Experience a magical Christmas wagonette tour in Duluth’s Canal Park. Perfect for families, this festive ride sparkles with holiday lights and cozy charm.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
20 minutes
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical effort required as it is a seated experience.
Wildlife
History
Duluth’s Canal Park developed as a historic shipping district and now serves as a vibrant community hub for tourism and local culture.
Conservation
Efforts in Duluth focus on preserving Lake Superior’s water quality and promoting eco-friendly tourism around Canal Park and the waterfront.
Top Hat Carriages
Experience a magical Christmas wagonette tour in Duluth’s Canal Park. Perfect for families, this festive ride sparkles with holiday lights and cozy charm.
Top Hat Carriages is a Duluth-based company offering horse-drawn carriage, wagonette, and sleigh experiences around Canal Park, Main Street, the Lakewalk, and the Harbor. The company provides a range of short, guided tours designed for families, couples, and small groups, with options that accommodate up to six passengers in most carriages and up to 12 people in wagonette rides.
Tours are led by friendly drivers who are familiar with Duluth’s waterfront and historic landmarks, and the horses are described as affectionate, creating a relaxed and approachable atmosphere for guests. Signature offerings include the 30-minute William A. Irvin Ship Tour that concludes at the historic ore boat, and the 45-minute Harbor & Aquarium Tour, noted as the longest and most comprehensive carriage option. Seasonal experiences include festive 20-minute wagonette rides in Canal Park during the Christmas season and 20-minute sleigh rides departing from Canal Park Lodge along the lakeshore in winter.
Top Hat Carriages operates primarily in Canal Park and along the Lakewalk, giving riders direct access to scenic views of Lake Superior and Duluth’s harbor. Group sizes, durations, and start locations are specified for each trip, helping guests choose the right experience. The business emphasizes a family-friendly environment, consistent driver presence, and well-cared-for horses as core elements of its service offering.
Location
Duluth, MN
Operating in Canal Park and Lakewalk
Group Capacity
Up to 12
Wagonette seats up to 12 people
Tour Lengths
20-45 min
Short to comprehensive carriage options
Friendly Drivers
Yes
Welcoming drivers on every tour
Choose a Canal Park carriage tour, Harbor & Aquarium ride, holiday wagonette, or winter sleigh — select dates and group size to book an unforgettable lakeside experience.
Dress in Warm Layers
Temperatures can drop significantly, so layering keeps you comfortable throughout the ride.
Arrive Early for Best Seating
Plan to arrive a few minutes early to secure your preferred seats and settle in before departure.
Bring a Camera
Capture the glowing Christmas lights and picturesque winter scenes along the route.
Watch for Snow and Ice
Paths may be slippery; wear boots with good traction and hold onto railings when boarding.
Insulated Jacket
Keeps you warm during chilly winter rides through Duluth’s outdoor environment.
winter
Warm Gloves
Protects your hands from the cold during outdoor boarding and disembarking.
winter
Camera or Smartphone
Allows you to capture memorable photos of festive lights and scenic views.
Waterproof Boots
Offers good traction and keeps feet dry on potentially icy or wet surfaces near Canal Park.
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