Cloquet Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, activities to do, where to stay, and how to get around in Cloquet, Minnesota with our travel guide.


Introduction to Cloquet

Cloquet is a charming city in Northeastern Minnesota, known for its beautiful natural attractions, rich culture, and welcoming community. It is located in Carlton County, approximately 20 miles west of Duluth. The city is easily accessible by car, bus, or air.

List of Places to Visit in Cloquet

There are plenty of attractions and places to visit in Cloquet. Here are some must-visit places:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Carlton County Historical Society and Museum - Explore the rich history of Carlton County through exhibits, artifacts, and documents.

  2. Frank Lloyd Wright’s Gas Station - Visit the only gas station designed by the famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright.

  3. Fond du Lac Ojibwe Museum - Discover the history and culture of the Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa.

Natural Attractions of Cloquet: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Jay Cooke State Park - Enjoy hiking, biking, camping, fishing, and scenic views of the St. Louis River at this beautiful state park.

  2. Pinehurst Park - Perfect for families, Pinehurst Park has picnic areas, playgrounds, a swimming beach, and hiking trails.

  3. R.W. Lindholm Service Station - See the unique design of the gas station, which was inspired by a trip to the 1939 World’s Fair in New York.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Cloquet

Cloquet is a great place for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are some of the best trails to explore:

  1. Munger Trail - This 70-mile trail starts in Duluth and ends in Hinckley, passing through Cloquet. Enjoy scenic views of forests, lakes, and rivers.

  2. Jay Cooke State Park Trails - The park offers a variety of trails for hikers and bikers of all levels. Don’t miss the iconic swinging bridge.

Best Things to Do in Cloquet: Activities and Tours

From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, there are plenty of things to do in Cloquet. Here are some recommendations:

  1. White Water Rafting - Join a guided tour and experience the excitement of rafting on the St. Louis River.

  2. Cloquet Summer Solstice Festival - Celebrate the longest day of the year with music, food, and fun.

  3. Snowmobiling - In winter, Cloquet turns into a snowmobiling paradise. Rent a snowmobile and explore the trails.

Week-Long Itinerary for Cloquet

Here’s a suggested week-long itinerary for exploring Cloquet and its surroundings:

Day Activity
1 Visit Frank Lloyd Wright’s Gas Station and Fond du Lac Ojibwe Museum
2 Explore Carlton County Historical Society and Museum
3 Hike or bike at Jay Cooke State Park
4 Visit Pinehurst Park and R.W. Lindholm Service Station
5 Attend Cloquet Summer Solstice Festival
6 Go white water rafting on the St. Louis River
7 Snowmobiling in winter or a visit to nearby destinations like Duluth

Food and Drink Scene of Cloquet

Cloquet offers a wide range of dining options, from local specialties to international cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Wild rice soup - Made with local wild rice, this soup is a staple of Minnesotan cuisine.

  2. Walleye sandwich - Try this classic sandwich made with locally caught freshwater walleye.

Local Beverages

  1. Bent Paddle Brewing Co. - Enjoy craft beers made in Duluth, just a short drive from Cloquet.

  2. Vikre Distillery - Sample award-winning spirits made from local ingredients, such as juniper and spruce tips.

Where to Stay in Cloquet: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Cloquet offers a variety of accommodation options for all budgets and preferences. Here are some suggestions:

  1. AmericInn by Wyndham Carlton - This hotel offers comfortable rooms, free breakfast, and easy access to nearby attractions.

  2. Pinehurst Inn - Stay in a cozy guesthouse in the heart of Pinehurst Park, surrounded by nature.

  3. Dunrovin Resort - Enjoy lakeside cabins and cottages, fishing opportunities, and beautiful views of Island Lake.

What to Buy in Cloquet: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Don’t leave Cloquet without buying some souvenirs and local products. Here are some recommendations:

  1. Wild rice - Stock up on this local specialty and use it in your own cooking.

  2. Local art and crafts - Visit the Carlton County Artisans Market for unique handmade items.

Local Culture and Customs of Cloquet

Cloquet has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors are advised to respect local customs and traditions. The city has a vibrant arts and culture scene, with many festivals and events throughout the year.

Best Time to Visit Cloquet

Cloquet is a year-round destination, with plenty to see and do in every season. Summer is the most popular time to visit, with warm weather and outdoor activities. Fall is a great time for foliage and hiking. Winter brings snow and winter sports, while spring is a great time for birdwatching and nature walks.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cloquet

Do:

  1. Be respectful of local customs and traditions.

  2. Explore the natural attractions and outdoor recreation opportunities.

Don’t:

  1. Litter or damage the environment.

  2. Disrespect the privacy or property of others.

Safety and Health

Safety in Cloquet

Cloquet is a safe city, but visitors should take normal precautions to protect themselves and their belongings. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid leaving valuables in plain sight.

Health in Cloquet

Cloquet has several health care facilities, including hospitals and clinics. It’s a good idea to have travel insurance, as health care costs can be high in the United States.

Getting to Cloquet: Transportation Options and Logistics

Cloquet is easily accessible by car, bus, or air. Here are some options:

Airports Near Cloquet

  1. Duluth International Airport - Located 20 miles east of Cloquet, this airport offers domestic flights.

  2. Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport - This major airport is approximately 150 miles south of Cloquet.

Bus Stations Near Cloquet

  1. Jefferson Lines - Offers bus service to Cloquet from Duluth and other cities.

  2. Greyhound - Offers bus service to Duluth, with connections to Cloquet.

Other Options

  1. Car rental - Renting a car is a convenient way to explore the area.

  2. Taxi and ride-sharing services - Uber and Lyft are available in Duluth.

How to Get Around in Cloquet

The best way to get around Cloquet is by car, as public transportation is limited. There are several car rental options at Duluth International Airport.

Where to Go Next from Cloquet: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Cloquet is a great starting point for exploring the surrounding area. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions:

  1. Duluth - Visit the bustling port city of Duluth, known for its historic charm, scenic surrounds, and vibrant arts and culture scene.

  2. Superior National Forest - Explore this vast wilderness area, home to lakes, rivers, and wildlife.

Conclusion

Cloquet is a wonderful destination for anyone looking for natural beauty, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures. From its museums and historical landmarks to its forests and lakes, Cloquet has plenty to offer visitors. We hope this guide has been helpful in planning your trip.

Lindholm Service Station Lindholm Service Station