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.
Experience illuminated history, a tour of the mansion lit only by lantern light. Led by expert tour guides, Lantern Tours are a favorite during the Halloween season. This tour is well suited for guests who have previously experienced the Classic or Full Mansion Tours. Available Fridays & Saturdays in October. Book your tour in advance at z.umn.edu/lanterntours
Join us during your visit to view our special art exhibit, featuring pieces painted live at Glensheen by the Outdoor Painters of Minnesota. Glensheen in Plein Air invites travelers to experience the beauty, history, and artistic spirit of Minnesota through a collection of plein air paintings created on the grounds of Glensheen Mansion. Produced by members of the Outdoor Painters of Minnesota, each work was painted live on-site, capturing the estate’s landscapes and architecture in real time and natural light. From quiet woodland creeks and vibrant formal gardens to the intricate details of the mansion and boathouse, this exhibit showcases the diverse perspectives of artists immersed in Glensheen’s setting. The spontaneity of plein air painting brings an immediacy and authenticity to each piece, reflecting not only the environment but the moment in which it was experienced. This gallery is available for viewing at the end of our regular tour route…
Experience fall in Duluth from the water aboard Vista Fleet’s Lunch & Leaves Cruise! Take in the beautiful fall colors of the Northland while enjoying a relaxing cruise aboard the Vista Star and a delicious lunch from MidCoast Catering. Choose from a Turkey, Bacon & Swiss sandwich with cranberry mayo, lettuce and tomato; a Ham & Provolone Croissant with lettuce and tomato; or a Hummus Wrap with zucchini, squash, roasted red peppers, spinach and hummus. Each lunch is served with Cream of Wild Rice soup, chips and dessert. Along the way, enjoy narrated highlights about the Duluth-Superior Harbor, the science and ecology of the St. Louis River system, and the area’s unique and historic bridges. Space is limited, so reserve your spot and enjoy one of the best ways to experience fall in Duluth!
Experience a fall morning on Lake Superior aboard Vista Fleet’s Coffee & Colors Cruise! Hop aboard the Vista Queen in time to catch Duluth’s iconic sunrise from the water, then take in the vibrant fall colors along the Northland’s hillsides. Along the way, learn about the Duluth-Superior Harbor, local history, the science and ecology of the St. Louis River system, and the area’s unique and historic bridges. Complimentary coffee and breakfast pastries are included, making this the perfect way to start a crisp fall day in Duluth. This cruise features open seating. Please note that the Vista Queen is not wheelchair accessible.
Join us at Tony Dierckins presents on historic structures of Duluth. Join us as local author and historian Tony Dierckins celebrates Duluth structures on the National Register of Historic Places, the city’s historic districts, and official city landmark buildings and homes, sharing the stories of successful and failed efforts to preserve these monuments to local architecture. Adapted from his book Duluth’s Grand Old Architecture. Doors open at 6pm, the presentation will begin at 6:30pm Admission: $5 for members, $10 for non-members To register, visit our ticketing page under the special events tab at https://tickets.umn.edu/glensheen Event Cost $10.00
Master the waters of the inland sea! From buying the right MN fishing license and tracking trout limits to discovering the best shore-casting hotspots and booking deep-water Lake Superior fishing charters, our comprehensive guide covers everything you need for a successful Duluth fishing trip.