Winter is a magical time in Duluth. Here, we embrace the season…and just add a few layers. This itinerary is a winter sampler platter that lets you experience all the best of this frosty season – both inside and outside – and will make you want to come back for more.
DAY 1
Today’s all about getting to know and experience Duluth. Art, history, culture, food – immerse yourself in the amazing offerings, and get to know what makes Duluth, Duluth.
Morning
Visit museums or a historical site. Duluth has a rich history, and there are plenty of museums and historical sites around the city to learn more. Experience the historic and beautiful St. Louis County Depot, home to seven different organizations including the Lake Superior Railroad Museum, the St. Louis County Historical Society and Duluth Art Institute. The Tweed Museum of Art is a free museum on the University of Minnesota-Duluth campus, which has frequently changing exhibits, so you’ll find something new with every visit. Or tour the timelessly grand Glensheen Mansion, the most visited historic home in the state (and gorgeous in the winter, when you can also snowshoe on the grounds). More here.
There are also plenty of winter events happening all season long – be sure to check out our events calendar.
Afternoon
Get settled in. Check into your accommodations and freshen up before heading back out to enjoy the rest of your day!
Evening
A classic combination with so many possibilities in Duluth: dinner and a show! Whether you decide to try a new spot or revisit a favorite, Duluth has restaurants for every palate. After your meal, experience the arts. Check out the live music scene, see the Minnesota Ballet, hear the Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra, watch a production at the Duluth Playhouse, or get your laughs with improv at Zeitgeist.
DAY 2
Hygge is the name of the game today. But what exactly is hygge? While it’s hard to put into English words, in short, hygge is a Danish concept that encompasses the feeling of embracing life’s pleasures, especially those that are cozy and rejuvenating. It’s slowing down to appreciate the simple things in life. It’s being present.
Morning
Cozy up at a coffee shop. Enjoy a cup of something hot to warm your body and soul to start the day. Bring your book or enjoy people-watching as you begin your journey toward relaxation and rejuvenation.
Afternoon
Embrace the outdoors. Go ice skating at Bayfront Festival Park, snowshoeing or cross-country skiing to channel your Zen and enjoy the giant winter playground that is Duluth. Looking for more of an adrenaline rush? Hit the slopes at Spirit Mountain or experience the thrill of dogsledding.
After your outdoor activity, head to your appointment at Cedar + Stone Nordic Sauna to practice the Finnish art of hot, cold, rest, rehydrate, repeat.
Evening
Pull up a table and enjoy your company for the night. Try a flight from one of Duluth’s breweries, cideries or distilleries, and channel your inner kid with a board game. Looking for non-alcoholic options? From NA brews to kombucha to house-made flavored bubbly water to zero proof cocktails, many of these establishments have tasty non-alcoholic beverages to try. Some breweries also have a full menu, while others allow BYO food or delivery from local restaurants.
Night
Check out one of the shows you didn’t make it to yet or settle in for a night of relaxation. Either way, don’t forget to look up before turning in for the night. With shorter days, winter can be an amazing time to stargaze and enjoy the celestial world.
DAY 3
Soak in your last day in Duluth and pick up some souvenirs along the way.
Morning
Start your day off with a leisurely breakfast or brunch. Made-from-scratch pastries, sizzling savory entrees, decadent dishes for even the sweetest tooth – your taste buds will be delighted no matter what you choose.
Afternoon
Shop ‘til you drop (or at least until you have to head home). From unique small businesses to places like Indigenous First Art & Gift Shop, a place offering a wide variety of goods from Indigenous artists, to the Miller Hill Mall, there’s a spot to peruse for every taste and budget.
