18 Best Hotels in Duluth, Minnesota (Our Fav Places to Stay!)

Booking one of the best hotels in Duluth, Minnesota, for a Midwest vacation isn’t the hard part. Poking out from a crag overlooking Lake Superior, the port city of Duluth is a place where magnificent nature and city meet.

It’s where rivers and wildlife are a part of the landscape, as are the brewpubs and cafes serving dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.

It’s where you can hike, climb, ski, and shop within city limits. Or use the city as a jumping-off point to more adventures. Duluth is perfect for a few pre or post-nights around a canoe excursion into the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.

This preserve is one of the most remote and pristine parts of the United States, primarily accessible only by canoe. John Mathews of Dallas, Texas, has led a few groups on excursions through Boundary Waters. He says Duluth is a great spot to pick up a group and take the two-hour route along the North Shore of Lake Superior to Grand Marais, the gateway to the preserve.

“The drive along Lake Superior between Duluth and the Grand Marais is stunning…for folks who enjoy the outdoors, it is an unbelievable experience.”

Enjoying the best hotels in Duluth is definitely the easy part. The hard part will be trying to fit in all the activities, nightlife, and cuisine Duluth has to offer during your stay and understanding why it’s one of the best places to visit in all of Minnesota.

But to make it as easy as possible, we’ve developed the ultimate no-need-to-use-anything-else guide to the best Duluth hotels.

Summary of Top Picks

Best Hotels in Duluth

Best Overall: Fitger’s Inn

Of the Duluth, Minnesota, hotels we reviewed, the most outstanding in all categories is the historic Fitger’s Inn. Its prime location on the Lake Superior shoreline in downtown Duluth is grand enough. It’s technically an inn but one of the region’s finest lodging options.

But it’s also adjacent to the very cute Fitger’s Mall, which features an array of locally-owned shops and restaurants, including a microbrewery.

Be sure to check out these other top Duluth breweries in the area during your visit. Guests can also relax in the salon and spa. Then, dance the evening away in one of two nightclubs.

During the day, jump on the nearby walking path for some lakeside exercise. The hotel itself presents an old-world style with top-notch service and warm hospitality.

Hotel features:

• Downtown location on Lake Superior
• Historic building with microbrewery
• Mall with 15 locally owned stores, four onsite restaurants, two nightclubs, and a salon with a spa
• Guest amenities include complimentary newspaper, complimentary internet, fitness center, business center, and room service

For a Resort Experience: Beacon Pointe on Lake Superior

The runner-up on our guide to the best hotels in Duluth is the uber-deluxe Beacon Pointe on Lake Superior. Guest rooms offer an apartment feel with modish appointments and many showing spectacular lake views.

Located only steps from the shoreline, visitors looking for luxury hotels in Duluth will love the Beacon Pointe. It’s comfortable and posh, perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers.

Its prime location means convenience and accessibility to restaurants, entertainment, and outdoor activities. For all its luxury, the property is bursting with guest amenities, such as complimentary breakfast, a game room, a pool, bicycles, a firepit, and free internet.

Each guest room also has a balcony and kitchenette. It’s a little far from attractions and entertainment, but close enough to walk and only a quick trip by car. The staff’s service and level of hospitality consistently receive high marks from guests.

Hotel features:

• Spacious guest rooms with kitchenettes and balconies
• Located on the lake with grand views
• Extra amenities such as a game room, bicycles, and s’mores kits
• Complimentary breakfast and internet

Hotels in Duluth for Families

Canal Park Lodge

Our pick for one of the best places to stay in Duluth that will make the entire family happy is Canal Park Lodge, a mountain-style retreat that’s actually in the heart of Duluth.

What makes it so perfect for families is all the amenities, convenience, and space this special property has to offer. And it’s only minutes away from some of the biggest attractions in Duluth.

