What To Do In Duluth, Minnesota: A Local’s Perspective

Mmmmm, this quirky, beautiful, incredible “city on the hill”. Often over-looked and under-estimated, this unique city is a GEM.

A mid-sized Northern Minnesota city (not too big, not too small)— nestled on the hillside, covered in trees of deep green, strong cliffs, rushing waterfalls & rivers, endless trails, and, of course, cozied along THEE greatest of the greats, Lake Superior. The landscape is SO unique & versatile and it’s filled to the brim with beautiful & talented humans— small businesses, delicious sips, and unique restaurants. Mmmmm, so much goodness!!!!

Now, I may be biased, but I truly think Duluth is a bit of a unicorn and often WAY over-looked.

While I am lucky enough to LIVE in this outdoorsy, quirky, friendly place— it is also the perfect place to visit!

And, while, my normal blog content is focused on all things integrative health, holistic self-care, and [realistic] tips for wellness, I decided to change things up a bit to tell you all about DULUTH. My home sweet home.

Because…. you guys ASKED for this. Duluth-related queries are some of the most frequently-asked questions that I receive on Instagram, and I am finalllllly compiling a master list that you can reference and use to plan your trip “up nort”! While there are 398490820948230984 different restaurants, amazing businesses, and things to recommend, this post would be a legitimate novel if I tried to cover everything.

So, for brevity and clarity, in this guide, I distilled it to few of my top favorites in key categories (mainly food & drinks), but also, activities, outdoorsy options, etc. But PLEASE do not feel limited to what is on this list— there are so many amazing places to explore & restaurants to eat & incredible businesses to support in Duluth!

I hope this post inspires you to visit this magical lil city!

WHEN TO VISIT?

One of my favorite parts about Minnesota is four DISTINCT seasons of nature, weather, and energy. While I GENUINELY don’t think there is a “bad” time to visit Duluth, there are definite pros/cons and ~vibes~ to each unique season here. Take your pick!

• Summer: My personal favorite season in Duluth! Sunshine and warmth (but never “too hot”), beach days, spending time on the lake, bright green trees, open skies, ahhhhh. The energy of the city is contagious in summer! After being cooped up all winter, Duluthians and visitors are always out & about— hiking, exploring, beaching, eating, sippin’, etc. It’s a beautiful, invigorating time to visit!

• Fall: If you like gorgeous fall colors, look no further! During autumn, the hillside is painted in bright oranges, yellows, reds, etc. and all the fall magic! It’s cozy— while still being warm enough to get outside and explore. A wonderful time to visit!

• Winter: A very underrated time to visit Duluth, in my opinion. Yes, of course, it’s cold. But it’s also BEAUTIFUL. If you dress appropriately for the weather, it’s a great time to explore frosty landscapes, see beautiful ice chunks on the shoreline, the most amazing sunrises/sunsets, nordic ski, fat tire bike, etc. Come up for a cozy, hot-cocoa sippin’, winter wonderland!

• Spring: if I am being honest, spring is probably the worst season to come in— not gonna sugar coat it. During spring, surprise snowstorms will come, nothing is green yet, and everything is quite muddy from the winter thaw. THAT SAID, there is always goodness in each season— if spring is the only time that works to come to duluth, still come! There is still so much goodness to this season— Just prep for a bit more “sloppy” muddiness and unpredictable weather than the other seasons!

a glimpse at winter “up the shore” right outside of Duluth! No matter the freezing temperatures, rain, wild waves, sunny days, every season here is beautiful and amazing for getting outside! (…if you dress for it ;)

BREAKFAST

Okay, let’s start with breakfast! While there are many more [delicious] options, below are my 4 faaaaav spots for breakfast in the Duluth area.

• DULUTH GRILL: hands down my highest recommendation for breakfast, brunch, lunch, etc. Local, organic, unique, and [most importantly] DELICIOUS food. This is mine and adam’s favorite breakfast place.

• SARA'S TABLE CHESTER CREEK CAFE: Mmmmmmm, a neighborhood fav. Very “farm-to-table” and delicious breakfasts. (Also have a great cafe where you can grab and go the best coffees, treats, etc.)

