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Thoughts of warm summer vacations spent relaxing on a sunny beach will drive away any lingering winter blues you may be feeling. Those precious summer days will be here before you know it. Now’s the time to plan your summer getaway to our idyllic waterfront location. Duluth was recently picked as one of the “7 Wonderful Beach Cities In The US” by MostInside.com. To quote the article, “The city of Duluth has so much to offer beach enthusiasts such that a single visit here will not be enough.” They also consider Park Point Beach a “must” when visiting Duluth. We at the Solglimt Bed and Breakfast couldn’t agree more. Our welcoming Victorian cottage is located on the water’s edge of Park Point. Guests here enjoy breathtaking 360 degree views of Lake Superior and St. Louis Bay from our porch and rooftop deck. In addition to wonderful views and beach access, Canal Park shops and restaurants are just two blocks away. Our reservation calendar fills up quickly, so book your summer getaway with us today.
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This entry was posted in: Duluth Summer Vacation and tagged All Pints North Summer Brew Fest, Bayfront Blues Festival, Canal Park, Chester Park, Congdon Park, Duluth Air Show, Grandma's Marathon, Hartley Park, Hawk Ridge, Lakewalk, Lester Park, Lincoln Park, Park Point, Park Point Art Fair, Positive Energy Outdoor, The Duluth Experience
Begin 2019 with a romantic escape to Duluth this February. Break free from all your daily stressors, and take the time for each other on a quick getaway. Rekindle your passion at our secluded, lakefront Inn on the shores of Lake Superior, while also enjoying easy access to all the city and its outdoor recreation. Spend the days exploring Canal Park and downtown Duluth, or the miles of skiing trails, many just minutes away. Enjoy evenings at a play, musical, or concert, then finish the night with a delicious dinner before sinking into the restful accommodations. Everything is just steps away when staying at the Solglimt Bed and Breakfast. Couples love our stunning water views, generous suites, and full gourmet breakfasts. Give yourself and your loved one the gift of an adventure together. Book your romantic vacation today. Continue reading →
This entry was posted in: Romantic Duluth and tagged At Sara’s Table, Bellisio’s Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar, Brewery and Grille, Canal Park, Canal Park Brewing Company, Chester Bowl Park, Duluth Entertainment Convention Center, Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra, Endion Station Public House, Fitgers Brewhouse, Glensheen Mansion, Hanabi Japanese Cuisine, Lake Avenue Restaurant and Bar, Lake Superior, Pickwick Restaurant & Pub, Red Herring Lounge, Sir Benedict’s Tavern On the Lake, Spirit Mountain, The Duluth Playhouse, The Rathskeller, The Scenic Café, Va Bene Caffe, Zeitgeist Arts
Cross-country ski lovers will find their paradise this winter in Duluth. The hundreds of kilometers of hiking trails are now perfectly groomed skiing paths. While gliding through deep forests, over hillsides and along streams, you’ll forget you’re only minutes from downtown. After losing yourself in a snowy wonderland of local parks and trail systems, refuel at the many great restaurants, coffeehouses or pubs. Visitors will never run out of trails to explore, views to experience and new challenges to conquer. In the middle of all the activities find the Solglimt Bed and Breakfast. We have a central location that also offers a tranquil setting with wonderful views of Lake Superior. Our gourmet breakfasts, along with our custom coffee blend will have you ready for another day skiing. Book your cross-country ski getaway with us today and discover Duluth adventures this winter.
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This entry was posted in: Duluth Cross-Country Skiing and tagged Chester Park, Continental Ski & Bike, Great Minnesota Ski Pass, Hartley Nature Center, Lester-Amity Ski Trail, Magney-Snively Trail, Piedmont Trail, SkiHut, Skinny Ski, Snowflake Nordic Center, Spirit Mountain Nordic
As autumn transitions into winter on the shores of Lake Superior the holiday and snowy outdoor activities are gearing up. Downtown Duluth sparkles with seasonal cheer, while powdery snow covers the surrounding mountains. Plan a Duluth vacation filled with Christmas celebrations and performances, in addition to outdoor adventures and events. At the center of all the action find a peaceful retreat at the Solglimt Bed and Breakfast. Located right in Canal Park, with sweeping lakefront views and elegant guest rooms. Give yourself the gift of a winter getaway and create magical memories.
