Minnesota North Shore Scenic Drives: Top Tours & Activities
Discover Minnesota's stunning Lake Superior coastline with expertly guided scenic drive tours.
The Minnesota North Shore, a legendary stretch along the vast expanse of Lake Superior, offers some of the most breathtaking driving experiences in the Midwest. This iconic coastline is a tapestry of dramatic cliffs, cascading waterfalls, charming fishing villages, and endless views of the world's largest freshwater lake by surface area. Choosing a guided scenic drive tour provides a deeper understanding and appreciation of this unique landscape, transforming a simple road trip into an immersive journey. These tours are designed to showcase the very best the North Shore has to offer, often taking visitors to viewpoints and natural wonders that might be missed if exploring independently. Imagine tracing the winding Highway 61, with knowledgeable guides pointing out the geological history etched into the ancient rock formations, sharing stories of the region's maritime past, and highlighting the best spots for photography. Whether you're drawn to the power of Gooseberry Falls, the artistic charm of Grand Marais, or the secluded beauty of Tettegouche State Park, a curated tour ensures you experience the essence of this beloved Minnesota destination without the stress of navigation or planning. From short, focused excursions to full-day explorations, the variety of North Shore scenic drive tours allows travelers to tailor their experience to their interests and time constraints. They offer a fantastic way to connect with the natural beauty, local culture, and rich history of this remarkable corner of the United States, providing insights and access that elevate the exploration beyond a typical drive. It's an opportunity to see Minnesota's dramatic northland through experienced eyes, making your visit truly memorable.
Featured North Shore Scenic Drives Tours
Discover our top picks for north shore scenic drives in Minnesota
Download the GuideAlong self-guided audio tour and you'll discover more on your Lake Superior North Shore road trip. Hear fascinating behind-the-scenes stories, local tips and directions play automatically along Highway 61, all based on your location. You'll be guided to all of the area's famous highlights as well as lessor known gems including one of Minnesota's most photographed lighthouses, a historic mansion that's also the site of a famous murder mystery, and an iconic 932-foot-high scenic lookout over Lake Superior. Enjoy the freedom to explore offline at your own pace, spending more time at places that interest you. - Stories, tips and directions play automatically based on your location - Travel at your own pace - Tour offline using GPS, no cell service or WiFi needed - Suggested itineraries for half, full or multi day use - Buy once, use forever! No expiry, includes free updates - Like having a tour guide along for the drive Purchase one tour per vehicle.
Explore the scenic North Shore of Lake Superior with this self-guided driving tour. Relive tales of harrowing shipwrecks, including the famous tragedy of the Edmund Fitzgerald. Visit historic landmarks like Glensheen Mansion and Pierre the Voyager. Marvel at the cascading waters of Gooseberry Falls State Park and cap off your journey with breathtaking views from Split Rock Lighthouse. This is a drive you simply can’t miss! Purchase one tour per car, not per person. Everyone listens together! After booking, check your email/text to download the separate Audio Tour Guide App by Action while connected to WiFi or mobile data. Enter the password, download the tour, and enjoy it offline. Follow the audio instructions and route from the designated starting point. Buy once, use for one year! Ideal for extended visits and return trips over the next 12 months. This isn't an entrance ticket. Check opening hours before your visit.
Get ready for an unforgettable ride through the heart of Minneapolis aboard our charming vintage trolley! This isn’t just a tour—it’s a front-row seat to the jaw-dropping history, breathtaking vistas, and river-powered energy that turned a rugged frontier town into one of the most dynamic cities in the country. You’ll roll past soaring skyline views, iconic landmarks, and hidden gems as we explore the five original Districts that joined forces in the early 1900s to create the bold, bustling Minneapolis we know and love today. From the mill-powered might of the Mississippi Riverfront to the swanky theaters of Downtown, every district has its own story—and you’ll hear them all. This is more than just sightseeing—it’s time travel with a twist of adventure, a dash of drama, and a whole lot of Midwestern charm. Whether you're a history buff, a selfie snapper, or just here for a good time, the Minneapolis Trolley Tour is your ticket to the soul of the city.
Our very unique, immersive adventures are the only ones of their kind. We, unlike other companies, provide your very own remote, interactive, live host to assist and encourage you along through your phone. We are an Austin, TX-based global custom event design company offering scavenger hunts and other events in 300+ cities in North America and beyond. Our specially hand-crafted adventures are equal parts tour, creative challenge, detective hunt, and social experiment! Guests get to discover in an alternate reality our favorite hidden gems off the beaten trail and creatively interpret fun art, history, and culture clues - for points! They get to enjoy fame and glory while appearing on our website’s international leaderboard, no matter what their score. They get to essentially race other teams in other cities, even if they don’t have competitors who have signed up in their city that day. Get ready to discover unusual oddities, laugh out loud, and make the experience your own!
This incredible tour will fly south into Jay Cooke State Park over the beautiful waterfalls and dams. Flying along the St. Louis River, Ely’s Peak and Spirit Mountain. We continue north seeing the rest of the iconic views Duluth has to offer along the North Shore.
Why Choose North Shore Scenic Drives in Minnesota?
Unparalleled Lake Views
Experience the vastness and beauty of Lake Superior from curated viewpoints along the scenic routes.
Waterfall Wonders
Access and learn about iconic waterfalls like Gooseberry Falls and High Falls, often with guided walks.
Natural Exploration
Discover state parks, forests, and geological formations with expert local knowledge.
Charming Towns
Visit picturesque coastal towns like Grand Marais and Two Harbors, known for their art and maritime heritage.
Hassle-Free Travel
Enjoy the scenery without worrying about navigation, parking, or finding the best routes.
Photographer's Paradise
Tours often stop at prime locations for capturing the dramatic landscapes and natural light.
