26 Fun and Best Things to Do in Duluth, Minnesota

Duluth in Minnesota, whether you’re looking to travel with kids or for romantic escapes, is the perfect place to plan your next getaway.

Duluth, also known as the “Air Conditioned City”, is a city that offers many wonderful opportunities to experience nature and marvel at historical sites.

There are many amazing things to do in Duluth, including breathtaking views from every corner and four seasons that make it ideal for traveling all year.

There are so many things you can do in Duluth MN that it may be difficult to narrow down your list.

Minnesota is both a tranquil and relaxed city. You can easily steal away to Minnesota to relax and rest.

If you are looking for adventure and excitement, the “Air Conditioned City”, is the place to go.

This article will give you a complete overview of some the most enjoyable ways to enjoy your visit to Duluth in Minnesota.

Things to Do in Duluth

1. Canal Park

Some of the city’s downtown districts are located in this beautiful park on Lake Superior.

The park houses Duluth’s historical Aerial Lift bridge. It is an excellent place to enjoy nature and sightseeing.

You can also enjoy the wonder of America’s first transportation bridge and other attractions like birdwatching, historical monuments and the beauty of passing lake traffic.

Canal Park is a remarkable place where you can see ships from around the globe.

It is located in the heart of Lake Superior, where visitors can walk, cycle, or run.

The park offers beach access on Lake Superior, as well as access to the downtown epicenter where there are plenty of things to see and do.

There are many things to do in and around the park, including museums, restaurants, nightlife, lodgings, and other attractions.

Address: Duluth, MN 55802, United States

2. Historic Congdon Estate

Glensheen Mansion is also known as The Historic Congdon Estate, a stunning mansion measuring 20,000 sq.

The University of Minnesota manages the estate, making it one of the best things to see in Duluth.

Congdon Estate is a beautifully preserved estate located on the shore of Lake Superior.

Historic Congdon Estate is an exquisite representation of Duluthian architecture from the 20th century.

It boasts 12 acres of lush landscaping, which places it in an enviable location.

A 39-room home, the Historic Congdon Estate, is one of many Duluth tourist attractions. Each room is preserved in its original style.

Visitors have two options when visiting the property: a short, classic tour, or a complete mansion tour which expertly shows all the amazing rooms.

Visitors can explore the beautiful gardens surrounding the Mansion and the picturesque shoreline at Lake Superior.

The Historic Congdon Estate is one of the most beautiful spots to visit in Duluth.

Contact: 3300 London Rd., Duluth MN 55804, United States

3. Lake Superior Railroad Museum

It’s all aboard!

In the middle of Duluth is located The Lake Superior Railroad Museum.

The museum is primarily focused on railway workings and native trains to the Lake Superior region.

The building, which is located in the Duluth Union Depot Complex has been restored and it’s as fascinating as its contents.

The museum houses the largest collection of railway artifacts.

The museum also houses interactive exhibits and regional artifacts.

The Lake Superior Railroad Museum was founded in 1926. It has grown to be the most prestigious and respected museum of railroads in America.

You can also board the North Shore Scenic Railroad from your museum tour for a scenic ride along Lake Superior.

The museum has some historic railway equipment that is available for rides on the train.

Minnesota’s top 10 must-see attractions, plan your trip when you are in the area.

Contact: 506 W Michigan St. Duluth MN 55802, United States

4. Lake Superior Zoo

Lake Superior Zoo is a great place to take the family to Duluth.

The zoo offers close encounters with wild animals and hopes to instill respect for wildlife conservation.

Notable is that the Lake Superior Zoo, which boasts a rich history of offering interactive exhibits for the public, ranks 19th in age in the nation.

The museum offers a wide range of exhibits and interesting demonstrations. There are also many entertaining events.

The zoo has many interesting indoor exhibits beyond its outdoor displays. These include a primate centre, a nocturnal space, and one dedicated to Australia or Oceania.

The zoo also offers many other wonderful facilities, such as The Safari Cafe or Tiger’s Paw Gift Shop.

The zoo opens every day except Christmas and New Year’s Day. You can make plans to visit the zoo today or tomorrow.

The best part is that the zoo offers a number of free activities for kids under 2.

Contact: 7210 Fremont St., Duluth MN 55807 USA

5. Tweed Museum of Art

The Tweed Museum of Art, located on campus of University of Minnesota is an art museum of international stature that addresses the question of “What to do in Minnesota?”

Museums are teaching institutions that share art and collect it.

The museum offers engaging programming and an extensive collection of visual arts that allow visitors to learn new things every time they visit.

Two resident artists are currently residing at the museum, and their medium is murals.

