The North Shore is a beautiful part of Minnesota for a family vacation. From epic coastlines along Lake Superior to the many charming towns that dot Highway 61 between Duluth and Grand Portage, this part of northern Minnesota allows families to slow down, connect, and create new memories in profound ways. If you’re wondering how to plan a family trip to the North Shore, this Guide to Visiting the North Shore of Minnesota with Kids will get you started. We’ve highlighted everything from some of the best things to do on the North Shore with kids to places to eat and stay. Since the North Shore stretches about 150 miles from end to end, most sections within this article are divided among the six main areas families tend to explore along the North Shore with kids.
Please keep reading our North Shore Guide to plan the best family vacation!
What is the North Shore of Minnesota?
The North Shore of Minnesota is the stretch of shoreline along Lake Superior between Duluth and Grand Portage. Highway 61 is about 150 miles from Duluth to Grand Portage, hugging the shores of Lake Superior from end to end. As you drive along this route, you will pass through several charming towns, some of the best state parks in the state, historic sites, untouched wilderness, and much more. This undeniably beautiful part of northern Minnesota entices travelers of all ages and interests year-round. This guide to planning a family vacation to the North Shore will help you uncover all the fun things to do with kids in this area!
A Few Tips for Visiting Minnesota’s North Shore
If you’re wondering how to plan a family trip to the North Shore, there are a few tips that you should know first! Here are some things to know about traveling to the North Shore with kids before you go.
- You can quickly lose cell reception. Depending on your provider and where you are on the North Shore, you may quickly lose reception (especially on the Gunflint Trail, between Grand Marais and Grand Portage, and while hiking). Have a plan for offline maps, ways to contact help, etc.
- The weather can change quickly. Pack in layers no matter the season. The weather can vary depending on where you are in relation to the lake. Sweatshirts are the most sold summer souvenirs in Grand Marais!
- Pack seasonal protective items. Think sunscreen, sunglasses, bug spray, etc. You will still need sunscreen in the winter, especially if you plan to ski.
- Lake Superior is never warm. While you can splash along the shore, Lake Superior is never warm enough to truly swim. If your kids want a day in the water, plan to seek out one of the inland lakes or book a hotel with a pool.
Best Time of Year to Visit the North Shore
What’s the best time of year to visit the North Shore with kids? The answer depends on what you want to do on your North Shore family vacation. Generally, summer is considered the best season to visit due to its mild temperatures and seasonal offerings like mini-golf and zip-lining. Meanwhile, fall offers a stunning array of vibrant colors and cooler temperatures, which may be better for most hikers. Spring and early summer are the best season for waterfalls and blooming wildflowers. And, of course, winter is the best time of year for families who love to ski or play in the snow. With that said, many businesses and restaurants close during the winter season. This is especially true between Thanksgiving and early January. There are pros and cons to each season. The best season for your family depends on your interests and what you want to do!
Fun Cities on the North Shore
Because the North Shore of Minnesota is a stretch of road along Lake Superior, the first thing to know when planning a North Shore family vacation is which of the best cities to visit. From Duluth to Grand Portage, there are six main areas where you can center your North Shore trip with kids. Keep reading to learn more about these cities and to decide where to begin your family vacation!
Duluth
Duluth is the largest city on the North Shore, known for its iconic aerial lift bridge and Canal Park. Just over two hours from Minneapolis, it is the gateway to the rest of the North Shore. Parents seeking an urban experience for their family vacation will appreciate Duluth’s balance of kid-friendly things to do and natural beauty with all the amenities of a large city. Many of the best things to do with kids on the North Shore can be found in Duluth. The city features some of the best museums and parks on the North Shore. Plus, there is a wide range of accommodation options. This makes Duluth one of the most budget-diverse options on the North Shore, featuring everything from budget-friendly to luxury hotels.
Two Harbors
As you travel along Highway 61, Two Harbors is the next city to consider when visiting the North Shore with kids. Just shy of three hours from Minneapolis, Two Harbors is beloved for its proximity to Gooseberry State Park, charming downtown, and fun beaches. The famous Betty’s Pies and Minnesota’s Pink Beach are here. If you want a smaller city than Duluth, with all the amenities of a large town, Two Harbors is an excellent option. Its location makes it a great choice for those hoping to explore everything from Duluth to Split Rock Lighthouse. Two Harbors is the second largest town on the North Shore.
