North Shore Scenic Drive Minnesota, USA Travel Guide
Make the most of a short stop in Duluth.
Tailor your trip to the length of your stay.
This itinerary has a taste of the North Shore's highlights, moving progressively north.
This itinerary allows for a dive into areas and more relaxation time.
Extend the one-week itinerary with more in-depth exploration.
For stays longer than two weeks, consider renting a cabin or vacation home for a week or more in a central location (e.g., Lutsen, Grand Marais).
A major the greater city area 2.5-3 hours south of Duluth. World-class museums, cultural sites.
Further west in northern Minnesota (2-3 hours from northern North Shore). Water-based park. Explore by boat/canoe/kayak across interconnected lakes.
Major Canadian city, accessible via Grand Portage border crossing (4-5 hours from Grand Portage). Museums, cultural districts, lively food scene.
Tailor your North Shore adventure to your specific passions.
Route: Commence in Duluth with Glensheen Historic Estate and the Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center. Drive north to Two Harbors Lighthouse and Split Rock Lighthouse State Park. Continue to Grand Portage National Monument for deep fur trade history.
Route: Start with Duluth's breweries (Fitger's Brewhouse, Bent Paddle Brewing Co.) and diverse restaurants. Stop at Betty's Pies in Two Harbors. Focus on Grand Marais for its independent restaurants (The New Scenic Cafe, Fisherman's Daughter, Voyageur Brewing Company). Seek out local fish markets for the day's catch.
Concentrate on the state parks with challenging terrain: Tettegouche, Judge C.R. Magney, Temperance River. Explore segments of the Superior Hiking Trail. Utilize outfitters in Grand Marais or Lutsen.
Focus on easily accessible and engaging attractions. Gooseberry Falls (easy trails). Visit Split Rock Lighthouse. Enjoy the Lutsen Mountains gondola and zipline. Spend time in Grand Marais with its harbor and unique shops. Look for pebble beaches for agate hunting.
Focus on quiet, reflective natural settings. Seek out isolated spots in state parks or the Superior National Forest. Consider a stay at a quieter lodge or cabin.
Explore Duluth's historic architecture and the elaborate Glensheen Estate. Head north to Grand Marais, the heart of the North Shore's art scene.
The North Shore is for any budget, with careful planning.
Accommodation: mainly camping in Minnesota State Parks (using the annual vehicle permit) or dispersed camping in the Superior National Forest (where permitted).
Accommodation: Mix of mid-range motels/hotels and comfortable cabins or smaller resorts.
Accommodation: Stay at upscale resorts with extensive amenities (e.g., Bluefin Bay, Grand Superior Lodge, Caribou Highlands Lodge). Consider a luxury vacation rental.
Maximize your budget without sacrificing experience.
Smart choices help your budget go further on the North Shore.
Cold-weather travel often has snow and ice. Always check road reports before driving.
Dress in layers. Have proper winter gear. Confirm business hours, as many close or reduce hours.
The North Shore changes with the seasons, each offering an unique experience.
Lots of sunshine, warmer temperatures (though still cool near the lake), verdant foliage. Ideal for active pursuits and enjoying all the sights.
Snow-covered landscapes, frozen waterfalls, dramatic ice formations on Lake Superior. This season offers solitude plus a chance to see the Northern Lights.
Plan your trip around specific events to better your cultural experience.
The longest sled dog race in the Lower 48 states.
The off-season (late fall to early spring, excluding major holidays/ski weekends) offers solitude, lower prices, and a distinct atmosphere.
