26 Best & Fun Things To Do In Duluth, CA

Are you a local or guest seeking exciting activities in Duluth, CA? You’ve come to the right spot! In this guide, we’ll uncover the 26 best and most enjoyable things to do in Duluth, CA, ensuring you make the most of your time in this charming independent city.

1. Grandma’s Restaurant

Grandma’s Restaurant, located in historic Canal Park, has been a Minnesota institution since its founding in 1976.

Grandma’s Restaurant delivers local cuisine in a setting that demonstrates a knack for antiquities, perfectly capturing the essence of Duluth and the Lake Superior beach it overlooks.

The eatery is actually filled with Twin Ports souvenirs and local antiquities.

Grandma’s Restaurant has a distinctive look that includes tin signage, stained glass windows, and outlandish neon.

In addition to the fantastic setting and creative design, Grandma’s Restaurant offers unmatched food and beverages.

Grandma’s loves to boast that, despite opening over 40 years ago, not much has changed.

Since 1976, Minnesota has been known for its atmosphere, antiquities, and—above all—for cuisine.

Delicious comfort food options, including soups, burgers, sandwiches, the well-known chicken pot pie, and desserts to die for, are available on the menu.

If you are ever in Minnesota, you would be negligent if you did not stop at Grandma’s Restaurant.

Address: 522 S Lake Ave, Duluth, MN 55802, United States

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2. The Historic Congdon Estate

Also known as Glensheen Mansion, The Historic Congdon Estate is an astounding 20,000 square foot mansion.

Managed by the University of Minnesota, the estate is one of the most unique things to tour in Duluth.

A beautifully and precisely preserved mansion, Congdon Estate resides on the coast of Lake Superior.

The Historic Congdon Estate is a picture-perfect depiction of 20th-century Duluthian architecture.

Notably, it comprises 12 acres of immaculate landscaping that places the mansion in a doubly gorgeous setting.

One of so many amazing Duluth attractions, The Historic Congdon Estate is a 39-room mansion, each of which is iconically preserved to its original aesthetic.

When visiting the property, visitors have the option of a classic, brief tour or a full mansion tour that expertly reveals all of the incredible rooms.

Beyond the mansion tour, visitors can also meander the verdant gardens and picturesque shoreline of Lake Superior.

One of many beautiful places to see when in Duluth, be sure to check out The Historic Congdon Estate.

Address: 3300 London Rd, Duluth, MN 55804, United States

3. Lake Superior Railroad Museum

All aboard!

The Lake Superior Railroad Museum, situated in the heart of Duluth, was established in 1973.

Specifically, the museum focuses on railroad workings and trains native to the Lake Superior area.

Situated in the restored Duluth Union Depot Complex, the building is as interesting as its contents.

Within the museum, visitors are treated to the vastest collection of railroading artifacts in the country.

Moreover, the museum is home to many interactive exhibits as well as regional artifacts.

From its humble beginnings, the Lake Superior Railroad Museum has evolved into the largest and most respected railroad museum in the US.

Furthermore, from your museum tour, you can board the North Shore Scenic Railroad for a jaunt along scenic Lake Superior.

Rides on the railroad are upon some of the same historic railroading equipment on display in the museum.

One of the top 10 things to see in Minnesota, make sure to plan your visit when you’re in town.

Address: 506 W Michigan St, Duluth, MN 55802, United States

4. Lake Superior Zoo

If you’re looking for things to do in Duluth for the whole family, be sure to pay a visit to Lake Superior Zoo.

Providing visitors with up-close experiences with wild animals, the zoo hopes to inspire respect for wildlife and conservation.

Of note, the Lake Superior Zoo is the 19th oldest zoo in the country and prides itself in its rich history of providing interactive exhibits to the public.

With a large number of animal exhibits, interesting demonstrations, and many fun events, a visit to the museum is highly recommended.

Beyond the many outdoor wildlife exhibits, the zoo also has several riveting indoor spaces such as a primate center, a nocturnal center, and a space dedicated to Australia and Oceania.

Furthermore, the zoo has many wonderful amenities including The Safari Cafe and Tiger’s Paw Gift Shop.