Beaver Bay + Silver Bay
Beaver Bay and Silver Bay serve as the rough mid-point of the North Shore. Just over three hours from Minneapolis, this location is ideal for those hoping to camp, hike, and explore the many outdoor spaces across Minnesota’s North Shore. While this smaller community doesn’t have as many restaurants or hotels as other parts of the North Shore, its low-key vibe appeals to families seeking a quieter, more nature-centered experience. Plus, this community still offers plenty of fun things to do on the North Shore, including Black Beach and North Shore Adventure Park.
Schroeder/Tofte/Lutsen
Schroeder, Tofte, and Lutsen are some of the most charming cities on the North Shore. Located less than four hours from Minneapolis, this part of the North Shore is perfect for families with kids who love to hike in the summer or ski in the winter. This area has many family-friendly hiking trails, wonderful restaurants, a wide range of accommodation types, and easy access to some of Lake Superior’s best beaches. Many hotels here offer epic views of Lake Superior, seasonal on-site activities, and immediate shore access.
Grand Marais
Grand Marais is the third largest city on the North Shore. Just over four hours from Minneapolis, families love Grand Marais for its historic lighthouse, dynamite restaurants, and enchanting downtown. Grand Marais was once named America’s Coolest Small Town. Plus, it features many of the best things to do on the North Shore with kids, including hikes, museums, and unique water activities like sailing and sea kayaking. Grand Marais is the best option for families looking for a quaint, small-town vibe that offers big perks.
Grand Portage
Due to its remote location, Grand Portage is an underrated city for a family vacation on the North Shore. Just under five hours from Minneapolis, Grand Portage is the last city before the Canadian border. Families interested in exploring the unique indigenous and voyageur history of the North Shore with kids will love centering their family trip in Grand Portage. Not to mention, Grand Portage offers some of the best-untouched wilderness in Minnesota, showcasing various exciting hikes for all skill levels. Finally, Grand Portage is also one of the entry points to Isle Royale National Park.
Exciting Things to Do: North Shore Guide
There are many fun things to do on the North Shore with kids. From hiking and biking to museums and historic sites, no matter what your family enjoys doing on vacation, you can find it on the North Shore of Minnesota. Divided by the same six areas listed above, here are some of the best things to do with kids on your North Shore family vacation to get you started.
Duluth Highlights
Undoubtedly, Duluth offers some of the best parks, museums, and family-friendly things to do with kids on the North Shore. With so many options, you’ll quickly see why many families choose Duluth as their home base for a fun North Shore trip with kids. Here is a snapshot of the best things to do with your kids in Duluth!
- Canal Park + the Aerial Lift Bridge: This historic part of Duluth is a fun family stop. Here, you can watch huge ships enter the port, see the lift bridge go up and down, walk along the shoreline boardwalk path, and skip rocks into the lake. Finally, you will also find many restaurants, shops, and places to stay.
- Park Point: Located just across the lift bridge from Canal Park, this sandy beach is a family favorite on warm sunny days.
- Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center: This free museum features interactive displays on Duluth’s robust shipping and maritime history.
- William A. Irvin Museum: Open seasonally, kids will love climbing aboard and exploring this ship museum!
- Vista Fleet Boat Tours: For families who want to get on the water, Vista Fleet offers several unique summer tours, from sightseeing to dining cruises.
- Enger Park: This park features a beautiful stone tower and panoramic views of Duluth and Lake Superior. It’s a great place to play or have a picnic.
- Great Lakes Aquarium: This must-see aquarium features two floors of live animal displays, hands-on interactive exhibits, and much more.
- Lake Superior Zoo: Featuring over 300 creatures, families with littles will love exploring this zoo together.
- Duluth Children’s Museum: This is a great place to play and spark your child’s imagination.
- Spirit Mountain: Offering thrilling activities in all seasons, Spirit Mountain is an action-packed destination for alpine slides in the summer and skiing in the winter.
- Glensheen Mansion: This historic estate on Lake Superior is a great place to learn about local history and tour a mansion from the 1800s.
- Lake Superior Railroad Museum: This museum features an impressive collection of historic railroad equipment and will surely delight train-lovers in your family.
Two Harbors Highlights
Two Harbors offers a variety of fun outdoor and indoor activities for kids on the North Shore. From beaches and parks to historic lighthouses, here are some of the best things to do with kids in Two Harbors to get you started.
- Gooseberry Falls State Park: One of Minnesota’s most visited state parks, Gooseberry Falls offers a variety of hiking trails for all skill levels. Kids will love seeing the five waterfalls here!
- Iona’s Beach Scientific and Natural Area: Also known as Minnesota’s Pink Beach, this unique beach is a great roadside stop for all ages. Listen carefully because the rocks sing!
