Superior, Wisconsin is located in a spectacular natural setting along shores of the great Lake Superior. It is a destination in Wisconsin that is often overlooked by travelers.
The fact is, there are plenty of things to do that make it worth the stop. A visit to Superior includes visiting one of the best beaches on Lake Superior, touring a Victorian mansion, attending stock car races and bird watching.
Just outside of Superior is Wisconsin’s tallest waterfall and let us not forget the world-famous Brule River, to name a few more. There’s no shortage of fun to be had in our home city.
Our goal with this list is to inspire you to spend a few days in one of Wisconsin’s most charming port cities instead of driving straight through on your way to Duluth, Minnesota, or up the North Shore of Lake Superior.
Without further ado, we give you Superior and all of the things that we think make it worth the stop.
Don’t leave home without: Moon Wisconsin: Lakeside Getaways, Scenic Drives, Outdoor Recreation (Travel Guide).
45 Best Things to do in Superior, Wisconsin
Table of Contents
1. Wisconsin Point Lighthouse & Beach
If you are going to do one thing when visiting Superior, Wisconsin you must visit the Wisconsin Point.
This natural peninsula features miles of the best beaches along Lake Superior. There’s even a working lighthouse (Wisconsin Point Lighthouse) located at the end of the peninsula.
Wisconsin Point has a few great parking lots and basic facilities for visitors to use. There are even a few educational placards highlighting wildlife and plantlife.
There are boardwalks leading to the beach to protect the sand dunes from visitors. The beach is great to walk and see what you can find. There’s always great driftwood washed up along with a few Lake Superior agates.
It’s a popular spot in the summer months with people coming from all over to cool off and enjoy the almost 3 miles of beach.
Many popular activities include bird watching, hiking, dog walking, beach use, and horseback riding. It’s one of the best places in Superior to view or photograph a sunrise.
You will also find a historical marker for a sacred Chippewa burial ground where visitors can pay their respects to those who once called this peninsula home. It is in a cool location among tall pines.
In the winter months, the force of Lake Superior pushes huge sheets of ice up onto the beach, making for an otherworldly look to the landscape.
Local Superior Tip: If you choose to swim here, be careful! Lake Superior is notorious for strong undertows and rip currents. It is also frigid cold, even on hot summer days.
2. Check out the old Ore Docks
Superior has a huge shipping history and with that old history comes many old structures. One of the most popular structures in Superior are the old ore docks.
As you drive into Superior from the south, you drive right under one of the ramps leading up to those towering docks.
The largest gravity iron ore dock still sits in Allouez Bay. Parts of several other docks are still standing tall over the bay, you can not go inside of them nor should you explore them without permission and the proper gear, but they are amazing to see from the water.
They are best visible on a boat cruise or from the Loon’s Foot boat launch next to Kwik Trip once you pass over the Allouez River.
3. Old Firehouse and Police Museum
Superior has only a handful of original buildings that have withstood the test of time, the Old Firehouse and Police Museum is one of those buildings.
Built-in 1898, the old firehouse originally housed five horse-drawn fire rigs, including the city’s first steamer.
Step back into time and enjoy a unique look at its historic fire-fighting equipment and police memorabilia on display.
We love the horse-drawn buggy, the 1906 Ahrens Stemp Pumper, the 1919 LaFrance Fire Ladder Truck and the 1944 L Model Mack.
There’s even a progression of improvements in typical firefighter’s equipment throughout the years on the second floor.
A visit to the Old Firehouse and Police Museum needs to be added to your list of things to do in Superior, Wisconsin when visiting.
Local Superior Tip: If you are into old buildings we suggest you also check out the Carnegie building that was the old library.
4. Visit Fairlawn Mansion
Located right on US53 sits one of the best kept Victorian homes in Wisconsin. The Fairlawn Mansion was built by the lumber and mining baron Martin Pattison.
Explore this classic 42 room Victorian-style mansion that will transport you back to the time when Superior, Wisconsin was just starting to boom.
This popular Victorian home was a private residence from 1890 to 1920 and a children’s home for over 65 years after that. Imagine the stories this building has to say.
Not to mention it is one of Superior’s most recognizable landmarks. In the summer, explore the beautiful garden grounds.
The inside of this mansion is fully restored from gilded murals on the ceilings, to its grand entrance hall with an open staircase.
During the Christmas season, the mansion halls are decked with traditional Christmas ornaments.
