Duluth, Minnesota: 10 Must-Do Activities and Attractions Nearby

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10 Unforgettable Things To Do In Duluth, Minnesota (St. Louis County)

Planning a trip to Duluth, Minnesota? You’re in for a treat. This Lake Superior port city in St. Louis County is one of the most scenic spots in the Midwest. It mixes rugged North Shore beauty with a laid-back, friendly vibe that feels very “Up North” yet still easy to reach from much of the USA. Whether you’re road-tripping from the Twin Cities, flying in, or stopping on a Great Lakes adventure, here are 10 amazing things to do in and around Duluth that you won’t want to miss.

1. Watch Ships Pass Under the Aerial Lift Bridge in Canal Park

If there’s one thing you absolutely must do in Duluth, it’s visiting Canal Park and the iconic Aerial Lift Bridge. This steel giant raises and lowers to let massive ships enter and leave the harbor. Some are over 1,000 feet long. When you’re standing just a few yards away, you really feel how big Lake Superior shipping is.
  • Walk out along the canal to the lighthouse.
  • Check the ship schedule online or at the visitor center so you can time your visit.
  • In the evening, watch the bridge light up and reflect on the water.
I still remember the first time I stood there and heard the foghorn echo across the lake. It’s one of those simple, free experiences that feels almost magical.

2. Stroll the Lakewalk and Enjoy Lake Superior Views

Right next to Canal Park, you’ll find the Duluth Lakewalk, a paved path that hugs the shore for several miles. It’s perfect for:
  • Easy walks with kids or grandparents
  • Jogging or biking with a lake breeze
  • Sitting on a bench and just listening to the waves
On a calm day, the lake looks like glass. On a windy day, the waves can crash so hard you might get a light spray. Either way, it’s a peaceful place to slow down. Tip: Grab a coffee or ice cream in Canal Park and wander the Lakewalk as the sun sets. The sky over Lake Superior can turn amazing shades of pink and orange.

3. Tour the Historic Glensheen Mansion

If you like history, old houses, or just pretty places, put Glensheen Mansion high on your list of things to do in Duluth. This 39-room, early 1900s mansion sits right on the lake, surrounded by gardens and stone bridges. It feels a bit like stepping into a period movie set.
  • Take a self-guided tour through the main floors.
  • Walk the grounds along Tischer Creek and down to the water.
  • Look for special themed tours around Halloween or Christmas.
The mansion is a great way to mix culture into your Duluth trip without feeling stuffy. Even teens who “don’t like museums” often enjoy exploring these rooms and hearing the stories.

4. Drive (or Bike) Skyline Parkway for City and Lake Views

High above Duluth, Skyline Parkway winds along the hillside, offering wide-open views of the city, harbor, and Lake Superior. On a clear day, you can see for miles. Some fun stops along the way:
  • Enger Tower – Climb the stone tower for 360-degree views. The gardens here are lovely in summer.
  • Pull-offs and overlooks – Great spots for photos, especially at sunset.
  • Hiking and biking trail access – If you’re up for more adventure.
If you enjoy scenic drives, this is one of the best in northern Minnesota. It’s especially pretty in the fall when the hillside trees light up in red, orange, and gold.

5. Learn and Play at the Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center

Right by the Aerial Lift Bridge in Canal Park, the Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center is a free, family-friendly stop that explains Duluth’s shipping history. Inside you’ll find:
  • Ship models and old photos
  • Exhibits about shipwrecks and storms on the Great Lakes
  • Interactive displays kids can enjoy
It’s a fun way to understand what you’re seeing outside—those big ore boats, grain ships, and tugboats make a lot more sense after a quick visit here. Bonus: The staff often have up-to-date info on when the next big ship is expected to come through the canal.

6. Head Up the North Shore Scenic Drive

One of the best things to do near Duluth is to use it as a launch pad for the North Shore Scenic Drive
  • Gooseberry Falls State Park – Short trails, beautiful waterfalls, and picnic spots.
  • Split Rock Lighthouse – One of the most photographed lighthouses in the USA.
  • Little roadside pull-offs – Many have quick paths down to rocky beaches.
    • You can make this as quick or as long as you like. Even a few hours of exploring north of Duluth gives you a taste of classic Minnesota North Shore scenery.

