Northeastern Minnesota Travel Guide

Plan your perfect trip with our comprehensive guide to Northeastern Minnesota, including must-visit attractions, hiking and biking routes, accommodations, and more.


Introduction to Northeastern Minnesota

Nestled in the heart of the Midwest, Northeastern Minnesota is a beautiful vacation destination that offers a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages. From hiking and biking to fishing and skiing, this region has something for everyone. In this guide, we will take a closer look at the best places to visit, things to do, and cultural attractions to experience in Northeastern Minnesota.

List of Places to Visit in Northeastern Minnesota

  • Duluth: This scenic city is nestled on the shores of Lake Superior and offers an array of attractions, including the Aerial Lift Bridge, Canal Park, and Glensheen Mansion.
  • Ely: Known as the “Gateway to the Boundary Waters”, Ely is the perfect place to experience the great outdoors. Visitors can explore the nearby lakes, go fishing or hunting, or take a trip to the International Wolf Center.
  • Grand Marais: This charming village boasts an array of art galleries, cafes, and shops, as well as easy access to the Superior Hiking Trail.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Split Rock Lighthouse: Located on the scenic North Shore, this iconic lighthouse offers tours of the historic site and stunning views of Lake Superior.
  • North Shore Scenic Railroad: Take a ride on a vintage steam locomotive and enjoy stunning views of the North Shore’s rugged coastline.
  • Minnesota Museum of Mining: This fascinating museum explores the history of mining in Minnesota with exhibits and interactive activities.

Natural Attractions of Northeastern Minnesota: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness: This pristine wilderness area offers over a million acres of unspoiled lakes and forests to explore, making it the perfect destination for canoeing, camping, or hiking.
  • Gooseberry Falls State Park: This popular park offers several hiking trails that wind through picturesque forests and lead to a series of beautiful waterfalls.
  • Superior National Forest: This vast forested area provides endless opportunities for outdoor recreation, including camping, fishing, and skiing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Northeastern Minnesota

  • Superior Hiking Trail: This 300-mile trail winds along the ridgeline above Lake Superior, offering spectacular views of the lake and the surrounding forests.
  • Mesabi Trail: This paved trail spans over 135 miles, connecting several towns throughout Northeastern Minnesota, and offering beautiful views of the area’s lakes and forests.
  • North Shore State Trail: This 146-mile trail runs along the coast of Lake Superior and provides stunning views of the lake and nearby forests.

Best Things to Do in Northeastern Minnesota: Activities and Tours

  • Fishing: Northeastern Minnesota is home to several lakes and rivers that offer world-class fishing opportunities for anglers of all skill levels.
  • Skiing: The region’s long, snowy winters make it the perfect destination for cross-country skiing and downhill skiing.
  • Kayaking and Canoeing: With so many lakes and rivers to choose from, kayaking and canoeing are popular activities in this region.
  • Northern Lights: From late fall through early spring, visitors to Northeastern Minnesota may have the chance to witness the Northern Lights.

Week-Long Itinerary for Northeastern Minnesota

Day Activity
1 Explore the shops and cafes of Grand Marais
2 Visit Split Rock Lighthouse and take a scenic drive along the North Shore
3 Canoe the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness
4 Go fishing on one of the region’s many lakes
5 Ski or snowboard at one of the area’s ski resorts
6 Visit the Minnesota Museum of Mining and explore the Iron Range
7 Relax and take in the natural beauty of Northeastern Minnesota

Food and Drink Scene of Northeastern Minnesota

Must-Try Dishes

  • Walleye: This freshwater fish is a popular local delicacy, often served pan-fried or grilled.
  • Pasties: These savory hand pies filled with meat and vegetables were brought to the area by Cornish miners in the late 1800s and remain a local favorite.
  • Wild rice: A staple of the region’s Native American tribes, wild rice is often used in soups and stews or served as a side dish.

Local Beverages

  • Surly Brewing Company: This popular Minneapolis-based brewery offers a wide range of craft beers, many of which can be found on tap at local bars and restaurants throughout Northeastern Minnesota.
  • Cedar Coffee Company: This small-batch roastery in Two Harbors offers a variety of artisanal coffee blends, perfect for fueling your outdoor adventures.