• LAKE AVENUE RESTAURANT & BAR: I believe this is only on weekends, but a brunch at lake ave is *chefs kiss*. A bit fancier than the 2 options above, but so, so good!

• PIZZA LUCE: Another option that I believe is weekend-only, but hearty, unique dishes for breakfast!

While in this post I will give you all the specifics on my fav restaurants & “things” to do— at the end of the day, there is NOTHING better than just scoping out a piece of that one-of-a-kind Lake Superior shoreline and sittin’, sippin, & munchin’ with the ones you love!

COFFEE

• DOVETAIL CAFE & MARKETPLACE: This is my fav place to “camp out” for a long coffee shop day— delicious coffee, pastries, food, AND kombucha, wine, craft beer, etc. There is something for every mood and time of day! Not to mention, a cozy ambiance, plenty of seating, a great collection of local art, potteries, and pieces from local makers!

• AMITY COFFEE: A neighborhood fav! A cozy, quirky coffee shop with delicious drinks and beautiful art on the walls.

• DULUTH COFFEE COMPANY CAFE & ROASTERY: Not really a coffee shop that I “camp out” at, but sooo delicious for a quick stop in and delicious cup of joe!

• DREAM CLOUD COFFEE SHOP: Admittedly, I haven’t even been here yet— it JUST opened (like yesterday, as I’m writing this), but it looks gorrrrrg inside, and I always love to see another coffee shop pop up in this town!

Grab a great cup of joe & go catch the sunrise on the lake! (Being bundled up in blankets optional, but highly encouraged ;)

CASUAL LUNCH/DINNER FOOD

• NORTHERN WATERS SMOKEHAUS: yum, yum, yum. if you are looking for a “grab and go” lunch for a beach day, PLEASE go here. I can’t even describe how delicious it is.

• CORKTOWN DELI & BREWS: if you’re looking for a casual (but unique) sandwiches and a bomb beer selection, you have to swing by here!

• HUNGRY HIPPIE TACOS: FInally! This was a go-to stop in Grand Marais, but they finally just opened a branch in Duluth— and I hiiighly recommend. Simple (yet unique and flavorful) tacos — with a Northern flare.

• OMC SMOKEHOUSE: omg, yuuuuuuum. if you love a good BBQ, this is the place for you. This menu is so unique & so good. Usually has a longer wait (because it’s so good!), but just hop on over next door to Tap Exchange for a drink or explore the amazing shops in the area while you wait!

• SIR BEN’S: Just a hop, skip, & a jump off the lakewalk— amazing drink selection, sandwiches, etc. They have outdoor seating pretty much year-round (You’ll often see people bundled up next to the fire in the winter/early spring and it’s so awesome)

• FITGER’S BREWHOUSE: a brewery (amazing beer!) with a great, elevated pub menu. Bonus— you get to walk through the fitgers complex which has cute shops to explore!

• CANAL PARK BREWING COMPANY: casual American food with a twist and some beers as well! This is right on Lake Superior and has outdoor seating in summer.

This is a peek at Lake Avenue Cafe. One of our FAV “date night” spots! Romantic, unique, and seasonal menu.

NICER DINNER FOOD

• NEW SCENIC CAFÉ: this place is hands down in my top 3 restaurants. like, top 3 restaurants ever. of anywhereve ever eaten. it’s a little bit out of town, but nestled along Lake Superior, the most cozy ambiance, gorgeous building, and seasonal, unique menu. It is a bit more fancy/expensive, but sooo good. This is our go-to for anniversaries, birthdays, etc. I love love love it. Every meal here feels memorable!

• LAKE AVENUE RESTAURANT & BAR: Mmmmm, SO. GOOD. Another great “foodie” option! Right in canal park and a rotating seasonal menu with delicious options, fantastic cocktails, and generous portions, etc.

• VA BENE: O M G. Drool. The most amazing pasta. There isn’t a ton of table space here so reservations are wise. (If you are able, call ahead and make reservations and request a spot that overlooks the lake.) It is magical! (Also Wednesday is half bottle wine, juuuust saying!)

DESSERT:

• LOVE CREAMERY: OMG. this ice cream. amazing amazing amazing.

