When I started craving lake views, crisp air, and a little adventure, I packed up and headed to Duluth! Sitting on the edge of Lake Superior, Duluth gave me a beautiful mix of nature, history, and outdoor fun. I hiked the North Shore, watched ships glide into port, and spent cozy mornings in lakeside cafés. If you're looking for a year-round escape, this is it.
Best Time to Visit
I’ve found that the best time to visit Duluth is late spring through early fall (May to October). That’s when I hiked the best trails, enjoyed sailing on the lake, and caught stunning sunsets along the waterfront. If you love fall colors like I do, the foliage along the North Shore Scenic Drive will leave you speechless.
How to Get There
- By Car: I took the 2.5-hour drive from Minneapolis via I-35—it’s scenic, easy, and absolutely beautiful as you near the lake. I think you’ll enjoy the journey as much as the destination.
- By Plane: When I wanted to get there faster, I flew into Duluth International Airport (DLH). Regional flights were easy, and picking up a rental car on-site made exploring a breeze.
- By Bus: I’ve also used Jefferson Lines to get from Minneapolis, and it’s a solid option if you’d rather relax and take in the views. Local buses make it easy to get around once you're there.
Where to Stay
- Fitger’s Inn – I loved the history here. This old brewery-turned-hotel gave me lake views, boutique shopping, and great dining without even leaving the building. You’ll love the character.
- Pier B Resort Hotel – I stayed right on the harbor, and the lakeside patio quickly became my favorite spot. Add a great restaurant and you’ve got a relaxing, modern escape.
- South Pier Inn – If you want something quieter and right on the water, I highly recommend this boutique gem. Watching ships pass the Aerial Lift Bridge from my room was unforgettable—you’ve got to experience it.
Best Things to Do in Duluth, Minnesota
Stroll, Shop, and Savor Lakefront Vibes at Canal Park - Vibrant lakefront district with restaurants, shops, and access to the Lakewalk trail.
Set Sail Through History at the Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center -
Tour Gilded Grandeur at Glensheen, The Historic Congdon Estate - Tour a grand 39-room estate from the early 1900s set on the lakeshore.
Step Aboard a Floating Giant with the SS William A. Irvin -
Gaze Beyond the Stars at the Marshall W. Alworth Planetarium -
Ride the Rails of the Past at the Lake Superior Railroad Museum -
View Bold Perspectives at the Tweed Museum of Art -
Soar with the Seasons at Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory -
Spark Curiosity and Creativity at the Duluth Children's Museum -
If You’re After Four-Season Thrills, Head for the Slopes at Spirit Mountain -
In Summary...
(and if you want to revisit my photo journey)- • Stroll, Shop, and Savor Lakefront Vibes at Canal Park
- • Set Sail Through History at the Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center
- • Tour Gilded Grandeur at Glensheen, The Historic Congdon Estate
- • Step Aboard a Floating Giant with the SS William A. Irvin
- • Gaze Beyond the Stars at the Marshall W. Alworth Planetarium
- • Ride the Rails of the Past at the Lake Superior Railroad Museum
- • View Bold Perspectives at the Tweed Museum of Art
- • Soar with the Seasons at Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory
- • Spark Curiosity and Creativity at the Duluth Children's Museum
- • If You’re After Four-Season Thrills, Head for the Slopes at Spirit Mountain