotives that will definitely take you through a time when trains were the only mode of transport. (things to do in duluth mn)
Add this place to your “things to do in Duluth, MN” list because you rarely find so many train models in one place.
Wagons as old as 1807 were parked here, and only by visualizing successive models parked there can we understand how creative a man can be.
Location: 506 W Michigan St,
For all the foodies
Delighting your taste buds with local fare in Duluth, Minnesota, ranging from sandwiches to burgers to cocktails and beers, is one of the top things to do in Duluth, Minnesota. But where to go?
Northern Waters Smokehaus
Known for its smoked fish, meats and dried salami, this gourmet restaurant is located on Lake Superior. Make sure you have the Spring Tuning brand, which is smoked in maple wood and can be complemented with a cheese and egg salad. (things to do in duluth mn)
The sandwiches are infused with traditional saltiness that you shouldn’t miss, especially the Cajun-inspired salmon and scallion cream filled Cajun Finn. If you have the extra cash, get the smoked Berkshire Ham speckled with velvety oil.
Location: 394 S Lake Ave #106,
Va Bene
This joyous Italian restaurant offers scenic views of Lake Superior from any table you wish to dine at. Whether you are sitting on the balcony, in the lounge with windows or in the private Dining Hall, you can turn your eyes to the waves of the water. (things to do in duluth mn)
The dishes served at Va Bene radiate true Italian flavors, made with Italian ingredients such as balsamic vinegar, roasted beets and delicious pancetta. They serve mouthwatering wraps, pasta, paninis and martinis.
Location: 734 E Superior St,
Fitger’s Brewhouse
If you are a heavy beer drinker, this is the place for you, if you are not, this brewery has enough talent to brew you. With award-winning lagers and pilsners delivered straight from the tanks to your glass, it’s a real treat for the drinking tourist and can be termed one of the most seasoned Duluth activities for tourists.
Saying “no” to this is like denying the Dutch Gouda cheese. (things to do in duluth mn)
You get everything from drinks with an ABV (alcohol by volume) up to 5% to 11%. Sparkling foam, fruity taste and minty scent, you name it and they have it.
We’re sure you’ll come across one that’s so delicious, you’ll want to drink it throughout the entire trip. Get the flask bracelet that allows you to sip small portions whenever you want.
That’s not all. It also hosts irresistibly delicious grilled burgers enriched with freshly picked spices from their own farms, topped with seasoned meatballs, and topped with olives and mushrooms.
If you are someone who likes blind dates, this would be a great romantic spot for you; light music, delicious snacks and fresh beer that will serve as an excellent ice breaker. However, it’s entirely your job to prepare proud pick-up lines!
Location: 600 E Superior St,
Best things to do in Duluth for art lovers
What are some of the must-do things in Duluth, Minnesota if you are an art lover? Let’s find out.
“Art and love are the same thing: the process of seeing yourself in things that aren’t you.” – Chuck Klosterman.
Duluth Minnesota has great respect for art fanatics and has a lot going for them. (things to do in duluth mn)
On the Rocks Art Studio
Missing your paintbrush and palette at home after arriving in Duluth? Don’t worry, this Art Studio will make you feel at home. Coloring is one of the most anticipated Duluth activities. The Art Studio is located in Central Park and the teacher will not only provide you with all the materials to depict beautiful views of the city, but also give you step-by-step instruction. (things to do in duluth mn)
Location: 307 Canal Park Dr,
Great Lakes Aquarium
You have to be a swimmer to dive deep and discover miraculous marine life, but what if you don’t know how to swim? This facility is a great alternative for him. Covering an area of approximately 62,000 square meters, it contains both permanent and rotating exhibits.
The permanent ones are Isle Royale, Saint Louis River, Amazing Amazon e.t.c. includes species such as trout, catfish, bass, electric eel and discus. The habitats are truly mimicked by the precise placement of igneous rocks, slow and fast moving water, cascading waterfalls and native marine plants. (things to do in duluth mn)
The Great Lakes Aquarium is filled with nearly 200 species of Amphibians, Fish, Mammals, Invertebrates, and Reptiles, each of which reflects the wonders of nature with their unique characteristics. We were personally inspired by the Baptism River exhibit, which features a waterfall and fish like Kamloops and siscowet.
Location: 353 Harbor Dr,
Duluth Art institute
This arts center works with the goal of enriching life with energetic visual arts and encouraging local participation. It not only showcases local talent, but hosts a variety of international music, theater and visual arts events. There’s always something exciting going on inside DAI, now it’s entirely up to you whether it suits your interests while you’re there.
Location: 506 W Michigan St # 2,
Bayfront Reggae & World Music Festival
This big international Music Fiesta comes to Bayfront Festival Park in July every year. (It would take place on July’18 in 2020). If you can plan your trip these days, don’t forget to attend this frustrating event.
Location: 5477 McQuade Rd,
Here you go; Here is a list of things to do in Duluth by category. We hope it proves to be valuable to you.