Except for Christmas and New Year’s Day, the zoo is open every day so you can plan a visit for today or this weekend.

Best of all, the zoo is one of a few free things to do for children under two.

Address: 7210 Fremont St, Duluth, MN 55807, United States

5. Tweed Museum of Art

Housed on the campus of the University of Minnesota, the Tweed Museum of Art is a premier art museum that answers the question of what to do in MN.

The museum is a teaching institution that collects and shares art with the public.

Through engaging programs and a vast collection of visual arts, visitors to the museum learn and experience something new at every turn.

Currently, the museum is home to two resident artists whose mediums are murals.

Moreover, the museum’s rotating and permanent exhibits feature collections that provoke thought on topics such as cultures, world history, and global humanity.

Notably, the museum has a permanent collection of over 10,000 artworks encompassing a variety of muses and mediums.

One of the museum’s many missions is to provoke social and political awareness through stimulating and visually jarring displays.

One of a few free things to do around Duluth, be sure to plan a visit to the Tweed Museum of Art.

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

Exploring other areas of Minnesota? Why not check out some of the best things to do in Minneapolis?

6. Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory

If you’re a bird enthusiast and wondering what to do during your visit to Duluth, Minnesota, check out Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory.

The best thing about the conservatory is its mission to protect and conserve both birds of prey and migratory birds who make their home in the Lake Superior region.

Of note, Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory is regarded as one of the top places in the country to observe a raptor migration.

In fact, this migration is so popular that visitors come from all over the country each year to witness its splendor.

Opened to the public year-round, the Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory has more than four miles of pristine hiking trails, interesting geology, incredible fauna, and unbelievable wildlife.

All of these magnificent facets can be observed while enjoying self-guided tours of the property.

Another of a few free things to do around Duluth, the conservatory is open seven days a week.

So whether planning a trip to the conservatory for today or this weekend, anytime is a good time to visit.

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

7. Great Lakes Aquarium

One of the best Duluth attractions for family fun, Great Lakes Aquarium sits on the waterfront of Lake Superior.

The aquarium opened in 2000 and is now home to loads of stunning sea life.

Of note, the aquarium specifically showcases wildlife and habitats indigenous to the Great Lakes basin and the Amazon River.

The aquarium is a wonderful destination to explore with children; it teaches guests about freshwater biomes.

Great Lakes Aquarium displays magnificent exhibits highlighting sea life occurring in the Duluth region.

Some of the interactive exhibits showcase Aquatic Invaders, the Amazing Amazon, Freshwater Forest, and Raptor Ridge.

Moreover, the aquarium also has an exceptional fine arts gallery with artwork portraying aquatic themes.

Lastly, the aquarium has awesome activities for little ones including a preschool program as well as nature play programs.

One of the top things to do today or this weekend, Great Lakes Aquarium is one of the best tourist attractions in Duluth.

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

8. Duluth Children’s Museum

Duluth Children’s Museum is interactive with many amazing educational and creative activities for children to enjoy.

The museum provides children with hands-on learning experiences that immerse them in subjects of art, science, aviation, and more.

In addition to many wonderful learning opportunities, the museum also capacitates a little adventure too.

An indoor playground is just one of the many ways your little ones can let the wiggles out during their visit to the museum.

A must do experience if you’re traveling with children, the Duluth Children’s Museum has an amazing science lab that allows children to test chemical hypotheses and learn how plants grow.

The Little Explorers space is designed specifically for toddlers to practice fine and gross motor skills.

Lastly, the museum’s STEM Station immerses children in the inner workings of balls/ramps, how magnets work, and practicing construction concepts to name a few.

With a nominal admission cost, the museum is one of a few fun cheap things to do when in Duluth.

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

9. Spirit Mountain

Spirit Mountain is a recreational mountain that’s one of the best places to vacation in all of Minnesota.

Featuring both wintertime and summertime attractions, any time of year is a good time to visit Spirit Mountain.

During the winter months, Spirit Mountain serves as the region’s premier ski resort.

With amazing mountain top views of stunning Lake Superior, you can enjoy traversing ski and snowboard trails that run the gamut in difficulty levels from beginner to black diamond.