Local Superior Tip: Many people believe Fairlawn Mansion is haunted by a servant girl. She has been seen by many out of town visitors.
5. Get a hole in one at Capt’n J’s Miniature Golf
Whether it is your first time playing or you have put around a miniature golf course before, hitting the Capt’n J’s Miniature Golf course on Barker’s Island is a fun thing to do in Superior.
This classic 18 hole miniature golf course is a challenging but fun local golf course, the one that always gets us is the four-humped terror or the volcano.
The course is located on Barkers Island and it’s an excellent location next to the bay. They operate from May to October and their hours are 10 A.M. to 10 P.M.
Hours are based on having tourists, they may open later and close earlier so don’t be disappointed if this local business is not open.
It is best to keep an eye out for their sign that will be out on the highway, which means they are open.
Local Superior Tip: On Wednesday nights during the summer there are concerts held as part of the Bayside Sounds Concert Series on Barkers Island and on Saturday mornings there’s a farmers market.
6. Fishing Charter on Lake Superior
When visiting Superior you have to spend a day out on the water with one of the many great local fishing charters. No equipment, no problem, the charter companies have everything you’ll need.
It does not matter if you’re a couple, family, a group of friends or a corporate outing visiting Superior, Wisconsin you will have a blast out on the lake with a fishing charter.
All you really need to do is sit back and enjoy your time out on the water and reel in a fish here and there when they tell you too. That’s the magic about going out with guides that have fished these waters their whole life.
There are many Lake Superior charter fishing options including half-day trips that last 5.5 hours to full-day trips that are over 8 hours long. All fishing charters in Superior Wisconsin leave from the Barker’s Island Marina.
Being out on Lake Superior is a truly memorable experience, even if luck is not on your side and you don’t catch anything.
Popular fish to catch on Lake Superior are:
- Lake Trout
- Salmon
- Smallmouth Bass
- Walleye
Our favorite Fishing Charters out of Superior, Wisconsin:
Local Superior Tip: If you got skunked on your fishing trip, we suggest getting some fresh lake trout from Superior Meats in the South End of Superior.
7. Take it to the Water on Superior Bay
The Superior Bay can be simply stunning on a summer day. It’s a popular place to enjoy SUP, kayaking or even a boat trip on the bay.
There’s a lot to see just around the harbor including unique wildlife and historic grain docks. It’s one of the best places to view a sunrise in Lake Superior and in the wintertime, Superior Bay is a great place to go ice fishing.
Local Superior Tip: There’s a great kayak launch spot located at the Arrowhead boat ramp or if you’re someone who is looking for a great harbor cruise you must check out the Vista Fleet that cruises mostly the Superior side of the bay.
8. Barkers Beach
Barkers Beach is a public beach located on Barkers Island and is one of the best beaches located right in Superior, Wisconsin.
Here there’s a great sandy beach, changing rooms with bathrooms and a boardwalk to enjoy on a hot summer day. It is a great place to swim within the bay where the water isn’t as cold as out on Wisconsin Point.
Keep in mind there can be a strong undertow and a few kids have drowned while swimming here, so keep an eye on your children.
Local Superior Tip: If you’re looking for a great place to fish from land we suggest heading across from Barkers Beach along the shoreline where the old railroad tracks ran next to the lake or out on Hugs Island.
9. SS Meteor Maritime Museum
Superior is one of Wisconsin’s most historical port cities located on Lake Superior. So naturally, when visiting you cannot visit without exploring a historical ship.
Join the crew of the SS Meteor as you take a tour of a unique ship located on Barkers Islands.
The SS Meteor is the last above-water Whaleback ship in the world. The whaleback freighter was designed by Captain Alexander McDougall and was built here in Superior.
The SS Meteor is one of two ships that can be toured in the Duluth/Superior area. Explore the pilothouse and the cargo holds while learning about this ship’s history.
There’s even a great museum that exhibits Great Lakes shipwrecks and the history of shipbuilding in the Twin Ports.
Local Tip: If you are into ships, we suggest checking out the Fraser Shipping yard where they do a lot of maintenance work on large ships that sail Lake Superior or take a drive down Main St. where you can view the ships that are docked.
10. Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center
If you are someone who is interested in military history when visiting Superior than you must visit the Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center.
The museum is one of the best World War II museums in Wisconsin and there are great videos, displays and a wall with the names of fallen soldiers. The main highlight of this museum is the full size P-38 plane.
