Duluth is one of those cities that can surprise you in a very good way. It is a beautiful mixture of natural beauty and laid-back small-city vibes. Whatever you may be into, it’s very possible that Duluth has it. Whether you are planning a relaxing Lake Superior escape, a weekend adventure or a road trip with your group. You can do it all in this city. There are enough outdoor activities to fill your weekends. If you’re searching for the best things to do in Duluth Minnesota then you are at the right place. This article is all you will need to read before you plan your first trip to Duluth. But first, what’s the best way to get to Duluth?
How To Get To Duluth: Best Route To Duluth
One of the best parts about going to Duluth is the journey itself. If you were to drive from Minneapolis to Duluth it would take you around 2.5 hours. That’s 2.5 hours of beautiful highway and forest-filled routes. The drive gradually goes from city views to nature-filled forest views. If you are looking for the fastest and most popular route to Duluth then you should choose the Interstate 35 Route. Travelers who are looking for comfortable and budget trips often choose services like BUSXOXO for stress less travel experiences.
8 Fun Things To Do In Duluth, MN
1. Visit Canal Park
Canal Park is usually the first place visitors head to and honestly, it’s easy to see why. It is located right along Lake Superior. If you do not have any plans then this is the place to go because its relaxed vibe is best for the wondering around. Here you can find waterfront paths, local shops and cafes. The lake views here somehow feel calming no matter the weather. This place gives you a good feel for the city even if you’re only there for an hour.
Things to Do here
- You can walk along the Duluth Lakewalk
- You can watch ships pass through the harbor
- You should visit local cafés and souvenir shops
- You can take sunset photos near the bridge
- Or you can just relax by the Lake Superior shoreline
2. Explore Aerial Lift Bridge
The Aerial lift bridge was built in the year 1905. It is easily the most famous spot in Duluth. The bridge lifts up regularly to allow large ships to enter the harbor. It sounds simple but watching it happen in person is very interesting to be honest. When night comes the entirety of the bridge gets lit up with golden yellow lights which looks absolutely beautiful. The Aerial Lift Bridge is one of those places that you may visit multiple times in your visit to Duluth.
Things to Do here
- You can watch the bridge lifting for incoming ships
- You can take harbor and skyline photos
- You should visit during sunset or nighttime for the best experience
- Or you can learn about Duluth’s shipping history
3. Hike at Gooseberry Falls State Park
The Gooseberry waterfalls go through rocky cliffs and the whole area is covered by forests. This State Park may feel like a completely different world to you. This state park is about a 40-mile drive away from Duluth. It is one of the top waterfalls in Minnesota. The trails here are not very difficult to hike on and that makes the place easy to explore even if you are an experienced hiker. Visiting here is one of the many things to do in Lake Superior. The place looks its best during the fall season because the color of the leaves changes and adds more colors to the view.
Things to Do here
- You can hike to multiple waterfall viewpoints
- You can take photographs of nature
- You can enjoy scenic picnic areas
- You should definitely explore North Shore trails
- And for the best experience you should visit during the fall for autumn colors
4. Spend Time at Enger Park
If you are someone who is looking for the most panoramic view in Duluth then Enger Park is the place for you to go. The park is located in the hills from where you can see the whole city and also the Lake Superior. The stone tower inside the park is a very good spot for photography and the garden around the stone tower makes the place look very peaceful and quiet.
Things to Do here
- You can climb Enger Tower for city views
- You can walk through peaceful gardens
- You can take panoramic photos of Lake Superior
- You should enjoy quiet picnic spots
- You should visit during sunrise or sunset for the best views
5. Visit Glensheen Mansion
The Glensheen Mansion is a statement of beautiful architecture. It adds a completely different side to Duluth. The mansion is located on the shore of Lake Superior which gives it a solid lake view. It is also a piece of history as every room in this mansion shows you glimpses of the early history of Duluth. Even if you are not so big into history, you can still enjoy the lakeside views.
Things to Do Here
- You can take a tour of the historic mansion’s interior
- You can explore the lakeside grounds and gardens
- You can also learn about Duluth’s history
- You can take photographs of the beautiful architecture here
- Or you can simply relax and walk along the Lake Superior shoreline
If you want to learn more about the history of the Glensheen Mansion then you can refer to this article by the University of Minnesota Duluth.
6. Explore Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center
This visitor center is located on the harbor of Lake Superior. Duluth has a deep connection to shipping and the Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center gives you an idea of how important the Lake has been to the region in this aspect. Entry requires no fee; it’s free to visit. Ships pass by here all the time and make the experience more interactive when you are exploring the exhibits inside.
Things to Do Here
- Here you can learn about Great Lakes shipping history
- You can explore maritime exhibits and displays
- You can watch ships enter the harbor
- You can also visit family-friendly educational areas
- You can take photos near the waterfront
7. Walk the Duluth Lakewalk
The Duluth Lakewalk is one of the simplest but most enjoyable experiences in the city. It stretches along the Lake Superior shore. It gives you a beautiful lake views almost the entire way. Some people like to ride bikes along it and some people like to jog. But honestly you get the best experience by walking slowly and enjoying the views. The sound of waves and cool lake air make it easy to spend more time there than you originally planned.
Things to Do Here
- You can walk or bike along the shoreline
- You can enjoy sunrise lake views
- You can stop at parks and cafes nearby
- You can also take relaxing evening strolls
8. Skiing on the Spirit Mountain
If your heart asks for snow then Spirit Mountain is the place to go. The Spirit Mountain is a super happening four-season outdoor destination in Duluth. This place gives a great view of Lake Superior and the St. Louis River. It is also the 2nd-tallest ski hill in the entirety of Minnesota (about a 700-foot vertical drop).
Things to Do Here
- You can ski here
- You can enjoy the thrill of Timber Flyer Zipline
- You can have an adventure of downhill mountain biking
- You can also challenge yourself on a superior hiking journey
When To Visit Duluth For The Best Experience?
Summer Season
- Best weather for outdoor activities
- During this time there are a lot of festivals
- This season is also ideal for hiking
Fall Season
- The tree leaves change to the autumn colors
- The temperature gets cooler and the drives get more beautiful
- Great for photography
Winter season
- Most of Duluth is covered in snow
- Cozy atmosphere and winter sports
- Fewer crowds
Final Thoughts
When it comes to the top things to do in Duluth there is a lot. A first-time visit here is bound to leave an impression on you. It is an experience like no other. Many of Duluth’s best attractions, like Gooseberry Falls require driving along the North Shore. If you are traveling with a large family or tour group then renting a Minnesota charter bus by BUSXOXO is a great way to keep everyone together.