Top 9 kid-friendly attractions in Duluth, Minnesota

Note: All travel is subject to frequently changing governmental restrictions—please check federal, state and local advisories before scheduling trips.

For those who don’t know, Duluth, Minnesota is a charming port city about 150 miles north of Minneapolis. Set on the shores of Lake Superior, beautiful views, incredible outdoor adventures, an interesting history and amazing architecture make the city one of the most popular tourist destinations in Minnesota. With so much to do, it’s a perfect getaway for families and the kids will be exhausted by day’s end. We’ve rounded up the 9 best kid-friendly attractions in Duluth for your next Minnesota adventure.

RELATED: The top five kid-friendly hotels in Duluth

Spirit Mountain Adventure Park

Kids will love this mountaintop adventure park and you’ll feel like a kid again after only a few rides. Discgolf, mini golf, the jumping pillow, and chairlift rides are perfect for the less adventurous. Meanwhile, thrill seekers will enjoy the Timber Flyer zip line and the heart racing Timber Twister, an alpine rollercoaster sure to delight everyone! During the winter months, the mountain is perfect for a family ski outing.

Great Lakes Aquarium

What kid doesn’t love an aquarium? Kids 2 and under are free, otherwise tickets are $12–$15. Exhibits are ever changing due to COVID but you’re sure to see an array of animals including a focus on freshwater marine life.

Watch ships come into port at the Duluth Maritime Museum

Have a ship lover in the family? They’ll be in awe learning about shipping history here and if you’re lucky, you may see a ship come in to port during your visit. Even luckier, if it’s a big one the aerial lift bridge will be pulled up. Check the schedule here and make plans to see a specific boat arrive.

Hepzibah’s Sweet Shop

The whole family will drool over the sweet treats at this candy store. From housemade fudge to jelly beans and an array of licorice, you’ll find all the treats you crave.

Lake Superior

This lake is so big, there are waves, just like an ocean! In fact, it’s the largest of the Great Lakes and among the largest freshwater lakes, and. it’s the largest in the world by surface area. In other words, it’s BIG and there is plenty to see and do. Families will love kayaking or booking a fishing charter or sailing tour. Swimming is allowed, although the water is usually freezing so it’s not for the faint of heart. There are also plenty of hiking and biking trails around the lake which makes for a lovely afternoon adventure.

Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory

Best for families with older children, mountain bike the winding trails, after (hopefully!) catching a glimpse of a hawk or bald eagle.

Lake Superior Railroad Museum

Kids will be shocked seeing trains and other railroad equipment up close and personal. The massive and wonderfully restored locomotives will impress everyone, while the older kids will be excited to learn about the railroad equipment that was built Minnesota.

Portland Malt Shoppe

Somehow the malts, which are already amazing, just taste better while watching the ships on the Lake. Portland Malt Shoppe is open seasonally, mid-April through mid-October, so be sure to check their website for specific opening and closing dates.

Park Point Beach

Featuring sand, waves, and dunes, Park Point Beach is one of the prettiest beaches you’ll ever see. Great for an afternoon in the sun with a picnic!

 

 

 

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