For us, who grew up in the Superior area, the Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center is a special place where we learned about this local legend.
The museum revolves around the life of American fighter ace and test pilot Richard Bong who grew up just outside Superior.
11. Hike, Bike, Run on the Osaugie Trail
One of the best hiking, biking, running and even dog-walking trails located in Superior, Wisconsin is the Osaugie Trail. This trail runs along the Lake Superior waterfront and leads trail goers past many popular landmarks.
It stretches just over 5 miles with an out and back distance of 10.3 miles. This blacktopped trail has great signs telling you about Superior’s history, plant life, wildlife, and even the businesses that are right off the trail.
It is a peaceful trail in the early morning or as the sun is setting. The Osaugie Trail is accessible year-round and in the wintertime it’s one of the best spots in Superior to go snowshoeing or cross-country skiing.
The Osaugie trail is accessible at the Harbor View Park on E. 2nd St on US53 where one trailhead starts and also at Bear Creek Park on Moccasin Mike Road just on the outskirts of Superior.
12. Explore the Tri-County Corridor Trail on a UTV or ATV
Where the city of Superior starts and the paved Osaugie Trail ends is the start of one of the best UTV/ATV trails in Northern Wisconsin.
The Tri-County Corridor Trail stretched over 60 miles on unpaved roads leading from Superior to Ashland.
UTVers and ATVers come from all around to hit the amazing trail in the summer but in the wintertime, the Tri-County Corridor Trail is one of the best snowmobiling trails in Wisconsin too.
This trail is large crushed rock so it is not very good to bike on or run on. We also suggest keeping to the Osaugie Trail since ATV/UTV’s go fast along this trail.
Popular stops along this trail are Amnicon Falls State Park, Brule River, Iron River and Ashland. There are a few great trail-side bars and motels accessible from the trail along the way too.
The Tri-County Corridor Trail starts at Bear Creek Park at the start of Moccasin Mike Road. There’s plenty of room for a large trailer and it is safe to park your truck and trailer there all day long.
Local Superior Tip: We suggest a stop in at Rapids Riverside Inn where you can grab a drink and bite to eat just outside of Superior a few miles before Amnicon Falls State Park. Order a loaded Bloody Mary!
13. Harborview Park
If you are visiting Superior with kids you must check out the Harborview Park that’s located between the Perkins and the Richard Bong Memorial. This park offers one of the best places for children to play in the city.
Harborview Park has something to offer for all ages of children, small structures for little kids, and a large structure for older kids.
Being located right along Lake Superior this park provides amazing views of the lake that no other park in town can offer. The parking lot is huge and is great for anyone hauling trailers or if you are visiting with an RV.
Local Tip: This is also a great place to start the Osaugie Trail.
14. Arrowhead boat ramp
If you are looking for one of the best boat launches in Superior then you’ll want to add this one to your list. There are great facilities with fish cleaning stations and restrooms for boaters to enjoy.
There’s also a great parking lot that is easily accessible if you are not too experienced with hauling a boat.
We love this boat ramp area since it is located at the mouth of the Saint Louis River and is in a safe neighborhood where you can leave your truck safely.
There’s also a great kayak launch spot that is built right into the dock. This allows kayakers to enjoy the St. Louis River with easy access unlike other places along Lake Superior.
Other Boat Launches in Superior, WI:
- Arrowhead – West end of Superior off Belknap St.
- North 21st St – West end of Superior off 21st St.
- Barker’s Island – off Hwy 2 and Marina Drive.
- Loon’s Foot Landing – off Hwy 2 on 30th Ave East.
Local Superior Tip: If you are looking for fishing tackle or any gear you should check out the Bait Box.
15. Visit Billings Park
One of the best large parks in Superior is Billings Park located along the St. Louis River. It is a great place if you are looking to have a picnic or if you’re looking to just enjoy the great outdoors on a nice day.
There’s plenty of room for you to enjoy nature along with man-made facilities like pavilions, grills, picnic tables, restrooms, horseshoe pits, a playground and so much more.
Being located next along the St. Louis River there’s even boat access to this park.
We love all the different hiking trails that take you along the shoreline where there’s a wide variety of plant life including lily pads, rushes, cattails, raspberries and black-eyed Susans.
Local Superior Tip: If you are visiting in August (normally the first weekend) there’s a family-friendly street festival that goes on called Billings Park Days.
