Top 10 Things to Do in Duluth

Curiosities and Interesting Information

• Duluth is known as the Air-Conditioned City due to its proximity to Lake Superior, which helps keep the city cool in the summer.
• The city has over 6,000 acres of parkland, making it one of the most green cities in the US.
• Duluth is home to the famous Aerial Lift Bridge, which connects the city to Park Point, a long sandbar that stretches out into Lake Superior.
• Lake Superior is the largest freshwater lake in the world by surface area, and Duluth is located on its western tip.

1. Canal Park

Canal Park is the heart of Duluth’s tourist district, and for good reason. Here, you can watch ships come and go from the harbor, visit the famous Aerial Lift Bridge, and explore the many shops and restaurants that line the waterfront.

I recommend taking a stroll along the Lakewalk, a scenic boardwalk that runs along Lake Superior. There are also several parks in the area, including Leif Erickson Park, which has a beautiful rose garden.

One of my favorite things to do in Canal Park is to visit the Great Lakes Aquarium. Here, you can see all kinds of fish and other aquatic creatures that are native to Lake Superior and the surrounding area.

2. Enger Tower

Enger Tower is a 5-story observation tower that sits atop a hill overlooking Duluth and Lake Superior. The tower was built in 1939 and offers panoramic views of the city and the lake.

There are several hiking trails in the area that lead up to the tower, including the popular Duluth Traverse trail. The tower is also home to a memorial to Bert Enger, a Norwegian immigrant who donated the land for the park that surrounds the tower.

3. Spirit Mountain

Situated just a few miles west of Duluth, Spirit Mountain is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. In the winter, the mountain offers skiing, snowboarding, and tubing, while in the summer, visitors can enjoy mountain biking, hiking, and zip-lining.

One of my favorite things to do at Spirit Mountain is to take the scenic chairlift ride to the top of the mountain. From there, you can see breathtaking views of the city and Lake Superior.

4. Glensheen Mansion

The Glensheen Mansion is a historic mansion located on the shores of Lake Superior. Built in 1908, the mansion is now a museum that offers tours of the ornately decorated rooms and gardens.

The mansion is also known for its infamous past, as it was the site of a double murder in 1977. Visitors can learn about the murder and its aftermath on the Unsolved Mystery tour.

5. Park Point

Park Point is a long sandbar that stretches out into Lake Superior, and is accessible from Duluth via the Aerial Lift Bridge. The beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.

One of my favorite things to do on Park Point is to take a bike ride down the length of the sandbar. There are also several restaurants and shops in the area, including the famous Grandma’s Restaurant.

6. Bentleyville Tour of Lights

Every winter, Duluth hosts the Bentleyville Tour of Lights, a massive holiday light display that covers several acres in Bayfront Park. The display features over 5 million lights, and includes a giant Christmas tree and a visit from Santa Claus himself.

I highly recommend visiting Bentleyville during the holiday season. It’s a great way to get into the holiday spirit and enjoy the winter wonderland that Duluth becomes during the colder months.

7. Lake Superior Zoo

The Lake Superior Zoo is home to over 450 animals, including several endangered species. The zoo offers a variety of exhibits, including a North American Trail that features animals native to the region.

One of my favorite exhibits at the zoo is the Barnyard, where visitors can feed and pet farm animals like goats and sheep. The zoo also has several playgrounds and picnic areas, making it a great place for families to spend the day.

8. Duluth Pack

Duluth Pack is a local company that has been making high-quality outdoor gear since 1882. The company is best known for its canvas and leather backpacks, which have become iconic symbols of the Duluth outdoorsman.

Visitors to Duluth should definitely make a stop at the Duluth Pack store, where they can see the backpacks being made and purchase one for themselves. The store also offers a variety of other outdoor gear and clothing.

9. Northern Waters Smokehaus

The Northern Waters Smokehaus is a local deli that specializes in smoked fish and meats. The deli has won numerous awards for its delicious sandwiches, which feature ingredients like smoked salmon, prosciutto, and house-made pickles.

One of my favorite sandwiches at the Smokehaus is the Dyna-Mo, which features smoked salmon, cilantro-lime mayo, and jalapeño cream cheese. The deli also offers catering and online ordering for those who want to enjoy their delicious sandwiches from the comfort of their own home.

10. Duluth Coffee Company

The Duluth Coffee Company is a local coffee roaster that has gained a reputation for its high-quality, ethically-sourced coffee. The company roasts its coffee in small batches and offers a variety of blends and single-origin beans.

One of my favorite things to do on a lazy Saturday morning is to visit the Duluth Coffee Company’s downtown cafe and enjoy a cup of their delicious coffee. The cafe also offers a variety of pastries and baked goods, making it the perfect spot for breakfast or a mid-morning snack.

FAQs

What is the best time of year to visit Duluth?

Duluth is a great place to visit year-round, but the most popular times to visit are in the summer and fall. The summer months offer warm weather and plenty of outdoor activities, while the fall is known for its beautiful fall foliage and annual events like the Duluth Oktoberfest.

What are some other outdoor activities to do in Duluth?

Duluth is known for its outdoor activities, and there are plenty of other things to do besides the ones listed in this article. Some other popular activities include kayaking on Lake Superior, hiking in the nearby state parks, and fishing on one of the many lakes and rivers in the area.

What are some good restaurants in Duluth?

Duluth has a vibrant food scene, and there are plenty of great restaurants to choose from. Some other popular spots include the Duluth Grill, Va Bene Caffe, and the New Scenic Cafe.