600 E Superior St, Duluth, Minnesota, United States | (618) 248-8274
Former brewery converted into a hotel
Rooms are spacious and clean -- some have whirlpool tubs and kitchenettes
Incredible views of Lake Superior
Free continental breakfast
Close to downtown
Brewery, restaurants, and shops attached
Free valet parking and Wi-Fi
Decor is a bit dated
Prices are high for the area
Housed in the former Fitger's brewery, a
building that dates back to the 1880s, this historic complex has been renovated
into a 62-room inn with beautiful views of Lake Superior. A few minutes away from
downtown Duluth by car, Fitger’s has several on-site restaurants and shops,
including a brew pub, and bookings include free continental breakfast and valet
parking. While the space definitely has an antique feel that isn’t
particularly luxurious -- think older carpeting and wallpaper -- the venue’s history
and amenities make it unique compared to the area’s other chain
hotels.
Scene
Slightly worn antique vibe with gorgeous woodwork
The inn has a cozy, lived-in feel with
traditional charm, including a front desk in the style of old bank tellers’
windows and an attractive glass ceiling in the lobby. Lovely stone walls and
beautiful antique woodwork add to the surroundings, but the floral carpeting
and random assortment of worn furniture detracts from the overall decor, and
the gift shop adjoining the lobby gives the property a kitschy theme-park feel. In contrast, Midi restaurant has a colorful, casual atmosphere with a lovely view of the
lake. Those who enjoy the Fitger's retro look and history will be happy here, but
travelers looking for old-fashioned luxury may be disappointed.
Location
On Lake Superior, a few minutes to downtown
The Fitger’s complex sits right on Lake
Superior, with easy access to a walking path along the shoreline. The venue’s
restaurants and shops can be accessed from the inn, which is particularly
convenient in the winter. It’s northeast of downtown Duluth and is a five-minute
drive or 20-minute walk to main attractions, including Canal Park, the Duluth
Entertainment Convention Center, and Great Lakes Aquarium. It’s also a 15-minute
drive northwest to Duluth International Airport.
Rooms
Older and in need of a refresh with drab wallpaper and decor, though amenities are provided
The
inn’s 62 guest rooms and suites have an older look that can be considered
quaint but may come off as drab, with beige patterned wallpaper, generic
hotel bedspreads, and carpeting that’s showing its age. The rich wood
furnishings, including two-poster beds, are in fairly good condition, and the lakeside
Executive room does offer beautiful stonework and a view of the water from an
expansive patio. Suites have large jetted tubs in the bedrooms. Bathrooms have
large vanities, shower/tub combos in the Deluxe rooms and stall showers in the
suites, and Aveda toiletries. Rooms have small kitchenettes with mini-fridges,
sinks, coffeemakers, and microwaves. Other amenities include flat-screen TVs,
robes, safes, and hairdryers as well as books on the history of the brewery.
Features
On-site restaurants and shops, free continental breakfast and valet parking, and a 24-hour gym
The
complex has several on-site restaurants, including The Brewhouse, Midi
Restaurant, Mexico Lindo, and an ice cream parlor. The hotel serves a free continental breakfast with coffee, juice, fruit, and pastries. The Redstar nightclub has
live DJs, musical acts, and dancing throughout the week while Rex Bar has live entertainment on the weekends and an outdoor
patio with a gorgeous view of Lake Superior.There are also several shops on hand that
sell everything from clothing to wine. Pets
are allowed in some rooms. Wi-Fi and valet parking are free. There's a basic, well-stocked 24-hour gym is available with free-weights and Nautilus equipment.