COCKTAIL BARS DULUTH

The Rathskeller is an underground speakeasy-style lounge nestled beneath Duluth's Old City Hall at 132 East Michigan Street. Established in 2012, this intimate venue occupies a historic sub-basement once used as a makeshift holding cell, creating an authentically atmospheric setting with reports of ghostly charm. The cocktail program features craft creations alongside an impressive selection of fine whiskeys, craft beers including Fitger's Brewhouse offerings, and an array of wines. Live jazz performances from rotating local musicians run nightly at 9 p.m. with no cover charge, while the sophisticated yet cozy ambiance makes it an ideal destination for discerning cocktail enthusiasts seeking historical character combined with contemporary mixology.

Jade Fountain Cocktail Lounge occupies a former Chinese restaurant in Duluth, Minnesota, at 305 N Central Ave, transforming the vintage space into a distinctive lounge with three expansive rooms featuring retro Chinese restaurant decor blended with modern art. Crafted by Duluth native Kai Soderberg, the bar serves expertly made cocktails priced at $10–$15, complemented by unexpectedly delicious wings available Wednesday through Saturday. The venue offers unique entertainment, including a dedicated pingpong table and Wednesday karaoke, creating a vibrant gathering space with nostalgic charm.

Vikre Distillery sits prominently at 525 South Lake Avenue in Duluth, positioned adjacent to the historic aerial lift bridge overlooking Lake Superior's shoreline. Founded in 2013, this craft distillery honors Norwegian heritage—the name Vikre means 'the people of the bay'—through its handcrafted spirits using local grains, wild botanicals foraged from the Northwoods, and the cold, clean water of Lake Superior. The distillery produces gin, vodka, aquavit, whiskey, liqueurs, and ready-to-drink canned cocktails served in the walk-in cocktail room. Complimentary distillery tours available Monday and Friday at 5 p.m. provide behind-the-scenes insight, while happy hour runs daily from 4–6 p.m. Sunday through Thursday with drink and snack specials.