- Two Harbors Light Station and Museum: Families can see the longest, continuously running lighthouse on the North Shore.
- Agate Bay Beach: Not only can you play on the rocky beach and look for agates, but this is also a great spot to watch large ships come into the dock.
- The Duluth and Iron Range Depot Museum: This historic train station and museum will delight families with local stories, history, and exhibits.
- Great Lakes Candy Kitchen: This vintage candy shop features many candy creations made by third-generation candy makers.
Beaver Bay + Silver Bay Highlights
There are many fun things to do with kids near Beaver Bay and Silver Bay on the North Shore. Here are a few things you can do in this part of the North Shore.
- Split Rock Lighthouse: One of Minnesota’s most famous and photographed lighthouses, families can explore the grounds and buildings on guided or self-guided tours. There are also many hiking and biking trails here.
- Black Beach: Families love this spot for a day in the sun or a fun picnic. Kids will marvel at the beach filled with tiny black pebbles. It’s the only black beach in Minnesota!
- Tettegouche State Park: This state park is home to many trails, including Palisade Head and Bean and Bear Lake Loop. It offers diverse trails for every skill level.
- North Shore Adventure Park: With courses for ages 3+, this thrilling adventure park offers zip-lining for all skill levels. There are five levels of difficulty, each offering multiple course options.
Schroeder/Tofte/Lutsen Highlights
Some of the best things to do on the North Shore with kids are near Schroeder, Tofte, and Lutsen! Here are our top picks for this area.
- Sugarloaf Nature Center: This center features seasonally open indoor exhibits, plus year-round kid-friendly hiking paths and a rocky beach area on Lake Superior.
- Temperance River State Park: Offers several trails, from easy to moderate. Kids will love seeing the waterfalls and dipping their toes into small pools along the river during the summer.
- Oberg Mountain: One of the best hikes in the area for epic views of Lake Superior and the surrounding wilderness. The trail is a 3-mile, moderate loop trail.
- Lutsen Mountains: Open year-round, Lutsen Mountains offers gondola rides and an alpine slide in the off-season. Meanwhile, in the winter, it’s one of the best ski resorts in the Midwest.
- Cascade River State Park: This state park is well-known for its beautiful waterfall and several hiking trails, which are ranked easy to hard. The waterfall is only about 5 minutes from the parking lot.
Grand Marais Highlights
Grand Marais undoubtedly boasts some of the top things to do with kids on the North Shore, including museums, hikes, and more. Here are a few fun things we recommend adding to your itinerary for Grand Marais!
- Historic Cook County Museum: This modest museum is located downtown and features rotating history exhibits in a 19th-century lighthouse keeper’s house.
- Devil’s Kettle in Judge Magney State Park: This beautiful state park has a double waterfall along a moderate 2.0-mile out-and-back trail.
- Artists’ Point + the Grand Marais Harbor Lighthouse: Centrally located in town, this historic harbor is famous for tossing rocks in the water, walking out to the lighthouse, and exploring the trails on Artists’ Point. This is also the best spot for sunrise and sunset in Grand Marais!
- Drury Lane Books: This charming, locally owned bookstore is an excellent stop for kids. They even offer a Children’s Story Hour from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
- Putt n Pets Mini Golf: Open from May to October, this unique 18-hole miniature golf course twists and turns through art installations and the romping grounds of goats and some feathered friends.
- Explore the Gunflint Trail: A 56-mile stretch of road from downtown Grand Marais to Saganaga Lake, the Gunflint Trail is a haven for outdoor adventure (including several hiking trails, access to the Boundary Waters, and more), remote accommodations, and wildlife spottings.
- Chik-Wauk Museum and Nature Center: Located on the Gunflint Trail, this nature center is open during the summer. It offers a fantastic, interactive museum and nearby hiking paths.
Grand Portage Highlights
Suppose your North Shore adventures take you to Grand Portage with kids. Here are a few fun things to do in that area.
- Grand Portage State Park: This no-fee state park offers some of the most accessible state park trails in Minnesota. Plus, the tallest waterfall in Minnesota is located here!
- Grand Portage National Monument: This monument preserves the history of the fur trade and Anishinaabeg Ojibwe heritage. The visitor center offers several interactive exhibits and an informational film. The grounds also feature several historic buildings and hiking trails.
- Hike Mount Josephine: This moderate, 2.5-mile out-and-back trail showcases epic views of Lake Superior and the surrounding area.
