Family Friendly Things to do in Duluth MN

Duluth Minnesota Family Guide: 28 Year-Round Activities & Winter Secrets

There are a few things that stand out as ‘must do’s’ while visiting Duluth, Minnesota, no matter the season. From the iconic lift bridge to hidden hiking trails just off the beaten path, this lakeside city transforms beautifully through all four seasons, making it a year-round destination for families.

There are so many things to do in Duluth MN it’s hard to keep my list down to just 28. Many people enjoy going to Duluth for a day trip or weekend getaway from Minneapolis, and while summer draws crowds to the lakefront, winter reveals a magical side of the city that many visitors miss.

The entire family has a great time when we go up to Duluth, either for a day trip or when we stay along the north shore. While the summer months tend to get the most attention, I actually enjoy winter there better! The city comes alive with twinkling lights, winter sports, and cozy indoor attractions that make it perfect for family adventures even in the coldest months.

Some of the best things include finding hidden areas not many people know about, along with seasonal treasures that transform throughout the year. After 5 years of blogging, I’m finally sharing my family’s list of fun things to do in Duluth MN across all seasons.

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Why Duluth MN as your Family Weekend Getaway?

When people from Minneapolis always ask, “Where should I go this weekend?” the first place I think of is Duluth, MN. It’s the perfect day trip location or weekend getaway any time of year. Summer brings water activities and hiking, while winter transforms the city into a snow-globe wonderland with skiing, ice skating, and the famous Bentleyville Tour of Lights.

Sitting alongside one of the biggest great lakes, there are so many Duluth attractions it was hard to keep my list to only 28. The city offers a perfect mix of outdoor adventure and indoor comfort, making it ideal for family visits in any weather.

The Glensheen Mansion

The Glensheen Mansions is one of Duluth’s most iconic residences. That’s because it sits right along Lake Superior and has one of the most pristine gardens around.

Schedule a tour online and make sure you visit the mansion. It’s just a short drive from Canal Park.

This part of town is really quaint; homes are constructed very close together in narrow lots lined up almost like an old English village street. The Glenseen Mansion is enormous with its lake-side views and immaculate grounds.

On the tour, you’ll hear all about the history of the Congdon family, the original owners of the establishment. He was a US Attorney for the District of Minnesota and a House of Representatives for Minnesota from 1909-1913. Glensheen Mansion can be toured most days.

I was fortunate enough to go inside, and I have to say it was breathtaking. I only wish it wasn’t raining or I’d have spent more time viewing the lake and grounds. This is a must-see on your visit.

The Tour

This is a great tour to find out more about life in the 1900s. You’ll get to see inside many of the rooms and servant quarters. I recommend it for older families with kids 8+. If you’d like to see a little more about what a tour is like, check out Glensheen Mansion Tour | Duluth’s Downton Abbey

The Glensheen Mansion in Duluth
Photo Courtesy of the Glensheen Mansion

Canal Park in Duluth

Canal Park’s 700 acres transform each season, making it one of the most dynamic attractions in the city. During summer, the park buzzes with shoppers, ice cream enthusiasts, and ship-watchers. Winter brings a different kind of magic, with wave-watching becoming a spectacular show as Lake Superior’s waters crash against ice-covered barriers.

The park features a lighthouse, breakwater, shopping, walking paths, museums, and much more. Start your visit at the main parking lot, then explore the shops (many connected by heated skyways in winter). Watch ships navigate the harbor year-round, and see the Arial Lift Bridge in action. During winter months, the bridge and surrounding buildings sparkle with festive lights.

Grandma’s Restaurant offers a cozy retreat any time of year, serving up warm comfort food with harbor views.

Canal Park

Canal Park is a great place to explore, but can get overwhelming to some. Make sure to check out the 26 BEST Things To Do in Canal Park in Duluth, MN

See a Lighthouse or all three

Duluth, MN has one of the most beautiful views of the lake in the world. It’s also an amazing place to hike and explore its natural beauty. It’s also a great place to eat! And it’s a perfect place to go see the lighthouse.

The two most accessible lighthouses are right along the breakwater. One on each side of the Aerial Lift Bridge. The third one is the ruins of an old lighthouse.

