Hermantown

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Hermantown's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Downtown Duluth
morning
:

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café in Hermantown, followed by a scenic drive to downtown Duluth. Spend some time walking around the shops and viewing the Lake Superior waterfront. Don't miss the iconic Aerial Lift Bridge as the sun rises over the harbor.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon at the Great Lakes Aquarium, where you can learn about the diverse aquatic life native to the region. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant with views of the water. Consider a stroll through Canal Park to soak in the vibrant atmosphere and local art.

evening
:

As the sun sets, indulge in a hearty dinner at one of Duluth's popular eateries. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the promenade, listening to live music or enjoying the ambiance of the lakeside. Conclude your night with a cozy coffee at a local café.

day 2
Adventure at Jay Cooke State Park
morning
:

Begin your morning with a hearty breakfast before heading to Jay Cooke State Park for an outdoor adventure. Take in the peaceful surroundings as you hike the scenic trails along the St. Louis River. Don’t forget to capture the stunning views of the rugged landscape and abundant wildlife.

afternoon
:

After exploring, enjoy a packed lunch amidst the beautiful nature of the park. Spend the afternoon canoeing or kayaking on the tranquil river, soaking in the fresh air and the sights of the fall foliage if the season permits. For a more relaxing option, find a quiet spot for some bird watching.

evening
:

As the day winds down, return to Hermantown for dinner at a delightful local restaurant. Spend your evening unwinding by a campfire if you have access to a campsite or cozying up at your lodging with good company. Share stories of your day’s adventures under the starry night sky.

day 3
Nature and Wildlife at the Lake Superior Zoo
morning
:

Kick off your day with breakfast at home or at a nearby diner before heading to the Lake Superior Zoo. Spend your morning observing the various animals and learning about their habitats and conservation efforts. The zoo’s setting amongst lush greenery offers a beautiful backdrop for this family-friendly day.

afternoon
:

After exploring the zoo, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby café. Spend your afternoon at the adjacent Hartley Nature Center, where you can hike the trails or engage in interactive exhibits. This is a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in local flora and fauna.

evening
:

For dinner, return to Hermantown and dine at a barbecue joint that reflects the local flavors. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely evening perusing the local shops or take a scenic drive along the lakefront to appreciate the area’s beauty at dusk. Conclude your day with a relaxing nightcap back at your accommodation.

day 4
Cultural Day in Duluth
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a café that serves locally sourced ingredients in Hermantown, then head to the Tweed Museum of Art. Spend your morning immersing yourself in the diverse artworks, including pieces from the region's own talented artists. This visit provides a great opportunity to learn about local history and culture.

afternoon
:

For lunch, explore the many culinary offerings in Duluth's downtown area, where you can find niche eateries featuring global cuisines. Post-lunch, visit the Duluth Depot, home to multiple museums including the Lake Superior Railroad Museum and the historic train station. This afternoon will be full of enriching experiences exploring the history of transportation in the region.

evening
:

After a day immersed in culture, enjoy dinner at one of Duluth's upscale restaurants with a view of the harbor. Consider attending a local theater performance or live music event in the area to experience the local arts scene. End the evening with a reflective walk along the waterfront, relishing the unique atmosphere of Duluth.

day 5
Local Brews and Bites
morning
:

Start your morning with some classic American breakfasts at a cozy diner in Hermantown. After eating, visit a local farm or farmers market to taste fresh produce and artisanal goods. This is a great time to connect with local farmers and learn about their practices.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a farm-to-table restaurant, celebrating the region’s agricultural bounty. Post-lunch, take a brewery tour at one of Duluth's local breweries to learn about the brewing process and sample a variety of craft beers. This afternoon offers a delightful mix of flavors and local charm.

evening
:

As the evening approaches, join a brewery’s tasting event to expand your knowledge of craft beers while mingling with locals. Afterward, savor dinner at a gastropub known for its unique dishes paired with local brews. Conclude your evening with a nightcap at a rooftop bar, enjoying the skyline views.

day 6
Water Activities on Lake Superior
morning
:

After breakfast, drive to the shores of Lake Superior for a day of water activities. Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the lake’s expansive waters while enjoying the beautiful scenery. Early morning is the best time for calm waters and a peaceful experience on the lake.

afternoon
:

Break for lunch at a lakeside café, enjoying the fresh catch from the lake. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach or consider going on a guided boat tour to learn about the lake’s shipping history. This offers an exciting way to view the landscape from the water.

evening
:

As evening approaches, gather your things and enjoy a picnic dinner on the beach watching the sun set over the horizon. Spend time relaxing, perhaps beachcombing or capturing the sunset with photography. Wind down your day with some stargazing, as the night sky over Lake Superior is nothing short of spectacular.

day 7
Scenic Train Ride
morning
:

Enjoy breakfast in Hermantown before boarding a scenic train ride on the North Shore Scenic Railroad. The morning journey along the shores of Lake Superior is punctuated by breathtaking views and educational tidbits from the guide. Prepare your camera for fantastic photo opportunities as you travel through picturesque landscapes.

afternoon
:

Once you reach your destination, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a charming café in one of the small towns along the route. Spend the afternoon exploring the quaint shops and taking in the local art and culture. Make sure to visit any significant historical sites that might be nearby.

evening
:

Return to Hermantown on the train as the day winds down, allowing you to reflect on the stunning sights you've seen. After disembarking, have a relaxed dinner at home or out at a local diner. Spend a quiet evening reminiscing about the day’s experiences or planning for tomorrow’s adventures.

day 8
Relaxation and Wellness Day
morning
:

Start your day with a refreshing breakfast featuring smoothies and healthy choices at a local café. After breakfast, head to a nearby wellness center for a rejuvenating spa treatment or yoga session to help you unwind. This morning is all about taking care of yourself and embracing relaxation.

afternoon
:

Post-lunch, engage in a rejuvenating hike in one of the nearby natural settings to further connect with nature. Take your time to enjoy the scenic beauty and tranquil sounds of your surroundings. Consider bringing along a sketchpad or journal to capture the inspiration of the moment.

evening
:

After freshening up, have a wholesome dinner at a restaurant emphasizing health-conscious options. Spend your evening unwinding with a good book or a gentle stroll through a park to conclude your day in a peaceful environment. This day of self-care will leave you feeling refreshed and recharged.

day 9
Visit to Split Rock Lighthouse
morning
:

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before embarking on a drive to the historic Split Rock Lighthouse, a landmark perched on a cliff overlooking Lake Superior. Take in the sweeping views that define this iconic site and learn about its history. The morning light makes for incredible photography opportunities at the lighthouse.

afternoon
:

Explore the surrounding state park areas for lunch, enjoying a picnic in a designated space with views of the lighthouse. Spend the afternoon hiking along the trails, each offering different vantage points of this stunning landmark. This nature exploration is perfect for admiring the vibrant colors of the landscape.

evening
:

As the day turns into evening, return to Hermantown for dinner at a local favorite restaurant. If you're feeling adventurous, catch a sunset photo session at one of the nearby observation areas. Wrap up your trip with a relaxed evening reflecting on your experiences while savoring local flavors.

Discover Hermantown

Read more in our Hermantown 2025 Travel Guide.

Hermantown Travel Guide