Duluth Minnesota is one of the most popular cities to visit in the state. Girls weekend. Romantic getaway. Family day. It’s the perfect destination no matter who is joining you. The lakeside town offers beautiful scenery, adorable neighborhoods, outdoor adventure at every turn, and endless places to eat and drink. There are so many things to do in Duluth Minnesota and a trip up will be full of fresh air and good memories.
What is There to Do in Duluth Minnesota Today?
- Canal Park & The Lakewalk
- Enger Tower
- Superior Hiking Trail
- Spirit Mountain
- Shop at the stores and boutiques
- Eat at Northern Waters Smokehaus
- Drink, Eat, Shop, and Relax at Fitger’s
- Sip Cocktails at Vikre Distillery
- Watch Sports & Plays Games at 310 Pub
- Brewery Hop at a few Duluth Breweries
- Drive Up the North Shore
Read all of the details on the best things to do in Duluth Minnesota:
Canal Park & The Lakewalk
Duluth’s most famous landmark, the Aerial Lift Bridge, sits right at Canal Park where you can start the 7.5 mile Lakewalk that hugs Lake Superior. You’ll pass beaches and parks, shops, gardens, and ships passing through while admiring the endless Lake Superior. The Lakewalk is a very scenic spot and it’s hard to beat a morning walk here (with a coffee in hand.) There is a Caribou Coffee down on Canal Park Dr., as well as Amazing Grace Cafe + Grocery if you’re looking for an independent shop.
Can you swim in Lake Superior in Duluth?
Yes, of course! There are many places to swim in Lake Superior when you’re in Duluth. A few spots are Park Point Beach, Brighton Beach, Uncle Harvey’s Mausoleum, “The Deeps” for cliff-diving—use caution, Pattison Park, and more. Keep in mind that Lake Superior never gets all that warm, so be prepared. It will certainly be refreshing!
Enger Tower
If you’re ready for some of the views that Canal Park offers from above, make sure to hit Enger Tower. Especially if it’s a clear and sunny day. Positioned 531 feet above the lake, you are rewarded with prime-time views of Duluth Harbor after climbing the skinny 105-step staircase. Once you reach the top, it’s spectacular 360-degree viewing platform is perfect for photo opportunities.
Superior Hiking Trail in Duluth Minnesota
Many people choose to do the Superior Hiking Trail farther north of Duluth along the North Shore, but don’t miss out on the Duluth experience! The entire trail may be 310 total miles (WOW!) but there is something special about the Duluth hikes with many (many!) views to take in. A couple to choose from:
- Hartley Nature Center to Martin Road (3.1 miles)
- N 24th Ave W to Twin Ponds at Enger Park (1.7 miles)
- Stretch between Hartley Park and the Rose Garden: (4.5 miles)
Don’t forget to check the trail conditions.
Spirit Mountain
If you happen to be visiting Duluth, Minnesota in the winter months, hit the slopes at Spirit Mountain! Spirit offers incredible views of Duluth and Lake Superior with 22 runs total and a 700 ft. vertical drop. There are also mountain villas and nearby hotels to make it a full weekend.
For more ski spots, don’t miss: Where to Downhill Ski in Minnesota: 8 Largest Hills
And guess what? The fun doesn’t stop spring through fall at Spirit Mountain. They offer the Adventure Park (zip line, mini-golf, jumping pillow, scenic chairlift ride, etc.), a campground, disc golf, and mountain biking.
Shopping in Duluth Minnesota
Shoppers, get excited. There are so many shops in Duluth Minnesota whether you are looking for new outdoor gear, souvenirs, art work, chocolates, books, and more. A few of the fun stops:
- Duluth Pack Store: Everything related to the outdoors that you could ever think of! Fun store to walk through and explore.
- Northwoods Confections & Gifts: Home decor, apparel, candy, and more.
- Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory: Premium chocolate and other sweet treats. Don’t miss it!
- I LOVE DULUTH: a classic gift shop full of t-shirts, coffee mugs, shot glasses, picture frames, and other souvenirs.
- DeWitt–Seitz Marketplace: Definitely check out this place located right on Canal Park Drive and Lake Ave. There are fun shops and boutiques plus great food.
