Grand Marais Harbor and Artist's Point
A dramatic peninsula jutting into Lake Superior, offering iconic lighthouse views and rugged beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Grand Marais Harbor and Artist's Point
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A dramatic peninsula jutting into Lake Superior, offering iconic lighthouse views and rugged beauty.
"Artist Point is an absolute must-visit if you love nature, photography, or just a peaceful place to reflect."
🚗 Parking Patience is Key
Parking lots fill quickly! Arrive early or late for a spot. Weekdays are best.
👟 Barefoot on the Rocks?
Consider going barefoot for better grip on slippery rocks, but be cautious of waves.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Artist's Point Lighthouse
Easternmost tip of the peninsula
Iconic lighthouse offering panoramic views of Lake Superior and the Grand Marais harbor.
Rocky Shoreline Exploration
Along the peninsula
Unique, rugged landscape perfect for walking, photography, and enjoying the powerful waves of Lake Superior.
Grand Marais Harbor Views
Overlooking the harbor
Scenic vistas of the charming fishing harbor, sailboats, and the picturesque town.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Parking
Embrace the Rocks (Carefully!)
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Patience is Key
Parking lots fill quickly! Arrive early or late for a spot. Weekdays are best.
👟 Barefoot on the Rocks?
Consider going barefoot for better grip on slippery rocks, but be cautious of waves.
📸 Photographer's Paradise
Stunning sunrise and sunset shots are a must! Golden hour is magical. 
🚶♀️ Easy Walk, Big Views
Accessible for most ages and abilities, with a concrete breakwater for easy strolling.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Patience is Key
Parking lots fill quickly! Arrive early or late for a spot. Weekdays are best.
👟 Barefoot on the Rocks?
Consider going barefoot for better grip on slippery rocks, but be cautious of waves.
📸 Photographer's Paradise
Stunning sunrise and sunset shots are a must! Golden hour is magical.
🚶♀️ Easy Walk, Big Views
Accessible for most ages and abilities, with a concrete breakwater for easy strolling.
🌊 Embrace the Lake Air
Feel the refreshing spray and listen to the waves crash. Perfect for reflection.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Artist's Point for its breathtaking natural beauty, accessibility, and serene atmosphere. It's a must-visit for photographers and nature lovers, offering stunning views of Lake Superior and the Grand Marais harbor. The main drawback is the limited and quickly filling parking, especially during peak times.
"Beautiful, easy walk right in town with ample parking and views. Worth a visit."
Jesse James
"Nice place to stop by and walk around the rocky surface by the lake. Parking spaces fill up fast."
D Cha
"⭐ Artist Point – A Breathtaking Escape in Northern Minnesota ⭐
Artist Point in Grand Marais is an absolute must-visit if you love nature, photography, or just a peaceful place to reflect. It’s the perfect spot to think, write, meditate, or capture stunning photos. Wildlife sightings are common, and the morning seagulls resting on the rocks add to the serene atmosphere as waves crash along the shore.
If you plan to venture out onto the rocks, I’d recommend going barefoot—some areas can be quite slippery! The cool, refreshing water is especially inviting during the hot summer months.
This spot is well worth the drive, whether you stop for an hour or longer. Plus, there are several charming shops nearby to explore. I visited after doing some incredible hikes north of Duluth, and catching the sunrise here made for a truly magical experience.
📸 A must-visit for photographers, nature lovers, and anyone looking to soak in the beauty of the North Shore!
💕 #Hiking #NorthernMN #GrandMarais #Minnesota #NatureLover #Photography #Meditation #ScenicViews #TravelTips #ExploreMN
Follow me for more Minnesota things to do and places to see"
Kayla M
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Artist's Point is located at the eastern end of Grand Marais harbor. You can drive directly to the point, where there is a parking area. It's easily accessible from downtown Grand Marais, often just a short walk or drive away.
Yes, there is a parking area at Artist's Point, but it is known to fill up quickly, especially during peak season and weekends. Arriving early in the morning or later in the evening is recommended.
Absolutely! Artist's Point is conveniently located adjacent to the town. A leisurely walk from downtown Grand Marais will take you to the point, offering scenic views along the way.
Grand Marais is typically reached via scenic Highway 61 along the North Shore of Lake Superior. This route offers breathtaking views and numerous stops. Many visitors combine a trip to Artist's Point with exploring other North Shore attractions.
Artist's Point offers a concrete breakwater that is generally safe and accessible for strolling. While exploring the natural rocky areas might be challenging, the main pathways are manageable for many.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Artist's Point is a public area and is free to visit. You can enjoy the natural beauty and scenic views without any admission cost.
