Aerial Lift Bridge Duluth: History, Facts & Visitor Guide

Aerial Lift Bridge Duluth is one of the prominent landmarks of Minnesota for many reasons. It has a very rich history and became well-known due to its conversion to a vertical lift bridge in 1930. No wonder that it is one of the most photographed locations in Duluth. It is also known for its proximity to other loved attractions, mainly Duluth Canal Park and Lake Superior. In this blog, we will give you detailed information on what you can see and do around the Aerial Lift Bridge in Duluth. 

Note: Are you coming to see the Aerial Lift Bridge with your family or friends for a vacation? A charter bus in Minnesota will ensure safe navigation here, along with the nearby locations. 

History of the Aerial Lift Bridge, Duluth

Before learning about the history of the Aerial Lift Bridge, know how the people in Duluth operated before the bridge was built. The Park Point started becoming one of the popular summer recreation areas in Duluth in 1871. So, the locals dug a path through Minnesota Point so as to connect the Duluth Harbor with Lake Superior. In the following few years, the locals used boats and ferries to move to the other side of the canal. 

Two decades later, in 1891, transportation was getting more difficult. So, a bridge design contest was held by the city to find out some of the best designs to make accessibility to Park Point easier. The design that won the first prize was rejected due to financial constraints. The second-place design was also rejected due to the doubt that it might obstruct the shipping canal. For these failures, the city wanted a new and fresh solution.

But in 1905, the Duluth lift bridge was built, and its design was made by Thomas F. McGilvray. In the initial years, it was used as a transporter bridge & also called a ferry bridge or aerial transfer bridge. The structure of this bridge was built very high & a platform (or something like a gondola) hangs down with the help of cables/ metal rods. This bridge was used to carry vehicles and people from one side of the canal to the other. 

Redesign of the Lift Bridge

Almost 15 years later, in 1930, a redesign was put forward to make it a vertical lift bridge. This idea was suggested by C.A.P Turner. And why? Because the previous model only accommodated a few cars and people. But as people bought more vehicles, the hanging platform became too slow. Hence, a new design was proposed by the firm of Harrington, Howard & Ash to make transportation easier and faster. 

This 1000-tons of steel bridge was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1973. Today, the aerial lift bridge still maintains the transporter bridge on top, but the hanging platform has been changed so that it can be raised and lowered accordingly to allow ships to pass.

Why is Aerial Lift Bridge Duluth So Famous?

There are many reasons why this particular aerial lift bridge in Duluth is so famous. The first reason is its impressive historical conversion into a vertical lift bridge in 1930. Secondly, it is the first transporter bridge in the United States, which makes it more unique and beloved in the country. Also, this bridge is the only way through which vehicles can reach the famous sandy beach of Duluth i.e Park Point. Moreover, it serves as the official entry point from which ships can enter the Duluth Harbor. 

Today, the Duluth Aerial Lift Bridge has become an iconic landmark of the city and also one of the most photographed structures. Due to this bridge, Duluth got its reputation as the most prominent port city in the Midwest.

Best Things to Do at the Aerial Lift Bridge Duluth

At the end of the day, it is still a functioning bridge and not a fun location to do recreational activities. But there are still a few things that can be done on the bridge itself. 

There is a dedicated pedestrian lane on the Lift Bridge Duluth from Canal Park to Park Point. Go for a walk or bike across this lane. Tourists also get the opportunity to take mind-blowing snaps and close-up shots of the nearby lakes, which are visible from here. What you can do here is just stand there and peacefully overlook the whole water area that surrounds the bridge. 

But unfortunately, no one will be allowed to stay on the bridge if the ship is coming and the bridge is about to be lifted due to safety concerns. But that will not ruin your experience of feeling the lift. Visitors can feel the mechanical rumble of the up-and-down of this bridge on your foot as they stand right next to this metal structure. The view of watching the bridge you were standing on a few moments ago being suddenly lifted into the air is something you won’t forget in this lifetime. You will also feel a vibration in your body as the bridge’s horn blasts a loud, echoing signal to the approaching ship. 

