5 June 2024
Nestled along the sparkling shores of the mighty Lake Superior, Duluth is a true gem that will captivate your heart and soul offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and an abundance of fun-filled adventures. As someone who’s enjoyed exploring Duluth, let me take you on a journey through its unmissable highlights.
Canal Park
Imagine strolling along a lively boardwalk, taking in the crisp lake breeze and the magnificent silhouette of the iconic Aerial Lift Bridge. Welcome to Canal Park, Duluth’s vibrant waterfront district that pulses with energy and excitement where you can indulge in delectable local cuisine at cozy eateries, browse through quirky shops brimming with unique finds, or simply bask in the breathtaking views of Lake Superior’s vast expanse. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center – Here you can delve into the city’s rich shipping heritage and learn fascinating tales of the Great Lakes.
Glensheen Mansion
Step back in time and immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Glensheen Mansion, a 39-room historic estate that exudes elegance and luxury. This architectural marvel was built in the early 1900s. You’ll be stunned by the intricate woodwork, stunning stained glass, and meticulously preserved interiors that transport you to a bygone era. You must not miss the guided tours which offer an intimate look into the lives of the wealthy Congdon family who once called this masterpiece home.
North Shore Scenic Railroad
All aboard the North Shore Scenic Railroad for a truly unforgettable adventure! You will love this historic train journey that offers a front-row seat to the breathtaking natural beauty of Minnesota’s North Shore region. As the train winds its way along the rugged coastline of Lake Superior, you’ll be treated by the panoramic vistas of the sparkling lake, dense forests, and charming small towns.
From the various options that the train journey offers, you can either opt for a narrated tour where friendly guides regale you with fascinating tales and little-known facts about the area’s storied past or, for a more indulgent experience, check out their themed events like beer and wine tastings on the rails. With choices like these, your trip on the North Shore Scenic Railroad is sure to be a standout memory from your Duluth adventure.
Superior Hiking Trail
As someone who loves being outdoors, hiking the Superior Hiking Trail is one of my favorite things to do. This 310-mile-long path winds through the beautiful North Shore region, letting you fully experience Minnesota’s wild and rugged natural areas. I’ll never forget my first big hiking trip on the trail – setting up my tent under the bright stars, listening to the crackling campfire, and waking up to the cheerful sounds of birds in the morning. With each step, I felt more relaxed and happy, leaving my daily worries behind. Whether you are looking for a challenging multi-day adventure or an easy day hike – the trail offers stunning views, pretty waterfalls, and chance to see some wildlife in their natural homes. Take a break, breathe the fresh forest air, and let the peacefulness of nature refresh your mind and body.
Lake Superior Zoo
As a kid, I always got so excited for our family trips. Same goes with the Lake Superior Zoo – it was a place where I could see all kinds of incredible animals up close. Even now as an adult, I still feel that same childlike joy and wonder whenever I visit. From the powerful bears and wolves to the rare snow leopards, each exhibit lets you see these amazing creatures right in front of you making this zoo so special for sparking the curiosity and helping you learn about the animal world. I have such fond memories of the programs where the friendly zookeepers taught us cool facts and let us ask lots of questions, turning every visit into a fun learning adventure. The interactive activities and entertaining shows only added to the magic.
Duluth Depot
Walking into the historic Duluth Depot feels like traveling back to the past – to a time when trains chugged across the rails and conductors blew their whistles. As someone really interested in history, this carefully restored old train station is truly special. Every time I wander through, I’m amazed by the beautiful, detailed architecture and decorations that make me feel like I’ve gone back in time. The unique shops and art galleries which is now called the Depot home are filled with wonderful, carefully selected items that give you a glimpse into the area’s rich heritage. The best part is the transportation museum which is located inside where you can learn all about how railroads played such an important role in Duluth’s growth and development over the years. It’s like a living museum that reminds us of our city’s incredible journey while letting us look ahead to the future.
North Shore Scenic Drive
One of my favorite things to do in Duluth is hop in the car and drive along the North Shore Scenic Drive. This amazing 150-mile road that hugs the rocky coastline of mighty Lake Superior gives you one incredible view after another. I’ll never forget stopping at the Palisade Head overlook and being blown away by the vast, sparkling blue waters stretching out as far as I could see. As you cruise along the winding roads, you get to see towering cliffs dropping straight down to the crashing waves below making it an awe-inspiring sight! I also loved catching glimpses of the famous Split Rock Lighthouse standing proudly on top of a 130-foot cliff. This drive lets you fully experience the wild beauty of Lake Superior’s shoreline.
Great Lakes Aquarium
Great Lakes Aquarium is a must-visit, if you want to learn all about the amazing creatures that live there. The aquarium has awesome exhibits showcasing the diverse fish, birds, and other animals from the region. One of the highlights for me was the interactive touch tanks where you can actually reach in and feel sturgeon and other cool fish swim right by you! The daily shark feedings are another must-see, watching those powerful predators up close is jaw-dropping. The aquarium is not just fun, but also teaches you so much about the vital role that the Great Lakes ecosystems play and why protecting it is crucial. Overall, it’s an entertaining and educational underwater adventure for all ages.
Festivals and Events
Duluth sure knows how to throw a great party! This lively city hosts a ton of awesome festivals and events all year round celebrating its vibrant mix of cultures. If you’re in town for the Duluth Air Show, you’re in for an adrenaline rush watching those incredible aerial stunts and displays. Or maybe you’ll catch the Bayfront Blues Festival, with the whole city coming alive to the soulful sounds of blues music filling the air. From huge food and music blowouts to art fairs showcasing local talent to cultural heritage celebrations, Duluth’s event calendar is absolutely packed with exciting, fun-filled gatherings for every interest. Just check out what’s happening during your visit because you won’t want to miss out on these memorable parties!
Park Point Beach
After exploring all the exciting attractions Duluth has to offer, I always look forward to some relaxing time at Park Point Beach with the long sandy stretch along the shores of Lake Superior making it the perfect place to unwind. Spread out your blanket, feel the soft sand between your toes, and let the gentle lapping of the waves calm your mind. As you gaze out over the vast, glittering waters, with the iconic Aerial Lift Bridge standing tall in the distance, you’ll be reminded of life’s simple pleasures and the moments of tranquil beauty that nourish the soul.
Duluth is such a great place with something amazing to offer everyone. If you love being outdoors and doing exciting things in pretty natural areas, or if you’re a family wanting to have fun together, Duluth has lot of cool activities for you. Or if you want to learn about the interesting history and cultures of the area, Duluth lets you do that too. Duluth is a place that will capture your heart with its unmatched natural beauty and engaging attractions. Ready to explore? – Pack your bags, channel your spirit of adventure, and get ready to create long-lasting memories.