A Self-Guided Walking Tour through Duluth’s Canal Park

Duluth , United States

A Self-Guided Walking Tour through Duluth’s Canal Park

Active

(5 reviews)

50m - 1h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Experience the magic of GPS playback on this immersive stroll through Duluth's Canal Park. On this self-guided audio tour, you'll dive into the city's past, like when Canal Park stood under 450 feet of water.

Duluth is a one-of-a-kind, inland port city, which serves as a gateway to the north shore of Lake Superior. Its long history is reflected in Canal Park, a formerly run-down industrial zone and one of the city’s thriving centers for recreation today.

You’ll find out how, when a local businessman rattled Duluth by moving his Pizza Roll factory to Ohio, his son would go on to play a role in Canal Park’s economic revival. I’ll tell you about the famous Glensheen murders that were made into a musical, and about fish that are almost as old as Duluth Itself. You’ll hear about Duluth’s shipping heritage, the founding and naming of the city, and the building of the Duluth Ship Canal. You’ll then head down South Lake Avenue to finish our tour at the Minnesota Slip Bridge.

Available options

A Self-Guided Walking Tour through Duluth’s Canal Park

What's included

Get unlimited, lifetime use of this tour, before your booking date and after it

The virtual playback option, so you can listen to this tour like an audiobook from anywhere

Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour

Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start

Detailed itinerary

The starting point of the tour offers beautiful views and sets the stage for the historic journey.

A scenic pathway along Lake Superior, perfect for taking in the natural beauty and learning about the area's past.

An iconic structure inspired by a French magazine, crucial to Duluth's shipping and transport.

Pass by the Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Centre, which offers exhibits on the maritime history of Lake Superior and the Great Lakes.

Pass by the SS William A Irvin Museum, a former freighter that now serves as a museum, showcasing the shipping heritage of Duluth.

Pass by Grandma's Saloon & Grill, a historic restaurant tied to the local legend of "Grandma" and the revitalization of Canal Park.

Pass by the Duluth Harbor Basin, a bustling area of activity with a rich history in shipping and industry.

The endpoint of the tour provides views of the harbour and the surrounding area.

Available languages

Audio guide

Written guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 4.2

5 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Please bring your own smartphone and headphones

Meeting point

The tour starts at Lakewalk Park at Endion Station, right along the shore of Lake Superior on Duluth's Lakewalk. You can park at the pay lot by Endion Station, or anywhere on the street, or in other lots nearby. If you do park on the street, you won't be too far from the where the tour ends.

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE 
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS
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1. Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:
2. Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app
3. Create an account
4. Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes
5. Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE 
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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.

This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.

When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.

Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT 
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

About Duluth

Duluth, nestled on the shores of Lake Superior, is a vibrant city known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and outdoor recreation opportunities. It's a perfect blend of urban charm and wilderness, offering everything from scenic waterfalls to world-class museums.

Top Attractions

Minnesota Point

A long, sandy peninsula that extends into Lake Superior, offering beautiful beaches, picnic areas, and stunning sunsets.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Canal Park

A popular waterfront park with walking paths, a lighthouse, and the famous Aerial Lift Bridge.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (some attractions may have fees)

Enger Tower

A historic tower offering panoramic views of Duluth and Lake Superior. Built in 1939 as a memorial to the city's Scandinavian heritage.

Historical 1 hour Free (donations appreciated)

Glensheen Historic Estate

A 39-room mansion built in 1908, showcasing the opulent lifestyle of Duluth's early elite. Guided tours are available.

Historical 1-2 hours Moderate (tour fees apply)

Great Lakes Aquarium

A unique aquarium focusing on the freshwater ecosystems of the Great Lakes and other northern waters.

Museum 1-2 hours Moderate (admission fees apply)

Duluth Lakewalk

A scenic 7.5-mile paved trail along the shore of Lake Superior, perfect for walking, biking, and enjoying the lake views.

Nature 1-2 hours (depending on section) Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pasties

A traditional savory pastry filled with meat and vegetables, originally brought by Cornish miners. Duluth is famous for its pasties, which are a must-try local snack.

Snack Contains meat and gluten.

Wild Rice Soup

A hearty, creamy soup made with wild rice, vegetables, and often seafood or poultry. It's a popular dish, especially in colder months.

Dinner Can be vegetarian or vegan if made without meat or dairy.

Whitefish

Lake Superior whitefish is a local delicacy, often served fried, baked, or in chowder. It's a must-try for seafood lovers.

Dinner Contains fish.

Coffee and Craft Beer

Duluth has a thriving coffee and craft beer scene, with numerous local roasters and breweries offering unique and high-quality beverages.

Drink Coffee is generally vegan and gluten-free, while craft beer may contain gluten.

Popular Activities

Hiking Mountain biking Kayaking Rock climbing Beachcombing Picnicking Scenic drives Spas and wellness

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm temperatures, outdoor festivals, and all attractions open. It's ideal for hiking, biking, and water activities.

15°C to 28°C 59°F to 82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish, Somali, Hmong
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Central Time Zone (CT), GMT-6 (Standard Time), GMT-5 (Daylight Saving Time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Duluth is generally a safe city with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic safety precautions, especially in less touristy areas and at night.

Important Precautions:

• Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in less touristy areas.
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Use reputable tour and taxi services.

Getting there

By air

Duluth International Airport • 5 miles (8 km) from downtown

By bus

Duluth Transit Authority (DTA) Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and reliable, with multiple routes serving key attractions and neighborhoods.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Downtown Duluth Lakeside Duluth Heights West Duluth

Day trips

Gooseberry Falls State Park

15 miles (24 km) from Duluth • Half day to full day

A beautiful state park featuring a series of waterfalls and hiking trails along the Gooseberry River. The park offers stunning views, picnic areas, and opportunities for outdoor recreation.

Two Harbors

20 miles (32 km) from Duluth • Half day to full day

A charming harbor town with a rich history and beautiful waterfront views. Two Harbors is known for its historic buildings, lighthouses, and outdoor recreation opportunities.

Tettegouche State Park

30 miles (48 km) from Duluth • Full day

A scenic state park featuring stunning waterfalls, hiking trails, and Lake Superior shoreline. The park offers a variety of outdoor activities and beautiful natural scenery.

Festivals

Duluth Homegrown Music Festival • April Duluth Superior Film Festival • October Bayfront Blues Festival • July

Pro tips

Visit the Aerial Lift Bridge for stunning views and a unique experience.
Explore the local coffee and craft beer scene for a taste of Duluth's culture.
Take a day trip to Gooseberry Falls State Park for a scenic and relaxing experience.
Check out the local festivals and events for a taste of Duluth's vibrant arts and culture scene.
Bring layers of clothing, as the weather can be unpredictable.