Drive all the way to Minnesota Point and take a short hike to the ruins of Minnesota Point Lighthouse. It’s hidden behind a fence but is a relic of the old shipping lanes. This is one of the fun things to do in Duluth MN the whole family will love it!

Lighthouses in Duluth

Hiking in Duluth

If you’re in Duluth, Minnesota, you’ve likely noticed that it’s the perfect place to hike. The city is situated at the base of the North Shore line ridge and offers a variety of trails that take hikers through varied terrains and ecosystems.

This includes trail walks from Duluth, as well as its outskirts, where there are hiking opportunities in parks like Canal Park and Glensheen Mansion. Not only is this beautiful land perfect for outdoor adventures, but it also has plenty of history to offer.

Some of my favorite hikes are hidden in the parks and have waterfalls. Pick up a copy of Waterfalls of Minnesota’s North Shore and find out about some great locations you can’t miss.

Duluth Waterfalls

Duluth is a wonderland of waterfalls in Northern Minnesota. You can experience many of them. Congdon Park is my absolute favorite stretch. There are all three easily accessible by your car. Parking on the road or in the small lots, you can see all different kinds of falls, each with its own personality.

Another great location to check out is Seven Bridges Road. All along the road are different parking spots to check out the running water. It’s not to be missed.

Waterfalls

Duluth has a great selection of waterfalls, all hidden back away from canal park. Where to find Waterfalls in Duluth: Everything you need to know

Keep Smiling

Enger Park and Tower

The 80-foot Enger Tower is on a site once called Grand Mountain. The park and golf course are built on lands donated by West End furniture dealer Bert Egner in 1921.

The Tower was built in his honor. Today you can stroll the park and visit the gardens and see the American-Japanese Peace Bell. It was a gift from their sister city of Ohara-Isumi.

The park is open during the summers, and you can even climb up the tower. It holds one of the best views of Duluth in my personal opinion.

Enger Park

Swimming in Lake Superior

Looking to relax a little? Consider taking a dip in Lake Superior. There are a couple of great places to do so. I love Minnesota Point. At the end of the road is a great beach, Park Point Beach.

While most people only walk along the sandy beach there are a few that will get into Lake Superior’s chilly waters during the summer. I have only dipped in my toes. If you aren’t in the mood for a swim, stop by the nearby park. It’s spectacular.

Only true Minnesotans will put on dry suits and brave the waters during wintertime. There is a great spot along the northern side of Duluth near the North Shore Visors center that is popular with surfers.

Aerial Lift Bridge

The Aerial Lift Bridge spans the Duluth Ship Canal. Thought of as a shortcut for shopping, the bridge is the only way for people to get from the island to Duluth.

The bridge is located in downtown Duluth, Minnesota, and connects Lake Superior with the east side of Duluth. The Aerial Lift Bridge was built in 1905 and modified in 1927 and is 502ft long.

The bridge goes up almost 26 times a day and can be seen from almost any spot in Duluth. Make sure to check out the https://canalpark.com/duluth-ship-schedule/ to find out when it will go up.

You can also stop at the Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center while you are there to get a peak at the schedule. There is also a pedestrian crossing spot on the bridge for those wishing to see the second lighthouse.

Duluth Arial Lift Bridge
Courtesy of Visit Duluth

Canoeing or Kayaking in Duluth

When deciding to visit Duluth and Lake Superior, consider taking a canoe or Kayak Tour of the water. There are so many cool parts of the city, and the best way to see it all is by water.

One of the best tour companies out there is Day Tripper of Duluth. They offer tours all along the north shore but also do a tour riverside of the Glensheen Mansion. You have to check it out.

Leif Erikson Park

Leif Erikson Park is just a short walk away from the downtown area of Duluth. The park sits along the shoreline of Lake Superior at the foot of 13th Avenue East. Directly accessible from the Lakewalk, it’s a popular local park.

It’s also home to the Rose Garden. Featuring over 3,000 rose bushes and plants, a statue of Leif Erikson, and a fountain. It becomes a sought-after spot for weddings.

Where to Stay

Looking to stay the weekend in Duluth? There are tons of places for every type of trip. From romantic waterfront, to family-friendly and pet-friendly accommodations. Make sure to check out: 14 Best Places to stay in Duluth MN

Lake Superior Maritime Visitors Center

The history of Duluth is intertwined with the history of the Great Lakes, and some of the most interesting places to visit are located in our region. Our city has a rich maritime heritage, and one of the best places to get close to it is at Lake Superior Maritime Visitors Center.

