Duluth is a charming port city in the American state of Minnesota. It is located on Lake Superior’s north shore and has been named after Daniel Greysolon, Sieur du Lhut. He was a French explorer and soldier, who became the first European to explore this part of the world. While getting around in this city, you’ll truly feel enchanted by its natural beauty.
Duluth has a long and interesting maritime history, which many tourists love to explore. The city is home to an expansive public park system and offers plenty of shopping and dining opportunities. Above all, Duluth is also the birthplace of the iconic folk singer, Bob Dylan. During your time spent in this beautiful city, you’ll get to explore some fascinating attractions:
1. Lakewalk
A wonderful promenade with trails for walking and cycling, Lakewalk is a part of Canal Park. This park is located along the shoreline of Lake Superior. When you’re in Lakewalk, you can take a pleasant stroll and watch the ships sail the harbor. The eastern end of this promenade is connected to Leif Erickson Park and Duluth Rose Garden.
A visit to this park and rose garden also allows you to enjoy the views of the harbor. Don’t forget to check out the Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum. Established in 1912 as a church, the museum has an impressive collection of important historical documents and books.
2. Great Lakes Aquarium
Alongside the harbor of Duluth, you’ll find this spectacular aquarium. It is an excellent place for discovering a range of marine creatures mainly from the Great Lakes Basin. While you’re in this aquarium, you’ll also learn about the geological forces that shaped the area’s marine habitats.
A variety of reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates, and mammals have been displayed here. Some of them have been kept in touch pools for the amusement of visitors. Some of the fantastic species of fish you can witness in the aquarium are the bullhead, porcupine, and black crappie.
3. Spirit Mountain Adventure Park
This adventure park is located 15 miles north of Duluth. Although it is a four-season attraction, you can have loads of fun if you’re exploring it during winter. Snowboarding, tubing, skiing, and snowmobiling are some of the activities you can enjoy in winter at this adventure park. The period from spring to fall gives you the opportunity to enjoy mountain biking, zip lining, and disc golf.
You can plan a visit during a weekday to this park and get started early. Visitors can also take advantage of the ‘automatic photos’ that are taken on the Alpine Slide. Riders can also purchase individual photos or an entire disc to cherish the memorable moments.
4. Aerial Lift Bridge
Duluth’s Aerial Lift Bridge is over 115 years old, but still attracts a significant number of visitors every day. It is truly an architectural and engineering marvel. This bridge connects Park Point to the mainland of Duluth and is among the city’s most photographed attractions. It operates 24/7, accommodating freighters, sailboats, and cargo ships by rising and lowering.
You can photograph this aerial lift bridge just before sunset. It is after sunset that the bridge appears even more beautiful. It is illuminated with hundreds of LED lights. You can take in the views from the Lakewalk or Canal Park.