The museum also has permanent and rotating exhibits that encourage thought about topics like cultures, history and global humanity.

The museum’s permanent collection includes over 10,000 works of art, representing a wide range of mediums and muses.

The museum has many objectives. One is to raise social awareness and promote political understanding through visually striking and stimulating displays.

A visit to Tweed Museum of Art is one of the many free activities around Duluth.

Address: 1201 Ordean Ct, Duluth, MN 55812, United States

Explore other parts of Minnesota Check out these top things to do around Minneapolis

6. Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory

Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory is a great place to start if you are a bird lover and want to know what else to do while in Duluth.

Its mission is to conserve and preserve both birds of prey as well as migratory birds that make their homes in Lake Superior.

Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory, which is noted as being one of the best places to watch raptor migrations in the country, should be mentioned.

This migration is extremely popular, and people travel from across the country every year to see it in all its glory.

The Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory is open to all year round. It boasts more than 4 miles of beautiful hiking trails, fascinating geology, amazing fauna and incredible wildlife.

These magnificent features can all be seen while taking self-guided walks around the property.

The conservatory, which is also open seven days per week, is another free thing to do in Duluth.

You can visit the conservatory anytime, whether you are planning to go today or next weekend.

Contact: 3980 E Skyline Pkwy Duluth MN 55804, United States

7. Great Lakes Aquarium

Great Lakes Aquarium is a family-friendly attraction that sits right on Lake Superior’s waterfront.

It was opened as an aquarium in 2000.

The aquarium focuses on habitats and wildlife that are native to the Great Lakes Basin and Amazon River.

It is an excellent place to take children and learn about freshwater biomes.

Great Lakes Aquarium has stunning exhibits that highlight the marine life found in Duluth.

The interactive exhibits include the Amazing Amazon, Raptor Ridge, Freshwater Forest and Aquatic Invaders.

The aquarium has an outstanding fine arts gallery that features artwork depicting aquatic themes.

The aquarium also offers great activities for children, including a preschool program and nature play programs.

Great Lakes Aquarium, one of Duluth’s top tourist attractions is a must-see today and/or this weekend.

Address: 353 Harbor Dr #100, Duluth, MN 55802, United States

8. Duluth Children’s Museum

The interactive Duluth Children’s Museum offers many educational and creative opportunities for kids.

Children can engage in hands-on learning at the museum, which offers them opportunities to learn about science and art.

The museum offers many learning opportunities and also allows for some adventure.

Indoor playgrounds are just one way your children can have fun while they’re at the museum.

The Duluth Children’s Museum is a must-see for families traveling with young children. It has an incredible science laboratory that lets children test chemical hypotheses, and shows how plants grow.

Little Explorers is a space for toddlers that teaches fine and gross motor skills.

The museum’s STEM Station teaches children about the workings of magnets and how they work. It also helps them to practice construction concepts.

The museum has a minimal admission fee and is one of the most affordable things you can do in Duluth.

: Address at 2125 W Superior St., Duluth MN 55806, United States

9. Spirit Mountain

Spirit Mountain, a recreation mountain in Minnesota is one of the most popular places for vacation.

Spirit Mountain offers both summertime and wintertime attractions. Spirit Mountain is open all year.

Spirit Mountain is the area’s top ski resort during the winter months.

Enjoy stunning views from the tops of Lake Superior’s mountains as you ski or snowboard on trails that range in difficulty from beginner to advanced.

The mountain transforms from a scenic adventure park to a fun and exciting destination during the summer months.

A scenic chairlift, an alpine zip, timber fly zip and jumping pillow are some of the attractions.

You can also find amazing mountain trails for hiking, biking and camping in the summer months.

Spirit Mountain also has great lodging partners that can accommodate you during your stay nearby or around the mountain.

Spirit Mountain, one of the many great places in Duluth is a fun place for all ages.

Address: 9500 Spirit Mountain Pl, Duluth, MN 55810, United States

10. Wade Stadium

This 4,200-seat stadium was built in 1941 and is the home of the Duluth Huskies, a minor-league baseball team.

The stadium, which was originally built for the Duluth Dukes, was named after Frank Wade, its owner.

Amazingly, the stadium was built with the exact same bricks as the Grand Avenue in Duluth.

The stadium, colloquially known as “The Wade”, is great for catching a game with your friends.

Wade Stadium is a great place to enjoy Huskies games and the many other activities the stadium has to offer.

There are many great concession stands that offer the best in stadium food and ice cold brewskies.

You can also find Huskies merchandise and tokens at Harley’s Hut Souvenir Shop.

You can interact with the players during the seventh inning and even get an autograph.

Wade Stadium is a great place to catch a game of baseball in Duluth.