16. Discover the Superior Municipal Forest
Are you an outdoor lover? If so, you need to check out the Superior Municipal Forest that is located right within the city limits of Superior. This forest is comprised of 4,400 acres of forest and natural habitat.
It is one of Superior’s natural gems that showcases the best of the Northwoods with white pines, red pines, balsams, cedar, black spruce, white birch and aspen trees.
Popular activities in the Superior Municipal Forest include hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, bird watching, canoeing, kayaking and horseback riding.
There’s even a great dog park located at the main parking lot where you can let your dog run wild.
Local Superior Tip: If you are looking to experience the Superior Municipal Forest a little deeper, there’s one primitive campsite located at Dwight’s Point which is accessible by the water and is used on a first-come-first-served basis. The campsite has a fire ring, a great bench and a tent platform.
17. Explore the Millennium Trail
The Millenium Trail is one of the best hiking and biking trails in Superior Wisconsin. This flat, 10-foot wide, blacktopped trail twists and winds throughout the Superior Municipal Forest stretching 1.6 miles.
There’s great parking available at the main trailhead at 28th St. There’s also a small parking area off Billings Drive, so you can start at either end of this amazing trail.
Local Superior Tip: Dogs are welcomed on this trail however, make sure you pick up after them. Do not leave poop bags on the trail either.
18. Have a local Earth Rider Beer
Lake Superior is the world’s largest freshwater lake so naturally, we have some pretty good water and Earth Rider Brewery has taken advantage of this by producing world-class beers.
Their entire lineup is made in Superior, WI and they were the first brewery in town. Earth Rider is proud to sustainably produce beer for both Minnesota and Wisconsin.
To taste for yourself, make sure to stop by the Earth Rider’s Cedar Lounge taproom or ask for it by name at any of the local bars in Superior, you will not be disappointed by this true craft beer company.
Local Superior Tip: You should also have a 32oz beer at Schultz’s Sports Bar, they are also cold and cheap!
19. Have a burger at the Anchor Bar
I’ve had burgers from all around the world and nothing can compare to an Anchor burger. Sorry, but it is true. The best burgers in Superior, Wisconsin are served at the Anchor Bar.
The Anchor is a great place to go with friends or family to have a meal that will not break the bank. Not to mention, it has also been featured on Diners Drive-Ins and Dives.
Besides serving the best burgers in the Duluth/Superior area, the atmosphere of this bar is decked out in classic maritime artifacts from wall to wall and even on the ceiling.
If you don’t stop and have a burger at the Anchor Bar when visiting Superior you are truly missing out.
Local Superior Tip: Anchor Bar only takes cash, yes there’s an ATM in the bar and seating can be limited so it is best to visit it on an off-hour or be prepared to wait for a seat.
20. Go Bowling
Superior has two great bowling alleys, Landmark Lanes in the historic downtown and Village Lanes in South Superior.
Both places are great to spend an afternoon of bowing and offer roomy indoor lanes with food and drink.
21. Check Out the World of Wheels Skate Center
If you are visiting as a family, one of the best places to take your kids is the World of Wheels Skate Center. Roller rinks were a thing across America years ago and they are quickly becoming extinct, but not here in Superior!
This locally owned gem has been providing a lifetime of memories for families and kids for ages now.
Strap on the old fashioned roller skates or rollerblades and have some fun jetting around the rink dancing to music and playing games.
The World of Wheels Skate Center was part of Lina and I’s childhood and to tell you the truth, we have some great memories here as kids.
The center is vintage and will be like stepping back in time, with the classic roller rink that has a video arcade around it and a classic cafe where you can get all of our favorite snacks and refreshments.
22. Have Pizza at Thirsty Pagan
The best pizza in Superior can be found at the Thirsty Pagan. This little brewpub is a local favorite and one of the top things to do in Superior Wisconsin.
Their gourmet pizza is hand made from local fresh ingredients and all are cooked to order. But a visit to the Thirsty Pagan is much more than a visit to the best pizza restaurant in town; it is also a historical visit.
The restaurant is located in a historical 1908 Soo Line train depot. Many of the rooms are in original shape.
They also feature local live music that happens every night. So if you’re road-tripping through Superior or if you are spending a few days, be sure to add this stop to your list.
Our second favorite local pizza restaurant is VIP (Vintage Italian Pizza) and is also worth visiting or getting it to go if you are just looking for a tasty pizza.
