Are you looking for things to do in Duluth? If you are, you’ve come to the right place.
In this article, we will be discussing a variety of activities that you can add to your bucket list.
So, without further adieu, let’s take a look at some of the best things to do in Duluth!
1 Leif Erickson Park
Are you looking for things to do in Duluth on a sunny day? If you are, bring your family along to Leif Erickson Park.
This is one of the most scenic parks that you’ll find in the state.
For starters, there is a beautiful lake in the park where you can take a dip or unwind with your family.
Don’t forget to bring a picnic basket filled with your favorite snacks and treats.
On top of that, the park is situated right next to the beach.
So, you’ll be able to walk along the beach or enjoy spending time with your family while hearing waves crashing in the background.
The greatest part is that Leif Erickson Park is pet-friendly. So, you can bring your four-legged family members along too.
There is a pool in the park where you can have a splashing time.
If you don’t feel like getting wet, you can always catch a tan next to the pool or on the beach.
Are you looking for some extra excitement? If you are, you can rent a kayak or a paddleboard that you can row around the lake.
Yes, Leif Erickson Park is one of the most exciting parks in Duluth. It’s the perfect place to be if you want to have some family fun. Beaches, lakes, and pools?
Yes, please!
2 Enger Park
Visiting Enger Park is one of the best things to do in Duluth regardless of what the weather is like.
This is primarily due to the fact that the park has both outdoor and indoor entertainment options available for you to enjoy.
For starters, the park has an exciting golf course where you can try to get that perfect hole-in-one.
Naturally, the gold course is out of bounds during rainy weather, so be sure to check the weather forecast in advance.
The park also has plenty of space outside where your little ones can play while you unpack your picnic baskets.
If the weather is rainy, you can watch an entertaining show in the indoor area.
There are a variety of shows that you can watch. Some of these shows include ballroom dancing and salsa dancing shows.
How exciting is that? Is all of the excitement starting to make your stomach rumble?
If it is, be sure to head over to Va Bene for a delicious Italian meal that is bound to curb your appetite.
You can have an authentic Italian pizza or choose between the variety of pasta dishes that the restaurant has available.
Besides, who can say no to a cheesy pizza? I know I can’t!
3 The Duluth Lakewalk
Here’s one for everyone who is looking to burn some of those unwanted calories.
The Duluth Lakewalk is the perfect place to get fit without wearing yourself out too much.
The trail is absolutely breathtaking and is situated next to the beach.
Since there aren’t any rugged terrains or steep inclines, the walking area is suitable for walkers, or runners of all skill levels.
You can take a casual stroll, or a fulfilling jog while taking in the views that surround you.
On top of that, you can also go rollerblading on The Duluth Lakewalk. It’s actually quite a popular activity.
As a matter of fact, there are nearby shops that offer rollerblade rentals for those who don’t have their own.
Feel free to bring your furry friends along on your expedition. We all know how much dogs love going for walks.
So, why keep all the fun to yourself? There are also nearby shops that offer bicycle rentals for those who would rather go for a bike ride.
If the weather allows for it, you can also take a dip in the lake and swim over to Brighton Beach.
So, let’s get fit the fun way and head over to The Duluth Lakewalk!
4 NorShor Theater
There’s no business like show business. Especially at the historical NorShor Theater.
Visiting the theater is one of the best things to do in Duluth on a rainy day.
It’s also a great place to take that special someone for a date night.
The NorShor Theater has everything you need and more in terms of entertainment.
For starters, you can listen to talented artists performing in operas. Broadway shows such as Matilda, The Lion King, Cabaret, Rent, and Wicked are also performed at the theater quite often.
If you’re not in the mood for music you can watch a good old-fashioned play or drama performance.
You may even be able to watch Shakespearean plays on certain nights.
On top of that, the NorShor Theater is a popular venue for concerts and live music performances.
So, be sure to check out their website to see which of your favorite artists will be performing there next.
In the past, the NorShor Theater used to be used primarily to display movies.
However, it has since become one of the most famous live entertainment venues in the state.
The theater first opened its doors in the 1900s which gives it a historical touch that you won’t find in modern theaters.
This is an experience that you simply cannot afford to miss out on. What are you waiting for? The show must go on!
