Where to Stay in Duluth → 3 Best Areas (+ a Map)

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Aerial view of a city with a large lift bridge over a canal, surrounded by water and urban landscape. Hills and scattered clouds are visible in the background.

Duluth is a bustling port city in Minnesota, at the Southernmost tip of the impressive Lake Superior, the largest of the Great Lakes. Surrounded by green spaces and woodlands perfect for many outdoor recreational activities, this is an excellent holiday destination, so you may be wondering where to stay in Duluth.

My goal is to help you decide quickly, so I compared all the Duluth neighborhoods and selected the 3 best places to stay in Duluth, MN.

Downtown, the city’s bustling waterfront district, is the best area to stay in Duluth, MN. While staying here, you’ll get access to the top attractions, amazing restaurants, and some of the best hotels in Duluth.

In addition to highlighting the best neighborhoods for a stay in the city, I also handpicked the top hotels in each of the neighborhoods featured here. There’s something for every budget and travel preference, so I’m sure you’ll find something to your taste.

Finally, if you’re planning a visit to Duluth, hurry up and book your hotel in advance! This is a popular year-round destination, and the good hotels are quick to sell out!

Let’s start!

Quick Picks for Your Stay

Want to book immediately? Here’s a list of the best hotels in Duluth, MN, all situated Downtown:

budget hotel

HOSTEL DU NORD

Best affordable accommodation in the center

Here’s a map to help you visualize the top 3 places to stay in Duluth that I will be talking about in this post:

1. Downtown – where to stay in Duluth for the first time

A large brick city hall building with a clock tower and columns, surrounded by trees and flowerbeds under a partly cloudy sky.

Downtown Duluth (also called Duluth Waterfront) is the vibrant heart of the city… the ideal spot for any first-time visitor! Other than panoramic strolls along the lakefront, this 90-block area offers unique shopping options, delicious restaurants, and unforgettable sites to visit.

One of the most popular spots in Downtown Duluth is The St. Louis County Depot, a former train station that hosts various exhibitions and events. However, the reason why The Depot is so popular is the fact that this is a departure point for the North Shore Scenic Railroad!

If you’re visiting Duluth during the summer or autumn, a ride on the North Shore Scenic Railroad is an absolute must! This will give you a chance to ride on a historical railcar that will take you through Downtown Duluth, Canal Park, along the shore of Lake Superior and deep into the North woods – a unique way to experience the city!

NOTE: The North Shore Scenic Railroad offers several different tours, including a couple of standard tours, as well as some special excursions. All of these tours are fully narrated, so you’ll be able to learn a lot about the city’s history and culture.

Aerial view of a lakeside city with a prominent clock tower, several buildings, and roads leading toward the water.

Another must-visit in Downtown Duluth is the Lake Superior Railroad Museum, boasting a wide selection of historic railcars displayed in both indoor and outdoor exhibits.

During your stay in Downtown Duluth, you’ll also get a chance to try many different restaurants and bars, and best of all – everything’s within walking distance! However, if you want to get out of Downtown and visit some attractions that are a bit further away, you’ll need a car.

Unfortunately, Duluth doesn’t have the greatest public transportation, so I suggest either renting a car or relying on ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft.

Once you have a mode of transport, I highly suggest driving out to the Glensheen Mansion and joining a guided tour or going out to Leif Erikson Park (map) for a relaxing afternoon.

Now, let’s check out the best hotels in Downtown Duluth!

Luxury hotel

Pier B Resort

Featuring the only waterfront restaurant in Duluth, this beautiful 5-star hotel offers guests direct access to Duluth’s marina and the best attractions in the city center. Here, you can use the business center and the spacious outdoor event space or relax in the outdoor hot tub with amazing views of Lake Superior!

