North Shore Travel Guide
Discover all the must-see attractions, activities, and insider tips for exploring the North Shore, Minnesota.
- Introduction to North Shore
- List of Places to Visit in North Shore
- Hiking/Biking Routes of North Shore
- Best Things to Do in North Shore: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for North Shore
- Food and Drink Scene of North Shore
- Where to Stay in North Shore: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in North Shore: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of North Shore
- Best Time to Visit North Shore
- Do’s and Don’ts of North Shore
- Safety and Health
- Getting to North Shore: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in North Shore
- Where to Go Next from North Shore: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to North Shore
Nestled in the northeastern region of Minnesota, North Shore is a hidden gem that’s perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. This beautiful stretch of coastline runs for 150 miles along Lake Superior’s shores, offering an expansive landscape that’s as inspiring as it is rugged. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, North Shore has plenty to offer.
List of Places to Visit in North Shore
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
North Shore has a rich history that’s easily accessible through its museums and historical landmarks. One must-visit attraction is the Split Rock Lighthouse, which showcases the region’s maritime history. Other popular cultural attractions include the William A. Irvin Museum, Great Lakes Aquarium, and the North Shore Commercial Fishing Museum.
Natural Attractions of North Shore: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
North Shore is famous for its outdoor adventures, from hiking and bird watching to skiing and snowmobiling. One of the highlights of the region is the Superior Hiking Trail, which stretches for 310 miles and offers unparalleled scenic views. Other natural attractions to visit include the Gooseberry Falls State Park, Tettegouche State Park, and Cascade River State Park.
Hiking/Biking Routes of North Shore
North Shore boasts some of the most scenic hiking and biking routes in the country. The Superior Hiking Trail is a must-try for avid hikers, featuring trails that run through dense forests and alongside bubbling rivers. Cyclists can enjoy the Gitchi-Gami State Trail, which runs for 86 miles between Two Harbors and Grand Marais.
Best Things to Do in North Shore: Activities and Tours
If you’re looking for something more adventurous, consider taking a kayaking tour or going cliff jumping in the pristine waters of Lake Superior. For a more leisurely activity, book a North Shore brewery tour and discover some of the best local brews. Other popular activities include dog sledding, snowmobiling, and ice climbing.
Week-Long Itinerary for North Shore
For a week-long stay in North Shore, consider this itinerary:
Day 1-2: Hiking in Gooseberry Falls State Park, Tettegouche State Park, and Split Rock Lighthouse Day 3: Exploring the cultural attractions, such as the William A. Irvin museum and Great Lakes Aquarium Day 4: Enjoying the Gitchi-Gami State Trail or taking a kayaking tour Day 5: Indulging in the local food scene, including craft breweries and authentic North Shore cuisine Day 6-7: Outdoor adventures, such as dog sledding or snowmobiling
Food and Drink Scene of North Shore
Must-Try Dishes
North Shore’s cuisine is as unique as its landscape, with a focus on local ingredients and traditional recipes. Some must-try dishes include the Indian fry bread tacos, smoked whitefish dip, pasties, and wild rice soup.
Local Beverages
North Shore is also known for its craft breweries and wineries. Some of the most popular include the Castle Danger Brewery, Bent Paddle Brewing Co., Vikre Distillery, and North Shore Winery.
Where to Stay in North Shore: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
North Shore offers a variety of accommodations to suit any budget and taste. Some of the top-rated hotels include the Grand Superior Lodge, The Bluefin Bay Family of Resorts, and Lutsen Resort. For a more unique experience, consider a stay at a cozy guesthouse or a rustic cabin near the lake.
What to Buy in North Shore: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Some popular souvenirs include locally made crafts, handmade jewelry, and artisanal foods like wild rice. Don’t forget to check out the many maple syrup farms and local breweries for unique North Shore products.
Local Culture and Customs of North Shore
North Shore’s local culture is shaped by its rich history and stunning natural landscape. It’s customary to respect the region’s natural wonders, including the forests, rivers, and Lake Superior. Locals also take pride in their traditional cuisine and handcrafted goods.
Best Time to Visit North Shore
The best time to visit North Shore is between June and September, when temperatures are mild and the landscape is in full bloom. The fall months are also a popular time to visit, with vibrant fall foliage and harvest festivals.
Do’s and Don’ts of North Shore
Do:
- Respect nature and wildlife.
- Try the local cuisine and craft beers.
- Dress in layers as weather can be unpredictable.
Don’t:
- Leave trash in natural areas.
- Go off-trail while hiking or biking.
- Overlook the region’s history at museums and historic sites.
Safety and Health
Safety in North Shore
North Shore is a relatively safe region, but visitors should still exercise caution when hiking or engaging in outdoor adventures. Make sure to bring a map or GPS device, and avoid going off-trail. Wildlife encounters are also possible, so visitors should follow guidelines for safely observing animals.
Health in North Shore
North Shore has a relatively high altitude, so visitors should be aware of altitude sickness. If you’re hiking or engaging in strenuous activities, make sure to stay hydrated and take breaks as needed.
Getting to North Shore: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near North Shore
Duluth International Airport is the main airport near North Shore, located just 45 minutes away. Other nearby airports include Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport and Thunder Bay International Airport in Canada.
Bus Stations Near North Shore
Greyhound and Jefferson Lines both have bus stations in Duluth, providing easy access to North Shore.
Other Options
Visitors can also drive to North Shore, taking Highway 61 along the lake shore. RV and campervan options are also available for those who prefer to travel by road.
How to Get Around in North Shore
The easiest way to get around North Shore is by car or bike. Some local transportation options include shuttle services and guided tours, which can provide a more immersive experience.
Where to Go Next from North Shore: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
If you’re looking to explore more of Minnesota, consider visiting Minneapolis or Saint Paul. Other nearby attractions include the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore in Wisconsin.
Conclusion
North Shore is a beautiful region that offers something for everyone, whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures or cultural experiences. With its stunning natural landscape, rich history, and unique cuisine, North Shore is a must-visit destination in the Midwest.