5 Lake Superior Railroad Museum
Here’s one for all of the history lovers out there.
If you are looking for unique things to do in Duluth, be sure to add the Lake Superior Railroad Museum to your bucket list.
The museum has a variety of exhibits that display various types of railroad equipment that haven’t been used in decades.
If you are a history lover, you will love learning all about how trains and railways used to work back in the day .
As a matter of fact, this will be one of the most unique educational experiences that you’ll find in the state.
The museum may not be one of the biggest museums in Duluth, but it’s most definitely one of the most interesting museums that you’ll find.
After you have finished your tour of the museum, you might want to go and grab a bite to eat.
Pickwick Restaurant & Pub is a great pit stop for anyone who is looking for some authentic, American-style ribs, steaks, or pasta.
As an added bonus, the restaurant has a bar area where you can order a cold glass of beer to end your expedition with a bang. I
mean, what could be better than ending off a historical museum tour with a hot plate of food and a few cold ones?
Recommended Reading
6 Elsa Beskow’s Children’s Book Illustration Museum
If you’re looking for things to do in Duluth that your children will love, be sure to make a pit stop at Elsa Beskow’s Children’s Book Illustration Museum.
Visiting this museum is a dream come true for every child out there.
The museum consists of a variety of exhibits that display illustrations from children’s books. T
hese illustrations come from books that have been published all around the world for the past few decades.
Your little ones will simply adore seeing all of the interesting drawings and cartoons.
\There are illustrations of all kinds that will make you and your children feel as if you have just walked into an animated movie.
Believe it or not, adults can enjoy Elsa Beskow’s Children’s Book Illustration Museum too.
The illustrations might all come from children’s books.
However, that does not mean that it won’t be fascinating to take a look at all of the different styles of art that the illustrators used.
Yes, visiting this museum is an activity that the whole family can enjoy together.
So, head over to Elsa Beskow’s Children’s Book Illustration Museum for a fun-filled day of cartoons and animations!
7 Boat Rides
Who doesn’t love boat rides? Especially when they come with scenic views.
If you are looking for adventurous things to do in Duluth, it’s always a great idea to sign up for boat rides.
Most of the boat rides in the area take place in Lake Superior. Lake Superior is awe-striking, to say the least.
As a matter of fact, it is one of the most spectacular sights that you’ll find in Duluth.
Now, can you imagine taking in the beautiful scenery while enjoying a boat ride at the same time?
If you don’t want to pay an arm and a leg for a cruise of the lake, you can always rent your own kayak to explore the lake in a more cost-efficient way.
However, if you are looking for something that’s a little more luxurious, a boat ride is the way to go
. If you do want to sign up for this epic adventure, you can contact Vista Fleet which is a boating company that’s based in Duluth and right next to Lake Superior.
The cruise will take you through the whole of Lake Superior where you can also take in the beautiful scenery that surrounds the lake.
I highly recommend taking a sunset tour if you want to see a sight that you won’t soon forget.
Remember that the boat cruise may not be available during rainy weather.
So, it’s best to check the weather forecast before booking your trip. Let’s row, row, row our boats gently down Lake Superior!
8 Canal Park Brewing Company
Let’s give three cheers for delicious beers! Paying a visit to Canal Park Brewing Company is one of the best things to do in Duluth after a stressful day.
You can head over to the brewery and order almost any beer that you can imagine.
Just remember that you have to be over the age of 21 in order to legally purchase a beer.
Are you in the mood for a lager or a traditional beer? Or would you rather drink in luxury by ordering a craft beer or a specialty beer?
Regardless of what you’re in the mood for, chances are that Canal Park Brewing Company has it.
The greatest part is that all of the beer you’ll be drinking has been freshly brewed on the premises.
So, you can rest assured that you’ll only be drinking the highest quality of beer.
I’m not sure about you, but drinking tends to make me work up quite an appetite.
If you’re the same, be sure to make a pit stop at Duluth Grill for some authentic, American-style cuisine that is guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds.
Duluth Grill has received a whopping 4.7-star average rating on Google which means that the food you’ll be eating will be just as delicious as the beers you drank at Canal Park Brewing Company.
Are you ready to destress? I know that I am!
9 Duluth Children’s Museum
Here’s another one of the best child-friendly things to do in Duluth.