Other accommodation options in Downtown

Mid-Range

Fitger’s Inn

Offering massages and space services, this hotel also provides free self-parking and a free airport shuttle

Budget

Hostel du Nord

This cozy hostel is the cheapest option for staying Downtown, featuring an outdoor picnic area and an indoor sauna

Airbnb

Condo

Offering stunning views of Lake Superior, this condo is comfortably furnished and provides private access to a rooftop deck

Things to do in Downtown

Explore the exhibitions at The St. Louis County Depot
Embark on an unforgettable ride on the North Shore Scenic Railroad
Admire the historic railcars at the Lake Superior Railroad Museum
Go on a tour of the Glensheen Mansion
Spend a relaxing afternoon at Leif Erikson Park
Try your luck at the Fond-du-Luth Casino (map)

2. Canal Park – best area to stay in Duluth, MN, with family

People walking on a pier leading to a lighthouse by the sea, under a partly cloudy sky, with streetlights lining the path.

Canal Park is a lively neighborhood situated just a 15-min walk South of Downtown Duluth. Being nestled directly on Lake Superior’s shore, the neighborhood offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, as well as many cool attractions, making it the best place to stay in Duluth, MN, when traveling with family.

The most notable landmark in Canal Park is the Aerial Lift Bridge (map), an imposing steel bridge that lifts to let large ships pass into the harbor. The bridge also connects Canal Park with Park Point (map), a laid-back neighborhood that’s actually situated on a man-made island.

Park Point is the ultimate destination if you want to take the kids on a day trip but not somewhere too far. You can spend the day exploring the Park Point Recreation Area (map) or hit the beach and try some cool water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding on the lake.

Now, back to Canal Park and all it has to offer! If you’re traveling with kids, you cannot miss the Great Lakes Aquarium, housing many different species of fish, reptiles, and birds. And if you need to do some shopping or just want a quick bite to eat, you definitely need to visit the DeWitt–Seitz Marketplace (map).

A large ship passes under a raised lift bridge as people stand nearby on a grassy area with benches.

The Bayfront Festival Park (map) is the best place to spend a day outdoors! Located on the shores of Lake Superior, the park hosts many events and festivals and provides the best views of the Aerial Lift Bridge!

Even though Canal Park is super close to the Downtown area, if you’re on a family trip, I highly recommend renting a car so you can take the kids to some cool spots a bit further away.

My first recommendation is getting a day pass to the Edgewater Hotel and Waterpark, where the kids will have plenty of fun on the water slides and playing in the arcade. I’d also recommend a visit to the Duluth Children’s Museum, offering plenty of interactive exhibitions.

Last but definitely not least, you need to put a few hours aside and enjoy a long walk along the Lakewalk (map). This lakefront promenade offers the most stunning views of the lake and easy access to many restaurants and cafes – the ideal combo for a special day!

Luxury hotel

Lift Bridge Lodge

Even though this is a 3-star hotel, it’s a great option if you want access to more upscale amenities. The hotel features comfortable family rooms, a hot tub, and a heated indoor pool. It also provides a free hot breakfast, high-speed Wi-Fi access, and free parking.

Other accommodation in Canal Park

Mid-Range

Canal Park Lodge

Situated on the shore of Lake Superior, the hotel offers a daily hot breakfast and access to a hot tub

Budget

The Inn on Lake Superior

An affordable hotel with a pool, a 24-hour gym, and a sauna, plus free bike rentals and complimentary breakfast

Airbnb

Driftwood Cottage

Historic, beautifully decorated cottage featuring a room with a queen-sized bed, a small kitchen, and a dining table

Things to do in Canal Park

Have a fun day with the kids at the Great Lakes Aquarium
Spend the day exploring the Park Point Recreation Area and lounging on the beach
Admire the lake and the Aerial Lift Bridge from the Bayfront Festival Park
See what’s on the schedule at the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center
Take the kids on some water adventures at the Edgewater Hotel and Waterpark
Let the little ones explore the Duluth Children’s Museum
Enjoy a delicious meal at Grandma’s Saloon & Grill (map)
Go on a relaxing walk along the Lakewalk

3. Duluth Heights – where to stay near the airport

Aerial view of a coastal city with buildings, roads, and a large body of water in the background, bordered by dense green forest.

If you’re in Duluth for a quick stop or you want to catch your next flight without the stress of being too far from the airport, Duluth Heights is the ultimate place to stay. This quiet residential neighborhood is located a 15-min drive Northwest of Downtown Duluth and checks all the boxes for a relaxing stay.