During the summer months, the mountain transitions into a thrilling adventure park.

Some of the adventurous attractions include an alpine coaster, a timber fly zip, scenic chair lifts, a jumping pillow, disc golf, and putt-putt.

Other summertime mountain attractions include amazing hiking trails, mountain biking, and even camping accommodations.

Finally, Spirit Mountain has awesome lodging partners to accommodate your stay near and around the mountain.

One of many awesome places to go in Duluth, Spirit Mountain is fun for the whole family.

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

10. Wade Stadium

Built in 1941, this 4,200-seat baseball stadium is home to the minor-league baseball team the Duluth Huskies.

Historically, the stadium was built to house the Duluth Dukes and was named in honor of the team’s owner, Frank Wade.

Astoundingly, the stadium is constructed of the same bricks that once paved Duluth’s Grand Avenue.

Colloquially regarded as “The Wade,” the stadium is a great place to catch a game with friends and family.

During a visit to Wade Stadium, you can enjoy a Huskies game and all the fun the facility has to offer.

Throughout the stadium are awesome concession stands offering the finest in ballpark food as well as ice-cold brewskies.

Additionally, Harley’s Hut Souvenir Shop is the perfect place to pick up Huskies swag and other top tokens.

During the seventh-inning stretch, you can even interact with players and snag an autograph.

One of the best places to see a baseball game in Duluth, be sure to plan a visit to Wade Stadium if you’ll be in town during baseball season.

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

Visiting other parts of Minnesota? Why not check out some of the things to do in Rochester, MN?

11. Marshall W. Alworth Planetarium

A visit to this popular Duluth destination is out of this world, pun intended.

The planetarium provides visitors with an immersive theater experience that takes them on a virtual exploration beyond Earth.

The 65-person theater has a crisp surround sound system that allows you to imagine traveling through another galaxy.

The theater is home to an astounding star machine that projects the night sky in all its glory.

Beyond the intergalactic star machine, the planetarium has the world-renowned Digistar 7 Projector which sets the audience flying among some truly astonishing sights.

Audiences will virtually weave in and out of craters, soar among dancing stars, navigate beyond the moon, and tour the Milky Way.

If you’re planning a visit to Duluth, the Marshall W. Alworth Planetarium hosts public shows each week, Friday through Sunday.

A must see in intergalactic entertainment, we highly recommend the planetarium.

Address: 1023 University Dr, Duluth, MN 55812, United States

12. St. Louis County Depot

This historic train station in Duluth, Minnesota is a fun place to explore.

The depot opened in 1892 and once served seven railroads; it closed in 1969 and didn’t open again until 1973 with a magnificent renovation.

Today the depot is home to three buildings each of which houses unique museum exhibits.

The Duluth Art Institute, Lake Superior Railroad Museum, and St. Louis County Historical Society Museum are all centrally located at the depot.

Additionally, the depot is home to the Duluth Playhouse and the Minnesota Ballet.

Finally, the depot is the point from which the North Shore Scenic Railroad departs.

One of the top Duluth attractions, the St. Louis County Depot is a hub for immersion in local history, arts, and beyond.

A cornerstone in Duluth culture, the St. Louis County Depot is immersive and engaging.

A perfect way to spend the day when visiting Minnesota, this attraction is highly recommended.

Address: 506 W Michigan St, Duluth, MN 55802, United States

13. Hartley Nature Center

If you’re looking for a fun way to enjoy a few hours in nature when in Duluth, be sure to visit Hartley Nature Center.

This vast refuge is the perfect setting for hiking, jogging, cycling, fishing, and other fun activities.

With nearly 700 acres of nature to explore in addition to a 7,500 square foot nature center for educational programming, the center is a wonderful place to learn about and navigate the local ecosystem.

A perfect landscape for outdoor fun any season of the year, Hartley Nature Center is a beautiful outdoor campus that’s open to the public seven days a week.

Ten miles worth of nature trails bring visitors face to face with local wildlife, unique woods, glistening ponds, and breathtaking views.

Moreover, the ponds are a wonderful place to enjoy fishing and paddling.