The Duluth Children’s Museum has everything a child could need and more.
The center has a wide variety of activities that your kids can participate in.
For starters, there are plenty of interactive exhibits where your little ones can have fun while getting educated.
On top of that, there is also a science lab where your kids can feel what it feels like to be mini Einsteins.
If your kids are more of the creative kind, they are going to love the Art center where they can let their creative juices run wild.
There is so much to do that your kids will probably be worn out by the end of the day which means that you can have a relaxing evening in front of the television.
Duluth Children’s Museum also hosts a variety of holiday programs for children.
So, be sure to check up on their website regularly to see which program will be hosted next.
One thing is certain, visiting the Duluth Children’s Museum is an experience that your little ones won’t soon forget.
10 Duluth Air Show
Up, up, and away! Let your excitement levels fly high at the Duluth Air Show.
This is an experience that you simply can’t afford to miss out on.
You’ll see a diverse range of jets and planes, each of which is flown by an experienced pilot.
Now, this won’t be a boring show where you just watch different kinds of planes fly through the sky.
On the contrary, it is one of the most exciting events that you will witness.
The planes mostly consist of stunt planes that have been built specially to do epic tricks while they are in the sky.
You’ll see loops, hoops, and other mindblowing tricks that will probably make you feel concerned for the pilot’s safety.
But don’t worry too much, all of the pilots have been trained in the art of plane stunts and know exactly what to do to stay safe while keeping you entertained.
This is probably one of the most exciting things to do in Duluth that the whole family can enjoy together.
So, head over to the Duluth Air Show for an epic adventure that your family will be talking about for years to come!
Recommended Reading
11 Lake Superior Marine Museum and Maritime Visitor Center
The Lake Superior Marine Museum and Maritime Visitor Center are other ones of excellent things to do in Duluth that attracts visitors and tourists alike.
It’s an especially great activity for anyone who is interested in learning more about the marine life and ships that play significant roles in Duluth’s culture.
One of the primary aims of the museum is to educate visitors on the history of the vintage boats that can be found on the premises.
The secondary aim of the museum is to protect these precious ships and the marine life that inhabits Duluth’s waters.
The museum also prides itself in reaching out to children’s educational centers to educate children and teenagers on the abandoned ships and marine life.
On top of that, the Lake Superior Marine Museum and Maritime Visitor Center work in unison with Lake Superior to ensure that all cruises and transport systems are as safe as they could possibly be.
You’ll see some interesting boats as well as shipwrecks during your tour.
You won’t be able to find these specific boats and shipwrecks anywhere else.
So, if you are a tourist, visiting the museum may be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for you.
Don’t miss out on witnessing the exquisite artifacts that you’ll see at this museum. I guarantee that it will be worth your while!
12 Duluth Rose Garden
Can you smell the scent of beautiful and fragrant roses?
If you can’t, it is about time that you pay a visit to the Duluth Rose Garden. T
he Duluth Rose Garden is a sight to behold. Strolling through the garden is also one of the most relaxing things to do in Duluth.
There are hundreds of roses for you to look at, each of which has its own unique fragrance and beauty.
\Strolling through the garden will give you a sense of serenity that you’re unlikely to find anywhere else.
As a matter of fact, you might feel so at peace that you’ll want to spend your entire day in the garden. If this is the case, be sure to bring along a picnic basket filled with your favorite treats so that you have something to snack on in the event that your stomach starts to rumble. It’s also a great idea to bring a book that you can read in a quiet and breathtaking environment. This is one of my personal favorite places to relax in Duluth. It’s also the perfect place to take that special someone on a romantic date. So, bring out your inner Romeo and head over to the Duluth Rose Garden. You won’t regret your decision!
13 Lake Superior Zoo
Do you like animals? I know that I do! Even if you don’t, visiting the Lake Superior Zoo is something that your little ones are bound to enjoy.
The Lake Superior Zoo is a fairly large zoo that is home to almost any animal species that you can think of.
You’ll see everything from rare birds and monkeys to alligators, tigers, and bears.
That doesn’t even include a fraction of the animals that you will see.
The owners of the zoo pride themselves on giving the animals the best life possible.
