Things To Do
in Superior

Superior, Wisconsin, is a charming city located at the western tip of Lake Superior, known for its rich maritime history and stunning natural landscapes. With its vibrant arts scene and numerous parks, it offers a unique blend of outdoor recreation and cultural experiences. The city serves as a gateway to the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, making it a popular destination for nature lovers.

Its friendly community and array of local events make it an inviting place for visitors year-round.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Waterfront
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Copernicus Park to enjoy a scenic walk along the Lake Superior shoreline, followed by breakfast at a local café.

afternoon
:

Visit the Great Lakes Aquarium to learn about the region's aquatic life, then take a leisurely stroll through the Superior Public Library, known for its beautiful architecture.

evening
:

Dine at a waterfront restaurant, followed by a sunset walk along the marina to enjoy the view of boats and the city skyline.

day 2
Day 2: Outdoor Adventures
morning
:

Kick off your day with a hike in the nearby Pattison State Park, home to the stunning Big Manitou Falls.

afternoon
:

After your hike, have a picnic at the park before exploring the local shops in downtown Superior.

evening
:

Wrap up your visit with a brewery tour and tasting at one of the local breweries, enjoying the craft beer scene.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Fast Food Meal$7
🍕Pizza Slice$3
Coffee$4
🚌Public Transport Ticket$1.50
🏨Hotel Room (per night)$100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural surroundings and outdoor activities available.
  • Friendly community with a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Rich history and cultural experiences to explore.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Harsh winters can deter some visitors.
  • Some areas may lack extensive public transportation.

Places to Visit in Superior

Visit one of these nice places.

Wisconsin Point

A beautiful sandy beach area offering stunning views of Lake Superior and the Duluth-Superior Harbor.

Big Manitou Falls

The tallest waterfall in Wisconsin, perfect for capturing breathtaking nature shots.

Apostle Islands Sea Caves

An iconic location for dramatic cliffside views and unique rock formations, especially during winter.

Culinary Guide

Food in Superior

Superior's culinary scene is a delightful mix of traditional Midwestern fare and fresh fish from Lake Superior, offering visitors a taste of local flavors.

Superior Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Fish Fry

A Friday tradition in Wisconsin, featuring locally caught fish fried to golden perfection.

Must-Try!

Cheese Curds

Fresh, squeaky cheese curds that are a Wisconsin specialty, often served deep-fried.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Superior Farmers Market

A weekly market offering fresh produce, local cheeses, and artisan goods, perfect for sampling local flavors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Superior experiences a humid continental climate, with cold, snowy winters and warm summers. Average winter temperatures can drop below freezing, while summers typically see highs in the 70s and 80s °F. Rain is common in spring and summer, with occasional thunderstorms, while fall brings cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly greeting or wave is common; showing politeness and friendliness is appreciated.

Respect for Nature

As an outdoor-oriented community, there's a strong emphasis on preserving the natural environment.

Punctuality

Arriving on time for social gatherings and appointments is valued.

Safety Guide

Safety

Superior is generally safe for visitors, but standard precautions should be taken. It's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in less busy areas at night. Emergency services are accessible, and local hospitals are equipped to handle most medical needs.

Tipping in Superior

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip servers 15-20% in restaurants, and rounding up is common for taxi drivers.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit cards, but it's advisable to carry some cash for small vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Warm weather attracts tourists for lake activities, hiking, and community events, with vibrant life in parks.

Fall

Enjoy beautiful fall foliage and cooler temperatures, perfect for hiking and photography.

Winter

Cold temperatures with opportunities for winter sports like snowshoeing and ice fishing, along with festive holiday events.

Nightlife Guide

Superior at Night

Superior offers a relaxed nightlife scene with a few bars and pubs that feature live music, trivia nights, and local craft beers. While not a bustling city, it's perfect for enjoying a laid-back evening with friends, often featuring themed nights and community events.

Hiking in Superior

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Pattison State Park

Home to the stunning Big Manitou Falls, this park features trails that range from easy to moderate, offering scenic views.

Amnicon Falls State Park

Known for its picturesque waterfalls and wooded trails, this park provides a lovely setting for hiking and photography.

Airports

How to reach Superior by plane.

Duluth International Airport (DLH)

Located approximately 15 miles from Superior, this airport offers regional flights and is the primary airport serving the area.

Getting Around

Walkability

Superior is relatively walkable, with many attractions concentrated in downtown. Sidewalks are available, and pedestrian-friendly areas make it easy to explore on foot. However, certain neighborhoods may be more spread out, requiring a car for convenience.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Native American Communities

The region is home to several Native American tribes, contributing to the cultural diversity of Superior.

College Students

With the University of Wisconsin-Superior located in the city, a significant population of college students adds to the vibrancy of the community.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Hockey

With a strong local following, hockey is a popular sport with community youth leagues and high school teams.

Fishing

Fishing in Lake Superior is not just a pastime but a way of life, with many local tournaments and events.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Superior is generally light, and the city is easy to navigate by car. Public transportation options are limited but available, with local buses providing service to key areas. Biking is also a popular way to get around.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Superior.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian/Vegan Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options, particularly in salads and pasta dishes.

Gluten-Free

Several establishments provide gluten-free alternatives, especially in bakeries and restaurants.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Superior is provided through several clinics and the Essentia Health St. Mary’s Medical Center, which offers comprehensive services. Emergency care is readily available, and there are numerous pharmacies for prescription needs.

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