Address: 101 N 35th Ave W, Duluth, MN 55807, United States

Are you interested in visiting other areas of Minnesota? You might also like to check out Rochester, MN.

11. Marshall W. Alworth Planetarium

This popular Duluth location is worth a visit. Pun intended.

Visitors can enjoy an immersive theatre experience in the planetarium that allows them to explore beyond Earth.

This 65-seat theater features a clear surround sound system, which allows you to travel through other galaxies.

An impressive star machine projects the entire night sky from this theater.

The planetarium also has the Digistar 7 Projector, a world-famous intergalactic machine that takes the audience to incredible places.

The audience will weave between craters and among the dancing stars. They’ll also navigate to the Moon and explore the Milky Way.

The Marshall W. Alworth Planetarium offers public shows every week from Friday to Sunday for those who plan on visiting Duluth.

The planetarium is a must-see in intergalactic entertainment.

Adresse: 1023 University Drive, Duluth (MN 55812), United States

12. St. Louis County Depot

It’s a great place to visit, the historic Duluth train station is Minnesota.

It was opened as a depot in 1892, and served seven railroads. The depot closed in 1969.

The depot now houses three museums in each one of its buildings.

All three museums are centrally located in the Depot: The Duluth Art Institute and Lake Superior Railroad Museum.

The depot also houses the Duluth Playhouse as well the Minnesota Ballet.

The depot, which is also the departure point for the North Shore Scenic Railroad, serves as the final stop.

The St. Louis County Depot, one of Duluth’s top attractions, is an ideal place to immerse yourself in the local arts and history.

The St. Louis County Depot, a cornerstone of Duluth culture is engaging and immersive.

This attraction makes a great way to spend a day in Minnesota.

Contact: 506 W Michigan St. Duluth MN 55802, United States

13. Hartley Nature Center

Hartley Nature Center is a great place to spend a couple of hours outdoors in Duluth.

The vast refuge offers the ideal setting for walking, running, biking, fishing and many other activities.

The center offers nearly 700 acres worth of natural beauty and a nature center measuring 7,500 feet for education programming. It is an ideal place to discover about the ecosystems in the area.

Hartley Nature Center, an outdoor campus with beautiful views that is open seven days per week, provides the perfect setting for outdoor recreation.

Nature trails covering ten miles bring you face-to-face with wildlife and stunning views.

The ponds can also be used for paddling and fishing.

Hartley Nature Center, one of the top tourist attractions in the area for outdoor recreation is great for all ages.

Contact: 3001 Woodland Ave., Duluth (MN 55803), United States

14. Leif Erikson Park

This beautiful park in Duluth is the perfect place for children and dogs to enjoy a sunny afternoon.

The park is located on the shores of Lake Superior and was created in 1927.

The park was named after the replica ship Leif Erikson used to sail to Duluth. It is also home to beautiful features.

You can tour the park’s historic amphitheater and beautiful rose garden.

Additional park amenities include an outdoor sports area with tennis courts and baseball courts.

Leif Erikson Park also has a great playground and a dog park.

There are also paved paths that you can use for biking or hiking in the park.

Leif Erikson park is known for its uniqueness, which includes picnic tables and access to the beach.

Leif Erikson park is one of the many beautiful outdoor spots you should visit.

Adresse: 1301 London Rd. Duluth MN 55805 USA

15. Fitger’s Brewhouse Beerwery

The Minnesota beer is a favorite and one of the most popular things you can do in Duluth.

Fitger’s Brewhouse Brewery has been around for over 25 years and is Minnesota’s best-loved brewpub.

Fitger’s has won multiple awards for small-batch brewery release releases. It’s not surprising that Fitger’s is popular with patrons from all over the world.

It is Minnesota’s oldest brewery, and its expertise promises a unique experience.

Fitger’s welcomes visitors from across the country for award-winning ales, lagers and other beverages made by dedicated brewers.

Fitger’s has almost 200 unique recipes to make beers of both standard and seasonal flavor. This is the ideal place for beer enthusiasts.

The brewery also offers a variety of delicious appetizers and burgers.

Fitger’s Brewhouse Brewery has the answer if you are looking for unique experiences and sights to behold.

Address: 600 E Superior St, Duluth, MN 55802, United States

16. North Shore Scenic Drive

North Shore Scenic Drive is a romantic way to spend a date day with your lady. It will allow you to cruise the coastline of Lake Superior.

These scenic views offer breathtaking views of the lake and other beautiful sights.

You’ll also pass eight state parks and several small towns along the way. There are also a few popular eateries.

North Shore Scenic Drive was recently designated as an “All American Road”, making it one the most popular attractions in Duluth.