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This entry was posted in: Duluth Winter and tagged AMSOIL Snocross National, Bentleyville Tour of Lights, Chester Bowl Park, Christmas City Express, Day Trippers of Duluth, Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra, Duluth Winter Village, Fitger’s, Glensheen Mansion, It’s a Wonderful Life, John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon, Minnesota Ballet, NorShor Theatres, Positive Energy Outdoors, Santaland Diaries, Spirit Mountain, The Nutcracker, Underground Theatre
The Bentleyville Tour of Lights known as America’s largest walk through light show, is a beloved tradition in Duluth. Thousands of locals and visitors stroll the amazing displays each year that include over 5 million sparkling lights. Held at the 20-acre Bayfront Festival Park along the shores of beautiful Lake Superior, it’s a magical way to celebrate the holidays. Santa and Mrs. Claus parachute into the park on opening night, November 17th, and the season wraps up with a spectacular fireworks display on December 26th. This enchanting event is completely free and great for everyone. Nearby in Canal Park, find the tranquil Solglimt Bed and Breakfast. Our lovely lakefront location is just a short walk to the Bentleyville Tour of Lights and close to great restaurants along with the best shopping. Check the Bentleyville “Crowd-O-Meter” and plan your festive getaway at our charming Duluth inn during this joyful time.
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The glorious fall season has begun to paint the Duluth landscape with its vibrant colors. The parks, mountains and forests are transformed into a wonderland of fiery reds, oranges and yellows. In addition to hiking, there are many ways to explore the autumn beauty. Stroll the gardens of a historic mansion, drive a scenic highway or watch the countryside roll by on a relaxing train ride. After your adventures, return to the serene Solglimt Bed and Breakfast location overlooking Lake Superior. Our lovely inn offers visitors a gourmet breakfast, with wonderful lakefront views and elegant guest rooms. Book your fall getaway with us today and catch the peak autumn colors.
3 Great Ways to Enjoy Fall Colors
As Duluth dons its fall colors, visitors and locals alike rush outdoors to witness the splendor. Many choose the wonderful hiking and biking trails, while others opt for a winding drive through the landscape or a day long train excursion. All are great ways to see the landscape bursting with the hues of autumn.
Duluth hiking trails are always beautiful but they are at their most magical during fall. Right outside our door find the lovely Lakewalk 
along the shores of Lake Superior. This paved pedestrian and bike trail leads to the picturesque Rose Garden and Leif Erikson parks. However be sure to make time to explore the charming gardens at the Glensheen Mansion. Another nearby trail is the one at Sandy Park Point and has breathtaking 360 degree views of Lake Superior. For more great views also explore Enger Park, and climb the five story Enger Tower for beautiful panoramic views. For a short hike walk the Lester Park Trail, a gentle wooded trail with views of the lovely Lester River. While experienced hikers can challenge themselves on the Superior Hiking Trail.
To get a grander view of the scenery around Duluth consider a day
driving one of the two scenic highways. The Duluth Skyline Parkway has stunning lake views and amazing trails to explore. Begin your journey at Enger Park then stop at Chester Park and the Hawk Ridge Nature Reserve. The charming extension called “The Seven Bridges Road” is worth the extra time. The North Shore Drive hugs cliffs and beaches providing stunning views of Lake Superior. Popular stops on the route include the enchanting Gooseberry Falls, Iona’s Beach, and Split Rock Lighthouse.
For an all day fall excursion book a North Shore Fall Color Train Tours along Lake Superior on the North Shore Scenic Railroad. This 6 hour tour invites guest to relax as they travel to historic towns and watch the fall scenery go by. The trip includes a two hour stop in Two Harbors to stretch your legs and get a bite to eat. It’s a wonderful carefree way to spend the day.
