While many cities have already transitioned from spring into summer, Duluth, Minnesota, is just basking in the glow of spring. With the smell of fresh blooms and the incredible rocky views of Lake Superior, Duluth is more often known as a destination for Minnesotans, not for the rest of the country. But Minnesota Nice requires to share this little secret!
The easiest way to get to Duluth is fly directly to their airport. The other option is to fly into Minneapolis/St. Paul airport terminal 1 or 2, pick up a rental car, and drive up to Duluth. This will take approximately two and a half hours.
The drive north is stunning. While driving away from the warmth of the Twin Cities, the weather gets cooler, and the seasons almost go backwards. Spring may be long gone in the southern part of Minnesota, but in the north, spring is just commencing. The smell of wet dirt and newly open flowers is intoxicating.
While driving along, a great halfway point stop is Tobies Restaurant & Bakery, where you can stop for a coffee break and some of their famous caramel rolls or loaf of cardamon or wild rice cheese bread. Hinckley is also the home of Grand Casino Hinckley. You can stop in, enjoy a great buffet, and perhaps even play some slots.
To visit Duluth, staying in a waterfront property is a must. Between the beauty of the waterfront area and the convenient proximity to restaurants, shops, and walking trails, there really is no better option.
Waterfront Hotels in Duluth
Canal Park Lodge
250 Canal Park Drive, Duluth, MN 55802
218-279-6000
A gorgeous, upscale, and smoke-free hotel. The rooms are spacious and the property is kid friendly. Amenities include a free breakfast, swimming pool and relaxing message services. Hotel rates start at $200 per night and up, although special offers are available.
The Inn on Lake Superior
350 Canal Park Drive, Duluth, MN 55802
218-726-1111
One of my favorite hotels, this waterfront property is absolutely charming. From campfires along the lake to the lovely and relaxing hotel rooms to the free wireless and pet-friendly atmosphere, this is a joyful place to visit. Hotel rates start at $200 per night and up, although special offers are available.
My Favorite Restaurants in Duluth
Vita Pizza
307 Canal Park Drive, Suite 2, Duluth, MN 55802
218-727-2226
In the Canal Park area, this Naples-style pizza baked traditionally in a brick pizza oven pizza is sensational. Pizzas are around $10 each. Enjoy a Donatella pizza and wash it down with a Summit beer!
Fitger’s Brewhouse Brewery and Grille
600 E. Superior St., Duluth, MN 55802
218-279-2739
Salads, sandwiches, burgers, and an in-house brewery done exceptionally well. Hearty portions of delicious entrees are a great way to spend an evening or stop in for a quick lunch.
Activities
Hiking is spectacular in and around Duluth. In addition to exploring the natural sites, here are some of the fun must-do activities in Duluth:
Charter a boat and go out fishing.
There is nothing like spending a beautiful day fishing out on Lake Superior. Lake trout, walleye, perch, and bass are some of the varieties of fish available. Several companies offer guided fishing tours for all skill levels and all group sizes.
Glensheen Mansion
3300 London Road, Duluth, MN 55804
218-726-8910
This is the beautiful and historic manor owned by the Congdon family and the scene of one of the most infamous Minnesota murders. There are guided tours in the inside, where you can enjoy the splendor. In addition, the gardens extensive and gorgeous and a wonderful way to spend an afternoon.
Split Rock Lighthouse
3713 Split Rock Lighthouse Road, Two Harbors, MN 55616
218-228-6372.
Get out of the city of Duluth and take the scenic drive along the North Shore of Lake Superior to Split Rock Lighthouse. Open over 100 years ago, this historic lighthouse is picturesque piece of history. Nearby and highly recommended is Split Rock State Park as well as the lovely Gooseberry Falls.
