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The People and the Place

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 blue heron research vessel cruising across the open waters of lake superior for a duluth science on deck event

Science on Deck

The Scientists and Staff of UMD’s Large Lakes Observatory (LLO) invite the community to board and tour the Blue Heron Research Vessel. Science on Deck events are free and open to the public from 11 am–3 pm. Enjoy guided tours of the research vessel from the crew, interact with graduate students working on freshwater research, and explore engaging displays. The science presentation at 1:30 pm on June 26 will be from our Large Lakes Observatory’s Director, Dr. Catherine O’Reilly, titled: “Underwater Soundscapes.” The R/V Blue Heron will tie-up at the Pier B Resort for this event, 800 W. Railroad Street, Duluth, MN. ABOUT LLO: Located on the Duluth- campus the the University of Minnesota Duluth, LLO is the only institute in the country dedicated to the study of large lakes throughout the world. They focus on the global implications of investigations in the areas of aquatic chemistry, circular dynamics, geochemistry,…

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The blue heron research vessel docked for the large lakes observatory science on deck public event in duluth

Science on Deck

Tour the R/V Blue Heron! The LLO Science on Deck event is free and will take place from 11 am to 3 pm. Enjoy guided tours of the research vessel from the crew, interact with graduate students working on freshwater research, and explore engaging displays. The public can hear a presentation at 1:30 pm from the Large Lakes Observatory’s Dr. Ted Ozersky titled “What Lakes Do In Winter.” Location: (DECC) Twin Ports Harbor near the Great Lakes Aquarium at 353 Harbor Drive, Duluth, MN. ABOUT LLO: Located on the Duluth campus of the University of Minnesota Duluth, LLO is the only institute in the country dedicated to the study of large lakes throughout the world. They focus on the global implications of investigations in the areas of aquatic chemistry, circular dynamics, geochemistry, acoustic remote sensing, plankton dynamics, sedimentology and paleoclimatology. The Large Lakes Observatory serves as a basis for assessing…

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Science on Deck

Welcome aboard the R/V Blue Heron! The LLO Science on Deck event is free and will take place from 11 am to 3 pm. Enjoy guided tours of the research vessel from the crew, interact with graduate students working on freshwater research, and explore engaging displays. The public can hear a presentation at 1:30 pm from the Large Lakes Observatory’s Dr. Ted Ozersky titled “What Lakes Do In Winter.” Location: (DECC) Twin Ports Harbor near the Great Lakes Aquarium at 353 Harbor Drive, Duluth, MN. ABOUT LLO: Located on the Duluth campus of the University of Minnesota Duluth, LLO is the only institute in the country dedicated to the study of large lakes throughout the world. They focus on the global implications of investigations in the areas of aquatic chemistry, circular dynamics, geochemistry, acoustic remote sensing, plankton dynamics, sedimentology and paleoclimatology. The Large Lakes Observatory serves as a basis for…

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Ams 2026 design event header fundraiser

AMS Pre-Reception Cocktail Fundraiser & Jazz Concert

The DAI is hosting this legacy-building fundraiser to help reach our goal of raising $60,000. Join us for live jazz, delicious hors d’oeuvres, and drinks. The live jazz quartet features vocals by Lee Engele during this cozy cocktail hour, held just before the AMS reception. Sip cocktails, enjoy live jazz, and celebrate the legacy of the Duluth Art Institute while supporting the arts for generations to come.

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Retrospective

Minnesota Ballet’s 60th Anniversary performance, Retrospective, is a special mixed repertory celebration honoring six decades of artistic excellence. This milestone program features a dynamic blend of audience favorites from past seasons alongside exciting new works, showcasing the company’s versatility and creative evolution. Audiences can expect a rich variety of dance styles — from classical ballet to contemporary and modern — highlighting the depth and range of Minnesota’s largest professional dance company. Retrospective offers a powerful tribute to the Ballet’s legacy while looking boldly to the future. Performances at 7:00 pm, April 17–18 2026, in the Depot Theatre.

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Behold, The Picture Book! With Mac Barnett

Award-winning author Mac Barnett is excited to share his passion for picture books with children and adults. The tradition of the picture book is a tradition of experimentation, just like childhood itself. Every page turn contains infinite possibilities – a journey of discovery and connections. On his nationwide tour as National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature, Mac invites readers of all ages to join him in celebrating what’s vibrant, joyful and inspiring about this quintessential American art form. Join us for this very special evening open to the public on Wednesday, May 20 at 6 pm at Mitchell Auditorium at The College of St. Scholastica. Books will be on sale and Mac will be available to sign copies following the program. Free tickets are available here. Advance registration is strongly encouraged, but not required.

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