Your 3-Day Family Getaway in Duluth: Water, Wheels & Wildlife

Looking for a trip that keeps everyone—from toddlers to teens to tired parents—smiling? Duluth is built for long weekends that blend outdoor adventure with cozy comfort and plenty of sugar in between. Whether your crew is into fish tanks, bike trails, or berry pie, this three-day itinerary hits the sweet spot between low-stress and high-fun.

Here’s how to make the most of a family weekend in Duluth—with Trailside Hotel as your home base.

Day 1: Lakeside Sips & Hands-On Fun

Morning: Start the trip with something easy: a cozy table at Lakewalk Coffee Shop. Kids love hot chocolate, grown-ups love espresso, and cinnamon rolls are a crowd-pleaser for all ages. Sit near the windows or take your treats to-go and stroll along the lake.

Afternoon: Spend a few hours exploring the Great Lakes Aquarium. Touch tanks, otters, and underwater tunnels make it feel like an adventure, and it’s just the right size—not too big, not too overwhelming. Bonus: it’s indoors, so no weather worries.

Day 2: Mountain Views & Mini-Golf Moves

Morning to Afternoon: Head to Spirit Mountain for chairlift rides with sweeping views. Little ones can ride along, and older kids can take a beginner mountain biking lesson on the gentle slopes. It’s safe, scenic, and super fun—even for first-timers.

Evening: Wrap the day with some light competition at Park Point’s mini-golf course. It’s colorful, low-key, and just the thing to wear out excited kids before bedtime.

Day 3: Hikes, Hugs & Take-Home Treats

Morning: Lace up for a family-friendly hike at Lester Park Loop. The trail winds through trees and streams, with spots for climbing rocks and snapping scenic photos. It’s an easy win for outdoorsy families and not too tough for little legs.

Afternoon: Before heading home, make one last sweet stop at Positively 3rd Street Bakery. Their fruit-filled turnovers and monster cookies are perfect for the car ride—and just might keep the backseat naps going a little longer.

Stay Cozy, Connected & Close to It All

Trailside Hotel is just minutes from everything on this list. Our rooms are built for families who need space to relax, recharge, and plan their next outing (or nap).

Book your June weekend now at thetrailsidehotel.com.
Let Duluth do the entertaining—we’ll handle the rest.