Grand Marais is a small town on the shore of Lake Superior, and it’s easy to see why this little town has become a tourist destination. With things like kayaking tours, fishing excursions, and even snowmobiling trips, you’ll never run out of things to do in Grand Marais. And with 13 things listed below that are sure to keep you busy until your next visit, there really isn’t any excuse not to plan a trip!
Artist’s Point
is a beautiful lookout that will give you an excellent view of the lake. It’s especially pretty when there is snow on the ground, but all year round it’s worth stopping by to admire the water and surrounding forested hillsides. It was named Artist’s Point because of the many artists that have stopped by to paint the stunning scenery. It’s a good spot to stop for a picnic or just to find some inspiration.
Cascade River State Park
The Cascade River State Park is a great spot for hikers. The river that runs through the park has several waterfalls, and there are trails along both sides of the river making it easy to take pictures without getting your feet wet if you don’t want to! It’s about 30 minutes south of Grand Marais on Hwy 61.
Lake Superior Brewing Company
The Lake Superior Brewing Company is a local favorite, as they serve up some of the best microbrews in town! In addition to having several beers on tap that are brewed right there at the brewery, you’ll also find things like fish tacos and fried cheese curds on their menu. Best of all? Everything here is made from scratch.
Grand Marais Lighthouse
Another one of the things to do in Grand Marais is visiting the local lighthouse. And while it may be a bit smaller than lighthouses you may have visited elsewhere, this small town landmark still offers spectacular views from its top deck! In addition, if you’re feeling really adventurous and only want to visit during the weekdays when they aren’t serving tours, you can actually climb to the top and check things out on your own!
World’s Best Donuts
There’s a reason why things like donuts and pastries are so popular in Grand Marais, and if you want to see what all the fuss is about then be sure to stop by World’s Best Donuts. This hole-in-the-wall bakery has been serving up its famous treats since 1969, and while they’re known for things like their old-fashioned sour cream donuts, the apple fritters are also a must!
Make sure to get here early! The line can have a 20-30 minute wait time at its peak and when the products are gone, they won’t be serving anymore.
Grand Marais Art Colony
The things to do in Grand Marais don’t stop at things like fishing and snowmobiling. If you’re looking for something a little less “extreme” then be sure to check out the local art colony. Here you’ll find art studios and galleries that offer things like landscape paintings, handmade pottery, and even metal sculptures!
Beaver House
Another thing to do in Grand Marais is to check out the Beaver House. This local fisihing shop is known for its good-natured staff who are willing to help out tourists find things like fishing licenses, bait & tackle, and other things. You surely won’t miss it with the giant walleye sticking out of the building. If you’re going on an excursion, you may even get things like free coffee and donuts!
You don’t have to be an angler to come here, many tourists come here for souvenirs or just a photo.
Lake Superior
One of the best things to do in Grand Marais is to see Lake Superior itself! If you’re looking for a spot that’s perfect for birdwatching or simply taking photos then head on over to the overlook where you’ll find things like the famous Lake Superior lighthouse, as well as some fantastic views of this massive lake!
This is a popular spot for things like weddings and other special occasions as well, so don’t be surprised if you see someone else taking pictures!
Voyageur Brewing Company
Hoping things to do in Grand Marais involve things like beer and microbrews? Then be sure to stop by the Voyageur Brewing Company. This is one of three local breweries (Lake Superior Brewery and Sawdust City Brewery being the others) and it’s known for things like their Lake Trout Stout, North Shore Lager, or Voyageur Ale.
Sven & Ole’s Pizza
At the end of a long day, treat yourself by grabbing a slice at Sven & Ole’s Pizza. This local pizzeria has been serving up things like cheeseburgers and bratwurst for over 35 years now, and they’re best known for their pizza! They’ll have people coming from all corners of the state just to try this local pizza spot.
Their place feels absolutely cozy and intimate and has a friendly community vibe. The pizza here also has Scandinavian names like Uffda Zah, The Haviian Zah, and The Vild Vun.
Pincushion Mountain Trail System
The Pincushion Mountain Trail System is a series of trails that cover over 36 miles throughout Cook County! Starting at Gooseberry Falls State Park all the way up to Canada, this trail system offers things like scenic views from Lookout Point or the Superior Hiking Trail.
Historic Cook County Museum
This is a local museum that’s been hosting things like art shows and exhibits since the 19th century. It’s housed inside the Lightkeeper’s House built in 1896 where a former lighthouse keeper lived. The collection here includes Lake Superior & Cook County history.
Superior Trail
If you’re interested in things like camping, hiking, biking, or birdwatching then be sure to check out the Superior Trail! This is a 110-mile long trail that starts near Duluth up to Canada where there are things like scenic views and things like wildlife!
Well there you have it, things to do in Grand Marais! From things like checking out the Beaver House and visiting breweries, to hiking and camping this travel guide has a little bit of everything for everyone.
