Top things to do for a weekend in Duluth, Minnesota
- Date visited: July 2022
- Time Needed: 1–2 nights, 2 days
- Neighborhoods to stay in: Downtown Duluth or nearby Super, WI for more affordable hospitality
Duluth North Pier Lighthouse
This historical landmark is located right on the Duluth Lakewalk, surrounded by plenty of paid parking. At sunset, walk to the lighthouse and see in person the beautiful views of Lake Superior — the largest freshwater lake in the world. After, stroll around local shops.
Glensheen Mansion
This 39-room mansion, once owned by 20th century iron-mining “royalty”, boasts incredible lake views and a dark secret. Take a tour of the mansion and its grounds to better understand the Congdon family and its history. What you won’t learn about, however, are the onsite murders involving an elderly mining heiress and her maid. Guides are instructed to NOT discuss it. Visit here to see the murder site for yourself (along with all the remarkable ‘normal’ aspects the mansion has to offer). Tickets start at $20/person.
Enger Tower
Climb 105 steps to the top of Enger Tower to experience incredible 360 degree views. Not a must-do, but worth it if you have time.
Grandma’s
Grandma’s is a favorite local bar and restaurant in Canal Park. Though their fare is ok, their drinks are reasonably priced and the atmosphere fun. Visit here after dinner or for a midday beer.
Lake Avenue Cafe
One of the best restaurants in Duluth for both food and cocktails. The smoked cheddar mac and cheese will give you a heart attack, but if you add the mushrooms and bacon, you’ll die happy.
Gooseberry Falls State Park
Drive approximately 45 minutes along the coast of Lake Superior to Gooseberry Falls State Park. Known for its incredible waterfalls and shoreline, this park is a great way to spend the day outdoors. Try one of the numerous hiking trails to see the best parts of the area. If time permits, drive 10 minutes to the Split Rock Lighthouse to see another iconic Minnesota landmark and additional spectacular views.
Wisconsin Point
Located in the Lake Superior National Estuarine Research Reserve, Wisconsin Point is the world’s largest freshwater bay mouth sand bar. Spend a couple hours here enjoying the beach along with views of Duluth and the Wisconsin Point Lighthouse. The drive from Duluth takes about 25 minutes.
Apostle Islands
If you have an extra day or two, head 1.5 hours to Wisconsin and the Apostle Islands. We ran out of time to hop on the ferry to the actual islands, but enjoyed an early morning kayak trip with Apostle Islands Kayak in a nearby coastal town.