Fuel the family with a complimentary breakfast served in the lobby. Then, after a full day, you’ll look forward to unwinding with a refreshing drink in the lobby lounge, either at the bar or in front of the cozy fireplace. There’s also an indoor pool, fitness center, and fire pit. It’s not a budget hotel, but you will get supreme value.

Hotel features:

• Within walking distance of attractions and entertainment
• Complimentary breakfast
• Indoor pool, whirlpool, fitness center, and fire pit
• Family-friendly board games and DVDs are available at the front desk

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson

As we researched nice hotels in Duluth for a family stay, we chose the Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Duluth North as the best hotel pool. Kids will be wowed by the big slide and large, heated indoor pool with a fountain. All the guest rooms are suites with kitchenettes, making a family stay convenient and easy.

They offer a complimentary hot breakfast, a fitness center, and a free airport shuttle. This property is closer to the airport than downtown, but you’ll only be minutes from Canal Park and Park Point Beach. The Miller Hill Mall is also very close.

Hotel features:

• Large heated indoor pool with slide and fitness center
• Complimentary breakfast
• Pet friendly
• Complimentary airport shuttle
• One of the Top-Rated Restaurants in Duluth with a rooftop rotating bar and restaurants

Lift Bridge Lodge

Another Duluth hotel ideal for families offering suite accommodations and a city center location is the Lift Bridge Lodge, which sits on the shore. Guestrooms can have a lake or a city view, and a few face the famous landmark of Aerial Lift Bridge. 

It’s also conveniently located adjacent to Canal Park for easy shopping, dining, and entertainment access. It’s in a lively section of Duluth, so expect lots of activity. But families of all sizes should be pleased with these accommodations.

Hotel features:

• In the heart of Canal Park
• Excellent lake or city views from suites
• Indoor heated pool and whirlpool
• Breakfast buffet, internet, and fitness center

Edgewater Hotel and Waterpark

Yes, we’ve included a category for the best Duluth hotel with a waterpark, even though it’s the only one. The Edgewater Hotel and Waterpark sit on the Lake Superior shoreline and show amazing lake views.

But the water thrills are all inside this combo hotel and amusement park. Families can enjoy an arcade, outdoor play area, pool, and hot tub. The property offers easy access to Downtown Lakewalk and restaurants. It’s pet-friendly and has a coffee shop.

Hotels with waterparks tend to see high traffic, so guest rooms and public spaces will show some wear. However, you and the kids will have a blast shooting down the slides and tubing that lazy river.

Hotel features:

• Pet-friendly
• Free wifi
• Coffee shop and onsite dining
• Free bike rentals and mini-golf

See Related: Best Hotels in Minneapolis, Minnesota

Budget Hotels in Duluth

In Duluth, places to stay don’t have to be expensive. There are many lovely accommodations for anyone sticking to a budget while traveling.

Best Western Plus Spirit Mountain

The best budget hotel in Duluth is the Best Western Plus Spirit Mountain. Spacious rooms with ample space to work (if you have to) partner with a cozy cabin feel to create a sweet home away from home ambiance.

It offers amazing amenities for the price, and it’s only a mile from Spirit Mountain Recreation Center. It’s at least 7 miles from the center of Duluth, where the entertainment is.

That means free parking, though, and after a day of hiking, mountain biking, or skiing, the quiet surroundings may be exactly what you need.

Hotel features:

• Complimentary hot breakfast, internet, and parking
• Close to outdoor adventure areas
• Fitness center, indoor heated pool, and whirlpool
• Laundry

Barkers Island Inn

A solid resort option for budget Duluth lodging is the Barkers Island Inn, conveniently located on the waterfront near the University of Wisconsin–Superior campus.

Barkers Island Inn has an indoor pool, whirlpool, sauna, and fitness center. A complimentary breakfast is served during the week, and there is a restaurant and lounge.

This casual resort has a game room, free parking, conference space, and a pet-friendly policy. Be aware the property specializes in group accommodations, so you may not feel as if you have the place to yourself.

