Duluth, MN
Duluth, Minnesota, is a vibrant city nestled along the north shore of Lake Superior, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, historic charm, and cultural richness. Known as the "Zenith City of the Unsalted Seas," Duluth is celebrated for its stunning landscapes, including panoramic lake views, rocky bluffs, and the iconic Aerial Lift Bridge, which serves as a gateway to the bustling harbor. The city's waterfront area, Canal Park, is a hub of activity featuring restaurants, shops, and attractions like the Lakewalk—a scenic trail perfect for strolling, biking, or simply taking in the beauty of the largest freshwater lake in the world.
Surrounding Duluth, the region is defined by its outdoor recreational opportunities and picturesque small towns. The gorgeous city is home to 178 miles of wooden trails, 12 streams, the St. Louis River, Lake Superior, and 6,834 acres of city parkland. To the north lies the scenic North Shore Drive, a route that winds along Lake Superior's rugged coastline, passing through quaint towns like Two Harbors and Grand Marais, known for their friendly atmosphere and artistic communities. Along the way, you can explore state parks such as Gooseberry Falls, Split Rock Lighthouse, and Tettegouche, which offer miles of hiking trails, cascading waterfalls, and breathtaking overlooks.
Gooseberry Falls State Park
Gooseberry Falls State Park, just 40 minutes north of Duluth, is renowned for its series of picturesque waterfalls that make it one of the most popular natural attractions in Minnesota. Located along the North Shore of Lake Superior, the park features three main waterfalls: the Upper Falls, Middle Falls, and Lower Falls. These cascading waterfalls are surrounded by lush forests and rugged rock formations, creating a stunning backdrop for hiking, photography, and exploration. Well-maintained trails and viewing platforms make it easy for visitors to experience the falls up close, offering different perspectives and photo opportunities. The Gooseberry River flows through the park, carving its way through the landscape before emptying into Lake Superior, and the sound of the rushing water adds to the park's tranquil atmosphere. The beauty and accessibility of the waterfalls make Gooseberry Falls State Park a perfect destination for families, nature lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Minnesota.
Split Rock Lighthouse
Split Rock Lighthouse is one of Minnesota’s most iconic landmarks, located on the rugged shores of Lake Superior along the North Shore. Perched atop a 130-foot cliff, this historic lighthouse offers breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding area. Built in 1910, it was constructed in response to a series of devastating shipwrecks during a fierce storm in 1905. The lighthouse served as a critical beacon for ships navigating the dangerous waters of Lake Superior until it was decommissioned in 1969.
Today, Split Rock Lighthouse is preserved as a historic site and is open to the public, providing visitors with a glimpse into Minnesota’s maritime history. The Split Rock Lighthouse State Park offers hiking trails that lead to scenic overlooks of the lighthouse and the lake, making it a popular spot for photography. Visitors can also tour the lighthouse tower, the lightkeeper's house, and the fog signal building, all of which have been restored to reflect their original early 20th-century condition. Each year, on November 10, the lighthouse’s beacon is lit in remembrance of the S.S. Edmund Fitzgerald and the other ships lost to Lake Superior’s treacherous waters.
Split Rock Lighthouse is a favorite destination for families, history enthusiasts, and anyone looking to experience the natural beauty of Minnesota's North Shore. Its dramatic cliffside setting, panoramic lake views, and rich history make it one of the most scenic and culturally significant lighthouses in the United States.
Madeira Bistro
Madeira Bistro in Two Harbors, Minnesota, is a charming spot that offers a taste of Portuguese-inspired flavors right along the North Shore. Known for its wood-fired dishes, Madeira Bistro serves up a delicious variety of meals crafted with fresh, local ingredients. I had the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl and OH MY GOSH, delish! Drew had the Pesto Grilly with Chicken. Plus, the cookies were soft and wonderful taste.
Vista Fleet Cruise
The Vista Fleet Shoreline Tour in Canal Park, Duluth, offers a captivating way to experience the beauty of Lake Superior and the scenic North Shore. This tour takes you along the Duluth shoreline, providing unique views of the iconic Aerial Lift Bridge, historic grain elevators, and the bustling Duluth-Superior Harbor. During the tour, knowledgeable guides share interesting stories about Duluth's history, harbor activity, and the Great Lakes’ shipping industry. The shoreline tour is family-friendly and perfect for getting a sense of Duluth's maritime heritage while enjoying the fresh lake air and panoramic views.
