If you're from Minnesota or planning a trip here soon, I've got some tips on where to stay, eat, and what to do in Duluth! I've partnered with the Canal Park Hampton Inn to share our recent romantic staycation with you, and why Duluth is my favorite Minnesota city.
My husband and I recently celebrated our ten year anniversary (TEN!). Since we just took a big family trip this spring, we decided to keep it local. We actually met in Duluth during our freshman year of college, so we thought we'd take it back to where we first met to celebrate this big milestone! I think Duluth, Minnesota is a very romantic city, and there are so many things to do. Check out five of our favorite things to do in Duluth!
5 Romantic Staycation Ideas in Duluth, Minnesota
Visit Split Rock Lighthouse
Okay, okay; this isn't actually in the city of Duluth. However, it offers such an interesting tour and isn't much farther up the scenic North Shore, so I think it's worth putting on this list! Split Rock Lighthouse offers gorgeous views of Lake Superior, and an informative and historic tour. It's absolutely worth the drive past Duluth before heading back into the city for more fun.
Watch a Ship Come in at the Aerial Lift Bridge
The Aerial Lift Bridge in Duluth is a must-see on your next visit. Multiple ships come into and leave the harbor daily. Sometimes these are large cargo ships, and other times tall sailboats. Either way, it's fun to see the lift bridge in action! Along with watching the lift bridge raise and lower, you can walk out to the Breakwater Lighthouse.
Take a Walk on The Lakewalk
The Lakewalk is one of my favorite places to walk in Duluth, Minnesota. From Canal Park to the beautiful rose gardens at Leif Erickson Park, you get stunning views of Lake Superior and the Duluth skyline. Currently, The Lakewalk is undergoing restoration after being destroyed by a storm in 2018. Still, you can travel along The Lakewalk and take the small detours they have set up.
Eat at Canal Park Brewing Company
Canal Park Brewing Company is easily my favorite restaurant in Duluth. They have a huge selection of craft beer, and their smoked salmon sandwich is the best. You can choose indoor or outdoor seating, and it's got a great atmosphere with a large fire ring and a bean bag toss outside. Conveniently located in Canal Park, this restaurant is within walking distance of many of the items on this list! In fact, it's directly next door to our favorite hotel in Duluth.
Stay at the Hampton Inn
The Hampton Inn is located directly in Canal Park which makes it the perfect place to stay on your romantic vacation! It's a beautiful hotel with views of Uncle Harvey's Mausoleum and Lake Superior. Canal Park is easily the most coveted overnight location in Duluth, and the Hampton has many amenities to offer.
This gorgeous lobby welcomes you as you enter the Hampton Inn, and you can walk straight through to the back patio with views of Lake Superior. With complimentary breakfast daily, and a 24/7 coffee bar, you'll have everything you need to get going in the morning. They even have fresh juice!
The rooms are spacious and clean, and you can choose from a guest room or a suite. Some on-site amenities include a fitness room, pool with hot tub, solarium, free wi-fi, and an outdoor walking path. This is the second time we've stayed at the Hampton Inn, and it definitely won't be the last! You really can't beat the location, and for the convenience of being in Canal Park, the rates are very affordable. If you're looking for a place to stay for a little romantic getaway, the Hampton Inn is the perfect option!
Tell me: Have you visited Duluth, Minnesota?
Let me know some of your favorite things to do in this iconic city!
Disclaimer: I received a free night at the Hampton Inn in Duluth, Minnesota, in exchange for a post sharing my favorite things to do in the city. As always, all opinions are my own.
Miranda says
What a beautiful city! Lots of things to do there!
Mia E. says
I have not had the opportunity to visit Duluth but if I do I would be sure to see the Split Rock Lighthouse.