Artist's Point is accessible year-round, 24 hours a day. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and the best experience, especially for photography.
There are no tickets or reservations required to visit Artist's Point, as it is a natural public space. Simply arrive and enjoy the scenery.
While generally open, it's always wise to be aware of weather conditions, especially during winter. Respect the natural environment and any posted signage.
Artist's Point is perfect for both! You can enjoy a quick walk and photo session in about an hour, or spend several hours exploring the rocks and soaking in the atmosphere.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'golden hour' around sunrise and sunset offers the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography.
Expect to capture breathtaking landscapes of Lake Superior, the Grand Marais harbor, the lighthouse, and unique rock formations. Wildlife, like seagulls, can also be subjects.
The entire point offers incredible views. The area around the lighthouse and the rocky outcrops facing the lake are particularly popular for dramatic shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive lake views. A tripod can be beneficial for sunrise/sunset shots or long exposures.
Drone usage regulations can vary. While some stunning drone footage exists, always check current FAA and local park regulations before flying.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can walk along the rocky shores, enjoy the views of Lake Superior and the harbor, take photos, meditate, or simply relax and listen to the waves.
Yes, you might spot seagulls resting on the rocks, and occasionally other birds or even marine life in the clear waters.
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. If you plan to explore the rocks, consider shoes that can get wet or going barefoot for better grip. Layers are always a good idea for the unpredictable North Shore weather.
Restrooms are typically available in the nearby Grand Marais harbor area. Several charming shops and eateries are also within walking distance.
Artist's Point is generally safe for children, especially on the concrete breakwater. However, always supervise children closely, particularly near the water and on the rocky areas due to slippery surfaces and waves.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly at Artist's Point. However, the charming town of Grand Marais, located just a short walk away, offers a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops.
Grand Marais boasts a range of dining options, from casual cafes and bakeries to pubs and restaurants serving fresh local fare, including seafood.
While there are no designated picnic areas, you can certainly bring a picnic to enjoy the scenic views. Be sure to pack out all your trash to keep the area clean.
Yes, Grand Marais has several popular breakfast spots. Many cafes and diners offer hearty breakfasts perfect for starting your day before exploring Artist's Point.
Popular choices in Grand Marais include Sven & Ole's Pizza for a casual bite, The Crooked Spoon Cafe for a more upscale experience, or World's Best Donuts for a sweet treat.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the rocky areas can be fun to explore, close supervision is essential due to slippery surfaces and the proximity of the water. Consider bringing water shoes or letting kids go barefoot on the rocks if they are comfortable and supervised. The open space also makes it a great place for kids to run around a bit, provided they stay within safe boundaries. Don't forget snacks and drinks, as there are no facilities directly on the point.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Bring your wide-angle lens to capture the vastness of Lake Superior and consider a tripod for sharper shots in low light. The ever-changing weather on the North Shore can also add dramatic skies to your images. Don't be afraid to experiment with different angles and perspectives, from the lighthouse to the intricate details of the rocks.
+1🧘♀️ Solo Travelers & Meditators
The accessibility of the point means you can easily spend an hour or more soaking in the solitude. It's a place to disconnect from the hustle and bustle and reconnect with yourself amidst the stunning scenery of Lake Superior.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Lake Superior's Edge
Many photographers are drawn to Artist's Point for its dramatic landscapes. The lighthouse stands as a sentinel, offering a picturesque focal point against the backdrop of the lake. Capturing the sunrise or sunset here is a popular activity, with the sky often ablaze with color, reflecting beautifully on the water.
+1 The unique textures of the rocks and the ever-changing moods of Lake Superior provide endless photographic opportunities.Beyond its visual appeal, Artist's Point offers a sense of peace and tranquility. It's a spot where you can escape the everyday and connect with the natural world. Whether you're seeking a quiet moment of contemplation, a place to write, or simply to admire the scenery, Artist's Point delivers a memorable experience.
Navigating Grand Marais Harbor and Artist's Point
Accessing Artist's Point is straightforward, with a dedicated parking area at its base. However, as noted by many visitors, this parking can fill up very quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons and on weekends.
Once at Artist's Point, the terrain consists of a concrete breakwater which provides an easy and safe path for most visitors. For those who wish to explore further, the rocky shoreline offers a more rugged experience. While this can be exhilarating, it's important to be cautious, as the rocks can be slippery, especially when wet from waves or spray.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit