35 Things to Do in Duluth

Duluth is filled with sights and experiences that captivate visitors year-round. From thrilling outdoor adventures to the serene beauty of its landscapes, this city offers a variety of attractions for every traveler.

Duluth’s unique blend of urban energy and natural charm makes it a destination like no other. The city invites visitors to uncover its treasures and enjoy a journey of exploration and discovery.

Canal Park

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Canal Park is a lively district packed with unique attractions. The iconic Aerial Lift Bridge rises to allow ships to pass beneath, providing an impressive sight and a favorite photo opportunity. The area boasts museums like the Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center, where visitors learn about the shipping history of the Great Lakes.

For those seeking some relaxation, the shores provide tranquility with the soothing sound of waves hitting the rocks. Canal Park seamlessly blends natural beauty with engaging activities, making it a must-visit spot in Duluth.

Enger Tower

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Built in 1939 on land donated by Norwegian immigrant Bert Enger, the tower is an 80-foot tall landmark 450 feet above lake level. Its location provides a striking view over the city, especially illuminated at night, casting an eerie, greenish glow.

Visitors can enjoy a brisk climb up 105 steps to the top, which rewards them with stunning vistas and a sense of accomplishment. The surrounding Enger Park also provides opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and special events. The park is family-friendly, accessible, and welcomes pets on leashes.

Glensheen Mansion

Our Rating: 9.3/10

Glensheen Mansion captivates visitors with its opulent architecture and rich history. Once the splendid home of Chester and Clara Congdon, this 39-room mansion sprawls across a 12-acre estate. At Glensheen, you can embark on self-guided tours, allowing leisurely exploration of the intricately decorated rooms such as Helen’s and breakfast rooms.

During the holidays, the mansion transforms into a festive wonderland with its candlelight tours. Rooms are adorned with beautifully themed decorations, like Classic Christmas Tales, providing a magical ambiance.

Lake Superior Railroad Museum

Our Rating: 8.9/10

The Lake Superior Railroad Museum offers a captivating journey into the rich history of railroading. Visitors can explore an impressive collection of meticulously restored locomotives and railroad equipment that significantly built Minnesota. The museum is housed in the historic Union Depot, enhancing the experience with a genuine historical backdrop.

Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., the museum provides an interactive platform with engaging exhibits showcasing the evolution of rail transport. Train enthusiasts and history buffs will find artifacts, detailed displays, and informative captions.

Bent Paddle Brewing Company

Our Rating: 8.8/10

Bent Paddle Brewing Company stands out as a must-visit destination for beer enthusiasts. Established in 2013, this craft brewery is known for its engaging taproom experience. The brewers craft a wide array of beers using the pristine waters of Lake Superior, offering both flagship and seasonal varieties. Visitors can enjoy a refreshingly laid-back atmosphere, perfect for relaxing with friends or meeting fellow beer lovers.

The taproom enhances its experience with community-driven events, music, and food options, making every visit unique. Bent Paddle also focuses on sustainability, incorporating eco-friendly practices, which appeal to environmentally conscious visitors.

Leif Erickson Park

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Leif Erickson Park in Duluth is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts and serenity seekers. The park offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty and recreational opportunities. Located along the shores of Lake Superior, it features well-maintained walking paths that provide stunning views of the lake’s vast expanse.

The park is also home to the award-winning Rose Garden, which boasts thousands of rose bushes blooming in colorful splendor. This vibrant display is a popular spot for photography and peaceful reflection.

Duluth Entertainment Convention Center

Our Rating: 8.5/10

The Duluth Entertainment Convention Center hosts everything from concerts and trade shows to sports events and community gatherings. Featuring nine diverse venues, it caters to both large-scale and intimate occasions.

Visitors frequently mention the high-quality amenities and impressive acoustics, especially during live performances. The center’s strategic location provides easy access to Duluth’s other attractions, making it an ideal stop during a trip.

Great Lakes Aquarium

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Great Lakes Aquarium is a fascinating destination for both locals and travelers. This attraction offers an insightful glimpse into the aquatic ecosystems of the Great Lakes region. Visitors can encounter a variety of live animals, including fish, otters, and turtles, which engage children and adults alike.

Open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., the aquarium features an Oceans Alive exhibit, where one can learn about ocean currents and marine life through interactive displays. The observation deck provides stunning views of Lake Superior, making it a perfect spot for memorable photos.

Congdon Park

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Known for its rugged beauty, Congdon Park contains trails that wind alongside waterfalls, canyons, and streams. Tischer Creek’s bubbling waters add an element of adventure, making it a favorite among photographers and nature lovers.