One of the best ways to spend your time in Duluth Heights is by doing some shopping! The Miller Hill Mall (map) hosts all the main brand stores, as well as quite a few eateries that are a great choice for a quick and affordable meal.

If you prefer to spend time outdoors, there’s no better place for it than Enger Park (map)! The park features many walking paths, a Japanese garden, and the Enger Tower – you can go up to the top floor of the tower for incredible panoramic views over the city.

The park also hosts a golf course – the Enger Park Golf Course (map) is a great spot to spend a relaxing afternoon while practicing your swing.

Finally, if you want to enjoy a delicious meal, you don’t have to drive all the way Downtown! Duluth Heights has a good selection of restaurants – I particularly recommend the Texas Roadhouse (map) for a delicious steak and Bridgeman’s (map) for its vintage atmosphere and top-notch ice cream.

The airport is just a 10-min drive from Duluth Heights, so you can drive or take an Uber. However, if you want to keep exploring, I recommend making the 15-min drive to the Hartley Nature Center (map). Here, you can spend the day hiking, cycling, fishing, and even skiing in winter, so it’s the perfect spot for all the outdoor enthusiasts.

Let’s take a look at the best accommodations in Duluth Heights!

Luxury hotel

Fairfield by Marriott

This top-rated hotel boasts an indoor pool and a gym and also provides access to business facilities and a 24-hour front desk. Guests can also benefit from free parking and Wi-Fi, plus a delicious complimentary breakfast.

Other accommodation options in Duluth Heights

Mid-Range

Residence Inn Duluth

Each of the suites at this hotel features a kitchen, a dining area, a living room, and a satellite TV

Budget

AmericInn by Wyndham

A budget-friendly hotel offering access to an indoor pool, free parking, and a free hot breakfast

Airbnb

Up Stairs Getaway

This private suite has a king-sized bed, a dedicated bath, coffee-making facilities, and a private deck

Things to do in Duluth Heights

Hit the shops at the Miller Hill Mall
Go for a walk in Enger Park and go up to the top of Enger Tower to enjoy the view
Book a tee time at the Enger Park Golf Course
Embark on a helicopter tour over Duluth and Lake Superior
Enjoy a delicious dinner at the Texas Roadhouse and dessert at Bridgeman’s
Spend an active day outdoors at the Hartley Nature Center

👑 Luxury price:	US$250
💵 Mid-Range:	US$200
🛏️ Budget:	US$130
📍 Best area:	Downtown Duluth
🛎️ Best luxury hotel:	Pier B Resort
🧳 Best mid-range hotel:	Fitger’s Inn
👛 Best budget hotel:	Hostel du Nord

BONUS: Best cabins in Duluth, MN

Backyard scene with a lit pathway, string lights above, a wooden sauna on the left, and a deck on the right at dusk.

Have you considered renting a cabin for your holiday to really get into the outdoor spirit? Cabin rentals offer a tranquil atmosphere that you don’t always find in hotels. Hidden away from busy roads and highways, these accommodations will ensure peaceful nights of sleep with no noise except the pleasant sounds of nature and wildlife.

If that sounds like the perfect holiday for you, take a look at the top cabins in Duluth for a relaxing and peaceful stay – featured below! But if you want to see some more awesome options, check out our full guide on the ultimate Duluth cabin rentals.

Modern Outdoor Oasis – bright, modern home with all the amenities for a great getaway. Immerse yourself in the outdoor hot tub and enjoy the natural surroundings in a quiet country setting
Hillside Home – within walking distance of Lake Superior, this quaint wooden house features 3 bedrooms, a spacious and functional kitchen, and a yard with BBQ facilities and an outdoor dining area
Off Grid Cabin – Unique cedar log cabin where you can enjoy a steamy wood-fired sauna before snuggling into your comfortable bed. In the evenings, you can relax on the sofa in front of the indoor fireplace
Enjoy Duluth’s Best Trails – this modern and cozy cabin has 3 bedrooms and can accommodate up to 6 people. It also has a lovely patio where you can sip your coffee and enjoy the surrounding nature

BONUS 2: Where to stay near Spirit Mountain

Person snowboarding off a jump with a clear blue sky and trees in the background.