That’s why each exhibit has been built to mimic the specific animal’s natural habitat. Don’t worry.
No animals were harmed in the production of this article.
Thankfully, no animals get harmed at the Lake Superior Zoo either and all of them lead happy and healthy lives.
Unfortunately, you won’t be able to pet the animals for safety purposes.
However, staring at them from a distance will be equally satisfying.
Especially since you won’t be able to see these animals anywhere else.
If you are an animal lover, visiting the Lake Superior Zoo is one of the best things to do in Duluth provided that the weather isn’t rainy or stormy.
So, are you ready to go out in the wild? Head over to the Lake Superior Zoo to see animals, animals, and more animals everywhere!
14 Spirit Mountain Adventure Park Recreation Area
Heading over to spirit Mountain Adventure Park Recreation Area is another one of the best things to do in Duluth for those who are looking for an extra touch of adventure.
This park has everything you need and more in order to have the time of your life.
The greatest part about Spirit Mountain Adventure Park Recreation Area is that you don’t have to worry about bad weather getting in the way of your plans.
This is primarily due to the fact that the park and recreation center has both indoor and outdoor activities for you to enjoy.
If the weather is sunny, you can go mountain biking on one of the park’s breathtaking trails.
If you don’t have your own mountain bike, you can rent one at one of the nearby facilities.
There is also a coaster on the premises that you can speed down if you think that you are brave enough.
During the winter, skiing is also a popular activity at Spirit Mountain Adventure Park Recreation Area.
If skiing is not your cup of tea, you can also go snowboarding. There is a lovely ice patch for those who want to go ice-skating too.
Yes, this park is a great place to visit regardless of what the weather is like
. It’s also one of the best things to do in Duluth for all of the adrenaline junkies out there.
During the summer, you can burn some of those unwanted calories by hiking through one of the trails.
If you are visiting during winter, you can brave the cold and go snowshoeing.
So, are you ready for the adventure of a lifetime? If you are, head over to Spirit Mountain Adventure Park Recreation Area!
15 Duluth Art Institute
Here’s one for all of the creative spirits out there.
If you are looking for things to do in Duluth that will help you to get in touch with your creative side, the Duluth Art Institute is a great place to start.
The institute was first established in 1891 which makes it one of the oldest art institutes that you will find in the state.
The institute has a wide variety of exhibits where you can witness the works of art that have been created by both students of the institute and professionals.
Strolling through all of these beautiful works of art might make you want to tap into your inner artist.
Thankfully, the Duluth Art Institute has got you covered.
The institute offers art classes to anyone who wants to learn how to channel their creativity into beauty.
The greatest part is that, provided that you attend the lessons for long enough and manage to create something beautiful, your own artwork might be displayed in one of the exhibits.
How awesome is that? You can become a modern-day Picasso if you put your mind to it.
So, you don’t only have to stare at other people’s works of art in envy. Sign up for some art classes to get your name up in the light.
At the Duluth Art Institute, you can be both a spectator and a contributor. What more could you ask for?
Recommended Reading
16 Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory
Do you like learning about different kinds of birds? Are you a bird watcher who wants to get closer to the birds than binoculars will allow you to go?
If you are, be sure to make a pit stop at the Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory.
You can leave your binoculars at home if you visit the Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory since all of the birds will be flying and chirping within plain sight.
Despite the observatory’s name, hawks aren’t the only birds that you’ll get to see.
As a matter of fact, the Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory is a sanctuary for a diverse range of birds that you are unlikely to see on a bird-watching expedition.
At the observatory, you’ll see everything from hawks and owls to eagles and other bird life.
You’ll also get to learn everything there is to know about these birds and their natural habitats.
I believe that it’s safe to say that Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory is every bird lover’s heaven
. Don’t mind the pun, but if you are feeling a little bit “peckish” after watching the observatory’s diverse display of birds, be sure to stop by Grandma’s Saloon & Grill Canal Park.
Here, you can buy delicious grilled food dishes.
On top of that, you can also buy a few cold beers to end off your day with a bang. So, let your excitement levels fly higher than a free bird at Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory.
17 Marshall W. Alworth Planetarium
There are so many child-friendly things to do in Duluth that it’s quite surprising that the town isn’t run by children!
However, let’s look at another activity that the whole family can enjoy together.
