Ideas for free activities in Duluth this summer

Happy Friday! We're flashing back to this post about budget-friendly activities to do in Duluth.

I've lived in Duluth/the Duluth area for about 13 years now. I never thought I'd live here and when it's freezing cold or foggy and rainy for days on end, I sometimes wonder why I still do. But then I drive down the hill and see the view of the lake and remember why. It's beautiful here and there is a lot to do for a relatively small city. Here are 5 things to do in Duluth for free.

Walking/Hiking Trails

There are many places right in town or to take in amazing views and get a little exercise, whether you're into hardcore hiking or leisurely walks, Duluth has seemingly endless acres and miles of trails to explore. Check out Visit Duluth's website to choose your path.

If you want a more laid back walk with an unlimited lake view, then the lake walk right along Lake Superior is the best place for you.

The Beach

Park Point beach is absolutely gorgeous, though the water isn't typically warm so be prepared. However, you can sit and catch some rays, have a picnic, walk along the beach, and capture some great views. Or bring some friends and a volleyball and hit the sand courts.

Watch the Ships

For those of you interested, this one is pretty self-explanatory. You can check the shipping schedule to watch the ships come through. If you never have, it is a pretty impressive sight!

Parks

There are many beautiful parks in the city mostly for people, but a couple for dogs. My own personal favorite is Enger Park, which has one of the best views in the city and you can climb up Enger Tower if you want a little exercise, too.

Movies in the park

Beginning mid-July, every Friday night there are free movies at Leif Erickson Park. Check out the website for details on the movies and showtimes. I've told myself for 10 years that I was going to do this...it's my goal this summer to go at least once!

Take a drive

While this isn't completely free since you have to spend money on gas, you could head from Duluth north up the North Shore. Up that way you can check out Brighton Beach and if you keep going for a while, you'll reach Gooseberry Falls which is great for taking a walk/hike and seeing some amazing waterfalls. You can also stop in some cute towns, like Two Harbors, along the way.

This is just the short list. Visit Duluth has other suggestions for lodging, food, 4th of July festivities, and more. For night life info like the downtown street dance check out Twin Ports Night Life for a calendar of events.

LSS Financial Counseling is a non-profit financial counseling service based in Duluth, MN that is part of Lutheran Social Service of MN. We provide free budget, credit, debt, foreclosure prevention, and student loan counseling. We empower people to build savings, pay off their debt, and achieve their financial goals.