5 Can’t-Miss Adventures for St. Scholastica Graduation Weekend

Outdoor Adventure

Graduation at The College of St. Scholastica is happening Sunday, May 11, 2025—and if your crew is anything like ours, you’ll want more than just the ceremony. From sunrise yoga to sunset zip-lining, this guide covers what to know before you go and how to turn your CSS commencement into an action-packed Duluth weekend. When you’re ready to unwind, The Trailside Hotel is a five-minute drive from AMSOIL Arena—so you can stow your gear, recharge, and wake up ready for the next adventure.

What to Know Before You Go

  • Ceremony: Sunday, May 11, 2025 at 2:00 PM, AMSOIL Arena (350 Harbor Dr., Duluth)

  • Doors Open: 90 minutes before—no tickets required.

  • Parking:

    • On-site DECC lot: $10/car

    • Downtown ramps via skywalk—arrive 60 minutes early to snag your spot

  • Regalia Pick-up: Cap & gown at One Stop Student Services the week before.

  • Bag Policy: Check small-bag rules on the [CSS commencement page].

Things to Do While You’re Here

Friday Night: Roll Into Town

  • Check-in at The Trailside Hotel
    Park once and keep your car until checkout. Our bike-friendly storage, fire pits, and cozy lounge are perfect for pre-grad meetups.
    Book your stay

  • Quick Spin Around Spirit Mountain
    Rent a mountain bike at Gear West in Canal Park and tackle a beginner trail—fun for pros and newbies alike.

  • Dinner & Drinks at Bootleggers
    Casual pub fare in a laid-back setting; live music most Friday nights. No reservation needed at Bootleggers Food & Spirits.

Saturday: Energize & Explore

  • Sunrise Yoga
    Flow through a gentle class at On the Mat Yoga Studio, just 10 minutes from the hotel. Great way to limber up for the day.

  • Breakfast Fuel
    Grab a pour-over and house-made pastry at Duluth Coffee Company.

  • Morning Zip-Line Thrills
    Head back to Spirit Mountain Aerial Park (spiritski.com/visit/spirit-mountain-aerial-park/) for ropes courses and zips that soar over the forest—reservations recommended.

  • Lunch at The Secret Stash
    Legendary pizza with a side of craft cocktails at Secret Stash Pizza—hip spot in Canal Park.

Sunday: Ceremony & Post-Grad Adventure

  • Pre-Ceremony Coffee
    Swing by Blacklist Coffee in Lincoln Park for cold brew on tap.

  • 2:00 PM Ceremony at AMSOIL Arena.

  • Kayak the Harbor
    After caps fly, launch from Canal Park with Superior Kayak Co.. Easy rentals, flat water, unbeatable views.

  • Dinner Overlook
    Reserve a table at Vista Fleet’s Northland—you’ll dine on the deck of a harbor cruise boat. Must reserve in advance.

Monday Morning: Stretch & Send-Off

  • Lester Park Trail Run
    A 2-mile riverside loop—perfect cooldown before hitting the road.

  • Brunch at Va Bene Caffe
    Light Italian bites and mimosas (no reservation needed).

See You in Duluth!

From zip-lining at Spirit Mountain to kayaking under the lifted tassel, your College of St. Scholastica graduation weekend is set to be unforgettable. When you’re done chasing thrills, return to The Trailside Hotel for post-grad pizza in the lounge, a hot shower, and morning coffee that’ll have you smiling all the way home. We’re here to make your CSS commencement as active—or as chill—as you want.

Ready to book your adventure basecamp? 

Head to thetrailsidehotel.com, use coupon GRAD10 for 10% off, and secure your room—let’s make this grad weekend one for the books!

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