Visiting Marshall W. Alworth Planetarium is much more than pure fun. It’s also an educational experience.
Your kids will be able to walk through various, interactive exhibits that teach them all about the planets in our solar system.
The exhibits are realistic, although the planetary figurines may not be life-sized.
After you and your children have strolled through the planetarium’s exhibits, you can head over to the theater are to get started with the most exciting part of your adventure.
The theater area has a large dome that is used as a projector screen.
Films and documentaries of space are displayed on the dome using a projector which makes everything you see seem unusually realistic.
Yes, watching these documentaries that are projected onto the dome will make your little ones feel like they are real mini astronauts.
Once you have finished watching the show, you can try out one of Marshall W. Alworth Planetarium’s telescopes to look at some real stars and planets.
One thing is certain, this planetarium is out of this world!
18 Great Lakes Aquarium
Duluth is filled with wondrous marine life. If you want to see this marine life in action, be sure to visit Great Lakes Aquarium.
Great Lakes Aquarium is one of the biggest and most diverse aquariums that you will find in the state.
There are over 100 species of sea life that live in the aquarium, each of which is as spectacular as the next.
You’ll get to see sharks, jellyfish, lobsters, eels, clownfish, and a variety of other fish species in the aquarium.
You can go on your own personal tour to see exactly what happens under the sea.
Visiting the Great Lakes Aquarium is one of the best family-friendly things to do in Duluth.
In other words, as much as your little ones will enjoy it, you can enjoy the aquarium too.
The aquarium is colorful and is home to some fish species that you didn’t even know existed.
You’ll get a taste of what life is like in the waters of the deep blue sea. The greatest part is that you won’t even have to get wet.
Visiting the Great Lakes Aquarium is a great way to educate your kids on sea life.
On top of that, it is also a great way to keep yourself and your kids entertained at the same time.
So, head over to Great Lakes Aquarium for a family-friendly adventure in Duluth that everyone can enjoy!
19 Jay Cooke State Park
Have you ever seen the crashing waters of a majestic waterfall? If you have, you probably don’t know what a frozen waterfall looks like yet.
Yes, under the right weather conditions, waterfalls can freeze up.
That is exactly why you should pay a visit to Jay Cooke State Park.
For starters, the park has an exquisite hiking trail that will help you to get fit and burn those unwanted calories.
Don’t worry. The hiking trail is suitable for hikers of all skill levels.
So, you won’t be too out of breath by the time you arrive at the waterfall.
Once you reach the waterfall you’ll also realize that the moderately difficult hike was well worth your time.
As a matter of fact, the frozen waterfall might be one of the most unique and spectacular sights that you will see in your life.
Naturally, you’ll have to visit the waterfall during winter if you want to see it in a frozen state.
Otherwise, you can stop by during the summer to see the raging waters crash against the rocks below.
Regardless of which season you decide to visit Jay Cooke State Park in, you are bound to see a spectacle that you won’t forget.
One thing is certain, once you see these majestic falls, you will “fall” in love with nature all over again!
20 Duluth Entertainment Convention Center
If entertainment is what you are looking for, be sure to make a pit stop at Duluth Entertainment Convention Center.
This is another one of the things to do in Duluth that does not require specific weather conditions.
As a matter of fact, you can visit the center regardless of whether it is sunny, rainy, or snowy.
All of the entertainment takes place indoors.
If you like to tap your feet to the rhythm of the beat, you can bring your partner and dance until you drop into the ballroom area.
Otherwise, if you aren’t someone who enjoys too much physical activity, you can sit back, relax and enjoy one of the concerts that are hosted by the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center.
The concerts have rotating performers which means that you’ll see a different performance every time you visit.
Apart from the live concerts, the convention center also hosts ice shows.
If you’re in the mood for things to do in Duluth that involve filling your tummy, you can sign up for one of the banquet dinners.
I believe that it’s needless to say that Duluth Entertainment Convention Center has every kind of entertainment that you need.
Duluth Entertainment Convention Center is the name and entertainment is the game!
Recommended Reading
Conclusion
That concludes our article on the best things to do in Duluth.
I hope that you found what you are looking for. Don’t forget to check out some of our other articles on epic things to do in the USA!
