Location: Duluth
Top Things to do in Duluth
10 Things to Do in Duluth That You Shouldn't Miss
Perfectly positioned at the westernmost tip of sparkling blue Lake Superior, Duluth offers visitors a true escape from the stresses of everyday life and an opportunity to enjoy nature. You can opt for a more leisurely pace: spending time at one of the city's 23 beautiful parks, taking an unhurried drive along the scenic North Shore, bird watching at Hawk Ridge, skipping stones on the Lake with the kids. Or go for a more structured itinerary: the aquarium in the morning, lunch at a sumptuous restaurant on the waterfront plus a tour of the famous Sculpture Walk, then a visit to the historic Railroad Depot in the afternoon. Either way, you are sure to leave Duluth feeling relaxed and refreshed.
Restaurants in Duluth
1. Minnesota's North Shore Scenic Drive
Overall Ratings
5 based on 1 reviews
Reviewed By Bethany F
Such a gorgeous scenic drive from Duluth to Grand Portage!! Lots of places to stop off! HIGHLY recommend taking a quick 20 min stop at "Palisade Head" lookout. Some of the best views of the lake. Once past Silver Bay, look for the white church on the right "Palisade Baptist church". The trail is JUST beyond it on the right. Don't park at the bottom lot, just head up the hill (one lane road so drove slowly) to the top parking lot. You won't be disappointed.
2. Lakewalk
Overall Ratings
5 based on 784 reviews
Running along the edge of Lake Superior is a winding and hilly path, a favorite place for skating, biking, jogging and walking.
Reviewed By Colleen W
the lake walk is closed now due to a large storm that tore apart the boardwalk. can't wait for it to reopen.! it is so relaxing to walk along early in the morning and see the sunrise over lake superior. it really is spectacular.
3. Aerial Lift Bridge
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1 reviews
Originally constructed in 1905 as an aerial lift, this unusual elevator bridge is 386 feet long and spans the canal entrance to Duluth Harbor.
Reviewed By Whitney S
Stand in awe as a giant barge go underneath the lift bridge. The barges are unbelievably huge. It's a beautiful place to hang out on a summer evening. Lots of things to do down by the bridge.
4. Enger Park and Tower
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 709 reviews
Reviewed By tomorrowsantiques - Duluth
This is a beautiful park! It is free entry. There is a gazebo overlooking the lake, a paved path to the tower where you can climb 4 flights to the top for a spectacular view of the city. There are restrooms and lovely flower gardens. This park can be reserved from the city for weddings and private picnics. This tower can be seen from all over the city! Easy access from Skyline Drive. No need for a guided tour.
5. Thompson Hill Information Center
Overall Ratings
5 based on 116 reviews
Reviewed By iinadia - Minneapolis, Minnesota
This was the perfect place to turn off before going down into Duluth. We got some great photographs, some great panoramas to see.
6. Leif Erickson Park & Rose Garden
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 322 reviews
Reviewed By Liam R - Castle Danger, Minnesota, United States
We found ourselves on the eastern side of Duluth while trying to get to Canal Park and discovered this park which features a large rose garden. Unbeknownst to many, an interstate runs underneath the park. You can catch a glimpse of the I-35 freeway and a small waterfall at one end of the park, but it hardly diminishes the charm of this place. You are probably not at this park to see the freeway, you have come to smell the roses. Even in October there were numerous blooms. And these plants are well tended. Leif Erickson park is connected to the Lakewalk so if walking and admiring the scenery is your thing then you can stroll up and down the path alongside the lake. The large amphitheater along the Lakewalk hosts summer entertainment. There is also a beach which you can access behind the amphitheater. We spent most of our time there since the kids liked to throw rocks in the water and climb on the bigger rocks. Parking is free at the park (3 hour limit I believe) and there are public restrooms. If you want to picnic there is a grocery store just across the street. To get to Canal Park by car from here just take London Road SW to E Superior and go south past Fitgers to Lake Dr. Otherwise follow the Lakewalk towards the lift bridge.
7. Canal Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1 reviews
Watch seagulls soaring while you stroll around this popular spot, part of the revived Duluth waterfront. Nearby are a sculpture garden, jazz clubs, coffee shops, motels and restaurants. If you like ships, stand on the pier and watch huge boats and ships, some from around the world, come and go daily.
Reviewed By Michael M - Nevis, Minnesota
Great family experience close to home watching ocean going ships passing under the historic lift bridge, exploring the marine museum, shopping in the many small boutique stores and enjoying lunch, dinner or fine micro brews of Canal Park.
8. Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 552 reviews
This maritime museum details the Great Lakes' history and the part they played in the shipping industry.
Reviewed By jimandbevh - Plano, Tx
This is not a large museum but filled with facts and exhibits about the shipping on the great lakes. It is free so the price is right. A welcome quiet retreat from the tourist area it is in.
9. Park Point
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 265 reviews
Reviewed By Danielle J
It is beautiful. Sea grass and sand dunes and quiet. There is a changing area if needed. Lots of parking. There is a trail through the woods to a quiet section of beach. It's a great place to look for drift wood and enjoy nature.
10. Glensheen, The Historic Congdon Estate
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 988 reviews
Finished in 1908, this Lake Superior 39-room mansion enjoys a rare, intact collection of original furnishings and art. Because of that, it closely resembles the days when the Congdon family first occupied it. Truly, it is Duluth's answer to Downton Abbey. Situated on a wooded lot, the home boasts spectacular views of Lake Superior, as well as, multiple gardens including formal, flower and vegetable. Guests are also encouraged to explore the carriage house, boat house, stone bridge and pier. Children enjoy the pebbled beach for hours of rock skipping while parents take in a sit on one of Adirondack chairs. Be sure to check out Glensheen as part of your must-do Duluth bucket list.
Reviewed By jalee71 - Baudette, Minnesota
I've visited Glensheen 3 times over the years and would definitely go back again. Each time there is something new to learn and see. The mansion is beautiful and the stories are amazing. SO interesting!! Love the MN history. The grounds are beautiful as well--take them in too!
I recommend reading a bit about the infamous murders BEFORE you go. You can now ask the tour guides about this AFTER the tour, but it is best to KNOW something yourself. You can always look it up or buy a book after you go as well.
On a side note, I recommend seeing the musical "Glensheen" at the History Theater in St. Paul --so good. THAT gives you more insight into the family and the murders.
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