15 Best Places to Lodge in Duluth, MN in 2024 (By a Former Duluthian)
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LOOKING FOR THE BEST PLACES TO LODGE IN DULUTH, MN?
Are you planning a trip to Duluth and wondering what some of the best places to lodge are? I’ve got you covered! After spending three years living in Duluth as a college student, I’ve scoped out many of these spots and done a ton of research to ensure that I’m recommending only the absolute best places to stay!
In a hurry? Here is what we recommend:
Best Places to Lodge in Duluth, MN: An Overview
Duluth, Minnesota is a fantastic place to visit and there are plenty of great places to lodge! This post goes over fifteen top-rated and most recommended accommodations within Duluth. We’ve come up with the best three options, categorized into these locations: Canal Park, Downtown, on Lake Superior, by the Duluth Mall, and in West Duluth!
15 Best Places to Lodge in Duluth, MN
Duluth is one of my favorite cities in Minnesota. Downtown is full of fun attractions, yummy restaurants, and live entertainment. Canal Park and Park Point have fantastic views of Lake Superior with plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities at your fingertips. No matter where you lodge in Duluth, you’re in for a great visit!
Are You Prepared For Your Trip?
Lodging in Canal Park
Canal Park is a great place to stay any time of year. It’s known for its fun attractions, beautiful walking path, and 1900 aerial lift bridge (which is spectacular but can be annoying if you get stuck waiting for it!). If you’re looking for a place to lodge in Duluth amid all things happening, you’ll want to look for accommodations in Canal Park!
South Pier Inn
Starting strong, we have the South Pier Inn. This inn is right next to the aerial lift bridge, which is fantastic for watching the bridge lift for the ships entering the harbor basin! It’s within walking distance to great attractions, including a fun strip of bars and restaurants and the Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center. It’s one of the best places to lodge in Duluth, MN on the waterfront because it provides excellent views of Lake Superior!
South Pier Inn has exceptional reviews and is rated highly for its cleanliness, hospitality, and comfort. They offer free parking on-site, continental breakfast, a gift shop, a library, and fun games for the family! It’s also located on a nature preserve with direct beach access and features a terrace, picnic area, and garden.
Check prices at South Pier Inn Here!
Park Point Marina Inn
The Park Point Marina Inn is one of the absolute best places to lodge in Duluth, MN on the beach, on the other side of the aerial lift bridge! Park Point is a long, skinny, and tranquil stretch of land on Lake Superior. It’s conveniently four blocks from Canal Park, fifty feet from the shoreline, and one block from the beautiful Park Point beach!
This resort is a perfect option for those looking to be close to Canal Park while staying somewhere a little more tranquil. This hotel is rated exceptionally for its cleanliness, hospitality, and comfortable beds. They offer a free buffet on the weekdays, a free local shuttle heading into Canal Park, and beach access nearby.
Book your stay at Park Point Marina Inn Here!
Canal Park Lodge
Our last (but certainly not least) recommended accommodation option in Canal Park is the Canal Park Lodge. Canal Park Lodge is more inland than the other two options, which makes it a prime location for the Great Lakes Aquarium, the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center, and Downtown. It’s also within walking distance from Caribou Coffee, a coffee lover right of passage in Minnesota (it originated here in 1992!).
Once again, this lodge is rated exceptional for its cleanliness, hospitality, and comfortable beds (hmm… I see Duluth accommodations have a pattern here!). The lodge also includes an indoor pool, a continental breakfast daily, free on-site parking, and a 24-hour gym. If you’re visiting during the warmer months, you can enjoy their outdoor firepit and terrace!
Read Reviews of the Canal Park Lodge Here!
Things To Do In Canal Park
Now that you know where you want to stay, check out some fun things you can do in Canal Park!