One of the best tourist attractions for outdoor fun, Hartley Nature Center is fun for the whole family.

Address: 3001 Woodland Ave, Duluth, MN 55803, United States

14. Leif Erikson Park

If you’re wondering where to go on a sunny day in Duluth, this beautiful city park is just the place to blow off some steam with children and pets.

Situated along the shore of Lake Superior, the park was established in 1927.

Named for the replica vessel that Leif Erikson sailed to Duluth in, the park is home to many lovely features.

The park has a gorgeous rose garden and a historic amphitheater, both of which can be toured by the public.

Other park features include a fun sports complex with baseball fields, tennis courts, and basketball courts.

What’s more, Leif Erikson Park has an awesome playground as well as a dog park for your furry friends.

The park also has a system of paved trails that can be used for hiking or biking.

Picnic tables and beach access round out the exceptionality of Leif Erikson Park.

One of many wonderful outdoor places to visit, Leif Erikson Park is a must see.

Address: 1301 London Rd, Duluth, MN 55805, United States

15. Fitger’s Brewhouse Brewery

This much-loved Minnesota brewery is one of the best things to do in Duluth.

In fact, Fitger’s Brewhouse Brewery, which has been in business for a whopping 25 years, is Minnesota’s most popular brewpub.

With multiple rewards under its belt for its small-batch brewery releases, it’s no wonder patrons come from far and wide to check out Fitger’s.

As Minnesota’s oldest brewpub, its experience and expertise promise visitors an unprecedented brewery experience.

Visitors to Fitger’s come from all over the country to enjoy award-winning ales and lagers made by passionate brewers.

With almost 200 recipes for uniquely crafted beers, both seasonal and standard, Fitger’s is the perfect destination to visit with beer lovers.

Beyond beer, the brewery boasts a funky menu of appetizers, burgers, and other amazing specialties.

If you’re wondering what to see in the way of unique things to experience, Fitger’s Brewhouse Brewery is the place to go.

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

16. North Shore Scenic Drive

One of a few romantic things to do for a day date with your hunny, North Shore Scenic Drive will take you cruising the coast of Lake Superior.

This scenic byway reveals spectacular views of the lake itself among other picturesque sights.

Along the drive, you’ll pass through eight state parks, a bevy of small shore towns, and a handful of popular local eateries.

Notably, North Shore Scenic Drive has been designated an “All American Road,” making it one of many ever-popular Duluth attractions.

Other awesome sights you can encounter along the drive include the 1910 Split Rock Lighthouse, a commercial fishing museum, and the Grand Portage National Monument.

Because the drive runs from Duluth to the North Shore of Lake Superior, there are so many wonderful sights, historical and natural, to see along the way.

The 154-mile stretch of North Shore Scenic Drive is one of the penultimate places to visit in Minnesota.

Address: Duluth, MN 55804, United States

17. Lake Superior Marine Museum

Situated centrally in Duluth, Minnesota, the Lake Superior Marine Museum is one of the best sightseeing attractions to visit with family.

Managed by the United States Army Corps of Engineers, the museum pristinely looks upon the Duluth-Lake Superior Harbor.

This awe-inspiring museum preserves and shares Minnesota’s rich maritime heritage.

Particularly, the museum showcases maritime artifacts and impressive documents as well as an incredible collection of photographs, declarations, and a bevy of educational antiquities.

If you or your travel companions have a passion for history, the museum, near Lake Superior, is one of many wonderful places to go.

This is especially true if you’re looking for cheap things to do in MN; admission to the museum is free for all.

Lake Superior Marine Museum provides visitors with a bird’s eye view, weaving in and out of the history of the Great Lakes.

Some of the interesting exhibits you can plan to encounter showcase the area’s industrial history, Great Lakes shipwrecks, and well beyond.

Address: 600 Canal Park Dr, Duluth, MN 55802, United States

18. Positive Energy Outdoors

Positive Energy Outdoors is an outdoor adventure experience for all ages and abilities.

Established in 2004, Positive Energy Outdoors provides outdoor animal- and human-powered nature activities.

