Arts + Entertainment
Don't be fooled by the city's rugged charm: this is a cultural center that boasts a far from ordinary level of outstanding fine art and performance offerings.
ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT
The listings below include all types of Arts + Entertainment attractions options in alphabetical order with those in the city of Duluth displayed first followed by those that are outside city limits.
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Bayfront Festival Park
Duluth, MN 55802
218-722-5573
Few things are more fun than a
summer concert on the bright,
beautiful shores of our big lake. And
Bayfront Festival Park makes it
better than ever! Enjoy comfortable
concert surroundings, all-new
facilities, enhanced vendor areas,
spectacular landscaping and a natural
amphitheater, which provides an
unobstructed view of every concert,
as well as ships in the harbor beyond.
The quintessential outdoor concert
park, Bayfront welcomes countless
local, regional and national acts,
including the famous Bayfront Blues
Festival every August. Bayfront, like
no place else in Minnesota, it is the
place to be this summer.
In winter, Bayfront really comes to
life with the largest holiday display in
the Midwest. Experience the magic
of nearly 3 million lights illuminating
Bayfront Festival Park during the
Bentleyville Tour of Lights. Be
amazed by the tallest steel animated
Christmas tree in the U.S. Bayfront
Park also welcomes thousands of
cheerful winter enthusiasts to an
old-fashioned skating rink surrounded
with the kind of warmth you find only
in a Norman Rockwell original. Skate,
stroll, sit in the silence of a starry
winter’s night and enjoy the splendor
of our most dazzling season.
Bentleyville Tour of Lights
Duluth, MN 55802
(218) 740-3535
Come experience the magic, as America's largest free walk through lighting display takes over Bayfront Festival Park! This quintessential holiday event has something for everyone, no matter the age. Bring the family and the camera, Bentleyville takes care of the rest!
Visitors will be amazed by the nationally recognizable displays, the 128' LED tree and the free concessions! Hot cocoa, popcorn, cookies and roasting marshmallows will be provided to guests. Children 10 and under, who visit with Santa, will receive a knit hat and a bag of cookies.
Hours of Operation
Sun - Thur: 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Fri and Sat: 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Parking Information »
Clayton-Jackson McGhie Memorial
Duluth, MN 55802
(218) 336-2990
"It is by remembering the injustice of our past that we learn to live with justice in the future." Likenesses of Elias Clayton, Elmer Jackson and Isaac McGhie are enshrined by a solemn memorial in downtown Duluth, right at the intersection where, in 1920, they were victims of a lynch mob. Falsely accused of rape, the three young African- Americans were dragged from jail, tried on the street in front of 5,000-10,000 people, and then hanged in the chaos that ensued. It was perhaps the worst day in Duluth’s history, but the opening of this memorial in 2003 helps begin the healing of the wounds of our past. All are welcome to attend the Day of Remembrance observance held annually at the Memorial on June 15.
Duluth Art Institute
Duluth, MN 55802
(218) 733-7560
The mission of the Duluth Art Institute is to enrich daily life with dynamic, innovative visual arts programming that upholds excellence and promotes active community participation. Founded in 1907, the Duluth Art Institute serves as a hub for creativity, new ideas, and community engagement through the visual arts. We welcome people of all ages, abilities, and skill levels. We deliver our mission through exhibitions, art making and learning opportunities. The Duluth Art Institute strives to deliver fresh, quality programing that nurtures and energizes all facets of the visual arts in the Twin Ports. EXHIBITION PROGRAM The Duluth Art Institute produces more than a dozen exhibitions every year that highlight regional talent and visiting artists. We celebrate craft traditions as well as contemporary voices in the visual arts, displaying mid-career, emerging, and established artists in diverse mediums. We offer enhancement programs alongside our exhibitions to provide arts audiences deeper engagement with artists and their work. EDUCATION PROGRAM We offer more than 50 arts workshops and classes for youth and adults throughout the year as well as outreach activities throughout the community. Our education program also maintains a ceramics studio with over 25 renters, as well as a fiber studio and darkroom.
Duluth Entertainment Convention Center (DECC)
Duluth, MN 55802
(218) 722-5573, General Information;(218) 727-4344 Ticket Information • (800) 628-8385, Meeting Information
Duluth is the perfect green city to
combine business with pleasure.
The DECC provides the ideal setting for meetings and conventions. It is within walking distance to over 1,600 hotel rooms, unique shops and tempting restaurants. Panoramic views of the Aerial Lift Bridge and Lake Superior is the backdrop for our 250,000-sq.-ft. facility. We boast the second largest ballroom in the state with two
convention centers. We feature our own internal Catering and Exposition Services Department to make planning your event a breeze. Ample parking with a new ramp makes it easy and
accessible to downtown and for
event parking at the DECC and the
William A. Irvin.
