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9.2

613 reviews

South Pier Inn

South Pier Inn

701 South Lake Avenue, Duluth, 55802, Minnesota, United States

Choose dates to view prices

Skiing

Free Private Parking

Free wifi

Streaming service (like Netflix)

Spa tub

Air conditioning

Hot tub

Private entrance

South Pier Inn

Welcome to the South Pier Inn, where your dream getaway awaits! Nestled just a 0.8mi away from the vibrant city center of Duluth, this delightful 3-star hotel promises a home away from home with breathtaking lake views and charming amenities to spoil you. With prices starting from just $196, you can indulge in an unforgettable experience without breaking the bank.

Wake up to a scrumptious breakfast each morning and get ready for a day filled with adventure—whether it's skiing, soaking in the hot tub, or simply relaxing in a soundproof room with a private entrance. This gem offers everything you need to unwind, including free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and a lovely terrace overlooking the stunning surroundings. Plus, with free private parking and wheelchair accessibility, you can rest easy exploring the scenic beauty of Minnesota without any hassle.

With over 800 glowing reviews, it’s clear that travelers adore the South Pier Inn! Guests rave about the friendly 24-hour front desk staff, the tranquil picnic area, and the lush garden that invites you to bask in nature’s embrace. Whether you're here for a romantic weekend or a family retreat, this hotel has something for everyone—come discover why the South Pier Inn is the perfect base for your Duluth adventures!

At the South Pier Inn, every detail is designed to enhance your experience surrounded by the natural beauty of Duluth. For couples seeking a romantic retreat, the Executive Suite with Canal View is the perfect escape, featuring a king-size bed and a cozy sofa bed, where you can snuggle up after a day of exploration. Families are welcome too! With comfortable accommodations, such as the Junior Suite with Bay View or the Queen Room with a Balcony, there’s ample space for everyone to relax and create lasting memories. No matter which room you choose, each space is thoughtfully curated to provide the ultimate comfort with spectacular views that will leave you in awe.

Staying at South Pier Inn isn’t just about the fantastic accommodations; it’s also about the experiences waiting just outside your door. Take a leisurely stroll to the nearby scenic spots, or enjoy some family fun at the picnic area surrounded by lush gardens. With so many outdoor activities nearby — from skiing in winter to biking along Lake Superior in the summer — you’re guaranteed an adventure that suits your style! After a day of action, unwind in the hot tub under the stars or catch up on your favorite series with the free Wi-Fi available throughout the hotel.

Make sure to leave room for breakfast! Each morning, start your day with a delightful spread that fuels your adventures ahead. Sip on a cup of the finest brew and dig into delicious options that set the tone for a day of fun. Planning your stay is a breeze, as the South Pier Inn conveniently accepts all major credit cards, so you can focus more on enjoying your experience and less on logistics. With every amenity at your fingertips and stunning views beckoning you outside, South Pier Inn is not just a place to stay — it's your gateway to discovering all that Duluth has to offer!

Closest airports

Duluth International Airport

6.5mi

Range Regional Airport

55.2mi

Most popular amenities

Skiing

Free Private Parking

Free wifi

Streaming service (like Netflix)

Spa tub

Air conditioning

Hot tub

Private entrance

Parking On Site

Terrace

Soundproof rooms

24-hour front desk

Lake view

Non-smoking rooms

Wheelchair accessible

Landmark view

Picnic area

Garden

Bathtub

Free toiletries

Balcony

Soundproof

Rooms

Junior Suite with Bay View in South Pier Inn

Show 8 photos

Junior Suite, Bay View

1 Queen Size Bed

310 sqft

Lake view

Hot tub

Spa tub

Private Bathroom

x5

+

x3

More details

Featuring a private balcony with water views, this suite also offers a fireplace, 40-inch flat-screen TV, and free WiFi. Please note that the room rate is based on 2 guests. Maximum occupancy is 2 guests (see Hotel Policies).

Junior Suite with Bay View - Disability Access in South Pier Inn

Show 6 photos

Junior Suite, Accessible, Bay View

1 King Size Bed

310 sqft

Lake view

Hot tub

Spa tub

Private Bathroom

+

More details

This suite's standout features are the hot tub, spa bath and fireplace. Featuring a private entrance, this air-conditioned suite consists of 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom with a walk-in shower and a hairdryer. Boasting a balcony with lake views, this suite also provides soundproof walls and a flat-screen TV with cable channels. The unit offers 1 bed.

Executive Suites with Bridge View in South Pier Inn

Show 10 photos

Executive Suite, Ridge View

1 Sofa Bed

1 King Size Bed

505 sqft

Lake view

Landmark view

Hot tub

Spa tub

+

More details

This suite features a hot tub, spa bath and fireplace. Featuring a private entrance, this air-conditioned suite consists of 1 living room, 1 separate bedroom and 1 bathroom with a walk-in shower and a hairdryer. Boasting a balcony with lake views, this suite also provides soundproof walls and a flat-screen TV with cable channels. The unit offers 2 beds.

