Named "Best Town Ever" by Outside Magazine, Duluth offers plenty of outdoor pursuits, but don't skip out on the town itself, a former industrial port that's experiencing a second wind thanks to the many bars, restaurants and breweries that have breathed new life into it.
Canal Park and Lakewalk
Every city has a cultural center where the fun begins. In Duluth, this is Canal Park, an area just east of the downtown and its true epicenter. Explore the main drag, peer in the windows of the eclectic shops, and savor some tasty ice cream or snacks at the eateries. Don't miss the historic Dewitt-Seitz Marketplace, with its rustic woodwork and wonderful Amazing Grace Café. Trek to the pier to see huge freighters enter the harbor, or admire the front-row view afforded by the seven-mile Lakewalk. In summer, hop into a horse-drawn carriage for a pleasant clip-clop ride down a cobblestone street, or rent a pedal-powered vehicle and have the family get some great exercise while having a lot of fun!
North Shore Scenic Drive
Travel into an unspoiled wilderness right on the sweeping shoreline of Lake Superior—no passport required. Take off from Canal Park along North Shore Scenic Drive. You'll edge the lake for the entire 154 miles, and your view will include breathtaking cliffs and gorgeous beaches. Gasp at the beauty of the Sawtooth Mountains, which border the lake and descend into vast forests of pine, aspen and birch. Watch for rocky rivers spilling into the lake, sparkling waterfalls, overlooks, lighthouses and wayside parks.
Landmark Aerial Lift Bridge
Think of the amazing Aerial Lift Bridge as Duluth's Eiffel Tower. This mammoth steel and cable structure over 100 years old is among the most-photographed structures in the state and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. It connects the “mainland” with Minnesota Point, a five-mile-long sandbar. Get your family a front-row seat in Canal Park to watch the mighty span—900 tons of steel—to rise to allow big boats to pass.
Sampling Eateries
Whether your gang longs for comfort food or prefers vegetarian, vegan or gluten-free options, Duluth Grill has got you covered. These folks get their produce from local farmers, and it shows in the quality of their exceptional breakfasts. If big juicy burgers and crunchy fries seem more the order of the day, head to Fitger's Brewhouse Brewery and Grille, and you won't be disappointed. Try the loaded baked potato burger, and wash it down with some thirst-quenching, award-winning ales and lagers.
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