You will also see the 1910 Split Rock Lighthouse (a museum for commercial fishing) and the Grand Portage National Monument.

The drive from Duluth along Lake Superior’s North Shore runs through many beautiful sights.

One of Minnesota’s most popular places is the 154-mile North Shore Scenic Drive.

Address: Duluth, MN 55804, United States

17. Lake Superior Marine Museum

The Lake Superior Marine Museum, located centrally in Duluth (Minnesota), is a great place to take your family.

The museum is managed by the United States Army Corps of Engineers and looks out over the Duluth Lake Superior Harbor.

The museum shares Minnesota’s maritime history in an inspiring setting.

The museum focuses on maritime artifacts as well as impressive documents. It also has an amazing collection of photos, declarations and other educational antiquities.

The museum is a wonderful place to take your companions or friends if you have an interest in history.

It’s especially important if you are looking for inexpensive things to do around Minnesota. Admission to the museum for everyone is free.

The Lake Superior Marine Museum offers visitors a bird’s-eye view of the Great Lakes’ history.

You can expect to see interesting displays that showcase the region’s industrial past, Great Lakes shipwrecks and many other aspects.

Contact: 600 Canal Park Dr. Duluth MN 55802, United States

18. Outdoor positive energy

Positive Energy Outdoors offers outdoor adventures for people of all abilities and ages.

Positive Energy Outdoors was established in 2004 and offers outdoor activities that are powered by humans or animals.

Positive Energy Outdoors, located in Duluth at the North Shore Lake Superior is one of Minnesota’s most amazing points of interest.

You can tailor programming activities to fit the needs of individuals, families, or corporate groups.

This attraction perfectly combines nature education with outdoor fun. It answers the question, “What to Do in Duluth?”

Positive Energy Outdoors organizes exciting activities like dog sledding and sleigh/wagon rides.

Visitors can experience the thrill of canoeing, kayaking and rock climbing in warmer climates.

Positive Energy Outdoors’ mission is to foster team building and experiential learning. They make their exciting outdoor activities available for everyone.

This excellent outdoor adventure is an absolute must. There are so many things to do.

Address: 4757 Datka Rd, Duluth, MN 55803, United States

19. Split Rock Lighthouse

Split Rock Lighthouse is located on the North Shore Lake Superior and has guided freighters across the lake safely since 1910.

Split Rock Lighthouse, which is situated on nearly 8 acres of Minnesota’s scenic shoreline, can be seen as both a historical and seafaring beacon.

A new road was built in 1924 to make the lighthouse, which had been difficult for tourists to access previously, more accessible.

Visitors have travelled from all over the world to see this amazing Minnesota attraction.

You can visit the Split Rock Lighthouse as well as the keeper’s home by purchasing a Keeper’s Tour and admission to Split Rock Lighthouse.

The tour also includes access to historic grounds as well as the fog signaling building.

This private guided tour lasts 60 minutes and will allow you to discover more about the lighthouse keeper as well as its historic importance.

The tour not only reveals the fascinating history of Split Rock Lighthouse but also explains the lives and times of the residents over time.

Contact: 3713 Split Rock Lighthouse Rd. Two Harbors MN 555616, United States

20. Bent Paddle Brewing Company

The best craft brewery in Duluth is this one.

The brewery was founded by two couples who were married in 2013. It is now operated by industry experts.

Bent Paddle Brewing Company, named after the bent paddle canoeing device that was used for mixing beer and mash, is one of Duluth’s best spots.

Every Sunday, the brewery offers free tours that last about an hour and half.

Brewery tours are held between several property buildings, so make sure you’re ready for some walking.

Not to be missed: The brewery tours offer free tastings of specialty and flagship beer.

You can take a brewery tour and then go to the taproom with your friends, where you’ll be able to sip on more spirits.

You can relax with your pet in the heated, pet-friendly taproom and enjoy take-out at nearby restaurants.

Address: 1832 W Michigan St., Duluth MN 55806, United States

21. SS William A. Irvin

The bulk freighter, a boat decommissioned from the US steel lake fleet, sailed through the Great Lakes.

A visit to the SS William A. Irvin, one of the many great things you can do in Duluth is a fun way to soak in some local history.

This freighter was launched for the first time in 1938, right in the midst of the Great Depression. It retired in 1978 after carrying heavy loads for years.

The SS William A. Irvin is a unique historic thing to see in Duluth.

Enjoy two stunning sights set against the backdrop of the Aeriallift Bridge.

Despite being a 40-year freighter of iron and coal, the SS William A. Irvin will amaze you.

You should also visit the gift shop, which has a wide selection of nautical gifts.