Visitors will learn how Duluth became a major port town, and how visitors and locals alike enjoyed spending time on Lake Superior in the 19th century.

The center has been housed at the old post office since 2004 but has since been renovated and expanded. A new addition includes an interactive exhibit that showcases early 20th-century life on Lake Superior during “the Golden Age of Transportation” with vintage “steamboats” that traveled between Duluth and Milwaukee.

Walk along Duluth’s Lakewalk

Lakewalk is something I’ve already brought up a few times; that’s because it connects everything. The Lakewalk is a 7.25 mile walking trail in Duluth, Minnesota.

It starts at the Bayfront Festival Park and ends just past Lester Park. The paved trail runs along the shoreline of Lake Superior.

The trail passes through several neighborhoods and offers nice views of Lake Superior. From this trial, you can see a bunch of the items on the list.

It passes by the Lift Bridge, the Boardwalk, Shopping, Leif Erickson Park and Rose Garden, and the Edgewater Resort.

Duluth Lake Walk
Lakewalk, Duluth” by Sharon Mollerus is licensed under CC BY 2.0.

Lake Superior Zoo

Lake Superior Zoo is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Duluth. The zoo offered us a unique and fun way to spend our day. It’s located in the heart of Lake Superior, a few miles north of downtown.

The building itself is unique. You’re not going to find anything like it in other zoos or big cities, or even nature parks or botanical gardens. It’s a built-in steep ravine that runs right through the center of the park, providing a stunning view of Lake Superior.

We saw a huge variety of animals wandering around, from polar bears to wolves. This zoo has the trifecta of Lions, Tigers, and Bears. Always the sign for me of a good zoo.

They have a variety of different enclosures and zone. It reminded me of the small zoo experience from We Bought a Zoo. It’s definitely a lot more intimate than the bigger zoos.

I really enjoyed getting to experience this zoo as part of my trip exploring Duluth MN. It’s definitely worth your time! If you love animals then you have no reason not to visit this place . . . especially if you live anywhere near Duluth MN. It truly is an amazing experience.

Zoo Discount

Have a MN ZOO Membership? You can get into the Duluth Zoo for a fraction of the price. They have a unique partnership allowing members to get in at 50% off.

North Shore Scenic Railroad

The North Shore Scenic Railroad (NSSR) is a traveling railroad museum and tourist attraction located in Duluth, Minnesota. The NSRS is operated by the Duluth Foundation, which has been operating since its inception in 1971.

The NSRS has a fleet of historic steam locomotives and diesel-powered locomotives that are used to transport visitors on train rides through the Great Lakes Region.

The most popular ride is the scenic train ride taking passengers on the Duluth Zephyr, a 75 minute round trip ride up the North Shore.

They also have a Two Harbors Full day excursion. Trains run during Summer and Fall and fill up fast. Make sure to reserve a time if you plan on heading up there.

Duluth Train Ride
Train Rides in MN

This is just one place you can take train rides in Minnesota. There are hiding all over the state. My favorite is actually near Taylors Falls. Find out where the 7 Best Scenic Train Rides in Minnesota are.

Great Lakes Aquarium

We’ve all heard it – the saying, “You can’t judge a book by its cover.” The same goes for museums, aquariums, and nature reserves. You can’t just walk in and expect to see anything you want to see.

Located on Canal Park it opened in 2000 with a state-of-the-art three-story building. It features animals and habitats found within the Great Lakes basin and other freshwater ecosystems.

Aquarium houses 205 different species of fish, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and mammals. It’s one of only a few aquariums that focuses only on freshwater species.

Brighton Beach

Brighton Beach in Duluth is the perfect place to spend a day with your family. The beach is wide and sandy, the water is clear and cold, and there are plenty of places to get food and drinks.

It’s also easy to find parking, so you can spend all day without feeling rushed. This is a great relaxing place along the north shore of Lake Superior.

Spirit Mountain Adventure Park

Spirit Mountain isn’t just a warm-weather destination – it’s actually at its most spectacular in winter. Known to many as the premier ski area in the region, it offers the Midwest’s second-largest vertical drop and activities for every skill level.

