Superior Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, local culture, and transportation options in Superior, Wisconsin.


Introduction to Superior

Located in Northwest Wisconsin, Superior is a charming city that offers stunning natural beauty, fascinating history, and an abundance of recreational opportunities. Nestled on the shores of Lake Superior, this city has a rich cultural heritage that can be explored through its museums, art galleries, and historical landmarks.

Whether you’re an outdoor adventurer, a history buff, or a foodie, Superior has something for everyone. In this travel guide, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive list of places to visit, things to do, local culture, and transportation options to help you plan your trip to Superior.

List of Places to Visit in Superior

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Fairlawn Mansion & Museum: This Victorian-era mansion built-in 1890 was the residence of Martin Pattison, a lumber baron, and his family. It’s now a museum that displays the lifestyle of the Pattison family in the early 1900s.
  • Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center: This museum is dedicated to preserving the legacy of Lieutenant Richard Bong, a WWII flying ace who hailed from Superior. It features interactive exhibits, artifacts, and personal items of Lt. Bong and other veterans.
  • SS Meteor Whaleback Ship Museum: This museum is located on the last remaining whaleback ship, the SS Meteor, in the world. It showcases the life and work of sailors on these unique ships that dominated the Great Lakes in the early 20th century.

Natural Attractions of Superior: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Amnicon Falls State Park: This park features a series of waterfalls along the Amnicon River, offering stunning panoramic views and an array of hiking trails.
  • Pattison State Park: Home to Wisconsin’s highest waterfall, the Big Manitou Falls, this park is an excellent destination for hiking, camping, and picnicking.
  • Wisconsin Point: This scenic beach offers breathtaking views of Lake Superior and is a favorite spot for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Superior

Superior has an abundance of hiking and biking trails for visitors to explore. Some of the popular routes include:

  • Osaugie Trail: This trail is a 5-mile paved bike path that runs along the shore of Lake Superior and connects the city of Superior to the neighboring city of Duluth in Minnesota.
  • Superior Hiking Trail: This 310-mile trail offers stunning vistas of Lake Superior and passes through several state parks, waterfalls, and forests.
  • Amnicon Falls State Park: This park has five trails that vary in length from 0.25 miles to 2 miles, offering visitors the opportunity to see the park’s waterfalls and scenic views up close.

Best Things to Do in Superior: Activities and Tours

  • Kayaking and Canoeing: Lake Superior is a popular destination for kayaking and canoeing. Superior Pursuits and Monte Carlo are two companies offering guided tours and kayak rentals.
  • Lake Superior Zoo: The Lake Superior Zoo houses over 200 animals, including lions, tigers, bears, and many more. It also offers educational programs and hands-on experiences for visitors of all ages.
  • Captain J’s Mini Golf: This family-friendly entertainment venue features a 19-hole mini-golf course, batting cages, and an arcade.

Week-Long Itinerary for Superior

Day 1: Explore Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center and SS Meteor Whaleback Ship Museum. Day 2: Hike the trails at Pattison State Park and take in the breathtaking views of Big Manitou Falls. Day 3: Visit Fairlawn Mansion & Museum to learn about the lifestyle of a wealthy family in the early 1900s. Day 4: Kayak on Lake Superior and enjoy the scenic beauty of the lake from the water. Day 5: Check out the animals at the Lake Superior Zoo and enjoy a picnic in the park. Day 6: Take a bike ride on the Osaugie Trail and stop for some ice cream at Dairy Queen. Day 7: Relax on the beach at Wisconsin Point and catch a stunning sunset over Lake Superior.

Food and Drink Scene of Superior

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pasties: A traditional Cornish pastry filled with beef, pork, potatoes, onions, and rutabagas.
  • Walleye: A freshwater fish found in Lake Superior. It’s usually served beer-battered and deep-fried.
  • Booyah: A hearty chicken stew made with potatoes, carrots, celery, and various meats.

Local Beverages

  • South Shore Brewery: A local brewery that offers a wide range of craft beers, including IPAs, stouts, and lagers.
  • Blacklist Artisan Ales: A cozy taproom that offers a diverse selection of craft beers and small plates.
  • Thirsty Pagan Brewing: A brewpub that offers wood-fired pizzas and an assortment of craft beers.