Pro Tip: There is a way through which you can ride the bridge as it moves up and down, but the city has a very strict policy that allows this in rare cases. For that, an advance approval from the Director of Public Works, a formal public service purpose and a signed liability waiver. And a lesser-known spot that will take you quite close to the ships as well is the old interstate pier that goes under the Blatnic Bridge.

Prime Attractions Near Aerial Lift Bridge Duluth

There are a lot of Duluth attraction points from where you can learn more about the Aerial Lift Bridge and Lake Superior. Additionally, there is a visitor center and an aquarium very close to this bridge. It is a must-visit if you’re interested in aquatic life and the history of this region. You can also check out other best things to do in Duluth, Minnesota.

Park Point

Park Point Duluth (otherwise named Minnesota Point) is the longest Sandbar in the world, which separates Lake Superior from Duluth Harbor. You can go to Park Point on a 5.2-mile trail where you can see the remains of Minnesota’s first lighthouse. But we warn you about the poison ivy plants on this trail. The next thing we would recommend is Park Point Beach. Here, you & your family can go for a swim, have picnics, or just feel the soft sand barefoot. You can also check out the ships passing by from here. This is considered the best beach in Minnesota. 

Canal Park

The notable Aerial Lift Bridge sits inside the Canal Park in Duluth. Canal Park, Minnesota, lies directly on the shore of Lake Superior. Some of the top things that we would recommend you do here are watching the ships pass by the lift bridge while also watching the bridge being lifted. You can also enjoy walking, strolling or biking on the paved path. Visitors can see along the rocky edges of Lake Superior. Or what you can do is climb on the stony pier to get a close-up view of the lake and its waves. Lake Superior is one of the best lakes in Minnesota. 

Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center

It is a museum in Duluth where you will learn about the history of Great Lakes Maritime & its navigation system through exhibits and displays. It includes a replica ship pilothouse, three cabin replicas, a 2-story steam engine and 50 scale models. You will also see a gift shop & tugboat USACE Bayfield outside the museum in the lawn area. This museum is very close to the Aerial Lift Bridge and you can also track the arrival & departure of ships via monitors. They provide a variety of educational programs for school and community groups. 

North Shore Railroad

If you are in Duluth, then you must go for a trip on the North Shore Scenic Railroad. It is a round trip that starts from St Louis County Depot in downtown Duluth. It takes you up to the shorelines of Lake Superior and then brings you back to the same point you started from within 75 minutes. Additionally, if you still have a day or two left here, go for a seemingly longer trip to the two harbors, but it is a 6-hour round trip. From this railroad, you can check out the dense Northwoods, Lake Superior and the Congdon neighbourhood. This Duluth train ride is one of the top hidden gems in Minnesota for nature lovers. 

Great Lakes Aquarium

What makes Great Lakes Aquarium Duluth a unique location is that it is one of the few aquariums in the US that focuses primarily on freshwater exhibits. It is a 62,000 sq ft facility where you can see the aquatic habitats of the Great Lakes Basin, the Amazon River and many more. It has more than 1000 species of fish, mammals, reptiles and so on. You can check out the exhibits of North America’s largest sturgeon touch pool, otter cave and Isle Royale which is an 85,000-gallon two-story central tank. There is also a children’s play space on the upper floor. 

Visitor’s Information on Nearby Landmarks

Disclaimer: Check the admission rates and current opening hours on their official page before visiting, as they may vary. 

Top Photography Spots Near Aerial Lift Bridge Duluth

There are many points and spots in Duluth from which you can take the best shots of the Aerial Lift Bridge. Here are a few tips from the local photographers in Duluth:

• The best spot is the Duluth Ship Canal, which runs under the Aerial Lift Bridge, from where you can get excellent pictures of ships and the lighthouses. Position yourself on the side that gets direct sunlight to get the best photos, as suggested by a photographer.
• The second point is the Minnesota Point Beach to capture the endless horizon of Lake Superior with the reflection of the sun falling in the water. Come here during early mornings (for sunrise shots) and in late evening (for sunset shots).  
• The third point is from Canal Park, where you can focus on the lively atmosphere of streets, ships and restaurants with the view of the lake. Here you can capture the daily life of locals and bustling downtown areas filled with visitors and busy businesses. 
• The beauty of the Aerial Lift Bridge increases during the winter season. In these months, the surrounding areas are covered with snow and the region turns into a winter wonderland. Especially in Lake Superior, where the crowds are fewer. 
• If you have come to Duluth during fall, then you must go for a ride on the North Shore Railroad to capture the beautiful fall foliage in the Northwoods in this particular season.

