A Perfect Holiday Day Trip to Duluth from the Chippewa Valley

Plus Tips for Turning It Into an Affordable Overnight Stay

If you’re looking to add a burst of holiday magic to your season, Duluth is one of the easiest and most rewarding day trips you can make from the Chippewa Valley. With Bentleyville’s brilliant lights, lakeside charm, an aquarium the kids will love, and plenty of family-friendly spots to eat and explore, Duluth delivers a full dose of festive fun without needing a long getaway.

Here’s how to make the most of a single-day Duluth adventure, plus ideas for families who want to extend the magic with an overnight stay.

Bentleyville: The Heart of the Trip

The highlight, of course, is Bentleyville Tour of Lights—a massive, walk-through holiday display that is free  (donations encouraged) though there are fees for parking. Expect towering light sculptures, music, marshmallow roasting, fires, meeting Santa, and all the holiday cheer you can handle.

Timing Tip: Go on a Weekday if Possible

Bentleyville runs from the third weekend of November through the New Year, and weekdays are hands-down the best time to visit. Weekends attract huge crowds from all over Minnesota and Wisconsin, making traffic and parking challenging. If your schedule allows, aim for Monday–Thursday for a smoother, more relaxed experience. My top insider tip: Go on Wednesdays - read below to find out why.

Make It a Full Day: Aquarium, Canal Park & More

If you’re already making the drive up from the Chippewa Valley (about 2-3 hours depending on where you start), you’ll want to enjoy more than just the lights. Luckily, Duluth packs in plenty of family-friendly fun.

Great Lakes Aquarium

Right next to Bentleyville, the aquarium is a perfect warm-up activity. Kids can get hands-on with touch pools, watch otters splash around, and explore exhibits celebrating Lake Superior and its waterways.

Budget Saver: Wednesdays are the best value day of the week—children (3 & up) and adult tickets are just $6. This makes a midweek trip incredibly affordable.

Family-Friendly Food in Canal Park

Canal Park is full of restaurants that welcome families with warm meals and cozy atmospheres. One of our favorites is Canal Park Brewing Company—great burgers, comfort food, craft beer for adults, and a fun vibe the kids enjoy too.

Consider Turning It Into an Overnight Trip

While a day trip is absolutely doable, sometimes the magic is better when you don’t have to rush. If you decide to stretch your visit into an overnighter, Canal Park Lodge is tough to beat.

Why We Love Canal Park Lodge

• An awesome indoor pool — perfect for kids to burn off energy after walking through Bentleyville or riding in the car.

• Free breakfast — a huge perk for families and a nice cost saver before heading home.

• Unbeatable location — Canal Park Lodge sits right next door to Canal Park Brewing Company and steps from Lake Superior’s boardwalk.

• Quick access to Bentleyville — just a short walk or a quick drive.

Staying here allows your family to enjoy dinner, the pool, the lights, and a relaxed morning without worrying about a late-night drive home.

A Sample Day Trip Itinerary From the Chippewa Valley

10:00 AM – Depart the Chippewa Valley - Pack snacks, warm layers, and your marshmallow supplies!

12:30 PM – Lunch in Canal Park - Grab a meal at Canal Park Brewing or another nearby family-friendly spot.

1:30–3:30 PM – Great Lakes Aquarium - Explore exhibits, see the otters, and warm up before the evening.(If it’s Wednesday, enjoy the free kids’ admission and $6 adult tickets!)

3:30–4:30 PM – Explore Canal Park - Walk the lakeshore, browse a shop or two, or grab a hot chocolate.

5:00 PM – Bentleyville Tour of Lights - Take your time wandering through the dazzling displays, roasting marshmallows, and soaking in the holiday spirit.

7:00 PM – Head Home - Or…

…Check in at Canal Park Lodge for an overnight stayLet the kids swim, cozy up for the night, and wake up to free breakfast and a lake view before heading back.

Extra Budget Tips for Families

• Go midweek whenever possible — smaller crowds and lower lodging rates.

• Bring your own s’mores fixings — Bentleyville has free fire pits but charges for marshmallows.

• Consider free parking options or stay close enough to walk.

• Bundle up well — Duluth cold hits different; gloves, hats, and warm socks are non-negotiable.

A Holiday Tradition Worth the Drive

Whether you make it a Wednesday budget-friendly adventure or treat your family to an overnight stay with swimming and breakfast included, a holiday trip to Duluth is truly special. From the sparkle of Bentleyville to the charm of Canal Park, it’s the perfect way to add magic to the season without traveling far from the Chippewa Valley.