Duluth’s rich history and picturesque location provides creative inspiration, as seen in its abundant arts and unique culture. Whether you are a music, art, theatre or history aficionado, there are a multitude of attractions and activities for all interests and ages. Here are a few ideas to help inspire your next visit.
For History Buffs
- Glensheen Mansion: The famous Glensheen Mansion is a must see while in Duluth. Set on the shores of Lake Superior, Glensheen tells Duluth’s story through the home of the Congdon family. Located on a beautiful 12-acre estate with bridges, gardens, and 20th-century craftsmanship, the Glensheen Mansion is an authentic experience you will not want to miss.
- Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum: It is a unique museum housing historical manuscripts and documents for the community. Entry is free.
- Lake Superior Marine Museum: Set in the heart of Canal Park, the Lake Superior Marine Museum encompasses all you need to know about the Great Lakes. As you wait for a ship to come in under the historic Aerial Lift Bridge, learn more about Duluth’s rich shipping legacy, including the wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald. Bonus: Entry is free.
- Lake Superior Railroad Museum: Experience the Lake Superior Railroad Museum, one of the largest railway museums in the country. The museum features historic railroad equipment, restored locomotives and exhibits that help tell the story of railroading in Duluth and beyond. Visiting Duluth in the summer or fall? See the shores of Lake Superior by train.
- William A. Irvin: Located right on the waterfront in Canal Park, visit the William A. Irvin, a retired 1938 American built iron ore cargo ship, for a one-of-a-kind experience that kids and adults alike are sure to love.
For Fine Arts Fans
- Duluth Art Institute: The more than 112-year-old Duluth Art Institute exhibits the past and present art of Duluth, as well as hosts art education classes.
- Tweed Museum of Art: The Tweed Museum of Art, located on the UMD campus, showcases European, American and global art collections with more than 10,000 objects spanning eight centuries.
- Prøve Collective: It is a gallery in downtown Duluth that provides regular gallery shows, musical performances, spoken word and an art retail environment, all while dedicated to being a “conduit of powerful ideas and diverse viewpoints.”
For Performing Arts Aficionados
- Duluth Playhouse: No matter the season, Duluth Playhouse—headquartered in the historic, beautifully restored NorShor Theatre creates year-round family entertainment with dramas, musicals, and more. Be enchanted by one of the nation’s oldest community theaters.
- Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra (DSSO): Music moves the soul and the talented Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra creates an unforgettable experience for the whole family.
- Lyric Opera of the North (LOON): Lyric Opera of the North, or LOON, engages audiences of all ages with world-class opera performances and education across Duluth and the entire Northland. Be sure to check out their highly anticipated summer production of Stephen Sondheim’s A Little Night Music, or catch one of their popular interactive “Opera Karaoke” pop-up nights hosted nearby at Vikre Distillery in Canal Park.
- Minnesota Ballet: Check out the Minnesota Ballet to be inspired by the passion of dance. Choreographing both new and classic performances, the Minnesota Ballet is sure to offer a show for everyone.
- The West Theatre: Located in the heart of the thriving Lincoln Park Crafts District, this historic 1937 art deco West Theatre is not only a theatrical movie theater, but also home to live events and concerts throughout the year.
- Zeitgeist: If you’re looking for a one stop shop for art, performances, movies, foods and beverages, Zeitgeist is the place for you. Zeitgeist houses an art gallery, movie theater, performance theater, restaurant AND bar all under one roof.
For DIY Artists
- Bailey Builds: Offers a wood mosaic class for adults and kids throughout the year. Get creative while enjoying time with your best friends and kids!
- Board & Brush: Want to learn a new skill while sipping your favorite wine? Check out Board & Brush for your next night out.
- Duluth Folk School: Get out of your comfort zone at the Duluth Folk School, offering an array of classes from dance lessons to ornament making.
- Lake Superior Art Glass: Located in bustling Canal Park, watch professional glass blowers work or sign up for a class to create your own glass art.
For Art Lovers Who Love to Shop
- Art Dock: Featuring local and regional artists, Art Dock is a locally owned gallery in Canal Park offering everything from jewelry to stained glass, pottery, paintings and more.
- Duluth Pottery & Tile: Located in the Lincoln Park Crafts District, Duluth Pottery & Tile hand makes custom dishware and tiles for businesses and homes.
- Indigenous First Art & Gift Shop: Showcases the work of 120 Indigenous artists and entrepreneurs through their wide variety of paper prints, jewelry, home decor and more. The shop also distributes organic healthy foods sourced from local and regional Indigenous producers.
- Lizzards Art Gallery and Framing: Features an eclectic array of art from local artists, as well as framing services.
- Tischer Gallery: Capturing breathtaking landscapes through his camera lens, Ryan Tischer showcases the magic of the most iconic landscapes. Visit the Tischer Gallery to experience and bring home the works of this Minnesota photographer.
- Duluth’s Coffee Shops: Many of Duluth’s coffee shops also feature rotating exhibits by local artists. Check out a round up of local coffee shops here.
Tips for Planning Your Duluth Arts & Culture Experience
How do I find out what is happening right now?
The arts scene in Duluth is always moving. Check the our events calendar for the most up-to-date listings of opening nights, concerts, and gallery shows during your stay.
Buying Tickets
For most performing arts organizations, purchasing tickets online through their official website is the most secure and easiest method. Many venues, like the Duluth Playhouse and West Theatre, have box offices open for in-person sales shortly before showtime, but popular shows do sell out; booking in advance is recommended!
Arts on a Budget
You don’t have to break the bank to enjoy Duluth’s culture:
- Free Entry: The Tweed Museum of Art and the Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum offer free admission.
- Discounts: Many organizations like the Duluth Playhouse, LOON, and DSSO offer special discounted ticket rates for students and seniors.
Family-Friendly Options
Duluth is incredibly welcoming to young artists.
- Duluth Playhouse has a dedicated Youth Theatre program.
- The School of Performing Arts and Duluth Folk School offer family-oriented classes.
- DSSO Pops concerts are a great way to introduce children to orchestral music in a relaxed environment.
Accessibility
Duluth’s arts community is committed to being inclusive. The Duluth Playhouse offers a “Theatre For All” program with specific accessibility services. Most major venues, including the DECC and Tweed Museum, are fully ADA-compliant. If you have specific needs, reaching out to the venue box office in advance is the best way to ensure a seamless experience.