When searching for a spot to beat the Kansas heat this summer, head ten hours north to the Great Lakes and the beautiful city of Duluth, Minnesota! Perched high atop a hill overlooking Lake Superior, Duluth graces the northern shore at the westernmost tip of the world’s largest freshwater lake. Known as the Zenith City of the Unsalted Seas, Duluth offers a vast array of breathtaking vistas, outdoor activities, world-class attractions, and, of course, plenty of water.
Arriving on Interstate 35, the first landmark is Spirit Mountain. Averaging 90 inches of snowfall annually, this ski hill transforms in winter, but come summer, it’s the home of Minnesota’s best lift-access mountain biking. As you approach the city, you’ll pass the mouth of the St. Louis River flowing into St. Louis Bay and Duluth-Superior Harbor, revealing an endless view of the sparkling blue waters of Lake Superior.
Once within the city limits, first-time visitors to Duluth naturally gravitate to Canal Park. Dubbed Duluth’s Playground, Canal Park features dozens of centuries-old brick buildings that have been transformed into charming shops, boutiques, restaurants, and breweries. Situated directly on the lake, Canal Park is anchored by Duluth’s most iconic landmark, the Aerial Lift Bridge. This bridge connects Duluth to Minnesota Point (locally known as Park Point), the world’s longest freshwater sand spit. Built in 1905, the 390-foot bridge can be raised to its full 135 feet in about a minute to allow ship traffic to pass between the harbor and the lake. Few experiences are more exhilarating than standing under the Aerial Lift Bridge as a 1,000-foot cargo ship passes just a few feet away.
Once you’ve had your fill of ship watching, the rest of the city awaits exploration. Duluth’s vibrant arts scene, historic architecture, and world-class museums add cultural richness to your visit. The Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center and the Glensheen Mansion are just two of Duluth’s unique museums. The former honors the history of shipping across the Great Lakes, while the latter is a 12-acre estate with a 20,000-square-foot, 39-room mansion.
Beyond the attractions within Duluth, the city is the gateway to the North Shore of Lake Superior. Following Highway 61 into Minnesota’s Arrowhead Region, you'll discover treasures along the 170-mile North Shore Scenic Drive to the Canadian border, featuring landmarks such as Split Rock Lighthouse, the Palisade Head cliffs, and Gooseberry Falls. Cruise through charming towns like Two Harbors, Lutsen, Grand Marais, and Grand Portage, each offering its own deep-woods charm. Additionally, from Duluth, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area (BWCA) and Voyageurs National Park are just a stone’s throw away.
Duluth, Minnesota, is a must-visit destination for its stunning natural beauty and diverse, limitless attractions. Whether seeking adventure, relaxation, or a blend of both, Duluth's unique charm and welcoming community make it unforgettable. When you visit, you'll truly be amazed that you're still in the Midwest!
What To See!
- Great Lakes Aquarium: Explore animals and habitats from the Great Lakes basin and other freshwater ecosystems, including the Amazon River. glaquarium.com
- William A. Irvin Museum: Tour the inside of an impressive 610-foot-long lake freighter ship. decc.org/william-a-irvin
- North Shore Scenic Railroad: Enjoy a rail excursion along the picturesque north shore of Lake Superior. duluthtrains.com
- Vista Fleet: Explore Duluth Harbor and Lake Superior on a narrated sightseeing tour with options for lunch, dinner, or family fun cruises. vistafleet.com
- Minnesota Whitewater Rafting: Get wild with a professionally guided raft tour down the St Louis River! minnesotawhitewater.com
- Grandma’s Saloon & Grill: Experience the Canal Park tradition (since 1976!) and host of the world-famous Grandma’s Marathon. grandmasrestaurants.com