Lodging Downtown
Downtown Duluth is another phenomenal place to stay while visiting because it’s in the heart of the area’s best attractions. It’s a 90-block area with fantastic dining, shopping, and entertainment options for everybody. The city center is home to Duluth Depot – a late 1800s train station that now hosts fantastic entertainment spaces and art and history exhibits!
Pier B Resort
If you plan on visiting Duluth in the summertime, you should definitely look into staying at the Pier B Resort. The Bayfront Festival Park, where fun concerts and events happen in the summer, is only a three-minute walk from this resort! It is next to Silos Restaurant, so if you want to grab a bite to eat, you have a great outdoor dining option right at your fingertips!
Pier B Resort is rated highly for its hospitality, comfortable rooms, and resort conditions. This resort is rated highly for being in the top 10% of best staff and service in the Duluth area! Other benefits of staying here include a free airport shuttle upon request, free parking on-site, a cooked-to-order breakfast (for a fee), free bicycle rentals, an indoor pool, spa tub, and bar and lounge.
Book your stay at Pier B Resort Here!
Fitgers Inn
Fitgers Inn is a 4-star hotel in Duluth, MN, connected to a shopping center downtown. It’s an ideal place for foodies since it’s near some great pubs and the infamous Portland Malt Shoppe! Fitgers Inn is a unique accommodation in Duluth for its vintage decor and fun furniture patterns!
Like Pier B Resort, Fitgers was also ranked in the top 10% for staff and service in Duluth and is additionally rated exceptionally for its comfortable rooms and quality property conditions. It’s within walking distance to the lakewalk and the casino and features spa and massage services! Fitgers has a restaurant, bar, coffee shop/cafe, a free airport and surrounding area shuttle upon request, free on-site parking, and breakfast made-to-order (with a fee).
Check prices at Fitgers Inn Here!
Radisson Hotel Duluth Harborview
The Radisson Inn is another popular place to stay in Duluth, known for its circular, tall design and rotating fine dining restaurant on the top floor. It’s within walking distance of the North Shore Scenic Railroad, the Lake Superior Railroad Museum, the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center, and Bayfront Festival Park. It’s also within walking distance of Canal Park, great restaurants, and eateries!
While the Radisson Hotel doesn’t rate as highly as the other accommodations listed above, visitors enjoy it for its prime location, affordable price, and the Harbor 360 restaurant on top. It offers covered parking on-site for cars (RVs, trucks, and buses inquire a fee to park), an indoor pool, sauna, and hot tub, a full breakfast on the weekends for a fee, and bicycle rentals nearby.
Read reviews for the Radisson Hotel Here!
Things To Do Downtown
Downtown Duluth is where most of the commotion happens. Let’s check out some of the area’s most famous attractions below!
Lodging On Lake Superior
If you’re looking for something on the water, close to nature, and more secluded and quiet, check out accommodations on Lake Superior! The best part is they are still within driving distance of all the area’s attractions. As you drive up the North Shore, you’ll find dainty places to stay that provide a relaxing yet affordable vacation in Duluth, Minnesota. Let’s dive into three popular options!
Beacon Point Resort
The Beacon Pointe Resort on Lake Superior is a cozy lakefront property near the historic Glensheen Mansion Estate! It’s a comfortable getaway, especially for smaller groups that want something relaxing near the area’s attractions. If you’re a parent or relative visiting a college student at UMD, it’s at the bottom of the hill, only a three-minute drive away.
Beacon Point Resort ranks in the top 10% of staff, service, AND cleanliness in the Duluth area. Travelers enjoy it for its comfortable rooms and lake views from the terrace. The resort also offers free bicycle rentals, an indoor pool, sauna, hot tub, fire pit, and outdoor grill!
Book your stay at the Beacon Point Resort Here!
The Inn on Gitche Gumee
The Inn on Gitche Gumee is a one-of-a-kind hotel on Lake Superior that provides rustic, log-cabin-like vibes to its visitors! In addition to their hotel, they offer short-term cabin rentals for visitors looking for a romantic place to lodge in Duluth, MN. It’s on the North Shore off Congdon Road and next to the beautiful Brighton Beach.