Local Superior Tip: The building that the Thirsty Pagan is located in was featured in the Iron Will movie as an old train depot.
23. Have a Bloody Mary at Choo Choo Bar
Wisconsin is known for its loaded bloody marys and one of the best places to have a bloody mary in Superior is at the Choo Choo Bar.
Many places in Superior have tried to recreate Choo Choo’s recipe but they have not succeeded. It’s been told that its recipe is as sought after as the Colonel’s secret recipe from KFC.
Ok maybe I’m fibbing a little bit but I have traveled around the world and have yet to find one that can compare.
These towering loaded bloody mary will put any other to shame. They are loaded with specially spiced pickle spears, queen stuffed olives, a cheese stick, celery with cheese, mushrooms, jumbo shrimp and a savory slice of bacon.
It’s a meal in a drink and in good old Wisconsin fashion, it is served with a chaser of your favorite beer. Fun fact, we also refer to this as a snit or bump in Wisconsin.
24. World of Accordions Museum
Located in the Harrington Arts Center is the world’s largest and most comprehensive collection of accordion-family instruments on display.
There are over 130 plus displays showcasing the chronological evolution, countries of origin and specific usage of the 1,300 displayed instruments.
There are even 60 important historical instruments that travel all around the USA for conventions and festivals.
Fun Fact: Lina and I got married at the Harrington Arts Center!
25. See a Play at the Holden Fine and Applied Arts Center
For those who are visiting Superior and who love the fine arts, you must see a performance at the Holden Fine and Applied Arts Center that’s located on the University of Wisconsin-Superior campus.
They put on many great plays throughout the year that include popular titles and a few new-age shows.
The Manion Theater seats 237 with an asymmetrical layout to both the audience seating and the stage itself.
Local Superior Tip: Arnold Schwarzenegger, the movie star-turned-governor of California, whose main claim to fame was appearing in action films such as Conan the Barbarian and The Terminator, actually failed his acting classes at the University of Wisconsin-Superior.
26. Catch an Event or a Hockey Game at the Wessman Arena
Located in the middle of Superior, on the UW campus, is Wessman Arena. This arena is operated by the University of Wisconsin – Superior.
The biggest events in town are held here including boat shows, beer fest, WWE and other events throughout the year.
Be sure to check out their schedule to see if there’s an event going on when you are visiting.
If it’s wintertime you cand also catch the University of Wisconsin Superior hockey games at Wessman Arena.
You will not be disappointed, they play a classic chipper game and always have many players who move on to the NHL.
You can even skate on the ice if you are looking for a great place to skate indoors during a chilly winter day when visiting Superior.
27. Central Park Disc Golf Course
Central Park is a hidden oasis and is located in one of the neighborhoods I grew up in.
This quiet park is a great place for anyone to enjoy a day outside among some nice scenery but one of the top features of Central Park is its Disc Golf Course.
It’s a super fun time for all ages and you’ll need to bring your own frisbee for this 6 hole course that’s great for casual and intermediate players.
The course is free for anyone to use, there’s a nice walking path, playground, tennis court and tables for any visitor to use.
Local Superior Tip: If you are into Disc Golf you need to also check out Mont du Lac, they have a great course.
28. Go Ice Skating
Superior is the classic Northern Wisconsin town where it is naturally a top hobby for many people to play hockey and skate at one of the many public skating rinks.
You don’t have to be a hockey player to enjoy the skating rinks in Superior though as many of them have a basic skating rink where you will see people of all ages skating around alongside a hockey rink.
I grew up skating at the Red Barn just off East 5th and I have great memories of spending my after school nights there skating around and playing hockey.
All of the rinks are free to use and many even have warming shacks where you can change your skates or warm-up if you’re cold.
Ice Skating Rinks in Superior, WI:
- Red Barn
- Pattison Skating Rink
- Wade Bowl Skating Rink
- Carl Gullo Park
- South End Skating Rink
Wessman Arena offers paid skating times during certain times of the week. This is a great option if you’re looking to skate indoors.
29. Superior Skate Park at Heritage Park
For those who are looking for somewhere to skateboard, in-line skate or even to take their BMX bike out for some trips we suggest adding a visit to the Superior Stake Park at Heritage Park.
The Superior Stake Park is well designed with a wide variety of ramps, pipes, rails and boxes. This stake park will not disappoint you, it’s large and set back away from the road making it more private.