    7. Explore Jay Cooke State Park’s Swinging Bridge and Trails

    About 20–25 minutes southwest of Duluth, still in St. Louis County, you’ll find Jay Cooke State Park. It’s an easy day trip and a totally different landscape from the lakefront. What makes it special?
    • A famous swinging bridge over the St. Louis River gorge
    • Rocky, rushing rapids that are dramatic in spring and after rain
    • Miles of hiking trails through forests and along the river
    If you like to hike but don’t want anything too extreme, you’ll find plenty of beginner- and family-friendly options here. It’s a great way to see more of St. Louis County beyond Duluth’s waterfront.

    8. Hit the Trails: Hiking, Biking & Outdoor Fun

    Duluth is an outdoor playground. The city has worked hard to build and maintain trails for all kinds of activities. Some local favorites:
    • Hartley Park – Lakes, woods, and easy hiking and biking trails right in town.
    • Lester Park – Pretty creek, small waterfalls, and picnic spots.
    • Superior Hiking Trail (SHT) access points – Choose a short segment for a taste of this famous long-distance trail.
    Whether you’re a serious mountain biker or just want a quiet walk in the woods, there’s a trail near Duluth that will fit your style. If you’re visiting in winter, swap hiking boots for snowshoes or cross-country skis. Duluth embraces all four seasons, and locals head outside year-round.

    9. Enjoy Local Breweries, Coffee Shops, and Comfort Food

    After all that walking and exploring, you’ll want something good to eat and drink. Luckily, Duluth’s food and drink scene has grown a lot in recent years. In and around Canal Park and downtown you’ll find:
    • Craft breweries pouring locally made beer
    • Cozy coffee shops with lake views
    • Casual spots serving burgers, wild rice dishes, and fresh fish
    If you’re a beer fan, look for breweries that highlight Lake Superior water in their brewing process. If you’re more into sweets, hunt down local donut shops, bakeries, or ice cream stands after a long walk on the Lakewalk. Traveling with kids? Many breweries are family-friendly during the day and offer root beer or other non-alcoholic options.

    10. Experience Duluth in All Four Seasons

    One of the best things about Duluth is that it feels like a totally different city in each season—and there’s always something to do.
    • Summer: Boat tours, kayaking, outdoor patios, festivals, and long evenings by the lake.
    • Fall: Leaf-peeping drives along Skyline Parkway and the North Shore, crisp hikes, and clear views.
    • Winter: Snowshoeing, skiing at Spirit Mountain, holiday lights, and cozy cabins.
    • Spring: Rushing waterfalls at Jay Cooke and Gooseberry Falls, fewer crowds, and cool, fresh air.
    If you’ve only seen Duluth in one season, consider coming back at a different time of year. Watching the lake freeze, thaw, and change is part of the magic of northern Minnesota.

    Planning Your Duluth, Minnesota Getaway

    Because Duluth is compact, it’s easy to mix and match these activities:
    • Spend a full day just in Canal Park and on the Lakewalk.
    • Dedicate another day to Glensheen and Skyline Parkway.
    • Add a third day for a North Shore drive or Jay Cooke State Park.
    Even a weekend gives you time to catch a ship coming through the canal, take in a few views, and enjoy some local food. If you’re planning a longer North Shore road trip, Duluth makes a perfect starting or ending point, with more hotel and restaurant options than many small towns along the lake.

    What Would You Do First in Duluth?

    Are you more excited about:
    • Standing under the Aerial Lift Bridge as a giant ore boat passes?
    • Wandering Glensheen’s gardens by the lake?
    • Driving the North Shore and chasing waterfalls?
    If you’ve been to Duluth before, what was your favorite experience? And if this will be your first visit, what’s at the top of your list? Share your thoughts in the comments—your tips can help other travelers plan their own Duluth getaway. And if you found this guide helpful, please share it with a friend or family member who’s dreaming up their next Minnesota road trip.
    Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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