7 Don’t Miss Stops In & Around Duluth for Couples

If you’ve never spent time in Northern Minnesota along the shores of Lake Superior, you really don’t know what your missing! T and I recently spent a couple days exploring this area and came up with 7 things that we think are perfect in Duluth for couples!

If you’re looking to take the entire family, there is plenty to do that you could spend several days, but since we avoided most of the kid friendly places they are not being included here! Don’t worry, family or a couple, you’ll have a great time!

Canal Park & Lighthouse Pier

Canal Park is located in the heart of Duluth and it’s tourist neighborhood! While it was rather crowded when we visited, we still think it’s a great place to spend some time! Loaded with shops and restaurants, it’s a popular spot. We personally enjoyed the lighthouse piers that line the canal from the Lake Superior into Saint Louis Bay. You can walk the length to the end and enjoy the views of the city and Lake Superior. Also, make sure to keep an eye on the Aerial Lift Bridge that you can travel over, but also watch it rise and lower for ships to enter the Bay!

Enger Park & Observation Tour

Enger Park is a local city park, but gives the absolute best views of the city and is a gorgeous park! Head into the residential area of Duluth, up the cliffs to find this park, but it’s worth the drive! While you’re there, climb to the top of Enger Observation Tower to take in the stunning views of the entire city. Also make sure to walk the paths to see the Japanese Peace Bell & Gardens as well as the Julia Newell Marshall Gazebo and the views from there! It’s a great place and while there will be others there, it’s so much less crowded than the typical tourist spots! You could even pack a picnic lunch or supper to enjoy there!

OMC Smokehouse

Upscale bbq is the only way I can think of to explain OMC Smokehouse. This historic building that’s been remodeled in the most absolute beautiful way has a boutique feel! This isn’t your typical bbq or atmosphere, so I don’t know if I’d take littles, but I know they are welcome! Delicious bbq meats, unique sides (beef fries & Mexican Street Corn) plus an extensive cocktail and drink list made this a favorite of mine! They also offer 4 homemade bbq sauces! I fell in love with the Alabama White Sauce so much, I brought a jar home! OMC is the perfect spot in Duluth for couples!

Gooseberry Falls

Ready to get out of the City?! Head north to Gooseberry Falls State Park. Located about one hour north of Duluth, this state park is great for couples and families! The falls (all 3 of them) are breathtaking. The trails are so well done with concrete, stone, and wood, that virtually any fitness level can enjoy hiking to them! Make sure to take the trail to the walking bridge that runs under the bridge on the road to take in the view all the way to the lake! We also recommend heading their first thing in the morning (they open at 8AM) to avoid crowds!

Split Rock Lighthouse

After visiting Gooseberry Falls, take the short 10 minute drive to Split Rock Lighthouse and historic site! For a small fee ($8 per person) you can enjoy the history of the Lighthouse and other buildings, but also several trails that take you to amazing overlooks! The views are breathtaking, the lighthouse gorgeous, and the history of the area rich! Make sure to take some time to read the signs and talk to the interpreters to learn about the site! Then, take all 172 steps and trail to the bottom of the cliff and take in the views and the lake there! It’s stunning!

The Rustic Inn

As you drive south after visiting the lighthouse and falls, make sure to stop at The Rustic Inn to grab a few pieces of pie for later! Double bonus for me, they make gluten-free pies! They offer 2-3 varieties of gluten free pies each day that are made with a meringue crust! I picked Lemon Angel & Raspberry Cream! They were both good, but I’m STILL raving about the Raspberry Cream. I am hoping to use my moms baking and cooking knowledge to recreate it!

Two Harbors

Duluth has so much to do, but we loved the small town feel and speed of Two Harbors more! (We aren’t big crowds people, which is why we LOVE our visits to smaller communities). We spent several hours in Two Harbors checking out their Selfie Spots and having lunch at Blackwoods. They offer deck seating which is great for people watching while enjoying our lunches! Here I tasted Blueberry Basil Coleslaw for the first time and am once again determined to recreate it! There are also several shops to explore and a brewery!

Two Harbors Agate Bay Breakwater

While you’re in Two Harbors, make sure to head down to Agate Bay Breakwater area! The Breakwater is a man-made breakwater that was constructed around WWII to accommodate 600+ foot long ships! This slows the waves from Lake Superior and makes it easier for ships to come into bay. We were lucky enough to watch a ship come in while we were there. It was great to watch the whole process! They also started loading it with Taconite which is mined a short distance away, loaded on to ships, and then sent to Gary, IN and other cities along the Great Lakes that produce cars and trucks.

Traveling to Duluth

If you are traveling to Duluth by car…

• Des Moines, IA – 5 hours, 30 minutes drive time
• Minneapolis, MN – 2 hours, 10 minutes drive time
• Kansas City, MO – 8 hours, 10 minutes drive time
• Chicago, IL – 6 hours, 50 minutes drive time

If you want to fly, I recommend flying into Minneapolis International Airport and then renting a car and making the 2 hours and 10 minute drive to the area.

Duluth for Couples

Ready to plan your trip?! There is so much to do in the Duluth and North Shores area that you could spend several days. We think these are the highlights of Duluth for couples in our opinion! It’s a great place to learn about water commerce, enjoy some great food, and getaway!