Executive Suites with Bay View  in South Pier Inn

Show 10 photos

Executive Suite, Bay View

1 King Size Bed

1 Sofa Bed

505 sqft

Lake view

Hot tub

Spa tub

Private Bathroom

+

More details

Offering a fireplace and a spa bath, this suite includes a flat-screen TV and free Wi-Fi.

Queen Room with Balcony - No View in South Pier Inn

Show 5 photos

Queen Room, Balcony

1 Sofa Bed

1 Queen Size Bed

270 sqft

City view

Private Bathroom

Balcony

Bathtub

x4

+

x3

More details

Offering free Wi-Fi and a flat-screen TV, this room includes a refrigerator. Please be advised this room does not offer a view of the water.

Show 5 photos

Accessible Room

1 Queen Size Bed

250 sqft

Flat-screen TV

Refrigerator

Tea/Coffee maker

Wheelchair accessible

x4

+

x3

More details

Offering free toiletries, this double room includes a private bathroom with a walk-in shower and a hairdryer. The air-conditioned double room offers a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a private entrance, soundproof walls, a tea and coffee maker as well as city views. The unit offers 1 bed.

Junior Suite with Bridge View in South Pier Inn

Show 8 photos

Junior Suite, Ridge View

1 Queen Size Bed

310 sqft

Lake view

Landmark view

Hot tub

Spa tub

+

More details

This suite has a balcony, fireplace and spa bath.

Show 14 photos

Executive Suite, Canal View, Sofa, Hot Tub

1 King Size Bed

1 Sofa Bed

More details

Classic, Queen Size, Sofa, Balcony

1 Queen Size Bed

1 Sofa Bed

Balcony

More details

Classic, King Size

1 King Size Bed

More details

Executive Suite, Bay View, Sofa, Hot Tub

1 King Size Bed

1 Sofa Bed

More details

Classic, King Size, Accessible

1 King Size Bed

More details

Guest reviews

9.2

613 reviews

Categories of assessments

Cleanliness

Comfort

Location

Facilities

Staff

Value for money

WiFi quality

Breakfast

Featured reviews:

🇺🇸

Englund

10

May 2025

Very relaxing. Sitting outside office at fire pit at base of lift bridge (you can’t get closer!) was definitely a highlight. Great people and boat watching. Quiet, and with short walk to restaurants. Enjoyed nearby distillery, Vikre. Our second stay at South Pier. Recommend sitting at Adirondack chairs on both lake and harbor side. Windows are very soundproof. Bathrobes, in-room umbrellas, friendly staff who know when the big ships are due to arrive, more than adequate breakfast options (nothing hot). Option to get wine on site if you missed liquor store closing. High quality bedding.

I can’t think of one thing.

🇺🇸

Amy

10

May 2025

We liked Everything. They thought of everything from water bottles in the room (complementary), to a large umbrella, to complimentary local bakery cookies at the front desk, to comfortable chairs lining the shore to sit and relax, to USB outlets, to a very nice breakfast bar, to always-on coffee and tea, and so much more like clever magnet door (vs handle hanging) signage options that included early service or later service requests for the room. The room was updated and impeccably clean. The front desk was cheerful, helpful, professional, and personable. When we checked in we felt welcomed and truly cared for. The location was only a short walk to the canal park shops. And because it was on the other side of the lift bridge it was quiet and private and allowed us to really relax and slow down. This was a little gem, and we will definitely be back.

I can't think of a single thing we didn't like.

🇺🇸

Michael

10

June 2024

EVERYTHING! Healthy breakfast, DECAF COFFEE was Great! Quiet, secure entrance, balcony to sit outside for morning coffee, VERY CLEAN, Ecco friendly….and…NO PETS Allowed (my husband has allergies & it really helps his sleep if he is NOT stuffed up from other people’s pets❤️). Staff provided excellent help to our local inquiries, the room provides very good communication on WHEN we want our room cleaned. Location is within a short walk to several restaurants - we ate at Grandma’s. Also, we got to watch a ship pass by when the bridge lifted. This area is clean & we felt safe everywhere we walked.

No issues at all.

🇺🇸

Maureen

10

June 2025

We were greeted with cookies and coffees and given our room early so that we could go exploring. The owners greeted and engaged us in conversation multiple times. One of the highlights was a free 9am walking tour, which was both humorous and full of history. We woke up to the Viking ship docked right across the canal. We could not have chosen a better place to stay.

Only negative was sofa bed for third person not all that comfortable. It was OK though.

🇺🇸

David

10

December 2024

Our view was magical. Being so close to the bridge made one feel like the only one there. The amenities were top notch and the bakery items were delicious. The office staff was polite and helpful and we even met the owners our first morning at breakfast. The decor was rich with history but felt new and modern at the same time. Parking was tight but that was part of the charm. It was very nice place for a special getaway and we will definitely return

Can’t think of anything.

