North Shore Drive Wayside Rest(72nd Avenue East Beach)

Duluth offers a diverse range of dining options near the North Shore Drive Wayside Rest. OMC Smokehouse is a popular choice for barbecue lovers, offering a cozy atmosphere with fire pits and a selection of local craft brews. For a taste of classic American fare, Grandma's Saloon & Grill provides a vintage vibe with great cocktails and rooftop seating. Those looking for smoked fish and gourmet sandwiches should visit Northern Waters Smokehaus, known for its casual and trendy atmosphere. For a more upscale dining experience, Va Bene offers modern Italian cuisine with a focus on creative cocktails and a lakefront view.

Each of these restaurants provides a unique dining experience that complements the natural beauty of the North Shore area.

Visitors to the North Shore Drive Wayside Rest have a variety of accommodations to choose from in Duluth. Fitger's Inn is a historic lodging with elegant rooms and suites, featuring four eateries and a nightclub. For a more modern experience, Pier B Resort Hotel offers relaxed waterfront accommodations with an indoor pool and dining options. Canal Park Lodge provides a mountain lodge-style hotel with lake views and an indoor pool, while Beacon Pointe on Lake Superior offers lakeside condos with free breakfast and bonfires. Each hotel offers a unique blend of comfort and scenic views of Lake Superior.

These hotels cater to different preferences, from historic charm to modern amenities, ensuring a comfortable stay for all visitors.

The North Shore Drive Wayside Rest itself is a scenic stop with limited amenities, but nearby facilities in Duluth offer a range of services. Many hotels in the area provide free Wi-Fi, indoor pools, and complimentary breakfast. For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby state parks offer picnic areas, hiking trails, and access to Lake Superior for activities like kayaking or fishing. The scenic drive is well-developed for tourists, with restrooms and parking available at various points along the route.

While the wayside rest is primarily a scenic viewpoint, the surrounding area is well-equipped to support a variety of activities and needs.

The North Shore Drive Wayside Rest is surrounded by opportunities for outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking at nearby state parks like Gooseberry Falls or Tettegouche, or explore the scenic beauty of Lake Superior by kayak or boat. The area is also popular for bird-watching and fishing, with numerous streams and waterfalls along the drive. In winter, activities like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are available, while summer brings opportunities for swimming and sunbathing on the lake's beaches.

The Superior Hiking Trail, which runs along the North Shore, offers extensive hiking options with stunning views of the lake and surrounding forests.

Many of the attractions and facilities along the North Shore Drive are accessible for visitors with disabilities. Hotels like Fitger's Inn and Canal Park Lodge offer wheelchair-accessible rooms and amenities. State parks and scenic overlooks often have accessible trails and restrooms, though accessibility may vary depending on the specific location. Visitors should check ahead of time to ensure that their planned stops meet their accessibility needs.

Overall, the area strives to provide inclusive experiences for all visitors.

Parking near the North Shore Drive Wayside Rest is generally available along the scenic drive, with designated pull-offs and parking areas at popular viewpoints and state parks. However, parking capacity can be limited during peak tourist seasons, especially at popular spots like Split Rock Lighthouse or Gooseberry Falls State Park. Visitors should plan ahead and arrive early to secure parking, especially during summer weekends or fall color seasons.

Parking fees may apply at some state parks or attractions, but many scenic overlooks along the drive offer free parking.

The North Shore Drive Wayside Rest is part of a region rich in history and natural beauty. Lake Superior, the world's largest freshwater lake, borders the scenic drive, offering breathtaking views and unique geological formations like the pink rhyolite at Iona's Beach. The area is also home to several state parks, including Gooseberry Falls and Tettegouche, which feature some of Minnesota's largest waterfalls. The scenic drive itself is a four-season route, with each season bringing new experiences, from the vibrant colors of fall to the serene landscapes of winter.

The region's unique combination of natural beauty and historical significance makes it a fascinating place to explore.

The North Shore Drive Wayside Rest is part of a larger scenic route that includes several notable attractions. The Split Rock Lighthouse is a must-visit, offering guided tours and stunning views of Lake Superior. Grand Portage National Monument provides insight into the region's fur-trading history. Other attractions include the vibrant city of Duluth, with its Aerial Lift Bridge and Great Lakes Aquarium, and the picturesque town of Grand Marais, known for its arts scene and natural beauty.

These attractions complement the natural beauty of the North Shore, offering a mix of history, culture, and outdoor adventure.