Types of North Shore Scenic Drives in Minnesota
Full-Day Scenic Drives
These comprehensive tours typically span 6-8 hours, covering a significant portion of the North Shore, from Duluth to Grand Marais or beyond. They often include multiple state park visits and in-depth commentary.
Half-Day Waterfall Excursions
Focusing on the iconic waterfalls within a shorter timeframe, these tours usually last 3-4 hours. They are perfect for those with limited time who want to experience the power of Gooseberry Falls and other nearby cascades.
Duluth to North Shore Highlights
Starting from Duluth, these tours offer a condensed experience of the North Shore's most famous attractions, typically lasting 4-5 hours. They provide a great introduction to the region's natural beauty.
Customizable Private Tours
For a more personalized experience, private tours can be arranged. These allow you to set the pace and focus on specific interests, whether it's photography, hiking, or exploring art galleries.
What to Expect on North Shore Scenic Drives Tours
Duration
Tours typically range from 3 hours for shorter excursions to 8 hours for full-day explorations, depending on the itinerary and destinations.
Weather
Minnesota's North Shore experiences varied weather. Expect anything from sunny days to cool, misty conditions, especially near the lake. Layers are always recommended.
Group Size
Group sizes can vary from small, intimate tours of 6-8 people to larger coach tours of 20-30 travelers. Private tours offer exclusive experiences.
What's Included
Most tours include transportation and the services of a knowledgeable guide. Some may include entrance fees to state parks or specific attractions. Meals and personal expenses are typically not included.
Meeting Point
Meeting points are usually in central locations, most commonly in Duluth, or sometimes in towns further north like Grand Marais, depending on the tour's starting point. Specific details are provided upon booking.
Costs
Prices for North Shore scenic drive tours generally start around $35 for shorter, shared experiences and can range up to $200 or more for full-day or private customizable tours, per person.
Expert Tips for the Best Experience
Book in advance, especially during peak summer months (June-August) and fall color season (late September/early October), as tours can fill up quickly.
Dress in layers. The temperature can fluctuate significantly along the North Shore, even on a single day, due to lake effect.
Wear comfortable walking shoes. Many tours involve short hikes to waterfalls or scenic overlooks, so you'll want to be prepared for uneven terrain.
Bring a reusable water bottle and snacks. While tours may stop for meals, having your own provisions ensures you're always ready.
Don't forget your camera! The North Shore is incredibly photogenic, with stunning vistas around every bend.
Check the specific itinerary for each tour. Some focus heavily on waterfalls, while others might include more time in charming lakeside towns or state parks.
Consider the time of year. Summer offers lush greenery and pleasant weather, while fall provides spectacular foliage. Spring can be a quieter, more serene experience.
Be open to spontaneous stops. Guides often know of lesser-known viewpoints or points of interest that aren't on the main itinerary but are well worth a detour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:What is the best time of year for North Shore scenic drives?
A: The summer months (June-August) offer warm weather and full greenery, while late September and early October are renowned for vibrant fall colors. Both periods are popular for tours.
Q:Are these tours suitable for families with young children?
A: Many half-day tours focusing on waterfalls are family-friendly, often with short, accessible paths. Full-day tours might be more demanding, so check the specific tour details for suitability.
Q:Can I get off the bus to explore on my own?
A: Yes, most guided tours include designated stops where you can disembark, explore, take photos, and often enjoy short walks. Your guide will provide clear instructions on meeting times.
Q:What should I bring on a North Shore scenic drive tour?
A: It's a good idea to bring layers of clothing, comfortable shoes, a camera, sunscreen, insect repellent, a reusable water bottle, and snacks. A small backpack can be very convenient.
Q:Are meals included in the tour price?
A: Typically, meals are not included in the base price of North Shore scenic drive tours. Guides will often suggest excellent local restaurants or provide opportunities to stop for lunch.
Q:What if the weather is bad on the day of my tour?
A: Tours generally operate rain or shine, as the scenery is often captivating even in inclement weather. However, in extreme conditions, operators may offer rescheduling or alternative options. It's best to check the specific tour operator's cancellation policy.
Q:How far do these tours typically travel?
A: The distance covered varies greatly. Shorter tours might focus on the area between Duluth and Gooseberry Falls, while full-day tours can extend up to Grand Marais and even further north, covering hundreds of miles round trip.
Why Visit Minnesota?
Explore over 10,000 pristine lakes, offering endless opportunities for fishing and boating adventures in Minnesota.
Discover vibrant Twin Cities culture, from world-class arts to unique culinary scenes in Minneapolis and St. Paul.
Experience the friendly Midwestern charm and genuine hospitality that makes Minnesota a welcoming destination for all travelers.
Delve into a rich history of Native American heritage and Scandinavian immigration, evident in museums and local traditions.
Enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the North Shore of Lake Superior, a truly unforgettable scenic drive.
Embrace the spirit of 'Minnesota Nice' while exploring stunning natural landscapes and lively urban centers.
Best Time to Visit
Weather
Check local weather forecasts for the best time to visit.
Best Months
Spring and fall offer the best weather for most destinations.
Peak Season
Summer months are typically the peak season with higher prices and crowds.
Off Season
Winter months offer lower prices and fewer crowds, though weather may be less ideal.
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Transportation Tips
Getting around Minnesota is convenient with a car being the most flexible option, especially for exploring its vast natural beauty and numerous lakes. Major cities like Minneapolis and St. Paul offer public transportation, including bus routes and light rail, which can be cost-effective. For longer distances between cities, intercity bus services are available. Within national and state parks, walking and biking are ideal ways to experience the scenery. Consider ride-sharing services for shorter trips within urban areas.
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Where to Stay
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