From budget-friendly family activities to hidden waterfalls to recommendations from locals, check out our blog for trip ideas and to learn more about what makes Duluth so special.
The John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon is not only an Iditarod qualifier, but is also the longest sled dog race in the lower 48 states that’s been drawing mushers and spectators alike from across the country for over 40 years. But for many Duluth and North Shore residents, it’s more than a race.
For musher Colleen Wallin, what started as a passion has become a family affair. We caught up with Colleen to hear all about how she got started and what keeps her sled going.
When it comes to iconic Duluth landmarks, it’s hard not to think of Glensheen Mansion. Situated right on Great Lake Superior, this historical destination has been preserved for visitors to enjoy both inside and out – no matter the season.
We talked with Dustin Heckman, director at Glensheen, about what drew him to the mansion, and what continues to draw visitors year after year, especially during the holidays.
Dubbed the “Christmas City of the North,” Duluth transforms into a holiday wonderland with events and festivities at every turn. At the center of Duluth’s holiday festivities is Bentleyville Tour of Lights, located in Bayfront Festival Park along the shores of Lake Superior, featuring “America’s Largest Free Walk-Through Lighting Display.” It all started with one person – Nathan Bentley – who pulled out all the stops to decorate his home with holiday lights 19 years ago. Nathan took a moment to share more about what he calls his “out-of-control hobby” that is Bentleyville, and how visitors can enjoy all the season has to offer in Duluth.
If the walls could talk in the St. Louis County Depot, they would have a lot to say – The Depot has seen plenty in its 130 years. While the walls can’t talk, it’s lucky for us there is Hailey Eidenschink, The Depot’s Extension Educator, 4-H Youth Development & Cultural Coordinator. Hailey helps bring the past to life and leads the Haunted History Tours every October. We chatted with her to learn more about her background, her favorite Duluth spots, and if she considers herself “a believer” in ghosts.
If you’re in tune with the music scene in Duluth, you’ve likely heard of AfroGeode, or maybe the band AfroGeode and the Gemstones. Diona Johnson is the artist behind AfroGeode. Not only is she an independent musician, Johnson is also a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker at the College of Saint Scholastica, working as a Mental Health Therapist and Intercultural Specialist. We spoke with Johnson about her Duluth experience.
The Depot is home to the Lake Superior Railroad Museum, and is the departure point for the North Shore Scenic Railroad. These two entities, and the Duluth men charged with keeping the organizations on track, are the focus of this month’s Faces of Duluth. Ken Buehler and Josh Miller together took some time during their busy summer season to talk trains with us.