3 Days on Minnesota's North Shore Beer Trail
3 Days on Minnesota's North Shore Beer Trail
By Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild
Every North Shore adventure begins in Duluth. For craft beer lovers, that means two chances to visit the city's growing number of breweries—once on the way up, and again at the end of your trip.
Breweries like Blacklist Artisan Ales, Canal Park Brewing Co. and Bent Paddle Brewing Co. put Duluth’s craft brewing scene on the map, while the All Pints North craft beer festival has solidified the city as a true craft beer destination. And we can't forget Fitger's, which started brewing beer in Duluth in 1857.
So, where should beer-curious travelers begin their North Shore adventure? Follow this itinerary for the ultimate brewcation, from Duluth to Grand Marais and back again.
Duluth's iconic Aerial Lift Bridge peeks through a gap in the tree line / Pinkbike
Day 1: Duluth
Wake up with breakfast at the Duluth Grill in the Lincoln Park neighborhood, as seen on Guy Fieri's "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives." The zesty signature huevos rancheros skillet will set the tone for a day of sightseeing and sipping.
After you’re done eating, grab your binoculars and head for Park Point Recreation Area on the spit of land that separates Lake Superior and the Duluth harbor. This pristine recreation area is a combination of dense pine forest and sand dune beaches, making it a unique bird-watching destination. You can also walk along the lakeshore path or relax and sunbathe on the beach.
Sidle up to the bar at Ursa Minor Brewing in Duluth's trendy Lincoln Park Craft District / Pinkbike
Bent Paddle Brewing's colorful taproom in the Lincoln Park Craft District is the perfect home base for Duluth adventures
Canal Park Brewing overlooks Lake Superior / Visit Duluth
A beer flight at Fitger's Brewery in Duluth / Democratic Travelers
When hunger calls, head toward Canal Park’s shopping district for lunch at Canal Park Brewing Co. This brewpub’s award-winning Nut Hatchet Brown Ale pairs well with the locally sourced, beer-boiled Brewskie brat.
Use your afternoon to browse local shops up and down Lake Avenue. The 130-year-old Duluth Pack Store features active wear, outdoor gear and its namesake travel packs.
Though shopping ‘til you drop is possible in Duluth, it’s better to take a break at Bent Paddle Brewing Co.’s taproom. Its beers have become a staple statewide, and its name is a nod to the founders’ affinity for canoeing, as well as the brewmaster’s preferred stirring tool.
Historic Fitger's on Lake Superior houses three restaurants, two night clubs and a microbrewery / Anthony Auston
Come in the early evening, check into Fitger’s Inn, a hotel housed in the renovated Fitger’s Brewery Complex. It has 62 unique rooms and suites with views of Lake Superior.
After you’ve settled in, walk a few blocks to another Duluth landmark-turned-beer-bar: Tycoon’s Alehouse. Tycoon’s used to be the Duluth City Hall building, as well as a detainment center for the old police station next door. It’s been rehabilitated and boasts turn-of-the-century charm and, of course, great beer from Fitger’s Brewhouse.
On your way back to the hotel, stop by Carmody Irish Pub for one last pint. This Duluth mainstay now brews five styles of beer to complement its traditional Irish fare.
The Gitchi-Gami State Trail on the North Shore / Credit: Waqar Ahmad
Day 2: Up The Shore
The next morning, leisurely pack your bags and follow the big lake north. Take in Lake Superior’s expansive views at one of the many overlooks on Scenic Highway 61. Grab a bite to eat at the New Scenic Cafe, an acclaimed eatery with seasonal fare and a selection of Minnesota beers, including the flavorful small batch creations of Borealis Fermentery, one of the most interesting breweries in the state.
When you reach Two Harbors, take a minute to map out your next move. Outdoor enthusiasts can catch up with the Superior Hiking Trail, which runs nearly 300 miles atop the ridgeline overlooking the lake. The trail has various segments ranging from easy to difficult terrain; follow those that suit your hiking preferences. You’ll encounter breathtaking landscapes no matter your route.
Stop into Voyageur Brewing in Grand Marais / Dana Hernandez
If you prefer a different type of beauty, continue driving up the shore to Grand Marais, a picturesque community with a thriving arts scene. There are numerous galleries scattered around the town, plus multiple art fairs each year. The town recently welcomed a new brewery, Voyageur Brewing Co., with tours available on Saturdays.
A flight of beer from Castle Danger Brewery in Two Harbors / Brian Jeremiason
Day 3: Back to Duluth
On your way back down the shore, don’t forget to buy a few growlers of beer from Castle Danger Brewery. This popular North Shore brewery started in the small town of Castle Danger, and after a very successful beginning, upgraded to a larger facility and taproom in Two Harbors. Don’t miss it!
There are plenty of places to stop along the way, from scenic state parks, to hiking and biking trails, to the many beautiful waterfalls. Grab a slice of pie at Betty's, pick up some handmade chocolate at Great Lakes Candy Kitchen, and take in the view one last time.
When you get back to Duluth, you may want to book another night to hit the breweries you missed on the first day, including newcomers like Hoops and Ursa Minor.
Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild is a statewide association for craft breweries and brewpubs, with more than 75 members across the state, and growing fast. Visit the Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild website for more information.