It’s that time of year again when it warms up enough to come out of hibernation and explore all the beauty Minnesota has to offer. The North Shore is the perfect place to spend a summer weekend or week, the more time, the better! There is so much to see and do here along the 145 miles of shoreline that it is impossible to get bored. Here are just 10 of the things we did while visiting the North Shore over a long weekend.

1.Spend the Day in Duluth

You could spend a weekend in Duluth alone, but if you’re wanting to see as much of the north shore as you can, then spend the day in Duluth. Explore canal park shops, throw rocks on the lake superior shore, visit the many breweries/cideries in the city, and enjoy amazing views.

2. Walk the Pier at Two Harbors Lighthouse

The next stop is the Two Harbors Lighthouse. Walking out to the end of the pier can be a very windy walk, but it feels like you’re standing in the middle of Lake Superior. Check out the lighthouse museum and walk the trail along the shoreline too.

3. Drink craft beer at the Castle Danger Brewery

After checking out the Two Harbors lighthouse, stop in for some beer(s) at the Castle Danger Brewery. They have such a big tap list that it makes it hard to choose. Their whole facility is really impressive and be sure to get a spot out on the patio!

4. Go chasing waterfalls at Gooseberry Falls State Park

Gooseberry Falls was by far my favorite stop along the North Shore. There is so much to do and see here that you could spend hours just at this park, so carve out plenty of time. Be sure to check out the upper, middle, and lower falls and eventually make your way to Agate Beach.

5. Capture the scenic Split Rock Lighthouse

The Split Rock Lighthouse is also in Two Harbors and is another must see. We didn’t take a guided tour but I definitely want to next time. Take the hiking trail going south of the lighthouse, to get a good vantage point for scenic pictures of the Split Rock Lighthouse.

6. Pitch a tent

What better place to experience the outdoors by sleeping in a tent than the North Shore? Be sure to book campsites early because they fill up FAST! We stayed at the Black Beach Municipal Campground and loved it! You could walk to the black sand beach for the sunrise or sunset and they had super clean shower facilities.

7. Hike the Bean and Bear Lake Trail

I recommend not doing this hike hungover because it is not an easy one. Bean and Bear Lake Trail is one that takes quite a while to get a rewarding view and all you can do is think about the daunting fact that you still have to go back the same way you came. Unfortunately, we got a really foggy morning, but it was a great view nonetheless.

8. Check out Palisade Head

A clear day is the best time to visit Palisade Head otherwise you won’t be able to see out very far. This rock formation is almost 1,000 feet above the Lake Superior shore! With that being said, it blows my mind that people rock climb here. Definitely, a spectacular view!

9. Sip wine in nature at the North Shore Winery

The North Shore Winery is an obvious front runner for me considering my wine obsession. Take your wine flight outdoors because their outdoor seating has some beautiful views. It feels like you’re in the middle of the forest, (which you pretty much are) which makes it so quiet and peaceful.

10. Explore Grand Marais

Grand Marais is a historic quaint little town on the North Shore. Check out the harbor, Voyageur Brewing Company, Gunflint Trail, shops, and so much more! There are many places to stay near Grand Marais.

10 Things to do on the Minnesota North shore