Lake Superior: The Ultimate Family Lake Escape (With a Splash of Luxury)

The “Superior” Family Vacation

Lake Superior. The name alone makes you feel like you’re heading somewhere big, bold, and—dare I say it—superior. It’s the largest freshwater lake in the world by surface area and a Midwest icon that’ll make you feel tiny in the best way. If you’re picturing fishing boats and campfires with a side of rustic, let me stop you right there. Sure, you can rough it—but why would you when you can turn this lake trip into an awesome family-friendly experience?

Lake Superior is a gem for families looking to unwind, reconnect, and explore, without sacrificing comfy accommodations or fancy meals. Whether you want to chase waterfalls, soak up epic views, or lounge lakeside with a glass of something cold, this post has you covered. Buckle up (and maybe pack the kids’ tablets just in case), because we’re diving into the ultimate Lake Superior family escape.

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Where to Stay: Family-Friendly Lodges and Resorts

Lake Superior’s shoreline has a good amount of upscale accommodations perfect for families who want a mix of comfort, convenience, and a little lakeside charm. Here are a few standout spots:

1. Bluefin Bay Family of Resorts (Tofte, MN)

If you want to roll out of bed and step right onto the shores of Lake Superior, Bluefin Bay is the place. This resort knows families, offering cozy town homes and condos with fireplaces, full kitchens, with amazing lake views. Plus, they have indoor and outdoor pools, tennis courts, and complimentary activities like guided hikes.

• Family Perks: Free s’mores kits, on-site kids’ activities, and bike rentals.
• Luxury Vibes: The outdoor hot tub overlooking the lake will make you feel like you’re in a travel commercial.

2. Superior Shores Resort (Two Harbors, MN)

Perfect for bigger families or groups, Superior Shores Resort has large town homes with multiple bedrooms, kitchens, and living spaces. The highlight? The outdoor pool and hot tub overlook the lake, and the resort sits near some of the North Shore’s best attractions.

• Family Perks: Large family rooms and easy access to Gooseberry Falls State Park.
• Luxury Vibes: Book a lake view suite and enjoy coffee with Superior-sized scenery.

3. Prince Arthur Waterfront Hotel (Thunder Bay, Ontario)

For our Canadian-bound friends, this gem on Lake Superior’s north shore gives families a taste of luxury while keeping them close to Thunder Bay’s sights and activities. Think classic charm with modern amenities—and spectacular lake views, of course.

• Family Perks: Close to Marina Park, a hit for kids with its splash pad and playground.
• Luxury Vibes: Picture-perfect sunsets from the balcony.

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What to Do: Activities the Whole Family Will Love

Whether your family is into outdoor adventures, scenic road trips, or low-key lounging, Lake Superior delivers. Here’s how to fill your days:

1. Chase Waterfalls on the North Shore

Lake Superior’s North Shore is basically the Beyoncé of waterfall road trips. Stop at Gooseberry Falls State Park (a family favorite with easy trails and kid-safe waterfalls) and Tettegouche State Park for High Falls, which are as dramatic as they sound. Don’t forget Split Rock Lighthouse—Instagram will thank you later.

• Pro Tip: Pack snacks. Hungry kids don’t appreciate nature’s beauty as much as they should.

2. Hop Aboard a Scenic Cruise

Hop on a boat tour from Duluth or Bayfield to see Lake Superior’s majesty from the water. For a real “wow” moment, take a cruise out to the Apostle Islands, where the sea caves will make you swear you’re on a movie set. (Bonus points if you trick your kids into thinking pirates might be nearby.)

• Luxury Twist: Private charters are available if you want the boat all to yourselves. Fancy snacks included? Yes, please.

3. Explore the Apostle Islands

This Wisconsin gem is home to 21 islands with hiking, kayaking, and picture-perfect beaches. Take a ferry to Madeline Island for the day—rent bikes and explore at your own pace. It’s just rustic enough to feel adventurous, but still accessible for younger kids.

4. Hit the Beach

Yes, Lake Superior has beaches—and they’re awesome. Try Park Point Beach in Duluth for sandy shores and safe swimming. Or, head to Black Beach in Silver Bay, where the unique black sand will have the kids entertained for hours.

5. Visit Thunder Bay and Kakabeka Falls

Cross the border into Ontario to explore Thunder Bay’s charm. A quick drive will get you to Kakabeka Falls, nicknamed “Niagara of the North,” because—well—it’s massive and beautiful.

• Family Fun: Stop by The Terry Fox Monument for inspiration and killer lake views.

6. Go Wildlife Spotting

Take the kids on a moose-spotting hike or watch for bald eagles soaring overhead. The natural beauty of Lake Superior isn’t just about the lake itself—it’s about the landscapes and wildlife that come with it.

7. Explore Isle Royale National Park

For a remote adventure, hop on a ferry or seaplane to visit Isle Royale National Park, Lake Superior’s untouched island paradise. Perfect for nature-loving families, you can hike scenic trails, kayak crystal-clear waters, and spot moose in the wild. Stay at Rock Harbor Lodge for cozy rooms with lake views and the comforts of hot showers and dining—luxury meets wilderness at its best.

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Where to Eat: Food That Pleases Everyone (Even the Picky Eaters)

You’re not surviving on granola bars alone this trip—Lake Superior’s food scene is surprisingly delicious, and there’s something for everyone.

1. New Scenic Café (Duluth, MN)

Upscale but approachable, this North Shore staple is where you take the family to treat yourselves. The kids can eat gourmet grilled cheese while you indulge in something like Norwegian salmon with a view of the lake.

2. The Angry Trout Café (Grand Marais, MN)

It’s fresh, local, and right on the harbor. The fish and chips are a must, and the laid-back vibe makes it perfect for families. Bonus: It’s sustainable, so you get eco-points.

3. Pier B Resort Dining (Duluth, MN)

Stay lakeside while you eat at Pier B’s Silos Restaurant. Their patio has unbeatable views of the Aerial Lift Bridge, so the kids will be entertained by passing ships while you sip a glass of wine.

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The Lake Superior Family Getaway: Why It Works

What makes Lake Superior perfect for a family trip is its balance. There’s adventure, but it’s accessible. Luxury without the fuss. Stunning landscapes you don’t have to hike five miles to see. Plus, the calm of the lake works its magic on everyone, whether you’re a tired parent, a high-energy 7-year-old, or a too-cool-for-this 14-year-old.

With upscale resorts, family-friendly activities, and plenty of places to kick back, Lake Superior is proof that family lake vacations don’t have to mean cramped cabins and burnt hot dogs.

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Ready to Plan Your Lake Superior Escape?

If the idea of organizing this trip feels overwhelming (or you just don’t want to hear “Are we there yet?” 47 times), I’ve got you covered. As a travel advisor who specializes in Lake Life Adventures, I can help you plan the perfect luxury family getaway to Lake Superior.

From choosing the best resorts and rentals to crafting an itinerary filled with waterfalls, boat rides, and stress-free dining, I’ll make sure your trip is as smooth as Lake Superior on a calm summer morning.

Ready to turn your lake dreams into reality? Let’s plan your Superior escape together!

Contact me at A Burke Trip to get started—you pack the swimsuits, I’ll handle the rest.