Hermantown Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, the cultural attractions, outdoor activities, places to eat, stay and much more in this travel guide to Hermantown, MN.


Introduction to Hermantown

Welcome to Hermantown, Minnesota – a city with a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the 1800s. Today, Hermantown is known for its natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and great food. This guide will help you make the most of your visit to this Midwestern town.

List of Places to Visit in Hermantown

Hermantown offers a wide variety of attractions for visitors to explore. Here are some must-see places to add to your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Hermann Heights Monument: A towering statue dedicated to the memory of Germanic hero Hermann the Cheruscan, it is the key attraction of Hermann Heights Park.
  • Duluth Children’s Museum: The museum offers interactive exhibits for children, making it an ideal family destination.
  • Lake Superior Railroad Museum: An interesting museum that showcases the history of railroads in the region.

Natural Attractions: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Hawk Ridge: A beautiful bird-watching site that attracts bird enthusiasts from around the world.
  • Enger Tower: This tower offers breathtaking views of the Lake Superior and St. Louis Bay below, providing an ideal spot for those looking for scenic views.
  • Jay Cooke State Park: The park is perfect for hikers and bikers and offers trails that run through winding terrain and breathtaking views of the St. Louis River.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Hermantown

Hermantown offers a number of hiking and biking trails, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the best routes:

  • Munger Trail: One of the most popular routes in the area, the trail passes through calm and scenic woods alongside St. Louis Bay.
  • Hartley Park: This park is home to several trails that wind through forested areas and several small lakes.
  • Duluth Lakewalk Trail: The trail offers stunning views of Lake Superior and is ideal for leisurely strolls.

Best Things to Do in Hermantown: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking and biking routes, here are other activities to try:

  • Duluth Experience: This tour company offers guided Kayaking and biking tours throughout the Duluth region.
  • Snowflake Nordic Center: A cross-country ski area that is open in the winter.
  • Lake Superior Zoo: A fun family activity where you can see a wide variety of animals.

Week-Long Itinerary for Hermantown

Day 1: Visit Hawk Ridge, then wander the Lakewalk Trail. Day 2: Spend the day at Jay Cooke State Park with picnic lunch at Oldenburg Point. Day 3: Visit the Duluth Children’s Museum, then spend some time in Enger Park. Day 4: Go for a hike in Hartley Park and ride your bike on the Munger Trail. Day 5: Do a kayak tour with the Duluth Experience. Day 6: Cross-country ski at Snowflake Nordic Center. Day 7: Visit the Hermann Heights Monument and Lake Superior Railroad Museum.

Food and Drink Scene of Hermantown

Hermantown offers a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars. Here are some places to try:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pasties - It is a traditional pastry filled with beef, potatoes, and vegetables, common in the region.
  • Walleye - A freshwater fish found in Lake Superior and is often served fried or baked.

Local Beverages

  • Moose Drool Beer - A famous beer brewed by Big Sky Brewing Company in Montana but available in Hermantown.
  • Locally roasted coffee - Great coffee beans that come in many blends and roasts.

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

There are many options for accommodations in Hermantown. Here are some recommendations:

  • Fairfield Inn and Suites Duluth North: A well-furnished hotel perfect for family stays.
  • Hartley Nature Center Lodge: An alluring lodge hidden in the Hartley Park forest.
  • Holiday Inn & Suites Duluth Downtown: Perfect for individuals looking for a luxurious stay experience.

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

Here are some unique souvenirs and local products to take back home as a memory:

  • Wild rice - A healthy alternative to rice, Wild rice is available in many stores in Hermantown.
  • Amethyst - A purple colored crystal mined in the region and available for purchase in many of the town’s gift shops.

Local Culture and Customs of Hermantown

The people of Hermantown are friendly and warm. The predominant language is English, and the area is known for German-American heritage and railroad history.

Best Time to Visit Hermantown

The best time to visit Hermantown is during the summer months from June to August, where it offers warm weather and many outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hermantown

Here are some do’s and don’ts when visiting Hermantown:

Do:

  • Do dress accordingly - Dress in layers to stay warm.
  • Do explore outdoor activities - There are many trails and scenic views to explore.
  • Do try local cuisine - There are many different dishes that you should try when in Hermantown like pasties and walleye.

Don’t:

  • Don’t trespass on private property - It is important to respect private property while hiking or biking.
  • Don’t be rude - Be polite and courteous to all people you meet on your trip.
  • Don’t litter - Always try to keep the area clean and free of litter.

Safety and Health

Safety in Hermantown

Hermantown is generally safe but always take precautions while on the trails and watch for wildlife.

Health in Hermantown

Hermantown has its share of medical facilities which include several hospitals and clinics for emergencies.

Getting to Hermantown: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Hermantown

  • Duluth International Airport: About a 15 min drive from Hermantown.

Bus Stations Near Hermantown

  • The Duluth Transit Authority: Operates many buses that run through Hermantown.
  • Greyhound/Duluth Trailways: Offers bus services to and from Hermantown.

Other Options

It is an enjoyable drive from the Twin Cities, offering views of different kinds from sturgeon lake.

How to Get Around in Hermantown

The best way to get around in Hermantown is by car, although biking on the trails would be a good choice for short distances.

Where to Go Next from Hermantown: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Some nearby attractions worth exploring include the following:

  • Duluth, MN: A city with a variety of attractions that is only a fifteen-minute drive away.
  • Boundary Waters Canoe Area: A beautiful wilderness area in Northern Minnesota, perfect for day trips.

Conclusion

Hermantown is a beautiful town with many attractions and things to do. With this guide, you can make the most out of your visit and explore some of the best sights, sounds, and tastes that the city has to offer. From the stunning outdoor landscapes to the rich cultural experiences, Hermantown has something for everyone.