During winter, families flock here for downhill skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing. The summit offers breathtaking views of the city lights reflecting off Lake Superior, especially magical during evening skiing sessions. Stay at one of the slope-side lodging designed for ski-in/out adventure, or take part in one of their races. They even have an area for fat biking on the snowy trails.

Summer brings its own excitement with mountain biking, disk golfing, and the adventure park’s timber twister alpine slide. The warm-weather activities include a seated zip ride and scenic chairlift rides.

Skyline Parkway

Skyline Parkway is a river gorge forested parkway that runs through Duluth, Minnesota. The parkway is a popular destination for hiking, biking, as well as other outdoor activities.

The trail features several excellent viewpoints and overlooks along its length, including views of Lake Superior and downtown Duluth.

A few places you need to stop along the drive are the Thompson Hill Travel Information Center, Enger Park, Twin Ponds, Hawk Ridge Nature Reserve, Seven Bridges Road, and Kitchi Gammi Park.

hiking

Love hiking? MN has some great state parks close by to continue the adventure. Check out:
Gooseberry Falls Trails | Hiking to Fifth Falls
Jay Cooke State Park Hiking Club Trail: Swinging Bridge, Waterfalls and more

Lester Park

If you live in Minnesota, you may have already heard about Lester Park. Lester Park offers a great place for a hike. It’s around 2 miles from downtown Duluth, so it will take about an hour for the entire loop.

The grounds will be beautiful with flowers blooming everywhere. There’s even a picnic area if you want to rest your feet on the grass and enjoy some food or drink.

The park has waterfalls, boardwalks and tunnels along with 9 miles of hiking and mountain bike trails. The park at the bottom of Seven Bridges Road. It is truly a gem of Duluth that you don’t want to miss.

S.S. William A Irvin Museum

The S.S William A Irvin Museum tells the story of how one man’s dream became an American reality. S.S. William A Irving has carried iron ore and coal for over 40 years through the storms of Lake Superior.

Today you can walk on board and tour the flagship of the US Steels Great Lakes Fleet. The ship is an icon within Duluth.

In October the S.S. William A Irving Museum becomes a haunted attraction.

Hawk Ridge Observatory

The 26.5-mile Hawk Ridge Trek from Duluth is a must-do hiking trail in the middle of Minnesota. The best time to head out to the Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory during their migration is to see more great birds.

It’s a trail that gets you away from the city and really puts you in touch with nature. The hike takes you through wooded areas, and to the top of Hawk Ridge. In Duluth, we can see this mountain like a beacon for those that live here.

The trail is mostly hilly and becomes more challenging as you go further into the woods after a few miles. There are several ways to reach the trail: From Lake Street, take Quarry Rd (the dirt road), which leads directly to Hawk Ridge Rd (the gravel road). From North Shore Drive, take Hwy 61 West or East and follow signs for Hawksnest Trail.

From Lake Street, take Quarry Road which leads directly to Hawk Ridge Road (the gravel road).

Hawk Ridge in Duluth

The Duluth Depot

The Duluth Depot is the main center of activity in Duluth. It has attractions for everyone. The Depot was built by the Minnesota Northern Pacific Railroad in 1885 to replace the original depot on Lake Street at the foot of downtown Duluth.

The Depot is owned by the city of Duluth and operated as a public park. The Depot has so much to see and do inside, including interactive exhibits and the chance to hop on a train.

The entire museum includes the Duluth Art Institute, Duluth Playhouse, Lake Superior Railroad Museum, North Shore Scenic Railroad, and the St Louis Historical Society.

One of the spaces is free, while others have admission. While I love exploring everything there, the most memorable part was the Tran Museum. With full-size trains parked in the deep, you can jump on board and explore.

Watch Grandmas Marathon

The Grandma’s Marathon is a community-run event that celebrates the spirit of motherhood and provides families a way to bond while spending time outdoors.

This annual event helps improve the health and well-being of people by promoting fitness and raising funds for local charities. Starting in 1977, the Grandmas Marathon is an iconic tradition.

Held every year in June, the course runs point to point from the city of Two Harbors along the old scenic 61 and continues on to Duluth.