Where to Stay in Northeastern Minnesota: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Canal Park Lodge (Duluth): This cozy lodge offers stunning views of Lake Superior and easy access to downtown Duluth.
  • Adventure Inn (Ely): This family-friendly inn provides comfortable and affordable accommodations near the Boundary Waters.
  • Gunflint Lodge (Grand Marais): This luxurious resort offers a range of cabins and activities, including canoeing, skiing, and snowshoeing.

What to Buy in Northeastern Minnesota: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Wild rice: This regional delicacy is often sold in small bags at local markets and gift shops throughout Northeastern Minnesota.
  • Regional crafts: From handmade pottery to hand-carved wooden items, there are plenty of locally produced crafts to choose from.
  • Honey: Many local farmers in Northeastern Minnesota produce their own honey, which can be purchased at farmers’ markets and roadside stands throughout the region.

Local Culture and Customs of Northeastern Minnesota

Northeastern Minnesota is home to several Native American tribes, including the Ojibwe and the Sioux. Visitors should be respectful of Native American customs and traditions, which may include offering tobacco as a sign of respect.

Best Time to Visit Northeastern Minnesota

The best time to visit Northeastern Minnesota depends on what activities you want to do. Summer and fall are popular times for hiking, fishing, and enjoying the region’s natural beauty. Winter is ideal for skiing and snowmobiling, and visitors may have the chance to witness the Northern Lights.

Do’s and Don’ts of Northeastern Minnesota

Do:

  • Respect the region’s natural beauty and wildlife
  • Take the time to learn about the local culture and customs
  • Take precautions to stay safe in the great outdoors, including wearing appropriate clothing and carrying plenty of water

Don’t:

  • Disturb the wildlife or natural habitats
  • Ignore safety warnings on hiking or skiing trails
  • Disrespect Native American customs or traditions

Safety and Health

Safety in Northeastern Minnesota

While Northeastern Minnesota is generally a safe destination, visitors should take precautions to stay safe in the great outdoors. This includes carrying plenty of water, dressing appropriately for the weather, and being aware of risks such as bear encounters or slippery trails.

Health in Northeastern Minnesota

Visitors should be prepared for the seasonal changes in weather and bring appropriate clothing and gear. Lyme disease and West Nile virus are both present in the region, so it’s important to take precautions against tick and mosquito bites.

Getting to Northeastern Minnesota: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Northeastern Minnesota

  • Duluth International Airport
  • Hibbing-Chisholm Airport
  • Ranges Regional Airport (International Falls)

Bus Stations Near Northeastern Minnesota

  • Duluth Bus Station
  • Hibbing Bus Station
  • Grand Marais Bus Station

Other Options

  • Car rental: Renting a car is a great way to explore the region on your own schedule.
  • Train: Amtrak offers service to several cities in Minnesota, including Duluth and St. Paul.

How to Get Around in Northeastern Minnesota

A car is the most convenient way to get around Northeastern Minnesota, as many of the region’s attractions are spread out and public transportation is limited. Visitors can also rent a bike or kayak to explore at their own pace.

Where to Go Next from Northeastern Minnesota: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness: Just a short drive from Northeastern Minnesota, this pristine wilderness area offers endless opportunities for outdoor recreation.
  • Voyageurs National Park: Located just across the border in northern Minnesota, this beautiful park is a must-visit for anyone interested in lakes, rivers, and wildlife.
  • Minneapolis/St. Paul: Just a few hours’ drive south of Northeastern Minnesota, Minneapolis and St. Paul offer an array of cultural attractions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries.

Conclusion

With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and wide range of activities, Northeastern Minnesota is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the Midwest. Whether you’re into hiking, fishing, skiing, or just relaxing and taking in the scenery, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful region.



    Cloquet
    Duluth
    Hermantown
    Hinckley
    International Falls
    Iron Range
    Meadowlands
    Moose Lake
    North Shore