The trails are inviting for walkers and hikers, leading them across quaint bridges and near picturesque views. While exploring, those on the path encounter natural stairs made of rocks and tree roots, providing a touch of rustic charm.

Spirit Mountain

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Spirit Mountain is a place for all outdoor lovers, offering many activities suited for all seasons. In winter, the slopes invite skiers and snowboarders of all skills to glide down its snowy expanse. The ski area is renowned for its well-maintained trails and diverse terrain options.

Visitors can indulge in thrilling mountain biking trails as the snow melts or navigate the Spirit Mountain Adventure Park, complete with a Timber Flyer Zip Line and scenic chairlift rides. The park also features the Alpine Coaster, a favorite among adrenaline seekers.

Park Point Beach

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Park Point Beach is a stunning stretch of sand along the world’s largest freshwater sandbar. Its expansive shoreline offers a perfect spot for swimming and sunbathing during the summer months. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the beach, feeling the sand beneath their feet and listening to the waves.

This beach is also an excellent spot for picnicking, providing ample space for families and friends to gather and enjoy a meal with beautiful lake views. On the cooler days, kite flying and beachcombing become popular activities, as visitors can explore and search for unique treasures along the shore.

Lakewalk

Our Rating: 9.0/10

The Lakewalk offers a stunning pathway that stretches about 7.25 miles along the picturesque shores of Lake Superior. This scenic route provides an ideal setting for walking, jogging, or cycling while enjoying the calming sounds of the waves. It has a mix of boardwalk and paved sections and is easily accessible to all visitors.

As you stroll, panoramic lake views unfold, punctuated by occasional sightings of passing ships. During warmer months, the Lakewalk is dotted with lively gatherings, and street musicians often add a delightful background to your journey.

Hartley Nature Center

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Hartley Nature Center invites visitors to explore its diverse landscapes through recreational activities. The center boasts 10 miles of trails, perfect for hiking and mountain biking during summer. The same trails transform into scenic cross-country skiing and snowshoeing routes in the winter.

Hartley Pond adds a picturesque spot for relaxation or a leisurely walk. With its rich ecosystem, the area teems with wildlife, providing an excellent opportunity for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers.

Duluth Rose Garden

Our Rating: 8.9/10

The Duluth Rose Garden is a delightful experience with its thousands of rose bushes, carefully arranged in curved paths. Visitors can wander through the vibrant display of colors and immerse themselves in the sweet fragrance. The garden is situated atop the I-35 Tunnel, providing a unique backdrop of Lake Superior as they stroll through the beautiful displays.

Ideal for photography enthusiasts, the garden’s picturesque setting is perfect for capturing stunning shots. Families often take this opportunity to have picnics in the open green spaces.

Bayfront Festival Park

Our Rating: 9.1/10

Bayfront Festival Park’s visitors can immerse themselves in various activities throughout the year. The park frequently hosts festivals and concerts that draw large crowds eager for entertainment and community spirit. In winter, the area transforms into a wonderland with ice skating and stunning holiday light displays, including the popular Bentleyville “Tour of Lights.”

The park’s scenic views provide the perfect backdrop for a day of leisure, where guests can enjoy a picnic or simply take in the sights of ships passing under the iconic Aerial Lift Bridge. Families will delight in the well-equipped playground and ample space to roam.

Duluth Depot

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Duluth Depot is a cornerstone of history and culture in the heart of Duluth, offering a journey back in time. Visitors can explore the Lake Superior Railroad Museum, where preserved trains and interactive exhibits capture the golden era of railroads. The Duluth Art Institute showcases contemporary art through thought-provoking exhibits, contrasting the historical ambiance.

The building, a striking architectural piece, invites guests to wander and admire its historic charm. The depot hosts various events and performances throughout the year, reflecting the region’s culture. The St. Louis County Historical Society also resides here, offering insights into local heritage through extensive archives and unique artifacts.

Tweed Museum of Art

Our Rating: 8.5/10

This 33,000-square-foot facility is not just a repository of art; it’s a cultural experience. The museum hosts various exhibitions ranging from beautiful French Barbizon paintings to intricate Ojibwe basketry, drawing art enthusiasts and casual observers alike.

A fascinating feature is its collection of American art, including nineteenth-century landscape paintings originally gathered by George P. Tweed. Visitors can engage with the art through various interactive programs, including guided tours and educational workshops, making it a fantastic venue for learning and enjoyment.

Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center

Our Rating: 8.4/10

The Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center is a powerful tribute to America’s military heroes. Visitors can engage with captivating exhibits and multimedia presentations that bring stories of courage and sacrifice from World War II to contemporary conflicts to life.