The intense color of the season is fleeting, and that’s what makes it so special. Visit Duluth before the brilliant colors begin to fade. Reserve your room today at the Solglimt B&B for a tranquil autumn vacation.
This entry was posted in: Duluth Fall Foliage and tagged Chester Park, Duluth Skyline Parkway, Enger Park, Enger Tower, Glensheen Mansion, Gooseberry Falls, Hawk Ridge Nature Reserve, Iona's Beach, Lakewalk, Leif Erikson, Lester Park Trail, Lester River, North Shore Drive, North Shore Scenic Railroad, Rose Garden, Sandy Park Point, Split Rock Lighthouse, Two Harbors
The September festivals in Duluth offer something for all interests. September is a great time to visit Duluth, while the weather is still beautiful and parks less crowded. Enjoy fun events at the Bayfront Festival Park located on the shores of Lake Superior. Float up into blue skies during the balloon festival or dance the night away under the Aerial Lift Bridge. In addition, festival goers are treated to a choice of great food, craft beer, arts and entertainment. Make the Solglimt Bed and Breakfast your quiet retreat after a day of festivities. Located in Canal Park, our charming Inn is only a short walk to Bayfront Park. Our guests are treated to gourmet breakfasts, perfectly appointed rooms, and multiple decks with stunning Lake Superior and St. Louis Bay views. Book your getaway at the Solglimt and experience Duluth’s September festivals. Continue reading →
Duluth has endless choices of great hikes in its forests, mountains and stunning shoreline. However, one of the most unique and surprising hikes at the end of Park Point. Just beyond the vibrant Canal Park shops and restaurants, a hidden oasis stretches far into Lake Superior. The Park Point Trail includes miles of beach and forest paths through old growth pines. It’s a wonderful place to escape the crowds, spot some wildlife and enjoy endless views of the water and the Duluth skyline. Guests at the Solglimt Bed and Breakfast appreciate the convenient access to Canal Park and being close to downtown Duluth. While also loving the quiet waterfront location with beautiful views from our many porches and decks. Book your stay with us before summer slips away and take advantage of the best vacation location in Duluth.
Park Point Hike Details
Visitors get both a forest and a beach hike on this 4 mile round trip trail. Located on the a thin stretch of land between Lake Superior and Duluth Harbor it offers special views not found anywhere else. Early birds love to hike out to the beach, coffee in hand, and admire the sunrise over the water. Watch float planes land in the bay, photograph Duluth’s city skyline, and wave 
to boats entering the harbor.
Since the area has been protected the trail has many amazing old growth pines. Keep an eye out for the herd of white tailed deer that make their home in this forest sanctuary. The red and white pines are also home to many majestic raptors including Merlin falcons. The sandy beach section of the trail also offers great bird watching. Many shore birds run along the beach and nest in the wildflower covered dunes. A variety of songbirds can be seen perching in the trees that border the grassy patches.
This hike even has some history complete with ruins to explore. Check out the brick ruins of Lake Superior’s first lighthouse built in 1858. There’s also an abandoned US Army Corps of Engineers boat house and remnants of settlers cabins.
When our guests are looking for a peaceful hike we’re pleased to direct them to this lovely, nearby trail. Not many hikes have dunes, ancient pines, grassy meadows, all with stunning water views and we’re lucky to have one just minutes from our door. Reserve your room at our tranquil retreat on the shores of Lake Superior and discover the hidden treasures in Park Point.