As a community center, the DECC is the proud home of:
The DECC is a nationally recognized leader in reducing energy use, reusing products, and recycling waste. We are proud to have been honored with the Lake Superior Binational Forum Stewardship Award, and the MN Great Governor’s Award for our environmental stewardship. The new AMSOIL Arena is now complete and the facility will proudly receive Gold LEED (Leader in Energy and Environmental Design) certification.
The Duluth Playhouse
Duluth, MN 55802
(218) 733-7555
The Duluth Playhouse brings the finest in entertainment and theatre arts to Minnesota's Northeast Region. Featuring local and professional artists, the Playhouse hosts a year-round season of live theatre. The Underground, our satellite black box theatre, is an alternative performing arts venue offering engaging, though provoking programming in all disciplines: theatre, dance, music, poetry, art, film and the spoken word. The Conservatory for the Performing Arts also provides innovative performing arts education for children and adults in acting, music & dance year-round. Between the Playhouse, Children's Theatre, Underground and the Conservatory for the Performing Arts, there are endless opportunities for everyone.
2016 Main Stage Productions
42nd Street
April 21 - May 8 2016
Annapurna
June 2-12, 2016
Rock of Ages
July 14-31, 2016
Tickets: Adults $25 - $30
Youth $20-$25
Designated accessible parking or off-street parking, accessible entrance, accessible restrooms.
Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra
Duluth, MN 55802
(218) 623-3776
The Duluth Superior Symphony
Orchestra (DSSO) is a centerpiece
of the Twin Ports area’s eminence
in the performing arts. The DSSO is
the largest arts organization north
of the Twin Cities. Its professional
status and program are enriched by
100 musicians, many drawn from
the music departments of three
local colleges and universities, and
the exceptional sound of the Duluth
Auditorium (DECC) concert hall. This
auditorium’s new specially engineered
$1,000,000 acoustic shell is the
ensemble’s finest instrument, extolled
by its audience and critics.
The orchestra was founded in 1932,
and today flourishes under the baton
of Music Director Markand Thakar.
Each season the DSSO presents
seven classical concerts, three pops
concerts and occasional special
offerings. The orchestra also supports
three youth ensembles that perform
throughout the year.
Tickets are available by calling
(218) 623-3776 or at the DSSO
office. View the full concert
calendar at www.dsso.com.
Fond-du-Luth Casino
Duluth, MN 55802
(218) 720-5100 • (800) 873-0280
Excitement awaits adults 18+ at the Fond-du-Luth Casino! We have over 650 video slot machines, keno, video poker and video blackjack. We 100% smoke-free floors. We are located in downtown Duluth!
Due to COVID-19 guidelines, some limitations apply.
Log on to www.fondduluthcasino.com for the most up to date information and current hours of operation! Handicap conscious. Owned and operated by the Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa.
Open: 10AM â€" 2AM daily..
Open 24 hours every day.
Joseph Nease Gallery
Duluth, MN 55802
(218) 481-7750
Joseph Nease Gallery is a contemporary art gallery located in downtown Duluth, MN. Similar in scope to its progenitor in Kansas City, MO; the gallery features exhibitions of painting, sculpture, installation, and new media by artists both regional and national, many with national recognition. The gallery is unique to Duluth in both appearance and scope. Through solo and group exhibitions, we showcase the work of and represent mid- and advanced- career artists and select emerging artists. As an arts destination, Joseph Nease Gallery also provides educational and social opportunities to art lovers and collectors, and those visiting beautiful Lake Superior and the northland.
Lake Superior Art Glass
Duluth, MN 55802
218-464-1799
The gallery at Lake Superior Art Glass features glass artwork of all types made by artists from the Midwest and beyond. This includes stained, fused, torch-worked, furnace worked, and much more! Owner, Dan Neff, has blown glass since 2003 and has shown his work around the country. Dan loves to share his passion of glass with others and offers classes, live demos, and studio time! Visit the website for schedules of classes and demos.
Marshall W. Alworth Planetarium
Duluth, MN 55812
(218) 726-7129
Marshall W. Alworth Planetarium offers videos, documentaries, and dark-sky shows in 360` - full-dome theater format with surround sound. Public shows are offered Friday at 7 pm and Saturday at 2 pm and 7 pm. All programs are followed by a planetarium dark-sky show and outdoor telescope viewing Friday evenings (weather permitting). Visit the gift shop and explore the exhibits.
Miller Hill Mall
Duluth, MN 55811
(218) 727-8301
More than 100 shops, 10 great food court vendors and one fantastic Simon gift card, all at the top of hill!
Minnesota Ballet
Duluth, MN 55802
(218) 529-3742
The NorShor Theatre
Duluth, MN 55802
(218) 733-7555
The NorShor Theatre is preparing for its new starring role. From the balcony to the box office, the landmark 1910 theater is undergoing a total restoration. After weathering its share of milestones and misfortune, a new life and new legacy are unfolding for this legendary landmark. At center stage in downtown Duluth’s Historic Arts and Theater (HART) District, the restored NorShor Theatre will bring new economic development, new productions, and new possibilities to the region.
