Things to Do Within Walking Distance of Force on Fifth Avenue in Duluth

July 30, 2026

Things to Do Within Walking Distance of Force on Fifth Avenue in Duluth

One of the best ways to experience Duluth is on foot—and when you stay at Force on Fifth Avenue, many of the city's favorite attractions, restaurants, entertainment venues and Lake Superior experiences are right outside your door.


Located at 22 S. 5th Avenue W. in downtown Duluth, Force on Fifth Avenue puts you within easy walking distance of Canal Park, the Lakewalk, Bayfront Festival Park, the DECC, Great Lakes Aquarium, the Lake Superior Railroad Museum and more.


So, leave the car parked and put on your walking shoes. Here are some of the best things to see and do during your Duluth stay.


Start with a Walk Along Lake Superior


If you're looking for a quintessential Duluth experience, head toward the waterfront and explore the Lakewalk.


The paved trail follows Lake Superior and offers beautiful views of the water, harbor and Duluth's working waterfront. The full Lakewalk stretches for nearly eight miles from Canal Park toward Brighton Beach, but you don't have to walk the entire thing to enjoy it.


It's perfect for a morning coffee walk, an afternoon stroll or an evening sunset outing.


Tip: Keep an eye on the harbor. Depending on the time of year, you may spot one of the massive Great Lakes freighters coming into or leaving the Duluth-Superior harbor.


Explore Canal Park


Continue toward Canal Park, one of Duluth's most popular destinations.


You'll find restaurants, shops, waterfront views and plenty of opportunities to simply wander and take in the atmosphere. Canal Park is also where you'll find some of Duluth's most recognizable landmarks, making it an easy addition to a walking itinerary from Force on Fifth Avenue.


For a casual meal or drink along the way, consider Canal Park Brewing Company, Grandma's Saloon & Grill or Lake Avenue Restaurant & Bar.


Watch the Aerial Lift Bridge


No Duluth visit is complete without seeing the iconic Aerial Lift Bridge.


The historic bridge spans the Duluth Ship Canal and is one of the city's most recognizable landmarks. Find a spot near Canal Park and watch as the bridge rises to allow ships to pass into and out of the harbor.


For visitors, it's one of those experiences that's both completely free and uniquely Duluth.


And if you're visiting during a busy shipping season, check the ship schedule before heading out so you can try to catch a freighter passing through.


Visit the Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center


Interested in the ships you see passing through the harbor? Stop at the Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center near the Aerial Lift Bridge.


The visitor center explores the history of Great Lakes shipping and the Duluth-Superior harbor, with exhibits that help put the region's maritime history into perspective. Force on Fifth Avenue lists the center among its nearby attractions, about a mile from the hotel.


It's also a great rainy-day option—and admission is free.


Step Aboard the William A. Irvin


Want to get an up-close look at the ships that made Duluth a major Great Lakes port?


The William A. Irvin is a retired Great Lakes freighter permanently located in Canal Park. Visitors can explore the historic vessel and learn more about what life was like aboard these enormous ships.


The ship is approximately half a mile from Force on Fifth Avenue, making it an easy addition to a waterfront walking adventure.


Discover Duluth's Railroad History


You don't have to walk far from Force on Fifth Avenue to find another piece of Duluth history.


The Lake Superior Railroad Museum is located in the historic St. Louis County Depot and features locomotives, railroad cars and exhibits highlighting the importance of rail transportation to the region.


In fact, the museum is only about 450 feet from Force on Fifth Avenue, according to the hotel's current guest information.

For railroad enthusiasts, families and history buffs, it's a must-see.


Check Out Bayfront Festival Park


Located along the Lake Superior waterfront, Bayfront Festival Park is a beautiful place to enjoy some fresh air and take in the views.


The park hosts concerts, festivals and other events throughout the year, so check the event calendar during your stay. It's approximately half a mile from Force on Fifth Avenue.


Even when there isn't a major event happening, it's worth walking through to enjoy the waterfront setting.


Visit the Great Lakes Aquarium


Traveling with kids? Or simply fascinated by the wildlife and ecosystems of the Great Lakes?


The Great Lakes Aquarium is located near Bayfront Festival Park and features freshwater animals and exhibits highlighting aquatic environments from around the world, with a special emphasis on the Great Lakes region.


At approximately 0.4 miles from Force on Fifth Avenue, it's another attraction that's easy to reach without getting back in your car.


Grab a Bite Along the Way


Part of the fun of exploring Duluth on foot is discovering somewhere to stop along the way.


Force on Fifth Avenue's downtown location puts guests within walking distance of numerous restaurants, cafés, breweries and bars. Some nearby options listed by the hotel include Lyric Kitchen & Bar, Dubh Linn Brew Pub, Duluth's Best Bread, Canal Park Brewing Company and several Canal Park restaurants.


For a quick bite, a leisurely dinner or an evening drink, you don't have to go far.


Catch a Concert, Game or Event


If you're visiting Duluth for a concert, sporting event or convention, staying downtown can make the experience even easier.


The DECC and AMSOIL Arena are both within walking distance of Force on Fifth Avenue, approximately 0.4 miles away. Bayfront Festival Park is also nearby and hosts a variety of events.


That means you can enjoy your event, take a leisurely walk back toward the hotel and leave the parking and traffic behind.


Make Your Own Walking Tour of Duluth


The best part about staying downtown may be that you don't need to plan every minute.


Start your morning with a walk toward Lake Superior. Explore Canal Park. Watch the ships. Visit a museum. Stop for lunch. Wander through the shops. Grab dinner. Then head back to your spacious suite at Force on Fifth Avenue.


Duluth is a city best experienced at its own pace—and Force on Fifth Avenue gives you a convenient home base for doing exactly that.


Stay Close to the Best of Duluth


When you choose Force on Fifth Avenue, you're not just booking a place to sleep. You're putting yourself in the heart of downtown Duluth, close to Lake Superior, Canal Park, entertainment, restaurants, history and some of the city's most popular attractions.


So on your next Duluth getaway, consider leaving the car behind for a while.


Park. Walk. Explore. And experience more of Duluth from Force on Fifth Avenue.


Ready to explore Duluth? Book your stay at Force on Fifth Avenue and enjoy a convenient downtown location within walking distance of many of the city's favorite attractions.


July 30, 2026
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