In Duluth, one of the most fascinating sights we explored was the Duluth ore docks, where massive iron ore trains arrive to unload their cargo. These docks are part of a historic and active process, where iron ore from Minnesota’s Iron Range is transported to be loaded onto giant freighters at the docks. Watching the immense trains slowly unload their iron ore into the towering chutes was like stepping back into a piece of industrial history. The ore is then transferred into ships that travel across the Great Lakes, continuing the journey to steel mills further east. It's an impressive demonstration of engineering and a reminder of the vital role that mining has played in shaping the region's history and economy.
Canal Park, Lighthouses and Lakewalk
Canal Park in Duluth, Minnesota is a vibrant waterfront area that is one of the city’s most popular destinations, known for its scenic views, attractions, and bustling activity. A highlight of Canal Park is the Duluth Lakewalk, a picturesque path that stretches along the Lake Superior shoreline, offering walkers, joggers, and bikers breathtaking views of the lake. The Lakewalk provides easy access to some of Duluth's best features, including parks, beaches, and points of interest.
One of the iconic landmarks you can visit while strolling along the Lakewalk is the Duluth North Pier Lighthouse. This red-and-white lighthouse stands at the end of the North Pier and offers an excellent backdrop for photos. Watching ships pass under the Aerial Lift Bridge and enter the harbor is one of the top attractions of Canal Park, especially from the vantage points along the Lakewalk.
Canal Park is also filled with shops, restaurants, and local attractions, making it a perfect spot to spend a few hours or a day. From browsing local boutiques to dining at waterfront restaurants with beautiful lake views. We stopped at the Glass Blowing store and stared mesmerized for 30 minutes as he made a glass cup. He talked to the kids about glass blowing and answered Foster’s endless questions!
The combination of the Lakewalk, North Pier Lighthouse, and the lively atmosphere of Canal Park makes this area a must-see for anyone visiting Duluth, offering a blend of natural beauty, local culture, and lakeside fun.
Hepzibah's Sweet Shop
Hepzibah's Sweet Shop, located in Canal Park, Duluth, is a charming candy store that offers a wide selection of nostalgic sweets, handmade fudge, chocolates, and other treats. Known for its old-fashioned ambiance, the shop provides a delightful experience for visitors of all ages, with a variety of candies that will transport you back in time. Whether you're looking for a sweet souvenir or just craving something delicious, Hepzibah's is a perfect stop for anyone with a sweet tooth while exploring Canal Park.
Grandma’s Saloon & Grill
Grandma’s Saloon & Grill in Duluth, Minnesota, is a beloved restaurant located in the heart of Canal Park. Known for its quirky, nostalgic decor and welcoming atmosphere, it has been a popular spot for locals and tourists alike since 1976. The restaurant offers a diverse menu, featuring everything from burgers and sandwiches to seafood and pasta, all served in generous portions. We tried the Pot Pie and the Cranberry Turkey Club with Wild Rice Chicken soup. With its historic setting near the Aerial Lift Bridge, Grandma's Saloon & Grill is a great place to enjoy a meal while taking in views of Lake Superior and the bustling waterfront activity. It’s a must-visit spot that captures the essence of Duluth's charm and history.
Enger Park and Tower
Enger Park and Tower is a popular scenic spot in Duluth, Minnesota, offering beautiful views of the city, Lake Superior, and the surrounding landscape. The park is known for its well-maintained gardens, peaceful picnic areas, and the iconic Enger Tower, a five-story stone structure that visitors can climb for breathtaking panoramic views. Built in 1939 as a tribute to Norwegian-American businessman Bert Enger, the tower provides a unique vantage point to see the Twin Ports, the Aerial Lift Bridge, and the harbor. The park also features Japanese Peace Bell Gardens, a tranquil spot for reflection. Enger Park and Tower is a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience Duluth’s natural beauty and appreciate its impressive views from one of the city's highest points.
Aerial Lift Bridge
After watching the bridge go up and down a few times while sitting on a rock ledge in Enger Park, we were excited to jump in the car and seek out this historic bridge. The Aerial Lift Bridge is the most famous historic bridge in Duluth, Minnesota. Originally constructed in 1905 as an aerial transporter bridge and converted into a vertical lift bridge in 1930, it is one of Duluth's most iconic landmarks. The bridge spans the Duluth Ship Canal, connecting Canal Park to Park Point and allowing passage for both vehicles and large ships. The Aerial Lift Bridge rises to let vessels into the Duluth-Superior Harbor, making it an impressive sight for visitors, who often gather along the waterfront to watch the massive ore boats and other ships pass beneath. It remains a key part of the city's maritime culture and a beloved attraction, symbolizing the history and connection of Duluth to Lake Superior.
Playfront Park Playground
The Playfront Park Playground is a popular family-friendly spot in Duluth, Minnesota, located along the Duluth Lakewalk near Bayfront Festival Park. It features a large, modern playground with a variety of climbing structures, slides, and swings that are perfect for kids of all ages.