The beloved NorShor Theatre is regaining its rightful place as the Northland’s beacon of arts, entertainment, and world-class performances.
On the Rocks Art Studio
Duluth, MN 55802
218.525.2736
Renegade Theater Company
Duluth, MN 55802
(218) 722-6775
Renegade Theater Company is one of the Northland's premiere professional theatrical companies. Since the theater's founding in 1991, Renegade has produced over 150 productions throughout the area. Now in their permanent home at the Teatro Zuccone, Renegade annually produces a full mainstage season, sketch comedy from Duluth's only resident sketch comedy team, Dink Tank (dubbed "Hysterical" and "Awesome!" by Rainn Wilson - Dwight on NBC's "The Office") and weekly improv performances every Friday and Saturday night all year long.
Renegade Theater Company is committed to introducing the area to the boldest, newest and most imaginative works in theater today. Additionally, Renegade aims to create unprecedented opportunities for developing community talent in all aspects of the art form, because we believe that a theater is only as strong as the company it keeps – both onstage and off.
Solve Entertainment Escape Rooms
Duluth, MN 55802
218-302-5434
Solve Entertainment creates live-action, interactive and immersive entertainment experiences. With a commitment to high levels of quality and creativity, We aim to transform the local entertainment landscape with real-world, tangible and tactile adventures where the audience becomes the hero.
Teatro Zuccone
Duluth, MN 55802
(218) 336-1414
In its commitment to promoting the value of live entertainment, Teatro Zuccone inspires, creates and produces entertainment that’s both unique and thought-provoking. Catch a show by Duluth’s iconic theater ensemble, Renegade Theatre Company, or live music, comedy, magic, who knows! Call or check online for performance schedule. Admission fee varies per performance.
Tweed Museum of Art
Duluth, MN 55812
(218) 726-8222 or (218) 726-7832
Collecting and interpreting art
from around the world and
developing exhibitions and
programs for education in the arts.
With a permanent collection of over
7,000 art objects representing a range
of cultures and periods of art history,
the Tweed Museum of Art is a major
cultural and educational resource for
the community on the campus of the
University of Minnesota Duluth. The
Tweed Museum of Art aims to inspire
visitors of all ages and backgrounds
who will find images, art objects, and
educational programs that foster an
understanding and an appreciation of art. The Museum Store offers handcrafted
and unique art merchandise.
Tues/9am-8pm; Wed-Fri/9am-4:30pm;
Sat & Sun/1-5pm; closed Mondays and
University holidays.
Free and open to
the public. UMD is an equal opportunity
educator and employer. Barrier free.
UMD School of Fine Arts
Duluth, MN 55812
218-726-7261
Minnesota's top rated School of the Arts and the first choice in Fine Arts. The University of Minnesota Duluth's School of Fine Arts educates students & the public in the visual & performing arts. SFA is also honored to serve as a cultural center for the region presenting over 300 events each season from Theatre productions to Music concerts, and Visual Culture Lectures to Museum art exhibitions, and private music lessons to motion capture videography.
Tickets: 218-726-8561 or tickets.umn.edu
View the full SFA event calendar at sfa.d.umn.edu
Whoopsa Daisy Farm
Duluth, MN 55811
218-393-6382
Family Farm open Fall weekends August. 28th - November 1st, Friday, Saturdays, and Sundays, 10-6. Activities include a tractor playground, haystack, sand pile, Dino Land, hayride, yard games, horse hunt, crafts, donkeys, goats, and chickens, snacks, a craft sale, and more.
Zeitgeist
Duluth, MN 55802
(218) 722-9100/ (218) 336-1360
At Zeitgeist Arts, you'll enjoy fresh American Cuisine, Duluth's newest movie theater, and an intimate, highquality performance theater. Enjoy a beer or a glass of wine with your movie or show, and the satisfaction that you are supporting the local arts and positive community development. Zeitgeist Arts is owned and operated by the A.H. Zeppa Family Foundation, and all proceeds go to supporting its charitable work. Arts Cafe open Mon-Sat, 11am-10pm week nights, 11am-midnight Fri/Sat; Zinema 2 Movie Theater open daily for matinee and evenings; Teatro Zuccone open as scheduled. Admission fee varies.
Zero Hour Escape Rooms
Duluth, MN 55802
218-606-1139
Zinema 2
Duluth, MN 55802
(218) 722-7300
Zinema 2 is Duluth’s newest movie theater showing the best in first-run movies of all types. Enjoy a glass of wine or a cold beer during the show, not to mention the best popcorn in town. Check for weekend family and children’s programming. Call for show times or visit our website. Tickets also available online. Open daily for matinees and evening shows. Adults $7.50; Seniors/Students $6.50; Matinees $6.50; Children $5.50.