Duluth is a fabulous place for visitors to see beautiful art, feel the thrill of live performances and flex their creative muscles — whether you’re a lifelong arts fan or just looking to experience a new activity. Here are some frequently asked questions to help you find your ideal forms of art and embrace the creativity of the Duluth community.
Q: What kinds of art can I enjoy in Duluth?
A: Many different kinds! Including:
- Fine Arts, including visual art displays and museum exhibits, like at the Duluth Art Institute, Joseph Nease Gallery and the Tweed Museum of Art.
- Performing Arts, such as theatre, music and dance, with organizations like Duluth Playhouse, Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra, Lyric Opera of the North and the Minnesota Ballet.
- DIY Arts, like hands-on classes, lessons and workshops at spots like Bailey Builds, Board and Brush, Duluth Folk School, Lake Superior Art Glass and Northern Exposure Art.
Read more details about these options on our Arts, History, Music and More blog!
Q: What Duluth arts opportunities are coming up soon?
A: Our Events Calendar is frequently updated with the latest information on upcoming shows, performances, classes and more. Be sure to check out what’s happening during your trip to Duluth!
Q: How do I purchase tickets?
A: It depends on the event! For most arts organizations, selecting and purchasing tickets online is the easiest process. Many organizations also have a box office that you can call or even visit in person. Box offices often open an hour or two before showtime, but be sure to check the hours for each specific organization before arriving.
Keep in mind that official organization websites are the most secure way to purchase your tickets. Tickets purchased through any other vendor or third-party vendor aren’t always valid. If tickets are unavailable, contact the organization’s box office instead of searching third-party sites.
Q: How far in advance do I need to purchase tickets?
A: It varies! Some shows sell out very quickly, but others are free and/or have tickets available on the day of. So, if you want to add a last-minute performance or visit to your agenda, it’s possible and can work out smoothly!
Q: Will arts activities in Duluth break the bank?
A: The Duluth arts scene prides itself on being accessible to all different income levels — there are many cost-effective ways to enjoy the arts in Duluth.
- Visit free venues such as Duluth Art Institute and Tweed Museum of Art.
- Duluth Playhouse, Minnesota Ballet and Lyric Opera of the North have memberships and season subscription programs to help you save money on performance tickets.
- Duluth Playhouse also offers special deals for students and seniors, and Lyric Opera of the North student tickets are always $12.
Q: What is the dress code?
A: The age-old question for any new event: what do I wear? You’re in luck — there is no strict dress code when it comes to the arts in Duluth. In most cases, anything that makes you feel comfortable is fine. For more classical performances such as Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra, people may wear business clothes or slightly dressy casual clothes, but you’ll also see jeans frequently. As the famous Broadway musical declares in its title, “Anything Goes!”
Q: What arts opportunities are family-friendly?
A: Have kiddos that are interested in joining you? No problem! Many arts organizations have casual, laid-back atmospheres that welcome children.
- Duluth Playhouse has many youth theatre performances with kids on stage — perfect for young ones to enjoy in the audience! The School of Performing Arts has an array of classes and camps for young artists.
- Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra recommends that children be at least eight to attend most concerts, but some like DSSO Pops and Youth Orchestra concerts are well-suited for younger ages.
- Lyric Opera of the North lists age recommendations for every mainstage opera on its website. Most productions are appropriate for kids nine and older.
- Bailey Builds, Duluth Art Institute, Duluth Folk School, and Lake Superior Art Glass offer a variety of classes and events for kids and families to enjoy.
Q: Where can I find accessibility information?
A: Duluth Playhouse’s Theatre For All page includes extensive information on its accessibility services, and Tweed Museum of Art provides accessibility details on its FAQ page. Minnesota Ballet offers ABLE (Adaptive Ballet Lessons for Everyone) classes and summer camps.
Q: Where can I learn even more?
A: Check out the Arts & Entertainment and History & Culture pages on VisitDuluth.com.