SOUTH PIER INN, Duluth

South Pier Inn - Waterfront boutique hotel at Aerial Lift Bridge with harbor views and private shoreline

Located at the foot of the iconic Aerial Lift Bridge, this family-owned Duluth hotel features 20 waterfront suites with premium amenities including whirlpools, fireplaces, and private balconies. The South Pier Inn provides 400 feet of private shoreline overlooking Duluth harbor, where guests can watch ships and occasional eagles from Adirondack chairs with provided blankets. Each suite comes equipped with a 40-inch HDTV, DVD player, and complimentary WiFi throughout the property. The property offers a continental breakfast featuring fresh baked goods from Johnson's Bakery, Duluth Coffee Company coffee, and Positively Third Street Bakery granola. A patio and firepit sit outside the lobby, while the property's gardens showcase 175 feet of annuals, perennials, and a Japanese zen garden from May through October. The hotel's position adjacent to Canal Park puts guests within walking distance of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Massive ships frequent the harbor from late March until mid-January, visible from the property.

Pros

Northern latitude and low light pollution make it ideal for viewing Aurora Borealis

Morning history tours with hotel owners available seasonally

Electric vehicle charging stations available in select parking spots

Seven miles of sandy beaches accessible from Park Point location

Cons

Limited parking with one space per room

Lake Superior waters remain cold for swimming most of the year