Canal Park Attractions

Lake Superior may be one of our largest attractions, and right out our back door, but there’s so much more to see and do in Duluth. Get an eagle’s eye view of Duluth, the lake and even Wisconsin on a clear day from Enger Tower or Hawks Ridge. Catch a show, concert, or sporting event at the DECC Amsoil Arena. Hit the slopes in the winter, or the Timber Twister all year round at Spirit Mountain. Experience our great lake up close by taking a Vista Cruise, charter a fishing boat, or join the brave swimmers and take a dip in the Lake.

Adventure Zone

329 Lake Avenue South
(218) 740-4000

There is something for everyone at the Adventure Zone of Canal Park! The Northland’s newest family attraction boasts over 50,000 square feet of fun featuring multi-level Laser Tag, Batting Cages, Mini Golf, the largest video/redemption arcade in the area, Vertical Endeavors rock climbing walls, a kid’s playground, an 18’ inflatable fire truck slide and more! Make us your party headquarters! Discount tickets available at front desk. (based on availability)

Aerial Lift Bridge

Rising above the Duluth's piers, the Aerial Lift Bridge is one of Canal Park’s most iconic sights - and it’s just steps from Canal Park Lodge. Watch massive lake freighters glide in from Lake Superior as the bridge lifts to let them pass, then drops back down for vehicle traffic. The viewing area along the lakewalk and canal pier offers great photo opportunities day or night, especially at sunrise or when the bridge lights reflect on the water. It’s a must-see stop for first-time visitors and a classic Duluth moment for locals, too.

Amsoil Arena

AMSOIL Arena is Duluth’s premier venue for big-time entertainment and hometown hockey, located in the DECC (Duluth Entertainment Convention Center) complex near downtown. Best known as the home of the University of Minnesota Duluth Bulldogs, the arena offers an exciting game-day atmosphere and a great place to experience local sports culture. Beyond hockey, AMSOIL Arena hosts concerts, family shows, and special events throughout the year, making it a go-to stop for visitors looking to catch a show while in town. With convenient access, nearby dining, and Lake Superior close by, it’s an easy addition to your Duluth itinerary.

Bayfront Festival Park

Bayfront Festival Park is Duluth’s signature waterfront green space - an open-air venue framed by the harbor, skyline, and Lake Superior breezes. It’s the city’s go-to spot for summer festivals and big community celebrations, including the Bayfront Blues Festival and Duluth’s Fourth Fest fireworks and family fun.

Between events, the park is perfect for a casual stroll, picnic, or letting kids burn off energy at the playground, with freighters often gliding by in the distance. Check the event calendar for concerts and festivals throughout the season. With wide lawns, a harborfront stage, and unbeatable views, it’s an easy outing for all ages.

Duluth Entertainment Convention Center (DECC)

Duluth’s Entertainment Convention Center (DECC) is the city’s all-in-one hub for concerts, conventions, and hometown sports on the waterfront. The complex offers about 250,000 square feet of meeting and exhibit space, plus venues like AMSOIL Arena and the DECC Arena for everything from UMD Bulldogs hockey to expos and special events. You’ll also find Symphony Hall performances, Broadway at the DECC, and family shows throughout the year.

With ballrooms overlooking Lake Superior and easy access to Canal Park and Bayfront, it’s a perfect stop for a game, a show, or a big convention, all minutes from hotels, dining, and shopping.

Duluth Lakewalk

Stretching along the shoreline of Lake Superior, the Canal Park Lakewalk is one of Duluth’s best ways to soak up the outdoors. This paved, scenic path winds past beaches, parks, public art, and postcard-worthy views of the harbor and open lake. Take an easy stroll, go for a morning jog, or grab a coffee and enjoy the fresh lake air - there’s something to see in every season, from summer sailboats to winter ice formations. The Lakewalk also connects you to nearby shops, restaurants, and attractions, making it a perfect “start here” adventure right from Canal Park Lodge.

Glensheen, the Historic Congdon Estate

Glensheen Mansion is Duluth’s must-see historic estate on the shores of Lake Superior. Built for Chester and Clara Congdon in the early 1900s, the 39-room home showcases remarkable craftsmanship, original furnishings, and Northland stories. Choose a self-guided mansion tour to explore grand interiors and hidden details, or pick grounds admission to wander lakeside paths, terraces, and gardens at your own pace. It’s a perfect stop for history lovers, architecture fans, and photographers - especially when the fountain and flowerbeds are in bloom. Plan a visit year-round and allow extra time to enjoy shoreline views, the museum shop, and a lakeside stroll too.

Great Lakes Aquarium

The Great Lakes Aquarium began as a vision in 1989, when Lake Superior Center formed to promote freshwater education. Located on the Duluth waterfront, the Aquarium opened in 2000 and continues to grow and evolve. Exhibits highlight animals and habitats from the Great Lakes Basin, along with other freshwater ecosystems like the Amazon River, plus global galleries that interpret marine (saltwater) life. Guests can experience hands-on encounters, including North America’s largest sturgeon touchpool and several marine touchpools. The Aquarium also offers on-site and outreach education for all ages, with daily interpretive programs and classes serving over 10,000 pre-K–12 students each year.

Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center

(US Army Corps of Engineers)
600 Lake Avenue South

The Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center puts Duluth’s working harbor right in front of you - located in Canal Park at the foot of the Aerial Lift Bridge. Operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, this free museum explores Great Lakes commercial shipping with interactive exhibits, scale models, and historic ship spaces like replica cabins and a pilothouse. Step outside and you’re just feet from the ship canal, where thousand-foot freighters often pass astonishingly close. It’s an easy, family-friendly stop with big views and plenty of Northland history to take in. Don’t miss the harbor overlook and lift-bridge action overhead today.

Lake Superior Zoo

72nd Avenue West & Grand Avenue
Duluth, MN 55807
(218) 730-4900

Set in wooded Fairmont Park at the base of Spirit Mountain, the Lake Superior Zoo is Duluth’s family-friendly place for close-up animal encounters and conservation-minded fun. Wander hillside paths along Kingsbury Creek, meet wildlife from around the world, and enjoy keeper talks and seasonal experiences. Popular annual events include Zoo Lights in winter and Boo at the Zoo in fall, plus special member programs and fundraisers. Located in West Duluth at 7210 Fremont Street, it’s an easy half-day outing for kids and adults alike - especially when you want a break from the waterfront bustle. Don’t forget your camera - there are photo ops!

Spirit Mountain

9500 Spirit Mountain Place
Duluth, MN 55810

Spirit Mountain is Duluth’s four-season playground, just minutes from downtown. In winter, hit the slopes for skiing and snowboarding, or book a tubing session—Glow Tubing adds extra fun after dark. In summer, the Adventure Park keeps the adrenaline going with the Alpine Coaster, Zip Ride, and scenic chairlift rides over the forested hillside. Whether you’re chasing fresh snow, fall colors, or a quick family outing, Spirit Mountain mixes big North Shore views with activities for a wide range of ages and skill levels. Check current hours and conditions before you go. Warm up in the chalet with food and cocoa.

Vertical Endeavors

329 South Lake Ave.
Duluth, MN 55810

Vertical Endeavors operates some of the largest indoor climbing facilities in the nation with multiple locations throughout the Midwest. People of all ages and abilities can challenge themselves and have a blast. Routes are available for all skill levels from first-timers to advanced climbers and offer a great workout both physically and mentally.

We have a number of fun opportunities available for both youth and adults to become better climbers, meet new friends, and host group outings. All are welcome.

Take on a great work out and come experience the excitement of rock climbing!