A Kid-Friendly North Shore Getaway
Pack up the car and head north! This kid-friendly North Shore itinerary is the perfect addition to any Minnesota Summer Bucket List! From candy stops to waterfalls, lighthouses to black sand beaches, there’s something for the whole family to enjoy.
Day 1: Twin Cities → Duluth, MN
Start with a sweet treat at Sweetly Kismet Candy Store: About two hours north of the Twin Cities, make your first stop at Sweetly Kismet in Carlton. At 4,500 square feet, it’s the largest candy store in Northern Minnesota and a great way to break up the drive.
Jay Cooke State Park
Stretch your legs at Jay Cooke State Park: Just 30 minutes outside Duluth, this is one of Minnesota’s most beautiful state parks. The iconic swinging bridge is a must, and the easy River Trail is perfect for kids who want to climb rocks, chase frogs, and explore along the river.
Ursa Minor Brewing
Lunch at Ursa Minor Brewing: Welcome to Duluth! Ursa Minor is one of our favorite first stops. Their huge outdoor patio has a rock play area for kids while you wait on wood-fired pizzas. (Don’t miss their lemon-orange tart wheat ale if you like a refreshing summer brew!)
Love Creamery
A post-lunch treat at Love Creamery: Just down the street, you’ll find Love Creamery. This artisan ice cream shop has a rotating list of unique flavors and is the perfect post-lunch treat.
Enger Park
Climb the tower at Enger Park: Climb to the top of Enger Tower for sweeping views of Duluth, wander through the gardens, and ring the Peace Bell gifted by Duluth’s sister city in Japan.
Hotel
Check-in + Canal Park Exploring: We love staying in Canal Park so we can walk everywhere. Both the Hampton Inn and Fairfield Inn are solid options. Once settled, take a walk down the Lake Superior shoreline. Play at 12th Street Beach, dip your toes in the lake, stroll to the lighthouse, and watch ships pass under the Aerial Lift Bridge.
Dinner
Time for dinner: Canal Park is filled with family-friendly spots. Grandma’s Saloon and Canal Park Brewing are our go-tos.
Day 2: Duluth to Tettehouche State Park
Tip: Between Two Harbors and Silver Bay food options are limited, so pack snacks and lunch before you head out.
Breakfast
Breakfast at At Sara’s Table Chester Creek Café: Fuel up with local favorites before making your journey up the coast. The cherry pecan French toast is a kid-favorite, and their Eggs Benedict is a must-try.
Great Lakes Candy Kitchen: About 25 minutes north, this family-owned candy shop has been around for more than 100 years. Stock up on caramel apples and chocolates, then enjoy the hammocks and kid-friendly Bear Trail out back.
Gooseberry Falls
Gooseberry Falls State Park: One of the most iconic stops along the North Shore. Take the easy Gitchi Gummi Trail for overlooks and waterfalls, or just splash around in the river with water shoes.
Iona Beach
Iona’s Beach: Just minutes away from Gooseberry, this beach is made up of pink rhyolite stones that sing when the waves hit them. It’s a quick stop to explore the shoreline and skip rocks
Black Beach: Continue north to the unique black sand shoreline. It’s a great spot to relax, swim, snack, and let the kids dig in the sand.
Split Rock Light House
Split Rock Lighthouse: A true Minnesota icon! Climb to the top for incredible lake views, or head down to Pebble Beach for the classic postcard photo of the lighthouse.
Tettegouche State Park
Tettegouche State Park: End the day at Tettegouche. If you’re up for it, hike Shovel Point for jaw-dropping views or visit one of the park’s waterfalls.
Dinner Stop: On the way back toward Duluth, swing into Betty’s Pies for pie (try it in shake form!) before heading to Sir Benedict’s Tavern on the Lake. With live music most nights, and the best patio in Duluth, it’s a perfect way to end the evening.
Day 3: Last Stops Before Heading Home
The Social House & Lake Avenue Café
Breakfast: The Social House and Lake Avenue Café are both great Canal Park options to fuel up before the drive.
Glensheen Mansion
Take in some history at Glensheen Mansion: Tour this historic lakeside estate and wander the gorgeous grounds. Even kids love the quirky history and secret rooms.
End the trip at Lake Superior Zoo: Our last stop before heading home! This walkable zoo is home to 300+ animals and is a fun way to let the kids get their energy out before the long ride back.
Other Duluth Favorites
Great Lakes Aquarium (perfect for rainy days)
Adventure Zone in Canal Park (indoor fun)
Duluth Children’s Museum Other Duluth Activities
Have you explored the North Shore? I’d love to hear your favorite spots! Drop a comment below so we can keep adding to the bucket list!