The center’s hallmark is a beautifully restored P-38 airplane featuring the legendary markings of “Marge,” honoring the celebrated flying ace, Richard Bong. Rich in history, the museum offers an immersive experience that connects with the dedication and valor of veterans.

Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Located on the shore of Lake Superior, this destination is perfect for families and maritime enthusiasts alike. Children can explore the museum’s pilot house, pretending to steer a ship using realistic equipment. This interactive exhibit provides a unique hands-on experience that captivates young imaginations.

In addition to the educational displays, visitors can watch ships as they pass through the Canal Park Shipping Canal, just a short walk away. This popular spot gives a firsthand look at the vessels that navigate the Great Lakes, adding a dynamic element to the visit.

Minnesota’s North Shore

Our Rating: 9.1/10

The Minnesota North Shore is a breathtaking stretch along the shores of Lake Superior, offering scenic views and diverse activities. It begins in Duluth, with landmarks such as Canal Park and its iconic Aerial Lift Bridge. As travelers journey north on Highway 61, they encounter picturesque state parks like Gooseberry Falls and Split Rock Lighthouse, perfect for hiking and photography.

The Superior Hiking Trail provides adventurous hikers with stunning landscapes and local wildlife. Fishing and boating are popular in the area’s many rivers and lakes. Each stop along the way, including quirky small towns like Grand Marais, presents opportunities to explore local art galleries and eateries featuring regional cuisine.

Lester Park

Our Rating: 8.5/10

This picturesque drive takes visitors over charming bridges, offering unique views of forests and cascading waterfalls. Lester Park invites adventurers to explore various hiking trails that wind through verdant landscapes, providing glimpses of the diverse flora and fauna.

Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy picnicking in serene surroundings or spend the day fishing in the clear waters of Lester River. The park’s varied terrain also provides opportunities for mountain biking, attracting adrenaline seekers looking for thrilling downhill rides.

Fairlawn Mansion

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Originally built for Martin Pattison, a mining and lumber magnate, this mansion is an architectural marvel with its stunning four-story design and 42 exquisitely restored rooms. Visitors can explore its lavish interiors, adorned with gilded murals and intricate woodwork. The mansion’s role as a Children’s Home for decades adds an intriguing layer to its history.

Fairlawn is open year-round and provides a rich cultural experience for history buffs and casual visitors. Events and programs often enhance the exploration, making it an engaging stop.

Pat Bayle State Forest

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Pat Bayle State Forest draws visitors with its adventurous activities and natural beauty. Situated within the boundaries of Superior National Forest, it features hiking trails leading to Eagle Mountain, Minnesota’s highest point. Outdoor lovers can explore a variety of paths, navigating through dense forests and scenic landscapes.

The forest’s trails vary in difficulty, catering to both seasoned hikers and casual walkers. Fishing is also popular in the forest’s lakes and streams, providing a peaceful setting to catch a variety of fish. Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing transform the area into a snowy playground in winter.

Skyline Parkway

Our Rating: 9.1/10

Skyline Parkway provides an unparalleled drive across a scenic 25-mile stretch perched on the ridge above Duluth. Travelers experience expansive views of Lake Superior and the St. Louis River. Nature enthusiasts find joy here, as every turn along the parkway reveals lush forests and stunning landscapes.

Several overlooks along the route present perfect spots for photography. Adventurers can enjoy multiple activities, including hiking along nearby trails, bird watching, cross-country skiing in the winter, or simply picnicking.

Soudan Underground Mine State Park

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Soudan Underground Mine State Park invites you to traverse its historic depths. It offers unique underground tours, guiding visitors deep into the mine to explore where iron ore originated.

Descending 2,341 feet via original hoisting equipment adds authenticity and excitement to the journey. Above ground, the park features opportunities for boating and fishing on Lake Vermilion or hiking amidst towering pine forests that dominate the landscape.

Western Waterfront Trail

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Western Waterfront Trail gives a scenic adventure along the St. Louis River. This 3-mile gravel path is perfect for walking, biking, and enjoying the serene natural surroundings. The trail provides excellent birdwatching opportunities, with various species visible amidst the marshy landscapes.

It is an ideal spot for photographers and nature enthusiasts. With views of the river and occasional glimpses of nearby neighborhoods, it balances natural beauty with urban charm. The trail is accessible, making it suitable for families and casual adventurers looking for a refreshing outdoor experience.