The Heritage Park is open until 10:00 P.M. daily. There is a timer on the gate that closes the skate park at 10:00 P.M. and there are motion lights.
Local Tip: Please help keep it clean by picking up litter.
30. Attend the Great Northern Classic Rodeo
The Great Northern Classic Rodeo is an MRA/URA professional rodeo that includes some of the best saddle bronc riding, steer wrestling, calf roping, team roping, bareback riding, barrel racing and bull riding in America.
It’s a jam packed event that is held at the Head of the Lakes Fairgrounds. There are children’s games during all performances and let’s not forget about the food carts, so come hungry for classic fair food.
There are even some great merchandise vendors that offer a wide range of rodeo items like cowboy hats and saddles.
The Great Northern Classic Rodeo is always a hit for all ages and is one of the top things to do in Superior Wisconsin if you’re in town over Labor Day weekend.
Local Tip: If you enjoy country music or you want to hang out with some stars from the rodeo head over to Ropers Saloon after Rodeo performances.
31. Visit the Speedway
Ladies and gentlemen start your engines, one of the top things to do in Superior Wisconsin is feeling the roar from the stock cars at the Gondik Law Speedway.
Located on the South end of Superior connected with the Head of the Lakes Fair Grounds is one of the best dirt tracks in Wisconsin.
This 3/8 mile clay oval Wissota dirt track is fast and exciting. Race lovers can get up close and personal when viewing these races in Superior.
This track offers a great grandstand that allows 360-degree views so you will not miss out on any one of the action. There’s also tasty treats for visitors to eat.
The races in Superior run from May through September every Friday night starting at 7pm for normal races.
It is always best to check out the race schedule since there are a few special events that go on throughout the race session where the races may be more than one day.
32. Jump Out of An Airplane
For the adventure lover, Superior has you covered and we suggest jumping out of an airplane, yes we said it! Go take a jump over the world’s largest freshwater lake.
Pushing off out of the open door is always the hardest point, with adrenaline going and your heart pumping at one million beats per second but that only lasts till your chute opens up.
Just imagine the views of the area, with Lake Superior, Duluth, Park Point, the Aerial Lift Bridge and Wisconsin Point all below you as you glide through the air.
We’ve skydived all around the world including the Outer Banks in North Carolina, New Zealand, Namibia and Iguazu Falls in Brazil. Superior is up there for places to go skydiving in the world due to its amazing location on Lake Superior.
33. Take a scenic flight
For those that are less keen to jump from a plane, it’s still worth going up in the air to take in the views.
Superior Flying services at the Richard Bong Airport offers a wide range of scenic flight options from a 30-minute scenic flight to a 60-minute photo tour.
One of our favorite scenic flight options is from Superior to the Apostle Islands. This flight is one of the best in the USA that takes you along the shoreline of Lake Superior to see where the green forests meet the deep blue lake of Lake Superior.
Popular times are during the summer months when Lake Superior shines and during Fall when the Fall colors are out in full force.
34. Play Some Golf
It does not matter if you are visiting for business or recreation, the area has some great golf courses for you to get in a few rounds.
The Superior area offers 3 golf courses on the Wisconsin side and 11 more golf courses within 20 miles of Superior.
There are many options for the avid golfer to choose from including a wide variety of courses with plenty of tee times to fit within your schedule.
The Nemadji Golf Club is one of the most popular golf courses in Superior and they offer 18 holes with 6,362 yards and a par of 71. There’s also a golf club here where you can have drinks and food before or after your rounds of golf.
Another popular Golf course is the Pattison Park golf course. They offer 9 holes over 2,056 yards with a par of 31.
Just outside of Superior you can find the Poplar Golf Course. They offer 18 holes over 4,098 yards with a par of 64.
35. Go Paint Balling at Superior Paintball
It’s time to gear up for some fun and see who will survive, in Superior’s premier location for paintballing.
Superior Paintball operates a paintball park that has a wide range of playing terrains with wooded fields, bunkers and structures.
There are fun interactive group games that consist of capturing the flag, the last person standing and so much more that will keep the fun going for hours.
Superior Patinball has everything for you to enjoy this activity. Everyone will have a blast playing paintball, it makes for a great time out with the family, coworkers, birthday party, or even a bachelor or bachelorette party.
Superior Paintball is located right off Highway 35 on Schellermeier road. We suggest calling them first since this activity is based on availability.