If you are curious about how long the route is, (26.2 miles) you can drive it. Drive up to Two Harbors and turn onto the old scenic route. Shortly after turning on you’ll see the mile markers painted on the road. I shake my head every time we drive it in disbelief that people can run this.

Spring break

Did you know St Cloud made my list of great Spring Break destinations in Minnesota? That’s because they have an amazing selection of fun things to do. Find out who else made the list.

Biking Duluth

Willard Munger State Trail stretches 70 miles between Hinkley and Duluth. This trail passes by three MN State Parks; Jay Cooke State Park, Moose Lake State Park and Banning State Park.

Enjoy some of the great northern woods. During the Winter Months, Cross Country Skiers and Snowmobilers take advantage of the trails.

Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory

Located in Canal Park, the Rock Mountain Chocolate Factory has created Duluth’s favorite caramel apples, homemade fudge and more.

While this is a franchise, as we don’t have Rocky Mountains in MN, they still make the most inciting fine chocolates using traditional methods.

Watch as chocolatiers make up the company’s signature piece, the bear, a paw-sized concoction of chewy Carmel, roasted nuts coated in chocolate. Let your nose lead you right to the store.

Edgewater Hotel and Waterpark in Duluth

The hotel is located in the center of it all, right on the shores of Lake Superior and is definitely kid-friendly! The hotel boasts a full-blown water park, picnic areas, an arcade, and pet-friendly rooms.

It’s an ideal place for families who want to enjoy Waterparks and other family-friendly attractions near their hotel.

During the summer they have free outdoor miniature golf, fire pits, and free bicycle use. Get some coffee at the shop or stop in at Tiki Tom’s Grill.

The Edgewater Hotel offers many amenities people are looking for when searching for a place to stay in Duluth or any other destination on Lake Superior.

If you’re looking for something different from your typical hotel, look no further than the Edgewater Hotel. Its location is one of its biggest draws and why so many people choose this little gem on Lake Superior as their vacation home.

Indoor Waterparks

Love Waterparks? Minnesota had so great indoor Waterparks you can visit any time of year!
During Fall Colors and Christmas Celebrations, the Edgewater books up. Make sure to book your stay ahead of time and get the best rates by clicking here.

Edgewater Hotel
Photo Courtesy of the Edgewater Hotel

Tavern on the Hill

Looking for a nice sit-down restaurant that you don’t have to dress up for but won’t break the budget? I was so excited to find Tavern on the Hill. This restaurant has great locally sourced food.

With wood-fired pizza and seasonal bites. They are right next to the University of Duluth Campus. There is a great outdoor patio to relax on. My favorite part was it wasn’t in downtown Duluth so you don’t have to worry about finding parking.

Coney Island

I could not do a post about the best places to visit without mentioning my husband’s favorite stop, Coney Island. This place has its own unique no-frills charm. Located in downtown Duluth, the restaurants serve Coney Dogs and Gyros. The first time my husband mentioned it to me, I was a little skeptical.

But they’ve been doing this since 1928. They have a no-frills menu with the prices to match. You have to give them a try.

North Shore Drive

Keep driving north and let the adventure continue. There are some great things to do. Check out my post 28+ Stops on the North Shore’s Highway 61 – Minnesota’s Road Trip

Indoor Attractions Perfect for Any Weather

Duluth’s impressive collection of indoor attractions means weather never has to interrupt your family fun. The Great Lakes Aquarium offers an immersive freshwater experience with 205 different species, touch pools, and daily demonstrations. The Lake Superior Railroad Museum, housed in the historic Duluth Depot, provides a fascinating journey through railway history with full-size trains you can explore.

For active families, the Adventure Zone in Canal Park features laser tag, mini golf, and arcade games – perfect for those rainy summer days or chilly winter afternoons. The Duluth Playhouse offers year-round entertainment with family-friendly productions, while Vertical Endeavors provides indoor climbing adventures for all skill levels.

There are more family-friendly things to do in Duluth MN than just this.

Duluth is the gateway to Minnesota’s North Shore. There are so many more things to do along there if you want to keep driving, like Grand Marais, Gooseberry Falls State Park, Split Rock Lighthouse, and Grand Portage. If you like the area, I highly recommend taking a North Shore Scenic Drive.

I like many others will often drive right through it on to other adventures, but it really deserves its own weekend. Make sure to get up there during the summer. Or Winter!

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