Local Food Stops Near Aerial Lift Bridge Duluth

Feeling hungry and want to enjoy some meals nearby? These are a few food stop names that are just a 5-10 minute walking distance from the Duluth Aerial Bridge.

• Grandma’s Saloon & Grill is just 0.1 miles away from the bridge and is popular for their onion rings, classic American burgers and walleye fingers. 
• Northern Water Smokehaus is just 0.2 miles away in DeWitt-Seitz Marketplace, which specializes in smoked fish and gourmet sandwiches.
• Vitta Pizza Canal Park is just 0.4 miles away and they serve the best Neapolitan-style, wood-fired authentic pizza in the Northland.
• Canal Park Brewing Company sits 0.5 miles away from the bridge and serves local craft beers, fish & chips and pub sandwiches.
• Bellisio’s Italian Restaurant and Wine Bar is also 0.5 miles away from the bridge and serves house-made Italian pasta, seafood risotto and a top-tier wine list.

Seasonal Highlights In Duluth, Minnesota

Duluth is a destination that blends stunning scenery, outdoor recreation and top attractions. The best season to come here depends on what you are looking for and what things to do in Duluth, Minnesota. 

Spring: March, April, May

The spring season is a transformation season in Duluth when the frozen Lake Superior starts breaking up. Spring is also the shipping season when ships start coming into the Harbor after winter break. If you love quiet explorations, then spring is for you. You can explore the local attractions before the peak summer arrives. Another activity you can do is to go for a walk on the Park Point Trail and catch a sight of some local wildlife here. 

Summer: June, July, August

One of the most popular times to visit Duluth is in summer, when the weather is warm but in a good way. The days will be longer and you will get a chance for many summer recreation activities here. You can go for a walk on the trails or ride a bicycle with your group on the Lake Shore. Also, swimming and boating are permitted here, which is a bonus. But be prepared for the summer crowd and longer traffic here. 

Fall: September, October, November

The most beautiful times of Duluth arrive in the fall season. Visitors will face cooler temperatures and see the changing colors of nature. The top activity that we suggest is to take a ride on the North Shore Railroad which will show the autumn foliage views of the Northwoods. Even though there will be fewer crowds than the previous season, during festival times Duluth is yet again filled with people.

Winter: December, January, February

There is something unique about winters in Duluth that cannot be found anywhere else. The Aerial Lift Bridge and its surrounding areas get covered with snow and ice. Not many tourists know about this, but they can see the Northern Lights in the sky at night (10:30 pm – 2 am). But know that winters here are not crowded at all. One of the reasons is that active ship sailing usually pauses in these months. 

Tip: If you are looking for things to do in Duluth at night, then summer and winter are for you. 

Travel Tips For Visitors At Aerial Lift Bridge Duluth

• Always purchase your tickets and make necessary reservations beforehand, especially if visiting in peak times. They will fill up faster and you may get discounts if reserving online. 
• Tourists can view the Aerial Lift Bridge Duluth, Minnesota whenever they want because it is an active structure. It has no opening hours & can be viewed 24/7 at any time of the year. 
• Travelers will find both paid and free parking options near the Aerial Lift Bridge on Canal Road. Also know that restrooms are available in plenty. Surprisingly, they also have opening and closing hours which you can check on their website. 
• Walking on the Aerial Lift Bridge is absolutely free and it will take around 5 minutes to cross the bridge. Also, it takes about a minute for the bridge to lift and another minute to lower the bridge. 
• Check the Duluth ship schedule because there might be temporary traffic delays when the bridge lifts if travelling with a car. 
• If you are looking for some good stay options, then visitors will find the best hotels in Duluth Canal Park. 

Final Thought

Aerial Lift Bridge in Duluth is the pride of Minnesota. Here, visitors will get to see many landmarks like Canal Park, Lake Superior, Sandy Beach on Park Point, and the list is endless. Also, enjoying a meal while watching the bridge go up and down is a truly extraordinary experience. At last, we hope you enjoy your trip.