Situated in Duluth on the North Shore of Lake Superior, Positive Energy Outdoors is one of the most awesome points of interest in Minnesota.

Programming activities can be crafted to suit individual, family, and corporate groups.

Perfectly coupling nature education and outdoor fun, this attraction answers the question of what to do in Duluth.

Positive Energy Outdoors curates thrilling activities such as dog sledding, sleigh/wagon rides, and ice climbing.

In warmer weather, visitors can enjoy the excitement of rock climbing, kayaking, and canoeing.

With the mission of fostering team building and experiential learning, Positive Energy Outdoors makes its exciting outdoor activities accessible to all.

With so much outdoor stuff to do in one central location, this excellent outdoor experience is a must-do.

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

19. Split Rock Lighthouse

Nestled along the North Shore of Lake Superior, Split Rock Lighthouse has been guiding freighters safely across the lake since 1910.

Situated upon nearly 8 acres of scenic Minnesota shoreline, Split Rock Lighthouse is both a seafaring beacon and historical sight to see.

In 1924, a new roadway made the once-inaccessible lighthouse more accessible to tourists.

Since then, visitors have come from far and wide to visit this epic Minnesota sight.

With admission to the Split Rock Lighthouse and a Keeper’s Tour, you can tour both the lighthouse and the keeper’s house.

Tours also include access to the historic grounds and the fog signal building.

With this 60-minute privately guided tour, you’ll have the opportunity to learn all about being a lighthouse keeper as well as the building’s and grounds’ historic significance.

Besides showcasing the interesting history of Split Rock Lighthouse, the tour elucidates the people who have lived there over the years.

Address: 3713 Split Rock Lighthouse Rd, Two Harbors, MN 55616, United States

20. Bent Paddle Brewing Company

This awesome craft brewery is a top one to check out in Duluth, Minnesota.

Established in 2013 by a team of two married couples, the brewery is operated by true industry professionals.

Named for the literal bent canoeing paddle that’s been used to mix beer mash, Bent Paddle Brewing Company is one of the best places to visit in Duluth.

If you’re interested in touring the inner workings of this epic brewery, free public tours take place every Sunday and run for about an hour and a half.

The brewery tours take place between multiple property buildings so be prepared for some outdoor walking.

Of note, the brewery tours include free samples of the delicious flagship and specialty beers.

After a tour of the brewery, head on over to the taproom where you can imbibe on some more spirits with friends.

The pet-friendly, heated taproom is a great place to kick back with pals and order takeout from neighboring restaurants.

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

21. SS William A. Irvin

This bulk freighter is a decommissioned boat that sailed the Great Lakes as one of the US’s steel lake fleet.

One of many cool things to do in Duluth, a visit to the SS William A. Irvin is an enjoyable way to bask in local history.

First launched in 1938 in the thick of the Great Depression, this freighter retired in 1978 after grinding heavy loads for many years.

One of many unique historical things to see, the SS William A. Irvin makes for a fun day out in Duluth.

Set against the magical backdrop of the Aerial Lift Bridge, you can enjoy two spectacular sights for the price of one.

While aboard the SS William A. Irvin you’ll be awed by the spectacularly pristine condition the vessel is in despite freighting iron and coal for 40 years.

Be sure to round out your visit to the SS William A. Irvin with a trip to the gift shop which purveys a large collection of nautical gifts.

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

22. Apostle Islands Cruises

One really cool thing to do in Minnesota is schedule a tour with Apostle Islands Cruises.

This premier Duluth business specializes in chartered tours that explore the stunning archipelago that is the system of Apostle Islands.

The archipelago consists of 21 interconnected islands that feature extraordinary natural facets such as caverns, intricate sea caves, historic lighthouses, and copious wildlife.

The sights you’ll encounter on an Apostle Islands Cruise are reason enough to book your charter today.

The tours are a 55-mile, expertly narrated excursion that passes astounding natural scenery and noteworthy historic features.

Furthermore, some of the tours allow passengers to disembark along the route to hike and explore some of the natural and historic scenery.

The company offers six unique tour options that vary in length from two-and-a-half to four-and-a-half hours.

The cruises do sell beverages onboard and passengers are permitted to pack snacks and lunches.