• PORTLAND MALT SHOPPE: One of my favorite things to see is a summer night— the waves are crashing on the shoreline, people everywhere, and there is *always* a line outside of Portland Malt Shop

• BETTY’S PIES/RUSTIC INN: Okay, these are technically a bit outside of Duluth, but if you drive up the shore, these are amazing places to stop for pie! (Most people have a STRONG preference on if they prefer Betty’s or Rustic, ha!)

While Duluth is amazing (and a perfect destination on its own), if you have time, PLEASE drive “up the shore” and explore along the Lake Superior Shoreline, Superior Hiking Trail, and all the amazing hiking along the way!

DRINKS

Duluth is home to AMAZING breweries, cideries, and cocktail bars. You truly can’t go wrong! Below is a general list that you can hop around and explore! The ones with astricks are relatively close together location-wise if you wanted to “brewery hop”!

BREWERIES (adam’s fav! i am, unfortunately, gluten-free, but here is his #gluten-filled round up!):

• BENT PADDLE BREWING CO.* (amazing beer. amazing tap room. highly recommend.)

• URSA MINOR BREWING* (also PHENOM beer, outdoor seating, etc. and wood-fired pizzas)

• FITGER'S BREWHOUSE

• BLACKLIST BREWING CO.

• HOOPS BREWING:

• TAP EXCHANGE*: Not exactly a brewery, but this place is owned by our friends, and such a cool way to try multiple delicious drinks! You can go to one place and try a tonnnnnn of different local options that you can pour directly from the tap yourself!

• CASTLE DANGER BREWERY: This one is outside of town (in Two Harbors), but a great brewery so wanted to include it on the list!

GLUTEN-FREE CIDERS (my fav!)

• WILD STATE CIDER*

• DULUTH CIDER*

COCKTAILS:

• RATHSKELLER: amazing cocktails in a dark, moody ambiance!

• VIKRE DISTILLERY: yup yup yup. craft cocktails with handmade spirits right in canal park!

• RIPPLE BAR: a craft cocktail bar tucked inside a brewery (Hoops). Delicious and unique cocktails!

• SILOS RESTAURANT: While this is technically a restaurant, I wouldn’t necessarily go here for food. The main thing I like about here is that you can order a drink inside at the bar and go outside and sit by fire pits overlooking the lake!

• APOSTLE SUPPER CLUB: An amazing spot to grab a drink (or a meal!) This is at the top of the Radisson Hotel and the restaurant…. literally SPINS. It’s all windows and rotates 360 degrees— giving you a view of the city from all angles. A bit fancier place to grab a special drink, an app, and soak in the city views!

While this is our personal canoe, there are plenty of places to rent canoes, kayaks, mountain bikes, etc. and explore all the nature goodness this city has to offer!

“TOURISTY” THINGS TO DO

While these are definitely more “touristy” things to do, they also are fun & unique! A great experience :)

• GLENSHEEN MANSION: A GORGEOUS mansion right on lake superior. You can tour the grounds, the mansion, and learn about the historic story (and murder) that happened. It is so gorgeous, has a “treasure hunt” of items to find for kids, and feels like a glamorous step back into a time capsule mansion.

• GREAT LAKES AQUARIUM: We are nestled on the greatest great lake after all! If you have kids, I highly recommend the Great Lakes Aquarium! So many fun activities, learning opportunities, and ways to see our fresh water critters up close :)

• BOOK A FISHING CHARTER OR SAIL BOAT: I think this would be SO memorable, and such a phenom way to really experience Lake Superior. Book a fishing charter or sail boat ride for the day and get to see Lady Sup alllllll in her glory. There is nothing better than a day on the lake, seeing the shoreline, and sight-seeing (and maybe even catching a big ol’ lake trout or coho salmon!)

• VISTA CRUISE: This is actually so fun, and a great way to see Lake Superior from the water (for a more price-effective way). The vista fleet offers group boat tours of Lake Superior, special meals, concerts, themed events, etc. Definitely explore their website, and book a boatride around the GREATEST of the Great Lakes!

