Boasting a dramatic setting overlooking Lake Superior, Duluth lies at the westernmost end of the Great Lakes region. Known as the birthplace of Bob Dylan, Duluth is home to leafy parks, historic museums, a thriving music scene and a bustling port.

Things to do

Follow the Lakefront Trail along the shores of Lake Superior to beautiful Canal Park, stopping at the Maritime Visitors Centre to learn about the Great Lakes’ shipping industry. Check the screens to see when big ships will be sailing through the port of Duluth or join a guided tour on the immense William A Irvin freighter.

If you’re visiting during the summer months, join the locals at the free outdoor cinema in Leif Erikson Park, which takes place every Friday night. The park also features a replica of the Viking ship sailed by this Nordic explorer and a picturesque rose garden overlooking the lake waters.

Train enthusiasts should visit the Lake Superior Railroad Museum, which showcases vintage locomotives and rolling stock. It includes the first locomotive to operate in Minnesota back in 1861, the William Crooks, and runs heritage train journeys along the North Shore Scenic Railroad.

Get your adrenalin pumping at Spirit Mountain where you can ski and snowboard during the winter months or take advantage of the zipline and alpine slide in the summer. The Great Lakes Aquarium is also worth a visit and specialises in the unique freshwater species found in Lake Superior.

Getting around

Duluth International Airport is around 15 minutes’ drive from the city centre. Minneapolis is 2.5 hours’ drive away and connected by regular buses, while the downtown area of Duluth is easy to explore on foot.