Northern Waters Smokehaus
Speaking of DeWitt-Seitz Marketplace. Inside you’ll order one of the best sandwiches you will ever eat! No exaggeration. Northern Waters Smokehaus has smoked fish and meats with a gourmet sandwich menu that you will LOVE. One of Duluth’s most well-known restaurants, it’s sure to have a line. The easiest way to do it is to call or order online for pick-up and your sandwiches will be waiting when you get there. Note: as of March 2021, this is a requirement due to COVID-19. There is an outdoor patio space right outside to enjoy your sammy.
I cannot recommend “The Great Summer Caper” enough—smoked salmon with black pepper and coriander, scallion cream cheese, red onion, tomato, fresh greens, and capers on a toasted St. Paul Bagelry bagel. If you are a fish fan, this is a must! You can also order deli meats, sausages & brats, fish, cheeses, and more. I will never go to Duluth and skip this place!
Fitger’s
There are so many things to do in Duluth Minnesota. And so many of them happen at the historic Fitger’s. Eat, sleep, shop, relax. Think of a mall that features dining, retail and lodging plus the brewery. Some of the highlights:
- Fitger’s Inn: Duluth’s historic lakefront hotel on the shore of Lake Superior within the renovated 1880’s Fitger’s Brewery.
- Eat: Fitger’s Brewhouse, Mexico Lindo, and the Boat Club Restaurant and Bar are all great options to eat and drink right on site.
- Fitger’s Salon and Spa: Nails, massage, skincare, hair. Take care of yourself at the spa while visiting Duluth.
- Shops: There are a few different stores to explore including The Bookstore at Fitger’s, The Market at Fitger’s, and The Snow Goose.
Vikre Distillery
Time to talk cocktails! Vikre Distillery uses the clean, cold water of Lake Superior, local and organic grains, and MN oak barrels to create their homemade spirits and Nordic-inspired drinks. Both the inside and outside have a “true north” vibe and the gin, vodka, whiskey, and aquavit make up their delicious menu—and are available for purchase. You can’t beat a Whiskey Hot Toddy on the outdoor patio (with bonfires) on a sunny Saturday. This is definitely one of my favorite things to do in Duluth Minnesota.
310 Pub
If you’re looking for a more classic bar scene with TVs (20+ HD flat screens), American grub (great wings and burgers), and all kinds of games (pool, shuffleboard, ping pong, darts, bubble hockey, and more!), then 310 Pub is your spot. Located right near Canal Park, it’s in a classic location with happy hour 3PM-6PM every Monday-Friday and ALL DAY Sunday! Stop in to watch a Twins, Wild, Vikings, or Timberwolves game and have a good time.
Brewery Hop
Duluth Minnesota is home to 9 different breweries making it a destination that is full of craft beer options. And of all the things to do in Duluth Minnesota, a brewery hop is one of the most fun!
- Bent Paddle Brewing Company: one of the most popular and definitely a spot to check off your list if you are a first-timer.
- Canal Park Brewing Company: eatery with patio seating that overlooks the pretty blue waters of Lake Superior. (Note: they will reopen this spring.)
- Hoops Brewing Company: classic beer hall with a bring your own food option. I think this one is my favorite!
- Dubh Linn Brew Pub: Irish pub and “nano-brewery”. They offer a classic pub menu with all fresh, local ingredients.
- BONUS: Duluth Cider is the first cidery in the city and is becoming increasingly popular.
Drive Up the North Shore
If you are in Duluth Minnesota for more than one day, it is well worth your time to drive farther north along Lake Superior and stop at towns along the North Shore. It’s pristine lands offer up incredible hikes, fun bars, delicious eats, the best photo ops, and a ton of fun. For more on the North Shore, check out:
- Minnesota’s North Shore: 14 Road Trip Stops
- North Shore Minnesota Coffee Shops & Café’s: 5+ Cozy Stops
- 10 North Shore Minnesota Bars and Breweries
On the Way to Duluth MN…
If you are driving north on your way to Duluth Minnesota, there are so many things to do along the way. You are likely heading up 35W. Read the Ultimate Guide to Road Trip Stops Off I-35 in Minnesota and start having fun before you even get there!
Best Things to Do in Duluth Minnesota
Duluth Minnesota is a fun city where there is always something to do and places to get outside no matter what time of year!
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