36. Visit Pattison State Park
If you are looking for one of the best places to experience nature in the Twin Ports area you’ll want to add Pattison State Park to your list. The park is located just a few miles outside of Superior.
Pattison State Park is home to Wisconsin’s highest waterfall and the fourth highest waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains.
The Big Manitou Falls stands 165 feet tall and the Little Manitou Falls stands 30 feet tall. They are impressive and a highlight for anyone visiting the Duluth/Superior area.
Besides a great waterfall, there’s a lake that offers visitors a place to cool off in the summer months that has a 300-foot sandy beach. There are also many great hiking trails that stretch through this 1,436-acre park.
One of our favorite hikes in Pattison State Park is the Logging Camp Trail, it runs 4.7 miles and includes some remains of Pattison’s old logging camp.
Naturalist-guided hikes and programs are offered throughout the year, we also suggest checking out the Gitche Gumee Nature Center that’s located on the grounds.
It highlights the history of this park, its abundant wildlife, and unique geology.
For those looking to experience the area a little more, there are 59 family campsites, 18 of them with electric hookups and three backpack sites. Pattison State Park is open year-round and does require admission.
37. Head to Mont du Lac for some Mountain Fun
Located just 15-minutes south of Duluth on the Wisconsin side is Northern Wisconsin’s premier family getaway resort called Mont du Lac.
This outdoor lovers retreat is one of the best in the Superior area for those who are looking to have fun but also kick back to enjoy nature.
This all-season resort complex offers on-site lodging, skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing in the wintertime.
In the summer, there is a water park, disc golf, archery and great mountain biking trails all located with breathtaking views of the St. Louis River and Jay Cooke State Park.
If you’re a music lover there are some great outside concerts along with many festivals that are held throughout the year.
38. Visit Amnicon Falls State Park
If you’re seeking more outdoors, hiking and camping options near Superior, you’ll love Amnicon Falls State Park. This 825-acre park is located just 7 miles outside superior on US Highway 2.
Amnicon Falls State Park is a great place to visit year-round and offers more of Wisconsin’s best waterfalls. You can enjoy playing in the water on a hot day.
There are also a few hiking trails that twist and wind along the river showcasing the best of the Northwoods. These trails are worth the effort as you’ll discover hidden waterfalls and secluded pieces of the forest.
Amnicon Falls State Park offers 36 great campsites for those who are looking to experience once of Wisconsin’s best state parks a little deeper.
39. Explore the Brule River State Forest
Located just a short distance from the city of Superior is the Brule River State Forest. It is home to one of the best-known rivers north of the Mississippi.
The Brule River itself is a world-famous gem that offers outdoor lovers some of the best waters for fishing or canoeing and kayaking found in the Midwest.
Canoeing or kayaking the Brule River is a great activity for all ages, its easy moving water with light paddling required along with a few small rapids here and there.
We kayak the Brule River at least once a year and it hands down a top adventure to do when visiting the Superior Area.
The Brule River State Forest also offers exceptional wildlife viewing, a 23-mile ATV/UTV trail called the North Country National Scenic Trail that stretches through it, there are nine miles of Lake Superior shoreline for you to discover and a fish hatchery for you to learn about the local aquatic life.
40. Attend the Lake Superior Dragon Boat Races
The Lake Superior Dragon Boat races are one of the largest events ran in Superior during the summer and we love that it is all for a good cause.
What’s a Dragon Boat? A Dragon Boat is a large canoe manned with a crew of 22. The bow of the canoe is decorated with a Dragon masthead.
Every race team must have at least 8 women members among its 20 paddlers all led by one drummer and one steersperson.
The Lake Superior Dragon Boat Races are the largest Dragon Boat races in North America with just under 100 race teams competing.
Other popular Dragon Boat festivals are held in Thunder Bay, Ontario, Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, and Grand Marais in Minnesota.
The fun is not just on the water, there’s a parade of teams, an opening ceremony with entertainment, all of which are open for visitors to enjoy. We strongly recommend planning your trip to Superior during this festival.
41. Lake Superior Ice Festival
Being located right on Lake Superior naturally one of the best things to do in Superior is the Lake Superior Ice Festival. This one of a kind festival is all about embracing the coolest things during this time of the year.
The community-driven event is celebrated on Barkers Island. For the kids there’s one of the largest man-made slides offered in Northern Wisconsin to slide down and a camping classic offered (bonfires with smores).
