A Perfect Summer’s Day in Duluth with Fitger’s Luxury Lakefront Hotel
Duluth in the summer – oh, a canvas of cerulean skies, the gentle waves kissing the shores of Lake Superior, and the irresistible scent of adventure in the air. What does a perfect Summer Day in Duluth look like for you?
Fitger’s is a historic gem that’s as quintessentially Duluthian as a love for plaid and wholesome beer. The Canal Park’s shops and galleries, the Glensheen Mansion’s majestic estate, or the Bent Paddle Brewery are just some of places that could make up a perfect day in Duluth for you.
You could be anyone or do anything on your perfect day in Duluth, but we’ve put together this guide on how to spend a perfect summer’s day in Duluth with Fitger’s Luxury Lakefront Hotel. Read on because we’ve got the whole package ready for you.
Waking Up to Lake Superior’s Splendor
Our iconic hotel offers guests a front-row seat to one of the Great Lakes’ most breathtaking vistas. You will waking up to the sight of sailboats dotting the horizon and the promise of a day filled with adventure.
Early Morning with Coffee, Croissants, and Canals
You will start your day with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafting through the halls of Fitger’s. At Boat Club Restaurant & Bar, grab a latte so smooth it could kick start an unforgettable day. Pair it with a croissant. Then head to the Lakewalk for a quick panoramic views of Lake Superior.
Late Morning and Some History with a Twist
One of Duluth’s most important hotels began life in 1857 as a brewery started by Sidney Luce. Since then, the property saw many different owners until 1884, when business partners August Fitger and Percy Anneke renamed the brewery to the A. Fitger & Co. / Lake Superior Brewery.
Although Fitger’s brewery shut down in 1972, ending 115 years of brewing on the shores of Lake Superior, the property’s indomitable spirit would once more win out.
In 1984, the property was reopened as a hotel, and today, Fitger’s Luxury Lakefront Hotel is not only a premium hospitality destination in Duluth, but it has once again returned to its roots and begun brewing beer on the premises.
Noon: Fitger’s Brewery and All That’s Good
By now, you’ve worked up an appetite, and there’s no better place to satiate it than Fitger’s restaurants. The menu reads like a love letter to local flavors, and you’ll be ready to give a delicious nod to Minnesota’s natural bounty as soon as you enter. Wash it down with one of Fitger’s signature brews.
You’ll then have some time to admire the preserved exterior and curated interior of the hotel that proudly harken back to the property’s history. At the same time, the modern amenities offered by the hotel would ensure guests experience a comfortable stay with every modern creature comfort.
These amenities include the historic Fitger’s mall, containing fifteen locally owned shops, three restaurants, two nightclubs, as well as a micro-brewery. For those looking to recharge, there is also a full-service salon and day spa with award-winning stylists.
Maybe a Quick Nap and Lazing Around? (Optional)
It’s no crime to relax and recharge before you head out. Fitger’s also offers a wide assortment of room types to suit every requirement and budget, all of which promise classic European-style service, gracious hospitality and specially designed interiors.
You can read in one of the tastefully decorated and well-appointed Lakeside rooms with a cup of hot coffee in hand, and gaze out onto the morning sunlight dancing on the waters of Lake Superior – a serene scene which greets guests every morning at Fitger’s. Have a leisurely snack at The Boat Club Restaurant and Bar, or just have a rejuvenation session at the hotel’s in-house salon and spa service.
Afternoon: Canal Park and Other Captivating Sites
We can’t emphasize it enough that with such rich history and stunning views of Lake Superior, your itinerary for the day must commence with an early start.
But now that you’ve explored enough of Fitger’s in-house malls, shops and lux, it’s time to head out and see beyond the glory of the hotel.
Only a short walk from the hotel, Canal Park beckons. It’s located in the heart of Duluth’s waterfront. The bustling area offers a slew of activities for the whole family. You can stroll through the promenade and visit the iconic Aerial Lift Bridge, the landmark of the port city of Duluth.
Canal Park is dotted with sculptures and historical markers, offering glimpses into Duluth’s rich maritime heritage. You can stop by Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center to learn more about the region’s shipping history, or take it slow and enjoy the views from one of the many benches overlooking the lake.
Late Afternoon: Retail Therapy and Relaxation
You’ll soon find yourself indulging in some retail therapy at the boutiques and specialty stores lining the streets at Canal Park, offering everything from unique gifts and souvenirs to outdoor gear and locally made products.
Spend the morning exploring these shops for handcrafted jewelry, artisanal foods and stylish apparel which reflect the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of Duluth’s residents.
Evening: Discovering History at Glensheen Mansion
A short drive from the hotel brings you to one of Duluth’s most famous attractions – the Glensheen Mansion. The 20,000 square foot mansion, now operated as a historic house museum, is the perfect place to spend your afternoon.
This historic estate, once home to the Congdon family, offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyles of the early 20th century. The mansion’s grand architecture and meticulously preserved interiors provide a unique look at the period’s design and craftsmanship. Walk through its gardens and feel yourself transported back in time.
Late Evening Delights: Microbrews at Fitger’s Brewhouse
Work up an appetite and head back to Fitger’s for lunch at Fitger’s Brewhouse which boasts award-winning handmade ales and lagers made from all-natural ingredients. Select from an extensive menu of artisanal pub grub and pair it with their signature craft beers, brewed on-site, and you’ll know why this place is a favorite among the locals and visitors alike.
It’s impossible not to overeat at the Brewhouse, so walk off those extra calories on the Lakewalk, a scenic pathway that runs along the shore of Lake Superior.
The Lakewalk offers breathtaking views of the water and the surrounding landscape, making it the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a more vigorous jog.
As you meander along the path, you’ll pass by several points of interest, including Leif Erikson Park and its beautiful rose garden, where you can stop to admire the colorful blooms and take in the fragrant air. The Lakewalk is also a popular spot for birdwatching, so keep your eyes peeled for the various species that call this area home.
Winding Up at Bent Paddle Brewery
Before you call it a night, make a stop at Bent Paddle Brewery. Located in the nearby Lincoln Park Craft District, this popular brewery is known for its innovative and flavorful beers.
The warm, inviting atmosphere of the taproom makes it a great place to relax and reflect on the day’s adventures. Try a flight of Bent Paddle’s finest brews, from their refreshing pilsners to their robust stouts, each crafted with care and passion. The brewery often hosts live music and events, making it the perfect spot to end your day with a toast to the experiences and memories made in Duluth.
Nightcap: Raise a Glass to Duluth
End the day with a return to Fitger’s, where the staff will be waiting to welcome you back. Retreat to your room and unwind with a long shower, and enjoy the night-time views from your window as you sip on one last drink.
Then settle into the cozy sheets as the sounds of the lake provide a soothing lullaby, and dream of the natural beauty and rich history that you experienced in Duluth.
Conclusion
Fitger’s Luxury Lakefront Hotel stands as a testament to the city’s past and present, offering a unique blend of history, comfort, and charm. The city of Duluth has much to offer, and Fitger’s is more than just a hotel; it’s a gateway to this city’s soul.
Come explore with us and fall in love with Duluth’s charm. In Duluth, every day is a perfect day to explore, unwind, and create lasting memories.