Spirit Mountain is a popular skiing area in Duluth, which also hosts a cool adventure park, making it a desirable destination all year round. So, if your main reason for visiting Duluth is enjoying Spirit Mountain, you’ll probably want to stay somewhere nearby.

Below, you’ll find my top picks for staying near Spirit Mountain – they’re all great choices, but keep in mind that they are all in the budget category. So, if you want to enjoy some luxurious amenities on your Duluth trip, you’ll have to stay Downtown and make a longer drive to the mountain.

Let’s find you a hotel in Duluth near Spirit Mountain:

AmericInn by Wyndham Duluth South Proctor – just a short drive away from Spirit Mountain, this hotel features an indoor swimming pool, a restaurant, and a bar, plus free parking
The Willard Munger Inn – a quaint inn situated just an 8-min drive away from Spirit Mountain, offering guests ski-in/ski-out access, free bicycle rentals, and a children’s playground
Duluth Inn & Suites Near Spirit Mountain – within walking distance of Spirit Mountain, this hotel boasts an indoor pool, a hot tub, and a fitness center, and it also offers a complimentary daily breakfast
Americas Best Value Inn – this budget-friendly hotel is within walking distance of Spirit Mountain and offers an indoor heated pool, free Wi-Fi, and a continental breakfast free of charge

TIP: While staying in this area, don’t miss a chance to visit the Lake Superior Zoo; it’s just a 10-min ride from Spirit Mountain and houses over 300 different animal species.

FAQs about where to stay in Duluth

A large lift bridge over a clear blue sky is seen next to two restaurants with outdoor seating.

💯 Is Duluth worth visiting?

Yes, Duluth is an excellent place to visit at any time of the year. Situated on the shore of Lake Superior, Duluth offers stunning views of the water, many opportunities for water sports and outdoor activities, and cool museums and great restaurants.

🏙️ Where to stay in Duluth, MN?

If you’re a first-time visitor, the best place to stay is Duluth Downtown, the bustling city center with its cool museums and amazing hotels, such as the luxurious Pier B Resort and the more affordable Fitger’s Inn.

✈️ Which is the best place to stay in Duluth near the airport?

👪 Where to stay in Duluth with the family?

Canal Park is the best area to stay in Duluth for families. The area offers easy access to green spaces, the beach, and family-friendly attractions like the Great Lakes Aquarium. The top hotels in the area are the Lift Bridge Lodge and the Canal Park Lodge.

⛰️ Where to stay in Duluth for outdoors?

The ultimate places to stay in Duluth, MN, to enjoy nature and outdoor activities are cabin rentals. You can book either this Hillside Home or the more upscale and contemporary Modern Outdoor Oasis.

🚶‍♀️What are the best things to do in Duluth, MN?

The best things to do in Duluth, Minnesota, are taking a ride on the North Shore Scenic Railroad, exploring the Lake Superior Railroad Museum, relaxing in Bayfront Festival Park and admiring the Aerial Lift Bridge, as well as visiting the Great Lakes Aquarium.

Final words on the best places to stay in Duluth, MN

Night view of a lit-up bridge over a calm body of water, with a cityscape in the background and light reflecting on the water's surface.

We made it to the end of this guide on where to stay in Duluth! Hopefully, now you will have a better idea of the top places to stay in Duluth, MN, so you can figure out which one is the best fit for you.

However, if you still have a tough time deciding on lodging in Duluth, MN, here are my 2 favorite hotels in Downtown Duluth:

Pier B Resort – a 5-star hotel with a fitness room, indoor pool, and 2 on-site restaurants
Fitger’s Inn – centrally located hotel with an on-site nightclub and coffee shop, offering free airport transfers

Don’t forget that these are the best hotels in Duluth, so make sure you book them far in advance to secure a spot and get the best deal!

If you have any questions about Duluth or the places to stay, feel free to leave me a comment – I’ll get back to you ASAP!

Have a good trip,

Hristina

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