Kids also have a chance to make their own ice globes and there’s a chance to meet fun characters in the Ice Festival Park. At the end of the night sit back and enjoy the fireworks in the crystal clear sky.
For the grownups, kick back and have a local beer while ice fishing or enjoying the ice racing where there are stock cars, ATV’s and motorcycles racing on the ice of Lake Superior.
Don’t forget to put some money on the yellow car, to guess when it will fall through the ice in the springtime.
42. Head of the Lakes Fair
If you are looking for one of the best county fairs in Wisconsin, you need to add the Head of the Lakes Fair to that list.
This fair is what you picture a small town country fair should be like. There’s great food, entertainment and fun for all ages.
The Head-of-the lakes fair holds dear to our heart since it was where Lina and I first met. Yes, it’s the classic American story, boy meets girl at the local fair but that’s a story for another time.
This classic fair has rides for all ages and there’s a great selection for kiddy rides from the classics to new age rides.
The midway has many of the classic fair games where you can win your sweetheart a stuffed animal.
You’ll also want to come hungry because the food trucks offer turkey legs, fresh-made lemonade, cheese curds, mini donuts and much more.
For the animal lover, don’t forget to check out the animal barns where you can have a chance to hold a rabbit, pet, or watch a 4H horse show and learn about Wisconsin’s famous dairy cows in the livestock barn.
43. Attend East End Days
If you find yourself in Superior on the third Saturday in September, the streets between East 5th and 21st Avenue East to 23rd Avenue East will be closed down for East End Days.
The East End Family Fun Day street carnival happens once a year where the streets close down in the historic East End and all the locals who live there come out to celebrate their neighborhood.
It is not something you’ll see in every town and it is just another little part of the charm.
You’ll find local craft vendors, children’s games, pet parade, classic car show, live local music, entertainment and even a classic street dance that starts at 4:00 P.M. and rocks till 12:00 P.M.
Come hungry, in classic Wisconsin fashion there are plenty of food carts serving deep-fried cheese curds, donuts and if you see a Kostas Gyros stand, make sure you have one. (Tell Kosta, Post or Angelos that David sent you!)
- Where: East End Business District
- When: 3rd weekend in September
44. Check Out South End Days
The South End of Superior is more of a residential area dappled with a few local businesses. There is nothing too historic to see but one weekend a year this area comes alive with a local street festival.
This classic neighborhood festival is brought to you by local businesses and volunteers who are passionate about South Superior.
There’s plenty of events throughout the day to keep you busy, there’s a Guns-N-Houses softball game, a bounce house for the kids, planned kids activities & games, concessions, a great rummage sale, local craft vendors and local music in the park.
South End Days are a slice of Americana that you don’t get to experience everywhere.
- Where: Webster Dream Park Pavilion
- When: 3ed Weekend in July
- Time: 8:00 A.M. to 10:00 PM
Local Tip: If you do find yourself in South Superior you should check out Shabby Shed for Antiques or Superior Meats for tasty brats and beef sticks. (We love their hot chunks!)
45. Try Lake Superior Whitefish
One of the best perks of being on the great Lake Superior is access to tasty fresh fish. The most well known types you’ll find in Superior are Lake Trout and Whitefish.
Both are good, however, you can’t leave town without heading to Barkers Island Restaurant or one of the many bars on Friday night and ordering either a whitefish sandwich or whitefish fish n chips.
The fish is light, flaky and clean tasting, literally the best fish you can have in Northern Wisconsin. Pair it with an appetizer of cheese curds and a Bloody Mary for a true Wisconsin dining experience.
About Your Local Guides (US!)
We feel it is important to highlight a little about us. We, David and Lina Stock, have lived in the Duluth/Superior area our whole lives.
Our families have lived here and we were both raised here. We know the area like the back of our hands, so you can trust us when we tell you that there are many great gems and tons of things to do.
Lina graduated from Northwestern High School just outside of Superior and I graduated from Superior Senior High.
We run one of the top adventure travel blogs on the web (this one!) where we travel for several months out of the year doing amazing adventures around the globe.
When we are not traveling, we are out exploring our own backwoods in Northern Wisconsin.
It always surprises us how many people drive on by missing the best that Superior has to offer. We hope to change this and inspire you to spend a few days enjoying our home town.
More on the Midwest:
- 28 Amazing Things to Do in Minnesota
- Kayaking Adventure at Meyers Beach Sea Caves
- Kayaking in Minneapolis: A Big City Adventure
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