- Grand Portage Rendezvous Days: Held on the second weekend of August, this annual event features music, dancing, craft demonstrations, hands-on workshops, a large Pow Wow, and more activities celebrating local indigenous heritage and the history of the fur trade.
- Isle Royale National Park via the Isle Royale Boats: One of the least visited national parks in the United States, you can access Isle Royale from Grand Portage via ferry or seaplane.
Where to Eat on the North Shore
Now that you know more about the best things to do on the North Shore with kids, let’s dive into where to eat there. From local favorites like fresh-caught fish to kid favorites like pizza and burgers, there are plenty of family-friendly places to eat on the North Shore with kids. Again, we’ve divided the best restaurants on the North Shore by five of the areas listed above to help you plan your family trip. Please note that we have not included Grand Portage in this section as there are few restaurants outside of the casino.
Fun Restaurants in Duluth
While you explore the North Shore, Minnesota, with kids, you may wonder where to eat in Duluth. Whether you are stopping for a meal on your way up the North Shore or sticking around, here are five (of the many) family-friendly restaurants in Duluth.
- Canal Park Brewing Company: Microbrewery featuring artisanal beers & area-sourced pub food. They have a kids’ menu.
- Grandma’s Saloon & Grill: A favorite amongst locals and travelers since 1976, this is an excellent spot for food in Canal Park. They have a kids’ menu.
- Vitta Pizza: This Canal Park restaurant offers a great menu of wood-fired, Neapolitan-style pizzas. It also has a lovely summer patio and a kids’ menu.
- At Sara’s Table Chester Creek Cafe: Showcasing a farm-to-table menu with international accents, craft cocktails, and more in a quaint setting. They have a kids’ menu.
- Sir Benedicts Tavern on the Lake: A classic English-style eatery for great sandwiches and pub grub. They also have a patio during the summer and have live music throughout the year. They have a kids’ menu.
Fun Restaurants in Two Harbors
If your North Shore adventure with kids takes you to Two Harbors, here are five family-friendly restaurants that everyone will love. This is just a snapshot of the many restaurants in the area.
- Betty’s Pies: Perhaps the most iconic eatery on the North Shore, they have been serving the community since 1956. They offer homestyle pies and classic American breakfast and lunch fare.
- Do North Pizzeria: Laid-back, family-run pizza parlor with classic and specialty options.
- Madeira Bistro: Offering fresh, seasonal, locally sourced produce, house-made soups and sandwiches. They have a kids’ menu.
- Rustic Inn Cafe: Rustic American cafe in a circa-1925 cabin offers homestyle meals and pies (made from scratch!). They have a kids’ menu.
- Louise’s Place Cafe + Pantry Provisions: Featuring a variety of breakfast and lunch options, including sandwiches, wraps, and more.
Fun Restaurants in Beaver Bay + Silver Bay
This quiet part of the North Shore still offers plenty of fun places to eat with kids. Here are three great spots to get you started.
- The Big Dipper Ice Cream Shop: Seasonally open ice cream spot, including sundaes, malts, and smoothies.
- Tracks N Racks: Low-key burgers and other pub fare in a comfortable atmosphere.
- Northwoods Family Grille: Spacious, casual smokehouse serving ribs, steaks, sandwiches, and burgers. Plus, all-day breakfast!
Fun Restaurants in Schroeder/Tofte/Lutsen
If you’re looking for elevated food and grand dining rooms, Schroeder, Tofte, and Lusten restaurants offer some of the best options when exploring the North Shore with kids. They also provide some fantastic cafes too! Here are five places to get you started on your family trip.
- Coho Cafe & Bakery: Casual-chic eatery featuring pizza, homemade bread, soups and salads, and more. They are open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
- Cascade Lodge Restaurant & Pub: This cozy pub and eatery is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It offers dynamite food, including soups, sandwiches, wraps, pizza, and more. It also has a kids’ menu.
- Bluefin Grille: Sophisticated yet casual atmosphere, with beautiful views of Lake Superior for lunch and dinner. Enjoy everything from wild game meatloaf and filet mignon to burgers.
Fun Restaurants in Grand Marais
If you’re wondering where to eat on the North Shore with kids, Grand Marais offers some of the best eateries for families. Here are five family-friendly eateries in Grand Marais to get you started.
- The Fisherman’s Daughter: This restaurant offers great indoor and outdoor seating options with views of Lake Superior. It serves fresh-caught fish, chicken strips, and a creative rotating menu featuring fun eats like loaded tots.