Hotel features:

• Restaurant with lounge on-site
• Complimentary breakfast Monday through Friday
• Indoor pool, whirlpool, and sauna
• Conveniently located on the shore, adjacent to the marina and trails

Comfort Inn West

Families sticking to a hotel budget will find great Duluth accommodations at the Comfort Inn West. This well-appointed property offers comfortable, ample guest room space for families. It’s 6 miles from the airport, so that’s convenient for flying in. But there are about 3 or 4 miles between the property and Duluth attractions and recreation areas.

There are plenty of guest perks at the Comfort Inn West, like free internet and round-the-clock coffee and tea. Guests can also enjoy the indoor heated pool, whirlpool, and sauna after sightseeing, hiking, and skiing at nearby Spirit Mountain. Ask for a suite for even more family space.

Hotel features:

• Free wifi
• Free hot breakfast
• Indoor pool, whirlpool, and sauna

Hostel du Nord

One of the most unique hotels in Downtown Duluth is Hostel du Nord, which was specifically designed with the solo traveler in mind. It’s located in the heart of town inside a historic building with all the charming details preserved. 

They have a knowledgeable staff equipped to design an enjoyable stay for you. Full disclosure–the accommodations are dorm-like with curtained bunks and communal bathrooms. 

But you’ll find all the comforts of home in the well-stocked kitchen area. There’s free wifi and even a sauna. If you know you’re more likely to explore the town or the trails than hang out at a hotel, the Hostel du Nord will be a complete delight.

Hotel features:

• The downtown location is close to restaurants and shops
• Hip and trendy ambiance
• Free wifi
• Sauna, shared kitchen space, and communal areas

Hotels in Duluth for Gorgeous Views

Most of the hotels around Duluth will boast about having amazing views. But we’ve got the scoop on the ones with the best vistas around.

Park Point Marina Inn

There are a few resorts in Duluth worth checking out, but as far as the views are concerned, Park Point Marina Inn has the advantage. From its great vantage point on Duluth Harbor, guests can soak up a panorama of spectacular Lake Superior with passing sailboats and freighters.

Guestrooms offer either a harbor view or a Park Point neighborhood view, and most rooms have balconies. It’s a short walk to the Aerial Lift Bridge and steps away from the picnic tables, grills, and playground at Park Point.

There are tons of amenities, too. Guests can enjoy the free shuttle to Canal Park, a huge complimentary breakfast buffet, and an indoor pool area with a whirlpool and sauna.

Hotel features:

• Prime harbor location within walking distance to the Aerial Lift Bridge and complimentary shuttle to Canal Park
• Complimentary breakfast buffet
• Indoor pool, whirlpool, sauna, and arcade
• Lounge and outdoor patio

Radisson Hotel Duluth Harborview

Of our top-rated hotels in Duluth, Minnesota, the Radisson Hotel Duluth Harborview gets special mention for one unusual feature. At the top of this hotel is a revolving restaurant giving guests 360-degree views of Lake Superior and the city.

It’s conveniently located in the heart of downtown, and many attractions are within walking distance. After exploring the town, there’s an indoor pool, whirlpool, and sauna for relaxation.

A business center, free wifi, and a cocktail lounge are available for guests’ convenience. Breakfast is an extra charge, and room service seems to be limited. But the biggest draw is the restaurant on top of the hotel serving New American Cuisine and a fabulous panorama–the perfect spot for a romantic dinner.

Hotel features:

• Revolving restaurant offering contemporary dishes and an excellent selection of wines
• Central location within walking distance of attractions and entertainment
• Indoor pool, whirlpool, and sauna
• Free wifi

See Related: Best Things to Do in Minnesota

Hotels in Duluth for Couples

Traveling couples have particular things to consider with a hotel in Duluth, but don’t worry. We break down what Duluth hotels offer for a romantic vacation.

