Nature & Outdoors

Nature & Outdoors

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. 

Hartley sustainability series poster

Hartley Sustainability Workshop Series

This workshop series aims to connect community members with local environmental experts to learn about local environmental challenges and solutions shaping our region. Workshops are on the 3rd Thursday of each month and will run through July 2026. Register here.

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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: “Beneath the Surface: What Lakes Reveal About a Warming World.” 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…

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Llo science on deck

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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Block Printing Class @ Sara’s Table

Nature-Inspired Block Printing Night Tuesday, March 31st, 2026 | 5:30–7:30 PM at Sara’s Table Chester Creek Cafe Looking for a creative night out? Whether you’re hoping to connect with other nature and craft lovers, plan a cozy girls’ evening, enjoy a unique date night, or just want to make something awesome without the sweat of carving and cleanup? We’ve got you covered! Join Anna from Wild Kidd Design for a fun and relaxed DIY block printing session paired with your favorite eats at the beautiful Sara’s Table Chester Creek Cafe. Cost: $25 per person (includes one bandana OR tote & access to all block prints) Each ticket comes with a $2 coupon to Sara’s Table food or beverages! $5 for each additional bandana or print project Payment accepted via cash, card, or Venmo at the door What to Expect: Arrive at 5 PM to give yourself enough time to print…

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Otters’ Birthday

Agate & Ore are turning 13! Help us celebrate with otter birthday cake, otter-themed crafts, and special programming all day long! The celebration will also include special appearances by Splish and Splash, the Great Lakes Aquarium otter mascots! Saturday, April 11, 2026 10:30 AM – 3:30 PM at Great Lakes Aquarium No reservation necessary. Standard admission rates apply; members are always free! For more event details, visit GLAquarium.org/OttersBirthday.

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