Glensheen Mansion
Glensheen Mansion is a historic estate situated on the shores of Lake Superior. Built between 1905 and 1908, it was the home of Chester Congdon, a prominent lawyer, industrialist, and philanthropist. The mansion is a stunning example of Jacobean Revival architecture, with 39 rooms featuring period furniture, beautiful woodwork, and elaborate detailing that reflects the wealth and lifestyle of the Congdon family.
The Glensheen Historic Estate is now operated by the University of Minnesota Duluth and is open to the public for tours, allowing visitors to explore the mansion's ornate rooms, gardens, and grounds. The estate sits on 12 acres of landscaped grounds, which include formal gardens, a carriage house, and beautiful pathways along Lake Superior. Glensheen is also known for its intriguing and sometimes eerie history, including the unsolved murders of Elisabeth Congdon and her nurse in 1977, which adds an element of mystery to its allure. The self-guided Classic Tour includes three floors of the mansion and takes about an hour total. The more in-depth Full Mansion Tour covers all five floors of the home plus the grounds. Those interested more in gardens than interiors may be satisfied with solely Grounds Admission. The combination of the mansion's architectural beauty, lakefront setting, and fascinating history makes Glensheen Mansion one of Duluth’s most popular attractions, offering a unique glimpse into the grandeur of early 20th-century life along the North Shore.
Other noteworth activities we did not have time for:
The Duluth Depot, built in 1892, is a historic train station transformed into a cultural center in Duluth. It houses the Lake Superior Railroad Museum, showcasing vintage trains and railroad artifacts, as well as the Duluth Art Institute and St. Louis County Historical Society exhibits. Visitors can also ride the North Shore Scenic Railroad during the summer. The Duluth Depot is a must-see for history and train enthusiasts, offering a mix of history, art, and family-friendly experiences.
The Great Lakes Aquarium showcases the wildlife and ecosystems of the Great Lakes region. It features exhibits like Otter Cove, regional fish displays, and touch tanks for hands-on experiences. This family-friendly attraction provides an educational and fun experience while offering beautiful views of Duluth Harbor and Lake Superior.
Duluth is home to a vibrant craft beer scene, with several well-known breweries offering unique brews and great atmospheres. Popular spots include Bent Paddle Brewing Co., known for its creative craft beers and spacious taproom, and Canal Park Brewing Company, which offers a mix of excellent brews and scenic views of Lake Superior. Ursa Minor Brewing features a cozy taproom with live music and wood-fired pizzas, while Blacklist Brewing Co. offers an eclectic range of beers in a lively downtown setting. Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast or just looking to relax, Duluth’s breweries are a perfect way to enjoy the local flavor.
Skyline Parkway is a scenic drive in Duluth, Minnesota, offering breathtaking views of Lake Superior, the St. Louis River, and the surrounding hills and forests. Spanning over 25 miles, Skyline Parkway winds through the hills overlooking Duluth, providing visitors with a picturesque journey that includes panoramic overlooks, natural beauty, and several historic landmarks. It's a favorite route for both locals and tourists, especially in the fall when the colors are at their peak. Here are some popular stops along Skyline Parkway:
Enger Park and Tower: Offers panoramic views of Duluth and Lake Superior from the top of the five-story Enger Tower.
Hawk Ridge Nature Reserve: Known for bird watching, especially during fall migration, with incredible views of the lake and city.
Seven Bridges Road: A charming section with historic stone bridges over Amity Creek, featuring beautiful waterfalls and wooded areas.
Spirit Mountain Overlook: Provides fantastic views of Duluth and Lake Superior, especially popular for photo opportunities.
Where we stayed
Buffalo House RV Park is located just outside of Duluth, Minnesota, offering a convenient and comfortable place for RV travelers to stay while exploring the Northland. The RV park provides full hookups, spacious sites, and easy access to amenities like showers, restrooms, and laundry facilities. It is part of the Buffalo House complex, which also features a restaurant, bar, and event space. With nearby access to recreational trails, it’s ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy activities like hiking, biking, or simply relaxing in a peaceful setting while being close to the attractions of Duluth. The kids made friends within the first 5 minutes of pulling into the park and played daily with their buddies in the afternoon. I love how easily my kids meet new friends and create friendships that will continue outside the days in the park.
Our time in Duluth was filled with stunning lake views, scenic hikes, and a deep dive into its rich maritime history. As we pack up and say goodbye to this wonderful city, we're excited to continue our journey eastward into Michigan, where new adventures and discoveries await. We can’t wait to see what the Great Lakes State has in store for us!