The Inn on Gitchee Gumee is rated highly among visitors and provides visitors with a cozy, relaxing environment. Each room has nature decor and woodwork that is unique to the area. With eight different accommodation options/suites located on the North Shore, you’ll be sure to feel right at home at the Inn on Gitchee Gumee!
Dodges Log Lodges
Another fantastic rustic accommodation option on the lakefront is Dodges Log Lodges (what a catchy name, am I right!?). These log cabins are nestled right on the rocks of Lake Superior and feature wooden decks to enjoy spectacular lake views with your morning coffee! Visitors can choose between the lodge or one of four log cabins on the North Shore.
If you’re looking for an accommodation option in Duluth that is more geared towards being near and dear to the outdoors, this is your spot. Dodges Log Lodges is on the outskirts of Duluth, offering you the opportunity to drive downtown, escape into the Knife River wilderness, or take a day trip to Two Harbors or Gooseberry Falls. Dodges Log Lodges is the perfect in-between for both activities and proximity!
Next Up: 15 of the Best Hiking Trails in Duluth, Minnesota (2024)
Things to do on Lake Superior
There is plenty to do on Lake Superior, but let’s discuss some things you should check out while staying close to Duluth!
Lodging By The Mall
If you want to find a place to sleep near the Duluth airport, you’ll want to find something by the mall. Staying by the mall is ideal if you want something more affordable with more chain hotel options. Additionally, you’ll be close to grocery stores, shopping centers, and more!
Hampton Inn & Suites Duluth Mall
The Hampton Inn and Suites is in Duluth Heights near the mall. It’s within walking distance from Olive Garden, Red Lobster, Buffalo Wild Wings, Starbucks, and the Miller Hill Mall. It’s also a six-minute drive to the airport, and it takes less than ten minutes to drive to downtown Duluth!
This Hampton Inn and Suites is rated highly online for its cleanliness, hospitality, and comfortable rooms. They have free on-site parking, continental breakfast daily, an indoor pool and hot tub, and a 24-hour gym. This hotel has an outdoor grill, fire pit, and seating area if you visit during the warmer months!
Book your stay at the Hampton Inn & Suites Here!
La Quinta Inn and Suites by Wyndham Duluth
Next, we have La Quinta Inn and Suites by Wyndham. La Quinta is a five-minute drive from the Duluth airport, though less close to the mall and popular restaurants. However, the Miller Hill Mall and the fantastic restaurant 7-West Taphouse (I recommend eating here!) are a twenty-minute or less walk away.
La Quinta is rated favorably for its hospitality, property conditions, and cleanliness. They offer a free airport shuttle upon request and a free shuttle within a three-mile radius. La Quinta has free on-site parking, an indoor pool, a hot tub, complimentary breakfast daily, a 24-hour gym, and an outdoor fire pit.
Check the prices at La Quinta Inn and Suites Here!
Residence Inn by Marriott
The Residence Inn by Marriott is another decent choice to book if you’re looking for something cheap near the airport and mall. It’s rated highly by guests for its prime location. It’s within walking distance of Starbucks, Caribou, and Papa Murphys and a few miles from the area’s best attractions and outdoor recreation.
Visitors enjoy the Residence Inn for its cleanliness, comfortability, and value for money spent. The amenities at this hotel include an indoor pool, hot tub, fitness center, complimentary breakfast, and free parking on site. There is also a grocery shopping service free of charge, and couples rated it highly as a place to stay on a two-person trip!
Check reviews at Residence Inn Here!
Things to do in Duluth Heights
Even if you don’t plan on spending a ton of your time in the area, here are a few things you can consider checking out:
Lodging in West Duluth
West Duluth is a good location if you’re looking for cheap hotels in Duluth, MN! They’re in the neighborhood of West Duluth near the freeway on the outskirts of downtown. However, the location has many great entertainment venues nearby, so if you’re coming to Duluth to see a show, you may look into staying in West Duluth!