🇺🇸

Ashley

8.2

April 2024

The view from the bay side window was fantastic. We were able to watch the ships come and go from the comfort of our hotel room. The fireplace in the room was a nice addition to give it a cozy feel and provided a nice touch. They also have a good selection of breakfast items, including fresh, local products offered.

The value of the room compared to the cost per night. Very expensive to stay here compared to other hotels that are in the canal area. There is no pool or hot tub (however our room had a jacuzzi). Room was average size for a hotel room. Only outside access to hotel rooms, and the room itself felt a bit dated.

🇺🇸

Karen

10

December 2024

The location was great. The owner was very nice. Loved watching the barges come in and out. Bentleyville. Was within walking distance.

We booked a room with a view through booking.com. When we got there, those rooms were already booked and we got a room overlooking the parking lot. Very disappointed in booking.com. I’ll go directly through the hotel next time.

🇺🇸

Andreas

9.1

February 2025

The South Pier Inn was a comfortable place to spend two nights in a cold, snowy Duluth. The staff was helpful and friendly and the lobby was small but very inviting, with free coffee, tea, and even little chocolates. Breakfast was simple but fresh and local. The location is right next to the famous lift bridge. Overall a great stay.

Only thing that I did not like was that the mattress was a little soft for my taste, but others may like it.

🇺🇸

Mckayla

10

December 2024

Location, the bedding was so comfortable, comfiest accommodations I’ve ever had. Everyone was so nice and it was pretty quiet too other than the foghorn for the ships going through which made the experience even better in my opinion as it added to the ambiance and made it such a real experience! I will definitely be back! I used to live in Duluth and the ships were one of my favorite parts so for ship enthusiasts it’s such a great location

🇺🇸

Stephen

10

October 2024

Room was well equipped with mini fridge, microwave and balcony which we enjoyed. Didn't have a view of waterway but still very fun. Located right next to the lift bridge, awesome!

Construction across the parking lot to an adjacent property was very noisy and they worked until sundown. Rooms with a view of waterway would have solved that but at a much higher price.

Points of Interest Around South Pier Inn

Airports

Duluth International Airport

6.5mi

Range Regional Airport

55.2mi

Amenities of South Pier Inn

Skiing

Free Private Parking

Free wifi

Streaming service (like Netflix)

Spa tub

Air conditioning

Hot tub

Private entrance

Parking On Site

Terrace

Soundproof rooms

24-hour front desk

Lake view

Non-smoking rooms

Wheelchair accessible

Landmark view

Picnic area

Garden

Bathtub

Free toiletries

Balcony

Soundproof

Stay rules - South Pier Inn

  • Check-in / Check-out

  • Pets

  • Internet

  • Age restrictions

  • Curfew

  • Parking

  • Children and beds

  • Cards accepted at this property

Frequently Asked Questions - South Pier Inn

At what times are check-in and check-out at South Pier Inn?

Just so you're aware, South Pier Inn's check-in availability ranges from 04:00 PM to 10:30 PM, and guests are requested to check out by 11:00 AM.

Is there parking available at South Pier Inn?

Yes, there is ample parking available at South Pier Inn. The best part is that it is completely free of charge. The hotel offers private on-site parking facilities, so there's no need to worry about finding a spot elsewhere. Additionally, there is no need to make a reservation for parking, making it convenient for guests arriving at any time.

What are the rates at South Pier Inn?

The base rate at South Pier Inn is approximately $196. Be informed that this can vary depending on your room choice and booking dates. Enter dates for a tailored price.

Which room categories can I book at South Pier Inn?

At South Pier Inn, the hotel offers various types of rooms including Junior Suites with either a Bridge View or Bay View, Queen Rooms with or without a Balcony and No View, Queen Room - Disability Access, and Executive Suites with either a Bridge View or Bay View. All rooms are non-smoking and have different bed and room sizes. The accommodations range from 2 adults and 1 child to 4 adults and 3 children.

How can guests spend their time at South Pier Inn?

Guests at South Pier Inn can enjoy a variety of leisure amenities during their stay. They can spend their time skiing, as the hotel offers skiing as a featured amenity. Additionally, guests can relax and unwind in the spa tub or hot tub/jacuzzi, ensuring a soothing and rejuvenating experience.

For those who prefer outdoor activities, the hotel provides several options. Guests can partake in walking tours, cycling, and hiking, allowing them to explore the beautiful surroundings. Fishing enthusiasts can indulge in their hobby and enjoy a peaceful time by the water.

Furthermore, the hotel offers an outdoor fireplace, creating a cozy atmosphere for guests to gather and spend quality time together. Additionally, board games and puzzles are available, providing entertainment for both individuals and groups. Guests can also enjoy a comfortable and warm ambiance with the in-room fireplaces.

What methods of payment does South Pier Inn accept?

South Pier Inn accepts payment methods such as Discover, Visa, American Express, and Mastercard. However, cash payments are not accepted at this hotel.