If you’re wondering what to do on the water when visiting Duluth, be sure to make reservations with Apostle Islands Cruises.

23. Enger Tower

This 80-foot, five-story stone tower is a work of architectural wonder.

So-named because of the hill the tower sits atop, Enger Hill, Enger Tower is one of many cool things to see when in Duluth.

Built with money donated by famed furniture dealer, Bert Enger, the tower was built in 1939 in his honor.

Overlooking the crystalline, picturesque Lake Superior, Enger Tower provides incredible panoramic views of the Twin Ports.

Visitors to the tower can climb the five stories, enjoying picturesque views at every story.

From the tower, visitors can enjoy views of epic Japanese gardens, parts of downtown Duluth, and even parts of Superior, Wisconsin.

With 105 steps to climb, the tower is a delightful way to see the “Air Conditioned City.”

Moreover, an adjacent picnic area is a perfect place to enjoy a picnic lunch with magnificent things to see.

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

24. Duluth Rose Garden

Duluth Rose Garden is a 4.5-acre tract of beauty situated within Leif Erikson Park.

Run cooperatively by both the City of Duluth and The Lake Superior Rose Society, Duluth Rose Garden is a beautiful place to visit with your favorite anthophile(s).

The peak season for visiting the garden is Summer when the roses are in full bloom and admission to the gardens is one of a few free things to do when visiting Duluth.

As you freely meander the garden, you can relish in more than 3,000 rose blooms as well as 12,000 non-rose plantlife.

Besides roses, you’ll enjoy colorful varieties of lilies, a smattering of perennials, evergreen shrubs, and even an aromatic herb garden.

Each of the garden beds is interconnected by beautifully paved brick walkways as well as stone benches perfect for taking a break or further appreciating the dazzling beauty of the gardens.

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

25. The Duluth Lakewalk

The Duluth Lakewalk is a nearly eight-mile stretch of a paved pathway that lines the perimeter of Lake Superior.

Available to the public for pedestrian usage, visitors to The Duluth Lakewalk can walk, bike, skate, etc. alongside the most spectacular of views.

Stretching from Bayfront Park to Brighton Beach, the Lakewalk is the best place to visit near Lake Superior.

Along the lengthy path, you’ll encounter historical sights, memorials, a boardwalk, shopping, and restaurants.

From one point on the path, you can enjoy up-close views of the popular Aerial Lift Bridge, a perfect spot to watch the wonder of the bridge’s unique mechanics and the seafaring vessels that pass beneath it.

In fact, if you’re looking for a truly exhilarating experience, you can even cross the Aerial Lift Bridge.

Another fun sight to check out along the Lakewalk is the Canal Park Museum.

One of the most spectacular attractions to visit in Duluth, Minnesota, be sure to add The Duluth Lakewalk to your itinerary.

Address: The Lakewalk, Duluth, MN 55802, United States

 

26. Canal Park

This beautiful park situated on the shores of Lake Superior makes up some of the downtown district.

Home to Duluth’s historic Aerial Lift Bridge, the park is a great place for sightseeing as well as enjoying nature.

Besides the amazement of the US’s first transporter bridge, you can enjoy other sights such as birdwatching, historic monuments, and the brilliance of lake traffic passing by.

Remarkably, ships from all over the world can be observed from Canal Park.

The park is surrounded by a famed Lakewalk that allows visitors to walk, run, bike, and observe all of the park’s natural wonders; it’s even possible to find an awe-inspiring Lake Superior agate.

Not only does the park provide visitors with Lake Superior beach access, but it also provides access to a downtown epicenter with loads to do and see.

From restaurants to museums and nightlife to lodging, there are so many places to visit in the park’s circumference.

Address: Duluth, MN 55802, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Duluth

Minnesota is known for its beautiful natural features including forestry, lakes, mountains, and beyond.

Things to do in Duluth are not hard to come by.

Plenty of adventurous outdoor activities, amazing museums, spectacular historical sights, and so much more can be enjoyed during your visit to Duluth.

All that’s left to do is pack your bags and head to this favorite Midwestern destination.

Happy travels.