Comfort Inn
Comfort Inn is within a twenty-minute walk from Wade Stadium, the Duluth Heritage Sports Center, and some fast food chains, including Arbys and Dairy Queen! It’s also an extremely close drive to AMSOIL Arena, Bayfront Festival Park, the Aerial Lift Bridge, and some local eateries, including Duluth Tap Exchange and Clyde Iron Works.
This suburban hotel is rated highly for its cleanliness, hospitality, and quiet rooms. It started in the top 10% of visitors for its service, staff, and continental breakfast in Duluth. Some great amenities include free on-site parking, an indoor pool, a hot tub, a sauna, games, and an outdoor picnic area.
Check availability at the Comfort Inn Here!
Willard Munger Inn
The Willard Munger Inn is a cozy local accommodation that’s a bit closer to downtown and a short walk away from fun attractions like the Lake Superior Zoo, Lake Superior & Mississippi Railroad Historic Train Ride, and Western Waterfront Trail. It’s a short drive from some well-liked local eateries, including Sammy’s Pizza and the Boreal House!
Visitors have rated the Willard Munger Inn very good for its staff and service, cleanliness, and eco-friendliness. The rooms have rustic cabin decor, and one of the benefits of staying here is the free bicycle rentals! They also offer free parking on-site and have ski-in and ski-out access, a playground, a garden, an outdoor grill, and a terrace.
Learn more about the Willard Munger Inn Here!
Indian Point Campground
Even though the Indian Point campground is technically not a hotel, many people recommend staying here! It’s right by Lake Superior and has access to many great trails (the Western Waterfront Trailhead and the Waabizheshikana Trail). If you’re looking to camp but still be close to downtown and popular attractions, this is a great place to stop.
Activities at the campground include canoeing, kayaking, hiking, biking, fishing, birding, and pontoon rentals. It’s also very close to the Lake Superior Zoo and Lake Superior and Mississippi Railroad if you want to leave camp for the day! Amenities include showers, restrooms, a camp store, a pavilion, coin-operated laundry, and a dump station.
Things to do in West Duluth
West Duluth has a lot of cool things happening. Here are some of the things you can do in the area:
FAQs: Best Places to Lodge in Duluth, MN
Now that we’ve covered the fifteen best places to lodge in Duluth, let’s answer some frequently asked questions!
What is the nicest part of Duluth?
Duluth is a great place to visit, and some of the nicer places to see are Park Point, The Waterfront, Lester and Chester Parks, and Congdon Parks. Of course, there are beautiful parts to every side of Duluth.
Is Duluth worth visiting?
Duluth is worth visiting at least once in your life. This dainty and cute town on the North Shore is a fantastic destination for its beauty and culture. There is plenty to see and do, and you can extend your visit for a weekend to make the most of your trip there.
Why is Duluth Minnesota so popular?
Duluth is a popular destination because there is always plenty to see and do, and the city is beautiful. Additionally, it’s home to the University of Minnesota, Duluth, making it a college town. It’s on Minnesota’s north shore and is a great stopping point on a northern road trip.
Is Duluth MN a good place to raise a family?
Duluth is a great place to raise a family because the schools are good, the housing is cheap, and there is plenty to do throughout the year. There are also a ton of outdoor spaces and kid-friendly destinations nearby.
Wrapping Up: 15 Best Places to Lodge in Duluth, MN in 2024
Well, there you have it! Fifteen of the best places to lodge in Duluth, MN. I’d first recommend staying in either Canal Park or Downtown if you’re hoping to be near the area’s popular attractions. If you want a rustic, quiet, log cabin feel, consider looking at places near Lake Superior. And finally, if you want to save money, book your stay in West Duluth or Duluth Heights near the mall!
I hope you enjoy Duluth as much as I loved living there! Enjoy your trip!