• NORTH SHORE SCENIC RAILROAD: Okay, of all the touristy things, I think this could be SO fun. Take an old school train up the shore and get a train-view tour of Duluth and a peek at the nature bliss of “the north shore”. They have different ride options, I believe— some catered for kids, some for adults, etc.

my favorite kind of “happy hour” :)

OTHER FREE ACTIVITIES:

While the places & restaurants are great, the real magic of Duluth is just from being outside. While I am not going to share all #bestkept specific hikes, trails, & beaches out of respect to my fellow locals— I’ll give you all the amazing places to get started! Simply pick a park, or a stretch of shoreline, and EXPLOOOORE :)

• GET OUTSIDE & GET ACTIVE: Didya know Duluth was voted best outdoors city in America?! Take this opportunity to rent bikes, mountain bikes, cross country skies, kayaks, etc. and explore the water, trails, and amazing views this city has to offer!

• HAVE A PICNIC ON THE BEACH: Grab some snacks at The Whole Foods Co-op, and have a picnic at the beach! This is my personal favorite way to spend time in Duluth :)

• HIKE HIKE HIKE: Go to Lester Park, Congdon Park, Enger Tower, Hawks Ridge, Tischer Creek, Superior Hiking Trail trailheads, etc. and wander! There is NO shortage of magical trails in Duluth. Enjoy!

• CANAL PARK: Explore Canal Park and see the lighthouse, the lift bridge, wander in-and-out of shops, and skip rocks. This is a must.

• WALK THE BOARDWALK: This is a walking path right on the water that starts in Canal Park and takes you along downtown, the waterfront, and into local neighborhoods.

• PARK POINT BEACH AND BEACH HOUSE: While a lot of Lake Superior is rocky, “Park Point” is home to beautiful sandy beaches and grassy dunes. The PERFECT place to spend a sunny beach day. Gorgeous!

• WATCH SHIPS PASS UNDER THE LIFT BRIDGE: Duluth is famous for its “Lift Bridge”, which a bridge that rises in order to allow for the passage of large ships. Hang out by the lighthouses and you just may be lucky enough to see a big ship enter!

• CATCH A WORKOUT: My friend, Jess, has the most amazing fitness studio, Movo. It’s right downtown, has the best energy, and SUCH a great place to drop-in for a class. (Bonus: swing by Juice Pharm next door for a fresh-pressed juice after class!)

• VENTURE UP THE SHORE: While there is no shortage of things to do in Duluth, it’s just the START of the magic of Northern Minnesota. If you have an extra day, drive up the shore, swing in the cute towns, do a few short hikes (Palisade Head, Split Rock Lighthouse, etc.). If you have extra extra time, I HIIIIGHLY recommend taking a few days and exploring up the shore, making pitstops on the Superior Hiking Trail, the gorgeous beaches & overlooks, visiting Lutsen, staying in Grand Marais, exploring the Gunflint Trail, Boundary Waters, etc.). Northern Minnesota is MAGIC and driving “up the shore” could be a trip (and blog post!) all in itself.

• LOOK UP CONCERTS: If you are able to go to a concert at Bayfront, PLEASE DO. It is so fun. There will also be shows at Glensheen Mansion (on the pier), local bars, festivals, etc. Just do a quick search and see if any concerts will be here during your stay!

• SAUNA: One of our friends started this amazing business, Cedar & Stone. They have a gorgeous sauna right by Lake Superior so you can heat up, sweat, and sauna it UP (and then plunge into the lake if you’re brave!)

• SHOP: I’ve already said it, but I REALLY mean it— there are so many amazing businesses in Duluth. Explore the shops and support small businesses at Fitgers Complex, Downtown, Canal Park, Lincoln Park, etc. (My personal favorite shops are found in Lincoln Park and in the Fitger’s Complex!)

Don’t say I didn’t warn ya— Lake Superior is famous for its CHILLY freezing water. But I prefer to call it “refreshing”, tehe. Just think of it as a good chance to experiment with cold therapy ;)

There ya have it— a local’s guide to Duluth! This city is so, so special to me. I am honored to share it with you. If you ever find yourself planning a trip to Duluth, I hope this list helps get ya started :) Enjoy!

more Foundation Blog posts for you….