Tourism in Duluth

There was an article in the News Tribune this morning about tourism in Duluth. Yesterday I told you about all the tourists already in town and its only March. According to Explore Minnesota Tourism, Duluth was a bright spot in Minnesota’s 2006 tourism picture. “Duluth is considered to be a very fun, close-to-home get away.” 2006 set an 18th consecutive record for the number of visits to Duluth, a major accomplishment. Visit Duluth research has shown that in 1999, the majority of visitors were just passing through. By 2006, 75 percent made Duluth their primary destination. It was noted that the indoor attractions attendance was down, however, it was attributed to the fact that we had such a hot summer, and people wanted to be outdoors. July 2006 was the hottest July on record in Duluth. Hotels reported a total revenue increase of almost 12 percent and occupancy was up almost 6 percent. The new Edgewater Resort and Waterpark that opened last season fulfilled expectations and was a big draw for Duluth.

There are two new hotels under construction this winter. The Canal Park Lodge, will replace the old Canal Park Inn Hotel, it will be 116 rooms. The new Sheraton is being built in downtown Duluth and will provide 147 rooms. I have posted photos of both of these in construction, above.

For all of you out of town readers, take note and come to visit our beautiful city of Duluth!