Best things to do in Duluth

Visit Aerial Lift Bridge to see one of only two vertical-lift bridges in the world. Built in 1905, the bridge was upgraded between 1929 and 1930 to lift vertically. The entire bridge rises, just like an elevator, to allow boats to pass underneath. The United States Army Corps of Engineers manages a maritime museum that will help you understand the complex mechanism. Check the shipping schedule in advance so you're sure to see the bridge in action.

Experience early 20th-century luxury and a collection of artifacts at Glensheen - The Historic Congdon Estate. The house was completed in 1908 as the home of successful lawyer and investor Chester Congdon and his wife, Clara. The 39-room mansion and the surrounding 2.8 ha (7 acre) estate is now owned by the University of Minnesota-Duluth. You can tour the gardens and the interior, which is adorned with mahogany, silk, and gold leaf. Much of the furniture, decorations, and other items are the original pieces that were brought into the house in 1908. Tours are conducted frequently, so you won't have to wait long for one, and you can also purchase the tickets online.

Take in the scenery along Lake Superior as you skate, bike, walk, jog, or inline skate along Lakewalk.The more than 4.8 km (3 mi) path links to surrounding parks and gardens, and periodically you'll find stairs that will take you up to restaurants and the like. You'll learn about the history of the area from the memorials and statues along the path, such as the Vietnam and Korean veteran's memorials. Wade in the waters on the beach or watch the trains along the neighboring scenic railroad. The walk is easily accessible from various points in the city.

Enger Tower and Park was dedicated June 15, 1939 by Crown Prince Olav and Crown Princess Martha of Norway in memory of Bert Enger (1864-1931). The land where Enger Tower is built was left to the city by Mr. Enger. Enger, a native Norwegian was a successful businessman/furniture seller in Duluth.

Enger Park is one of Duluth's great tourist attractions. The park consists of Enger Tower, several garden areas, hiking trails, and the "Peace Bell" from Duluth's sister city in Japan.

Hiking trails leading through Enger Park are open for people to use throughout the year.

Home to a four-level waterfall and some of the best trout fishing in the state, Gooseberry Falls State Park is a haven for people seeking outdoor activity and scenic views. Located on the North Shore of Lake Superior, this park offers 29 km (18 mi) of hiking trails and 13 km (8 mi) of mountain biking trails. See waterfalls rush into the river gorge, visit the ancient lava flow nearby, walk along the lake's shoreline, or explore the forests, keeping an eye out for the area's diverse wildlife. Several sites are available at the park's campground, and you can make reservations in advance online. Stop by the Joseph N. Alexander Visitor Center and gift shop to learn more about the park's offerings and history.

Enjoy a scenic stroll along the long lakewalk, admire the lighthouse pier, or stop in one of the many restaurants, shops, and cafes within Canal Park. Popular with locals and tourists alike, the park offers romantic carriage rides, its own brewery, and a marine museum. Visit the Great Lakes Aquarium and explore the William A. Irvin floating ship museum while you snack on treats from one of the many food trolleys along the way.

The Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center is a museum in Duluth, Minnesota, operated by the United States Army Corps of Engineers.

Experience what is considered to be one of the most picturesque lighthouses in the United States when you visit Split Rock Lighthouse. Sitting on the edge of a cliff that juts out into the water, this National Historic Landmark offers photo opportunities as well as historical background. Take the tour of the lighthouse, which brings you into the keepers' houses and up to the top, or explore on your own with the help of plentiful signs and posted information. For the best views of the lighthouse, hike down to the rocky beach below using either the stairs or the trail.

The International Wolf Center (IWC) is a research and educational organization based near Ely, Minnesota, United States, that, in its own words, "advances the survival of wolf populations by teaching about wolves, their relationship to wildlands and the human role in their future." The Wolf Center operates an interpretive center in Ely open to the public, where visitors can view captive "ambassador wolves" in natural surroundings through large windows, and can learn about wolves through a variety of exhibits and programs. This organization lies within Superior National Forest. It also sponsors research symposia and offsite educational programs, publishes International Wolf magazine, and provides information about wolves via its website.

In response to wolf controversies, the Wolf Center does not take a stand on how wolves should be managed (such as by hunting or trapping), as long as healthy wolf populations are maintained. Its policy is to provide the most accurate, up-to-date information possible about wolves and let people make their own decisions.