Good to know: Visit and neighborhood recommendations in Duluth
Duluth is a four-season destination offering everything from summer lake adventures to winter skiing and snowshoeing. Visitors can explore its vibrant arts scene, enjoy fresh seafood at harborfront restaurants, or take a scenic drive along the North Shore. The city is also home to fascinating museums, historic sites, and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you want to stay near the waterfront or in a cozy retreat surrounded by nature, Duluth has the perfect neighborhood for you.
Where to look for an Airbnb in Duluth
Canal Park
Canal Park is one of the most popular areas to stay in Duluth, offering stunning lakefront views and easy access to major attractions. Vacation rentals here include modern condos, waterfront townhomes, and boutique apartments. Visitors can walk along the Lakewalk, watch ships pass under the Aerial Lift Bridge, and explore unique shops and restaurants. This area is ideal for those who want to be at the heart of Duluth’s vibrant energy.
Downtown Duluth
Downtown Duluth offers a mix of historic charm and urban convenience, with a variety of stylish vacation rentals. Airbnb options include trendy lofts, high-rise apartments, and charming historic homes. Visitors can enjoy local breweries, explore the Duluth Depot, and experience the city’s thriving arts and entertainment scene. Downtown is perfect for those looking for a mix of culture, dining, and nightlife.
Park Point
Park Point is a unique neighborhood located on a narrow sandbar, offering beachfront vacation rentals with stunning views of Lake Superior. Airbnb options here include cozy cottages, luxury beachfront homes, and stylish townhouses. Visitors can enjoy sandy beaches, kayaking, and beautiful sunset views. This area is great for those looking for a quiet, scenic retreat close to the water.
Congdon Park
Congdon Park is a beautiful residential area known for its historic mansions and tree-lined streets. Vacation rentals include elegant homes, modern townhomes, and cozy cabins. Visitors can explore the scenic trails along Tischer Creek, visit the Glensheen Mansion, or enjoy a peaceful retreat in nature. Congdon Park is ideal for travelers looking for a quiet stay with easy access to downtown.
Lakeside-Lester Park
For a more nature-focused stay, the Lakeside-Lester Park area offers a peaceful setting with access to hiking trails and Lake Superior’s shoreline. Airbnb options include rustic lodges, modern cabins, and family-friendly homes. Visitors can hike Lester Park’s scenic trails, go cross-country skiing in winter, or relax by the lake. This area is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
What to do if you spend a vacation in Duluth
Canal Park & Aerial Lift Bridge
Canal Park is Duluth’s most iconic district, home to the famous Aerial Lift Bridge, a must-see engineering marvel. Visitors can watch massive ships enter the harbor, stroll along the Lakewalk, and explore the area’s shops and restaurants. The park also features outdoor sculptures and scenic viewpoints. It’s the perfect place to experience Duluth’s maritime charm.
Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center
For those interested in Duluth’s rich shipping history, the Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center is a fascinating stop. Visitors can learn about the history of the Great Lakes, explore interactive exhibits, and watch ships navigate the harbor. The museum provides insight into the city’s long-standing connection to Lake Superior. It’s a must-visit for history buffs and maritime enthusiasts.
Glensheen Mansion
The Glensheen Mansion is a historic estate offering guided tours of its stunning architecture and beautifully preserved interiors. Visitors can explore the grand rooms, lakeside gardens, and learn about the fascinating history of the Congdon family. The mansion also hosts seasonal events and outdoor concerts. It’s a fantastic stop for those who appreciate history and elegant architecture.
Spirit Mountain
Spirit Mountain is a year-round outdoor destination offering skiing, snowboarding, and mountain biking. In the winter, visitors can hit the slopes or enjoy snow tubing, while summer brings hiking and zip-lining adventures. The scenic chairlift rides provide breathtaking views of Duluth and Lake Superior. It’s the perfect destination for thrill-seekers and outdoor adventurers.
North Shore Scenic Drive
One of the best ways to experience Duluth’s natural beauty is by taking a drive along the North Shore Scenic Drive. Visitors can stop at scenic overlooks, hike to waterfalls, and explore charming small towns along the way. Highlights include Gooseberry Falls State Park, Split Rock Lighthouse, and Tettegouche State Park. It’s a must-do activity for those who love road trips and stunning landscapes.
Where to find a vacation rental near Duluth
Two Harbors, Minnesota
Just 30 minutes north of Duluth along the scenic North Shore, Two Harbors is known for its rugged beauty and lakeside charm. Visitors can tour the historic Split Rock Lighthouse, hike Gooseberry Falls State Park, or explore charming local shops. Booking a vacation rental in Two Harbors offers everything from cozy lake cabins to secluded cottages in the woods. It’s ideal for travelers looking for peace, nature, and a taste of North Shore history.
Superior, Wisconsin
Located just across the bay, Superior offers easy access to the same Lake Superior coastline with a more laid-back atmosphere. Guests can visit the SS Meteor Maritime Museum, relax in Pattison State Park, or explore the harborfront. Staying in a vacation rental in Superior gives travelers a budget-friendly, convenient alternative to Duluth. It’s perfect for families and couples who want proximity without the bustle.
Lutsen, Minnesota
Roughly 90 minutes north, Lutsen is a mountain town known for its ski resort, hiking trails, and sweeping Lake Superior views. Visitors can ride the gondola, explore Oberg Mountain, or unwind at local lodges and restaurants. Choosing a vacation rental in Lutsen provides a cozy alpine atmosphere with year-round outdoor activities. It’s perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Bayfield, Wisconsin
About two hours east, Bayfield is a quaint town and the gateway to the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. Travelers can enjoy kayaking, sailing, or taking a ferry to explore island sea caves and hiking trails. Booking a vacation rental in Bayfield offers a picturesque and artistic community feel. It’s a scenic retreat for those looking to experience Lake Superior’s coastal beauty.
Grand Marais, Minnesota
Located two hours northeast of Duluth, Grand Marais is an artsy harbor town nestled between the Sawtooth Mountains and Lake Superior. The town features galleries, local eateries, and access to the Gunflint Trail. Staying in a vacation rental in Grand Marais provides a peaceful escape filled with culture, wilderness, and small-town charm. It’s perfect for artists, hikers, and those who want a remote yet welcoming destination.
Explore the diversity of lakeside retreats and nature escapes across the United States
In the heart of Minnesota, the city offers splendid views of Lake Superior, creating an inspiring backdrop for lakeside adventures. To expand your exploration, consider vacation rentals Houghton Lake in Michigan, where serene waters invite boating enthusiasts. Meanwhile, Claytor Lake State Park airbnb in Virginia awaits those eager to immerse themselves in tranquil surroundings and hiking trails. For a breathtaking California escape, you can rent a property at Bass Lake, harmonizing the beauty of forested landscapes with lakeside charm. Dive into the relaxation offered by airbnb in Okoboji, at the heart of Iowa's serene lakes, perfect for water sports and peaceful retreats.
Surrounded by glorious natural beauty, the region proudly stands, yet more wonders beckon across the country. Embark on a journey to the west with airbnb in Chico, California, where Bidwell Park's sprawling green paradise awaits your exploration. Further south, Terlingua rentable spaces in Texas offer you a unique encounter with the captivating vistas of the Chihuahuan Desert. Meanwhile, in California, you can book accommodation in Santa Rosa to discover the enchanting beauty of the surrounding vineyards and the sprawling Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve, offering a sanctuary of towering trees and tranquil trails.