Start your Upper Midwest adventure in the Twin Cities, then head north on I‑35 to Duluth, Minnesota. Duluth’s waterfront, historic Aerial Lift Bridge, and the dramatic North Shore make it an ideal launch point for exploring Lake Superior’s rugged coastline.
Duluth and the North Shore
Begin with a quiet morning at Duluth Coffee Company, then drive north on Highway 61. Stop at Gooseberry Falls State Park to hear water tumble over dark rock, and continue to the iconic Split Rock Lighthouse perched on a cliff overlooking the lake. For a classic local treat, visit Betty’s Pies for a slice of chicken pot pie or a decadent five‑layer chocolate dessert.
After lunch, return to Duluth and stroll the Lakewalk, watching freighters pass under the Aerial Lift Bridge. Enjoy a local brew at The Broken Paddle and finish the evening with smoked fish and chive cream cheese at Northern Waters Smokehaus, followed by homemade ice cream at Love Creamery.
Upper Peninsula Highlights
Cross the Mackinac Bridge into Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. In Ironwood, pick up a traditional Stormy Kromer hat, a symbol of Upper Peninsula pride. Continue to Marquette, a small city with a lively arts scene. Start the day at Donckers, a historic café serving coffee and breakfast sandwiches since 1896.
Explore Presque Isle Park’s volcanic cliffs and black rock shoreline, then browse outdoor gear at Getz’s, a family‑run outfitter. In the evening, sample local brews at Ore Dock Brewing Company and enjoy a refined yet unpretentious dinner at The Delft Bistro.
Southern Michigan Finale
Leave the Upper Peninsula and travel south toward Ann Arbor, home to the University of Michigan and a celebrated food culture. Spend a few days sampling the city’s restaurants, breweries, and farmer’s markets before heading home, carrying memories of pine‑scented air, lake‑front sunsets, and the warm hospitality of the Upper Midwest.
Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.
