Minnesota is known as the Land of 10,000 Lakes, most of which were formed due to glacial movement over more than 2 million years. Likely the most famous is Lake Superior, the largest freshwater lake in the world. Aside from being the focal point of an epic Midwest road trip route, Lake Superior is lined with charming lakeside towns and cities. This is especially true in Duluth. Here, historic buildings meet lakeside fog to create an ambiance worthy of a Hallmark film or a romance novel.
As one of the largest cities on Lake Superior, Duluth allows visitors to spend time with nature and enjoy unique urban activities all in one relaxing getaway. There are points of interest for outdoor adventurers, history buffs, and music lovers, with hotels right on the lake’s shores and campgrounds close to the city. With a thriving arts scene, the city is home to some unique galleries and hosts several festivals throughout the year, from film and music celebrations to those dedicated solely to rhubarb.
There’s something for everyone year-round. And if you are a fair-weather traveler, don’t let its northern location deter you. Temperatures usually climb to over 60 degrees Fahrenheit by the end of May and peak close to 80 degrees in July.
Relax on the beach at Park Point Recreation Area
Duluth’s Park Point Recreation Area is on a long sandbar that juts out onto Lake Superior. In fact, this is the longest freshwater sandbar in the world. Despite its title, it features a criminally underrated beach right in the Midwest, proving that not all amazing beaches must be oceanfront. You can relax on the sand, spot wildlife when walking along the Park Point Trailhead, or even set sail on a boat. Duluth is the perfect jumping-off point to explore the waters of Lake Superior, whether on dry land at the Great Lakes Aquarium or beyond the shores. If you don’t have a boat, book a charter with Legacy Angling. You can bring a fishing pole and try to catch some trout while on board, too.
For history buffs and railfans, check out the Lake Superior Railroad Museum located at the city’s original Historic Union Depot from 1892 — one of the largest rail museums in the United States! Aside from displaying locomotives, the museum operates vintage trains for trips along the North Shore Scenic Railroad from May through October. The route takes passengers along the shores of Lake Superior and into the neighboring woods. Trip options range from a short distance through Duluth or all the way to the town of Two Harbors. Check online for operating days, and look for special events like murder mystery nights.
Camp just minutes from downtown Duluth
Another one-of-a-kind activity in the heart of Duluth involves legendary singer-songwriter Bob Dylan, born here in 1941. In his autobiography “Chronicles Volume I,” he recounts childhood memories of the loud foghorns on the countless boats going to and from Duluth’s Lake Superior shores. The Duluth Dylan Fest music festival takes place every May and features up-and-coming musical artists all over the city. Fans visiting at other times of the year can follow Bob Dylan Way, a 1.8-mile path through Duluth featuring some of the city’s most notable attractions. This route starts at the Historic Union Depot and takes you to the Armory Arts and Music Center, also known as the Historic Duluth Armory, which Dylan often visited for concerts.
Buffalo House RV Park and Campground is less than a 30-minute drive from downtown Duluth and has tent and RV sites with water and electric hookups. There are volleyball and basketball courts within the park and several hiking trails, so it’s the perfect spot to stay for outdoor enthusiasts. Choose the best campsite that works for you by making a reservation online. For the less outdoorsy, waterfront hotels in Duluth include the top-rated Park Point Marina Inn on the previously mentioned Lake Superior sandbar and the family-friendly Edgewater Hotel and Waterpark complete with pool slides and a lazy river.