- Angry Trout Cafe: This charming restaurant on the harbor serves local seafood paired with great views of Lake Superior. It has a kids’ menu and a summer patio, too! Plus, it is now open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
- My Sister’s Place: Rustic eatery with creative, handcrafted burgers, stone-baked pizza, sandwiches, and more for lunch and dinner. They can seat large parties, and they have a kids’ menu.
- Superior Creamery: A fantastic small-batch ice cream spot and an excellent place for lunch or dinner. The menu features handhelds, salads, shrimp, and more.
- Voyageur Brewing Company: This local brewery serves a variety of great food, including tacos, flatbread, and other small plates. It also has a kids’ menu. The large indoor seating area and patio can accommodate large groups.
Where to Stay on the North Shore
Have we convinced you to pack your bag yet? Before you hit the road, here’s where to stay on the North Shore with kids. From Duluth to Grand Portage, there are a variety of lovely hotels, resorts, and home rentals to choose from when planning a trip to the North Shore with kids. As mentioned above, we’ve divided the best places to stay on the North Shore into five areas. Please note that we have not included Grand Portage in this section as there aren’t any hotels outside of the casino. You may, however, find campgrounds or home rentals here.
Keep reading our North Shore Guide to decide which area and accommodations to make your home base for exploring this area!
Hotels & Places to Stay in Duluth
If you’re wondering where to stay on the North Shore with kids and planning to stick to Duluth, here are five family-friendly hotels to get you started. All of these hotels offer pools and great locations.
- Edgewater Hotel and Waterpark (has an indoor waterpark)
- Canal Park Lodge
- Pier B Resort Hotel
- Holiday Inn & Suites Duluth-Downtown, an IHG Hotel
- Lift Bridge Lodge, Ascend Hotel Collection
Hotels in Two Harbors
If Two Harbors will be your home base during your North Shore, Minnesota, adventures with kids, here are three hotels to help you start planning your trip. Each hotel listed includes a pool.
Places & Hotels to Stay in Beaver Bay + Silver Bay
Those planning to stay near Beaver Bay or Silver Bay during their North Shore family vacation with kids have various options. Here are a few fun options to get you started.
- Cove Point Lodge (includes a pool)
- Black Beach Inn Silver Bay (includes a pool)
- Black Beach Municipal Campground
- North Shore Camping Co. (glamping, includes 4-person tent options)
Places & Hotels to Stay in Schroeder/Tofte/Lutsen
As you plan your North Shore, Minnesota, family vacation with kids, keep these accommodations near Schroeder, Tofte, and Lutsen in mind. They are some of the best family-friendly hotels on the North Shore. Finally, almost all of these properties have a pool.
- Bluefin Bay on Lake Superior (can accommodate large families)
- Caribou Highlands Lodge (includes options that sleep up to 14; they are also a ski-in/ski-out property)
- Eagle Ridge at Lutsen Mountains (includes up to 3-bedroom condos)
- Lutsen Sea Villas
- Mountain Inn at Lutsen (no pool, but within walking distance of the runs at Lutsen Mountains)
Places & Hotels to Stay in Grand Marais
If you plan to stay in Grand Marais while exploring the North Shore with kids, here are five (of the many) top hotels in the area. These properties have fun, kid-friendly amenities like pools, beach access, lake access, and more.
- Thomsonite Inn
- East Bay Suites
- Best Western Plus Superior Inn
- Skyport Lodge & Raven Rock Grill(outside of Grand Marais on Devil Track Lake)
- Gunflint Lodge & Outfitters (outside of Grand Marais, down the Gunflint Trail on Gunflint Lake)
Keep Exploring the North Shore with Kids
This North Shore Guide provides just a taste of what it’s like to explore the North Shore with kids! From Duluth to Grand Portage, this part of Minnesota is filled with exciting things to do, beautiful scenery, friendly locals, and so much more. If you’re wondering how to plan a family trip to the North Shore, this article gives you a great place to start. Undoubtedly, there are so many fun things to do and delicious restaurants to fill your North Shore family vacation itinerary – and this just scratches the surface. Whatever you decide to do, you will create wonderful new memories with your family.
Enjoy the North Shore of Minnesota with your kids!
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Antonia Grant is a Minnesota mom + freelance writer who loves encouraging parents to find ways to connect and make memories with their kids. She’s a firm believer in providing children with experiences over things. You can find more from Antonia and her family adventures on Instagram @knead.to.roam and on her website. She shares all things family travel, outdoor adventures, and their favorite foodie finds.
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