One of the most recognized spots in Duluth, the lift bridge connects canal park with park point. While exploring the area around the bridge, you might get lucky and see one of the ore boats pass through the canal!

The lake walk is a lovely boardwalk/paved trail that stretches along Lake Superior. It is a fantastic place to walk or run or sit on one of the benches and take in the many faces of the lake. There are lovely shops and gardens along the way. If you venture to the water's edge, be warned, Superior is Chilly in June. However, you might just find some sought after agates or beautiful driftwood along the shore.

A perfect place for a picnic or to dip your toes in the lake...if you are lucky you might just get "bridged" and get a chance to see one of the big Ore Boats passing under the lift bridge!

The Kenspeckle Letterpress studio is a whimsical spot very close to both of our hearts! It is a hidden gem on the 2nd floor of the Dewitz Seitz building. My first pieces of Duluth art and David's first gift to me came from this nidus of creativity.

Shortly after David proposed, I sent the artists (Rick Allen and Marian Lansky) a long, rambling email asking if there was any possible way they would consider creating a piece of art for our invitations. They graciously accepted, and not only created the gorgeous letterpress invitations, but also a bewitching map of Duluth highlighting some special spots for David and I.

We are delighted with their phenomenal art, and even more blown away by their warm and open hearts--they are true kindred spirits!

Here is a little more background taken from their website:

"At the western extremity of Lake Superior, the Kenspeckle Letterpress makes its home in Duluth, Minnesota (The Paris of the North). Kenspeckle is a Scottish word meaning easily recognisable or distinctive, and can be applied both to this unique corner of the globe and to the quaint conceits of modern design which Rick Allen and Marian Lansky produce in their cast iron & digital fabrefactory.

Rick works back in the 19th Century, printing his wood engravings and lino cuts in small editions using multiple blocks and hand coloring, whilst over in the 21st Century, Marian prepares limited edition giclees of Rick's prints as well as her own."

Be sure to stop by the shop...and see the magic at work!

This little ice cream shop is a special treat on a summer night's walk by the lake! They serve malts, shakes, and sooooo much more! Just remember to bring some cash since they don't take plastic!

Check out the aquarium for an up close and personal look at the creatures of the deep!

Come tour a real superior ore boat! Tours run several times a day and last a few hours.

A great lookout spot. it reminds Megan of Coit Tower in San Francisco...with a view of the lift bridge instead of Alcatraz.

This is a great spot for hiking! We spent our second date exploring just a small portion of this expansive area. The trek to Rock Knob is a fun jaunt for families...and singing while you trek is encouraged...just ask Sawyer.

The North Shore is a beauty to behold...and the view from the train is one of a kind. There are a variety of options available. Check out the website for train schedules!

If you feel like a drive, the north shore is ready to provide some amazing views.

One of the iconic north shore lighthouses, the split rock light is a short drive up the coast and shouldn't be missed!

Standing next to these falls brings to mind Longfellow's Minnehaha (laughing water). They are a cool treat on a hot day and become breathtaking ice sculptures in the bleak mid-winter chill.

Our favorite restaurant in Duluth for brunch, dinner, and everything in between.

This is a true gem overlooking lake superior. Make reservations ahead of time or plan to eat early if you want a spot at this delicious Italian bistro. We have had many funny date nights here watching the big Ore Boat come into port.

Sir Ben's is a great pub near the water with tasty fare and good music. Jenny Mendelson endorsed this fine establishment, and it was the place that we first met!

shhh... it is Duluth's secret speakeasy!!