We stayed here for the first time in May of 2011 and were wonderfully surprised. We love the lake and the huge ships and this place is perfect for both. We also loved the fact that we could park the car and walk to the Canal Park area. The staff was very friendly and helpful. We intend to make this Duluth trip an annual one, and will always stay here.

As a frequent traveler for both business and pleasure, I find the South Pier Inn to be a gem in a sea of less-than-average hotels. My husband and I travel to Duluth several times a year to visit relatives, and we try to stay at the South Pier Inn as often as we can. Our most recent stay this past weekend was exceptional. We stayed in a panoramic suite, which has both a view of the canal and a view of the harbor. The living room of the suite was the perfect backdrop for a late family Christmas celebration--gorgeous view, fireplace, Christmas movie playing on the DVD player. My parents spent a good amount of time watching the wildlife outside using the binoculars and telescope provided in the room. The suite itself was impeccably clean and had all the conveniences of home--including a mini kitchen area.

We're practically "regulars" at the South Pier Inn during the off season months. The staff is always friendly and approachable, the check in/checkout process is painless, and the snacks in the lobby area are fantastic. The little croissants are a bit of heaven.

While we'd love to keep this gem to ourselves, we've told all of our friends and family about the hotel, and we've encouraged people to visit Duluth purely to stay at the South Pier Inn. The location is the best way to experience the best Duluth has to offer--downtown, Canal Park, and massive ships passing next to your window.

I am almost afraid to write this review because I would love to keep South Pier to myself. My sisiter and I were in Duluth for a quick overnight trip and decided to stay at the South Pier. I was so pleasantly suprised. Our room was fresh and clean and very comfortable. We had terrific views of the harbor and the lights of the city up the hill.
In the morning I got to see the lift bridge in operation close up and watched as an ore ship came into the harbor. Very Impressive.
I had my coffee with Betty the owner and Jamie at the desk. Everyone could not be more friendly. We were in walking distance to shops and good places to eat. Not to mention the fact that it is close to all of the lake walking trails. I honestly can't wait to go back.

We stayed here November 25-27, 2011 during a weekend getaway to the Twin Ports. We were greeted by friendly desk staff, provided with a clean, comfortable room, and locally baked snacks available anytime. We had a canal view room located right at the base of the Arrowhead Bridge in Duluth, and were treated to ships passing through the canal and under the bridge not 100' from our balcony. The room was large (1 bedroom suite) and clean, and after and evening in the cool night air, it was great to come back at night and sip some wine while enjoying a soak in the 2 person jet tub in front of the fireplace.

The breakfast included with the room consisted of fresh baking from a local bakery, fresh fruit, yogurt, juices, and coffee. It was very nice, and my only issue with it was the lack of a protein option such as peanut butter or boiled eggs.

All things considered, we had a very relaxing weekend here and would definitely stay at this hotel again.