As autumn transitions into winter on the shores of Lake Superior, holiday and snowy outdoor activities are gearing up. Downtown Duluth sparkles with seasonal cheer, and powdery snow starts to cover the surrounding mountains. Many locals and visitors welcome the snow, signaling this festive time of year to settle in by the fire with a lovely cup of cocoa and enjoy the twinkling lights out on the lake.
One of the most popular things to do in Duluth this winter is the Bentleyville “Tour of Lights.” This holiday spectacular is one of the largest free walk-through holiday light displays in the U.S. Held annually at Bayfront Festival Park, Bentleyville transforms the park into a dazzling winter wonderland with over five million lights, festive decorations, and iconic holiday displays.
Plan a Duluth vacation filled with Christmas celebrations and performances, as well as outdoor adventures and events. At the center of all the action, you’ll find a peaceful retreat at the Solglimt Bed and Breakfast. Located steps away from Canal Park on the lakefront, you’ll love the sweeping views and elegant guest rooms. Give yourself the gift of a winter getaway and create magical memories this year. Book your lodging today!
The Best Things to Do in Duluth on a Winter Getaway
The snow and cold weather open up new ways to experience the mountains and trails all around Duluth. You’ll find excellent skiing and snowboarding, as well as more adventurous outings like ice climbing, fat tire biking, or dog sledding. Also, cheer on exhilarating snowmobiling and winter events. Find your thrills in the Duluth outdoors this winter:
- Chester Bowl Park: Beginners to advanced skiers will enjoy this nearby park with almost two miles of skiing and snowboarding trails.
- Spirit Mountain: In addition to 22 runs, this 175-acre park offers fat tire biking and night-time tubing down colorfully lit trails. It also has two dedicated areas for cross-country and snowshoeing.
- Day Tripper of Duluth: Choose from many guided winter trips, from snowshoeing to cross-country skiing or fat tire biking to iceberg kayaking on Lake Superior.
- John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon: This nearly 400-mile event qualifies for the famed Iditarod race in Alaska and travels through the dramatic Sawtooth mountains. This year marks the 40th anniversary of this famed event at the end of January!
- Split Rock Lighthouse: As the most photographed location in Duluth, this lighthouse and museum takes on an even more magical quality come winter. Getting a view of this landmark is one of the most popular things to do in Duluth all year long.
Holiday Events in Duluth Not to Miss
The holidays transform downtown Duluth into a wonderland of lights, decorations, and festivities. Not to mention the amazing dance, musical, and stage performances that bring the season to life. Plan a perfect day in Duluth with a wide range of entertainment choices:
- Bentleyville Tour of Lights: Bayfront Festival Park shimmers with over five million sparkling lights in America’s largest walk-through light display.
- Duluth Winter Village: Head to the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center, where more than 40 local businesses are set up as a charming outdoor village for holiday shopping and cheer.
- Christmas Tree Train: Join a scenic 90-minute excursion along Lake Superior, which includes Christmas stories, carolers, and special guests.
- Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra: Experience a musical journey during the “Holiday Spectacular” performance, featuring beautiful songs and costumes.
- The Nutcracker at the Minnesota Ballet: A holiday tradition, this gorgeous ballet includes drama, action, magic, and a huge cast of beloved characters.
Stay at the Only Lakefront Bed and Breakfast in Duluth!
Duluth offers all the adventure, magic, and variety that make an unforgettable winter vacation. Our lakefront bed and breakfast is in the perfect location—we’re close to all the attractions and adventures but set back on our quiet garden property. It’s the perfect place to watch the holiday ships head into port, and you can even see the glow of Bentleyville’s “Tour of Lights” from our Inn.
During the holidays, we love to decorate our Duluth bed and breakfast; we deck the halls, string the lights, and set the tone for a spectacular winter getaway. Our guest rooms are cozy and warm, with throw blankets and plush linens. After a day of exploring all of the best things to do in Duluth in the cold winter’s air, you’ll love drawing a bath or steam shower to relax in the evenings.
One of the best perks of staying at our B&B is our morning breakfast service, made with care and precision. It is always served with hot coffee and sweet and savory options. Your talented innkeepers have honed their craft over many years, hosting guests from nearby and around the world. There’s no better time to start planning your winter trip; book your lodging today!
