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Superior faces Duluth across one of the busiest freshwater harbors on earth, and from its docks you can watch thousand-foot ore boats glide in from Lake Superior. Wisconsin's northernmost big city, with about 26,000 residents, it grew in the late 1800s on grain, iron ore and shipbuilding, and its brick Tower Avenue still shows that boom-era ambition.
The waterfront tells the story. On Barker's Island the SS Meteor, the last surviving whaleback freighter, is now a museum, and across the road stands Fairlawn, the turreted Victorian mansion of a lumber baron. The Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center honors America's top fighter ace of World War II with a restored P-38 Lightning.
Nature starts at the city limits. Wisconsin Point, a long sand spit with a lighthouse at the Superior Entry, has wild beaches, and the Superior Municipal Forest is one of the largest city-owned forests in the country. A short drive south leads to the waterfalls of Pattison State Park, including Big Manitou Falls, the highest in Wisconsin, and to Amnicon Falls.
A museum honoring Major Richard Bong, the top American fighter ace of World War II, who grew up near Superior. Its centerpiece is a restored P-38 Lightning like the one he flew, surrounded by exhibits on the men and women of the war. Allow about two hours, and ask about guided tours and talks.
The SS Meteor, built in 1896, is the last surviving whaleback, a strange cigar-shaped Great Lakes freighter design. Now beached on Barker's Island, it can be toured from the cargo hold to the pilothouse and crew quarters. It is open seasonally in summer, and guides share stories of life aboard the ore boats.
A museum in a historic 1898 fire hall that displays antique fire engines, equipment and police memorabilia from Superior's past. Volunteers share stories about the city's firefighters and major fires. It is open seasonally with limited hours, so check ahead; kids especially enjoy the old trucks.
A 42-room Victorian mansion built in 1890 for lumber and mining magnate Martin Pattison, later used as a children's home. Restored rooms show off carved woodwork, stained glass and period furniture, and the tower looks over the bay. Guided tours run year-round, and holiday decorations are a highlight in December.
A small island in Superior Bay linked to the city by a causeway, home to a large marina, the SS Meteor, picnic areas and a waterfront walking path. It is a good spot to watch freighters and sailboats, and there is a mini-golf course for kids. Sunset views across the bay toward Duluth are lovely.
A long natural sand spit separating Allouez Bay from Lake Superior, with miles of undeveloped beach and dunes. At its tip, the Wisconsin Point Lighthouse guards the Superior Entry where ships enter the harbor. Walk the breakwater to see it, and expect cold water even in midsummer.
Around 4,500 acres of forest, wetland and river frontage on the city's west side, among the largest municipal forests in the United States. Trails serve hikers and mountain bikers in summer and cross-country skiers in winter along the St. Louis River side of town. Grab a map at the trailhead and watch for deer.
A state park about 15 minutes south of Superior home to Big Manitou Falls, which drops about 165 feet and is the highest waterfall in Wisconsin. Short trails reach overlooks of the big falls and the smaller Little Manitou Falls, and a lake offers summer swimming. A state park vehicle pass is required.
A small state park southeast of Superior where the Amnicon River tumbles over a series of waterfalls through dark basalt and sandstone. A covered bowstring bridge crosses to an island with views of the upper and lower falls. Trails are short and easy, but rocks can be slippery after rain.
A popular brewpub in Superior's north end, known for its house beers and hand-tossed pizzas. There is a beer garden in warm months and frequent live music in the evenings. It can get busy on weekends, so expect a wait at dinner time or go for a late lunch instead.
Superior's main commercial street, lined with late 1800s brick and stone blocks built during the city's railroad and shipping boom. Today it has bars, local restaurants, shops and the occasional festival. Walk the stretch near Belknap Street to see the most ornate facades and grab a bite.
A paved multi-use trail of about five miles following the Superior waterfront on a former rail line, passing Barker's Island and harbor views on its way east. It is flat and good for walking, biking and skating, and it connects toward the Tri-County Corridor trail. Start at Barker's Island for easy parking.
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