Fitger’s Brewhouse Brewery and Grille

Our Rating: 8.4/10

Established in 1995, this place has become a must-visit for locals and visitors. The brewery is renowned for its small-batch beers that capture the essence of Minnesota’s brewing traditions. Guests can enjoy a range of flavorful brews, from classic ales to innovative seasonal concoctions.

The menu complements the beer selection with dishes like the famous elk and wild rice burgers, offering a taste experience inspired by the local flavors of Minnesota. Visitors are encouraged to explore the lively atmosphere, perfect for a casual lunch or evening gathering.

Duluth Children’s Museum

Our Rating: 8.5/10

The Duluth Children’s Museum invites children to engage and explore with hands-on learning experiences. Kids can dive into interactive exhibits that let their imaginations run wild. Each exhibit fosters creativity and curiosity, from building blocks to science-related activities.

The museum emphasizes creative play and educational experiences through various hands-on activities. Young visitors can experiment, ask questions, and discover new things, making learning fun. The museum aims to allow children to express themselves while gaining knowledge freely.

Split Rock Lighthouse

Our Rating: 9.3/10

Split Rock Lighthouse is a captivating historical landmark on the North Shore of Lake Superior. Completed in 1910, it was built in response to shipwrecks caused by a fierce November storm in 1905.

Visitors can explore the restored light station, which offers a fascinating glimpse into early 20th-century lighthouse life. The rugged setting provides breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding cliffs, perfect for photography enthusiasts.

Brighton Beach

Our Rating: 8.3/10

Brighton Beach, located just northeast of Duluth, boasts stunning views of Lake Superior. The beach is perfect for agate hunters who scour the shore for these semi-precious stones. The area is also known for its beautiful rock formations, which enhance the excitement as waves crash against them.

Visitors can bask in the sun during calmer conditions or take a refreshing dip in the lake’s cold waters. Brighton Beach is a favorite spot for picnicking and photography, capturing the lake’s changing moods throughout the seasons.

Seven Bridges Road

Our Rating: 8.7/10

Seven Bridges Road is a scenic drive with historic charm. The road covers four miles along Skyline Parkway, descending 400 feet from the bluff to Lake Superior. This winding path is punctuated by a series of picturesque stone bridges with unique architecture and history.

The area is ideal for strolls and more energetic hikes, allowing visitors to experience natural beauty from varied perspectives. Families and photographers often take advantage of the diverse photo opportunities, as the interplay of light and water creates dynamic landscapes.

Duluth Playhouse

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Duluth Playhouse is a cultural landmark, offering diverse theatrical performances that captivate audiences of all ages. Founded in 1914, this community theater is known for its combination of innovative plays and Broadway musicals throughout the year. The theater’s Main Stage Season invites visitors to experience professionally cast productions, from gripping dramas to lively musicals.

Moreover, involvement opportunities abound for aspiring actors through educational programs and performance opportunities. The Playhouse also boosts its offerings with a School of Performing Arts, which hosts workshops and classes to nurture local talent.

Wild State Cider

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Wild State Cider is a must-visit for cider enthusiasts. Located in the Lincoln Park neighborhood, this cidery allows visitors to taste over 12 different cider varieties on tap. The flavors range from sweet to dry, catering to different palates. The welcoming taproom provides a relaxed atmosphere with plenty of space to enjoy a drink while socializing or simply unwinding.

Wild State Cider combines a passion for craft cider with a comfortable environment, making it an ideal stop for those exploring the local beverage scene. Visitors can engage with knowledgeable staff to learn about the cider-making process and discover which cider best suits their taste preferences.

Lake Superior Zoo

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Lake Superior Zoo caters to all families and animal enthusiasts alike. Spread across 16 scenic acres, the zoo is home to over 300 animals and 140 species. Visitors can explore habitats that house bears, wolves, and fascinating creatures from around the globe.

Kids and adults can engage with unique programs and camps that deepen the experience, making it more than just a zoo visit. Traverse the well-maintained trails along rocky hills and majestic pines while discovering the diversity of wildlife.

Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory

Our Rating: 9.0/10

Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory is a remarkable vantage point for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts. Famous for its raptor migration, this destination allows visitors to witness impressive flocks of hawks, eagles, and falcons as they journey along the North Shore of Lake Superior.

Between September and November, the observatory is a bustling hub of activity, featuring educational programs led by knowledgeable staff and volunteers. Participants can learn about bird banding and conservation efforts directly from experts.

Duluth provides memorable experiences year-round. The city’s inviting charm and unique landscape leave a lasting impression on everyone who visits. Duluth welcomes travelers to return and experience even more of its captivating appeal.