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

  • Best Western Bridgeview Hotel: A budget-friendly hotel located on the harbor that offers comfortable rooms and stunning views of Lake Superior.
  • Superior Inn: A mid-range hotel with a fitness center and an indoor pool located near the city center.
  • Oliver Inn Bed and Breakfast: A charming guesthouse located in a restored 1890’s mansion that offers cozy rooms and a delicious breakfast.

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

  • Wild Rice: A traditional Native American staple that’s grown locally in the surrounding lakes and rivers.
  • Lake Superior Agates: A unique type of agate found only on the shores of Lake Superior. They make for beautiful souvenirs or jewelry.
  • Superior-made Crafts: Local artisans produce a variety of handcrafted items, such as woodworking, pottery, and textiles.

Local Culture and Customs of Superior

Superior has a rich cultural heritage that’s celebrated through events and festivals throughout the year. One of the most notable is the Lake Superior Dragon Boat Festival, which takes place every August and features exhilarating races and live music.

Superior is also home to the Ojibwe tribe and has a strong Native American influence that can be seen through their arts, crafts, and food. Visitors are encouraged to respect and learn about the indigenous culture in the area.

Best Time to Visit Superior

The best time to visit Superior depends on your interests and preferences. Summer is the peak tourist season, with warm weather and an array of outdoor activities to enjoy. Fall is a great time to see the stunning fall foliage and attend the Applefest in nearby Bayfield. Winter offers outdoor activities such as ice-fishing, skiing, and snowshoeing. Spring is a quiet time with fewer crowds, making it a great time to enjoy hiking and birdwatching.

Do’s and Don’ts of Superior

Do:

  • Take advantage of the outdoor recreational opportunities offered in the Superior area.
  • Respect the Native American culture and traditions in the area.
  • Enjoy the local cuisine, which features unique local ingredients and influences.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect the natural environment by littering or damaging wildlife habitats.
  • Engage in activities that harm the local culture or violate historic sites.
  • Drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Safety and Health

Safety in Superior

Superior is a relatively safe city, but visitors should take common sense precautions such as locking doors and windows in their accommodation and avoiding walking alone in isolated areas at night.

Health in Superior

Visitors should be aware of the potential risks of exposure to ticks, which can carry Lyme disease. It’s recommended to wear insect repellent, long-sleeved clothing, and check for ticks after being outdoors. Visitors should also take appropriate precautions for sun protection while enjoying outdoor activities.

Getting to Superior: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Superior

  • Duluth International Airport (DLH): Approximately 10 miles from downtown Superior.
  • Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP): Located approximately 160 miles south of Superior.

Bus Stations Near Superior

  • Jefferson Lines Bus Station: Located in downtown Duluth, approximately 4 miles from Superior.
  • Greyhound Bus Station: Located in Duluth, approximately 6 miles from Superior.

Other Options

  • Amtrak: The Empire Builder Line operates between Seattle and Chicago, with stops in nearby Duluth.
  • Rental Cars: Several rental car companies operate in the Superior area.

How to Get Around in Superior

Superior is a relatively small city that can easily be explored on foot or by bicycle. Rental cars, taxis, and Uber/Lyft services are also available for longer journeys or transportation to and from outlying areas.

Where to Go Next from Superior: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Bayfield: Located approximately 60 miles north of Superior and is known for its picturesque harbor, apple orchards, and the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore.
  • Duluth: Located approximately 4 miles across Lake Superior from Superior, and known for its vibrant music and arts scene, historical landmarks, and outdoor adventures.
  • Brule River State Forest: Located approximately 30 miles southeast of Superior, known for its scenic hiking and biking trails, camping, and canoeing.

Conclusion

Superior is a hidden gem in the Midwest that offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and recreational opportunities. Whether you’re exploring the waterfalls at Pattison State Park or enjoying a beer at a local brewery, there’s something for everyone in Superior. With this guide, planning your next trip to Superior is easy and stress-free.