Canal Park has everything for a relaxing and fun summer day in Duluth. This converted warehouse district offers great restaurants, eclectic shops, museums, and fantastic views of Lake Superior. Find iconic Duluth landmarks here such as the Aerial Lift Bridge and the Duluth North Pier Lighthouse. Spend the day discovering local history at the Lake Superior Marine Museum or catch a show at the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center. Or just enjoy a sunny summer day walking along the shoreline on the scenic Lakewalk path. And the beautiful Solglimt Bed and Breakfast is found within this diverse and charming neighborhood. Enjoy our gourmet breakfasts each morning with stunning lake views, after a perfect night’s rest in our luxury guest rooms. Book your summer getaway with us for a restful, restorative vacation just steps away from the best neighborhood in Duluth. Continue reading →
This entry was posted in: Duluth Canal Park and tagged Aerial Bridge, Bellisio’s Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar, Canal Park, Canal Park Brewing Company, Canal Park Drive, Cloud 9 Asian Bistro, DECC, Dewitt-Seitz Marketplace, Duluth Entertainment Convention Center, Duluth North Pier Lighthouse, Grandma's Saloon & Grill, Lake Avenue Restaurant and Bar, Lake Superior, Lake Superior Marine Museum, Lakewalk, Little Angie's Cantina
Grand ships from around the world glide into Lake Superior Harbor during the summer months. Watching them pass under the impressive Duluth Aerial Lift Bridge in Canal Park cannot be missed when visiting this summer. These behemoths sail through the bridge canal and are awesome to witness. Experienced ship watchers consult harbor schedules before waiting under the bridge for the vessels to appear on the horizon. It’s quite a show with the ships and bridge operators greeting each other with blaring bells and horns. And first time viewers will be amazed at the sheer size of the crafts. The peak ship watching season continues through summer, already a great time of year to visit Duluth. The Solglimt Bed and Breakfast, located right in Canal Park, has great Lake Superior views and easy walking access to the Aerial Lift Bridge. Find the best of comfort and luxury in our beautiful guest rooms, lovely gardens and multiple decks with amazing views. Book your getaway today and start enjoying all the summer fun in Duluth.
Ship Watching for Beginners
Over 1,000 ships visit Duluth every year and the summer months are the most active. However, don’t count on just catching one coming through the canal. Planning ahead makes a more successful and relaxed viewing. There is a new service from the Duluth Maritime Museum, call Harbor Lookout, which provides ship schedules, cargo information and country of origin. Now, our guests can schedule their day around a boat arrival through the canal. When you’re ready to watch these graceful boats pull into the harbor, head down to the Canal Park Neighborhood where the Aerial Lift Bridge is located. Leave yourselves plenty of time to catch the impressive ships coming into the harbor.
By far the Duluth Aerial Lift Bridge has the best, close up views of the cargo vessels pulling into the canal. The ships are amazing but watching the huge counterweights raise the 900-ton span of bridge is quite impressive as well. When completely raised the bridge opens up to a clearance of 180 feet. This 100 year old engineering marvel was completed in 1905, and entered in the National Register of Historic Places in 1973. And during the busy summer months it’s lifted an average of 26 times a day.
Ship Types and History
The two distinct types of ships that visit the port are named “Lakers” and “Salties.” 90% of the traffic comes from visiting “Lakers,” cargo carriers built for sailing the Great Lakes. They supply the Great Lakes St. Lawrence Seaway with bulk commodities 
such as iron ore, coal, and stone. These ships can be up to 1,000 feet long and carry up to 70,000 tons. While the “Salties” are a maximum size of 740 feet and regularly travel the 2,342-miles from the Atlantic Ocean to Duluth-Superior.
Learn more about shipping history and get a close up look at one of these magnificent ships while touring The William A. Irvin. This preserved ship, permanently docked in the Duluth harbor, offers tours that transport you back in time. From 1938 until 1975 it was the flagship of the US Steel Great Lakes fleet. It carried tons of iron ore and coal while braving treacherous storms. Visit the pristine historic ship in the heart of Canal Park and discover its rich history. Also learn more about Duluth’s shipping history at the Lake Superior Marine Museum.
These awe inspiring leviathans are a wonder to see with your own eyes. And that’s why tourists and locals alike gather under the Aerial Lift Bridge to observe their arrival. With their immense size, booming horns and soaking waves, the experience engages all the senses. Add witnessing this piece of living history and local pride to your summer visit to Duluth. Reserve your room at the Solglimt Bed and Breakfast today before summer slips away!