Address: 350 Harbor Dr, Duluth, MN 55802, United States

22. Apostle Islands Cruises

Apostle Islands Cruises is a great way to see Minnesota.

The premier Duluth company specializes in charter tours to explore the amazing archipelago of Apostle Islands.

This archipelago is made up of 21 islands interconnected by extraordinary natural features such as caves and sea caves that are intricate, historical lighthouses, caverns, and abundant wildlife.

You should book your charter now because of the amazing sights that you will see on an Apostle Islands Cruise.

These tours cover 55 miles and are expertly narrated. They pass remarkable natural landscapes as well as notable historical features.

Moreover, certain tours permit passengers to embark along the way to explore the historic and natural scenery.

Six different tour options are offered by the company, ranging in length from 2 1/2 to 4 hours.

You can purchase beverages aboard cruises and you are allowed to bring snacks or lunches.

Apostle Islands Cruises is the best option if you are looking for things to do while visiting Duluth.

23. Enger Tower

The five-story, 80-foot tower of stone is architectural marvel.

Enger Tower, named after the Enger Hill hill it sits on, is one cool thing to do in Duluth.

The tower was constructed in honor of Bert Enger with funds donated by the famed furniture dealer Bert Enger.

Enger Tower offers breathtaking views over the Twin Ports from its location overlooking Lake Superior.

The tower offers five story climbing, with breathtaking views from every story.

Visitors can see parts of Duluth and parts of Superior from the top of this tower.

The tower has 105 steps and is an excellent way to view the “Air Conditioned City.”

A nearby picnic area offers a great place for a picnic lunch and stunning views.

Address: Enger Tower Dr, Duluth, MN 55806, United States

24. Duluth Rose Garden

Duluth Rose Garden, a beautiful 4.5-acre property located within Leif Erikson park.

Duluth Rose Garden, which is managed jointly by the City of Duluth as well as The Lake Superior Rose Society (The Lake Superior Rose Society), can be visited with any of your favourite anthophiles.

When the roses bloom, Summer is the peak time to visit the garden. Admission to the gardens is free for visitors to Duluth.

You can enjoy more than 3000 roses and 12,000 other plantlife as you wander the gardens.

You’ll find roses in abundance, as well as a variety of perennials and evergreen shrubs. There is even an aroma herb garden.

The garden’s many beds are connected by brick and stone walkways. These benches can be used to take a break, or continue enjoying the stunning beauty of the gardens.

Address: 15 S 13th Ave E, Duluth, MN 55802, United States

25. The Duluth Lakewalk

Nearly eight miles of the Duluth Lakewalk are paved paths that run around Lake Superior’s perimeter.

The Duluth Lakewalk is open to pedestrian use. Visitors can also bike, walk and skate. The most stunning views are just a few of the many.

The Lakewalk runs from Bayfront Park all the way to Brighton Beach. It is the perfect place to be near Lake Superior.

You’ll find historical sites, memorials and shopping along the long path.

You can see the Aerial Lift Bridge from one spot on the trail. This is a great place to enjoy the unique mechanics of the bridge and watch as the vessels pass underneath.

You can actually cross the Aerial Lift bridge if you want an exhilarating experience.

The Canal Park Museum is another fun spot to see along the Lakewalk.

The Duluth Lakewalk is one of the best attractions in Duluth.

Contact: The Lakewalk in Duluth (MN 55802, United States

26. Grandma’s Restaurant

Grandma’s Restaurant, a Minnesota landmark since 1976 when it was founded, is located in Canal Park.

Grandma’s Restaurant perfectly captures the spirit of Duluth as well as the Lake Superior shoreline. It serves traditional cuisine in an environment that displays a flair for antiquities.

The restaurant has a lot of Twin Ports souvenirs and local artifacts.

Grandma’s Restaurant’s unique design includes stained glass windows and tin signs as well as neon ingenious.

Grandma’s Restaurant is a unique place with a great location.

Grandma likes to boast that nothing has changed in the 40-year history of Grandma’s home.

Since 1976, Minnesotans have enjoyed the ambiance and the fine food.

There are many comfort food options, including soups and sandwiches as well as the iconic chicken pot pie.

Grandma’s Restaurant in Minneapolis is a must-see.

Contact: 522 S Lake Ave., Duluth MN 55802, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Duluth

Minnesota’s beautiful natural beauty is what makes it so popular.

There are many things to do in Duluth.

During your stay in Duluth, you can enjoy a variety of outdoor adventures, incredible museums, stunning historical sights and many other activities.

You just need to pack your bag and travel to the Midwestern favorite destination.

Enjoy your travels.