South Pier Inn on the Canal

Considering all the fun hotels to stay in Duluth, the South Pier Inn On the Canal offers something other more centrally located hotels don’t. It’s close to entertainment and offers peace. It’s sort of the best of both worlds. It even has amazing lake views!

This boutique property is adjacent to the Aerial Lift Bridge, meaning you’re steps away from all the entertainment in the Downtown Waterfront area. And the beach and pier are across the street. The breakfast is only continental, but you’re within walking distance of restaurants.

Despite its accessibility to shops, restaurants, and attractions, its small size and off-the-beaten-path location make this hotel a truly peaceful oasis in an otherwise bustling harbor.

Hotel features:

• Central location in Canal Park
• Across the street from the beach
• Whirlpool
• Business center, free parking, and complimentary continental breakfast

The Inn on Lake Superior

Out of the luxury hotels in Duluth, we rated The Inn on Lake Superior as the best. It’s located in Canal Park, perfect for watching the cruising boats on Lake Superior or strolling the Lakewalk. Enjoy s’mores nightly by the fire pit before you retire to your plushly appointed guest room. The ambiance is a casual elegance that is both tasteful and relaxing.

The views are outstanding. Two pools are available, one heated on the rooftop and the other indoors. Guests can also enjoy a soak in the whirlpool or a session in the sauna.

The Inn on Lake Superior is more stately than most of the best hotels in Duluth, so if you’re looking for something hip and trendy, keep reading.

Centrally-Located Hotels in Duluth

Sheraton Duluth Hotel

Of the hotels in downtown Duluth, we rated the Sheraton Duluth Hotel high for its central location. Easily walk down to the shoreline or shop and eat in town. Canal Park is a short walk away for even more fun and entertainment, like touring the Lakewalk. Use the 24-hour fitness club, heated indoor pool, and whirlpool.

Then call room service when you’re too worn out for onsite dining. The hotel also offers free parking, a business center, and an airport shuttle. This property is a little pricey compared to other downtown hotels, but the amenities are plentiful, and the location is seriously perfect.

Hotel features:

• Central downtown location
• Fitness center, heated indoor pool, and whirlpool
• Free parking and airport shuttle
• Room service and onsite dining

For the Airport: Holiday Inn Express and Suites Miller Hill

One of the best hotels in Duluth is the airport-adjacent Holiday Inn Express and Suites Miller Hill Hermantown. This comfortable and convenient hotel is the choice for flying travelers. Located a few miles from the airport, it’s a 5-minute drive to downtown. So, it’s still easy to enjoy the highlights of Duluth while keeping the airport in sight.

Relax in the heated indoor pool and whirlpool at the Holiday Inn Express and Suites Mill Hill Hermantown. Or get some exercise in the fitness center. It’s not a full-service property but has everything you need to stay close to the airport. Shopping and restaurants are nearby in the Miller Hill Mall.

Hotel features:

• Convenient airport location
• Complimentary continental breakfast and free wifi
• Heated indoor pool, whirlpool, and fitness center
• Business center

Suite Hotel at Waterfront Plaza

Sometimes, you want to know the fun hotels to stay in Duluth, and the Suite Hotel at Waterfront Plaza is on our list as one of the best of them. It’s an all-suite hotel with a trendy ambiance close to the best nightlife and things to do in Duluth.

The hotel occupies a historic building but keeps the exposed beams and other charming details. It also has an indoor pool with a whirlpool and sauna.

Each extra-spacious suite has a fully equipped kitchen, too. But the best part is that it’s attached to Hoops Brewing Company, and other restaurants and bars are adjacent. It’s an old building with quaint facilities, but this is your hotel if you want to experience the nightlife without walking around all night.

Hotel features:

• All suites with fully equipped kitchen
• Indoor pool with whirlpool and sauna
• Plenty of bars and restaurants inside and outside the building
• Complimentary breakfast

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