
Thompson Hill Overlook
A scenic rest stop offering breathtaking panoramic views of Duluth and Lake Superior, perfect for a quick break or photo op.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour light

Thompson Hill Overlook
Best Time
Golden hour light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic rest stop offering breathtaking panoramic views of Duluth and Lake Superior, perfect for a quick break or photo op.
"One of the best views from a welcome center I’ve ever seen."

📸 Capture the Best Views
Bring your camera for stunning panoramic shots of Duluth and Lake Superior. Early mornings offer the best light.
🚗 Easy Access from I-35
Conveniently located right off I-35, making it a perfect stop before entering Duluth.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Duluth Vista
Main Overlook Area
Gaze upon the sprawling city of Duluth and the majestic Lake Superior. A truly unforgettable sight.
Lake Superior Shoreline
Southern Edge of Overlook
Witness the immense beauty of the largest freshwater lake in the world. Perfect for nature lovers.
Picnic and Rest Area
Designated Picnic Spots
Enjoy a meal or a break amidst stunning scenery. Clean facilities make it a convenient stop.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Don't Miss the Iconic View
Rest Stop with a Purpose
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Best Views
Bring your camera for stunning panoramic shots of Duluth and Lake Superior. Early mornings offer the best light.
🚗 Easy Access from I-35
Conveniently located right off I-35, making it a perfect stop before entering Duluth.
🚻 Clean Facilities
Restrooms are consistently clean and well-maintained, often with AC for comfort.
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Utilize the picnic areas for a scenic meal break. Plenty of space for families.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Best Views
Bring your camera for stunning panoramic shots of Duluth and Lake Superior. Early mornings offer the best light.
🚗 Easy Access from I-35
Conveniently located right off I-35, making it a perfect stop before entering Duluth.
🚻 Clean Facilities
Restrooms are consistently clean and well-maintained, often with AC for comfort.
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Utilize the picnic areas for a scenic meal break. Plenty of space for families.
😴 Overnight Parking
Vehicles are allowed to park overnight, making it a viable option for travelers on a budget.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Thompson Hill Overlook is widely praised as an exceptional rest stop with a breathtaking panoramic view of Duluth and Lake Superior. Visitors appreciate the clean facilities, ample parking, and picnic areas, making it a convenient and pleasant break. While most experiences are positive, some note an overly inquisitive groundskeeper.
"If you have to stop at a rest stop on your way to or from Duluth, it’s this one. Parking lot is spacious, great overlook and picnic area. Always clean bathrooms without a wait. Staffed with lovely folks during the summer, and plenty of information guides about the area and further north."
S H
"If you like my comment click the ❤️ and show some love 😘
Great spot to take a breath, walk, eat, or nap. Very clean, only downside to this spot is the grounds keeper. Old guy, walks up to you and asks questions like, "how long you gonna be here for" or "are you drinking beer here?"...
To me that's very rude, his only job is to clean. The law enforcement is already two steps away. The law enforcement is literally their nextdoor neighbor... So what's up with all the questions.
I saw him go up to an RV and ask if they are drinking? And he had the nerves to ask how how long I was gonna be there for?
I recommend this spot to anyone, just know about this person. The person that gets paid to clean. If cleaning is too much then they need to hire more cleaners."
Christopher Hueghs
"The best ever rest stop with picnic area, well-maintained clean bathroom with a/c, and scenic outlook with views of the entire bay of Duluth, conveniently located just off I-35 before entering Duluth, this Thomson Hill is located near Proctor MN."
kate f.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Thompson Hill Overlook is conveniently located directly off Interstate 35, just before you reach Duluth. Look for the well-marked exit for the rest area. It's an easy stop for travelers heading north or south.
Yes, Thompson Hill Overlook is very close to Proctor, MN. It's often mentioned as a key stop for those visiting or passing through the Proctor area.
If you're coming from the south on I-35, take the exit for the rest area. If you're coming from the north, you'll need to use a turnaround to access the southbound lanes and then take the rest area exit. The overlook is clearly signed.
Public transportation options directly to the overlook are limited as it's primarily a highway rest stop. It's best accessed by private vehicle.
Thompson Hill Overlook is just a few miles south of downtown Duluth, making it a quick and easy stop before or after exploring the city.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Thompson Hill Overlook is a public rest area and scenic overlook, so there is no entrance fee. It's free to visit and enjoy the views.
As a public rest area, Thompson Hill Overlook is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The facilities like restrooms are always accessible.
No booking is required. Thompson Hill Overlook is a public space, and you can visit anytime without prior reservation.
The primary restriction is to respect the facilities and other visitors. While overnight parking is allowed, be mindful of any posted rules or regulations.
The overlook area and facilities are generally accessible, with paved pathways and accessible restrooms. It's designed to accommodate most visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings offer beautiful soft light for capturing the panoramic views of Duluth and Lake Superior. Late afternoons can also provide stunning sunset colors.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient for capturing the views. A wide-angle lens can be beneficial to encompass the entire vista.
The main overlook area provides the most expansive views. There are also various points along the railing where you can frame your shots of the city and lake.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local ordinances and FAA guidelines before flying a drone in this area.
The sweeping cityscape of Duluth, the vast expanse of Lake Superior, and the changing colors of the sky are the most photogenic elements.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Thompson Hill Overlook is a rest stop and does not have full-service restaurants. However, it does have vending machines for snacks and drinks.
Absolutely! There are picnic tables available, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a packed lunch or snacks while taking in the view.
Yes, you'll find numerous dining options in Duluth, which is just a short drive away. From casual eateries to sit-down restaurants, there's plenty to choose from.
Vending machines typically offer a selection of popular snacks, chips, candy, and beverages.
You'll find grocery stores in Duluth, which is a short drive from the overlook. It's recommended to stock up before or after your visit if you plan on picnicking.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
Besides the stunning views, you can utilize the clean restrooms, enjoy a picnic, or simply stretch your legs. It's a great place for a brief respite.
Crowds can vary, but it's generally less crowded in the early mornings or late afternoons. Weekends and peak travel times might see more visitors.
While not extensive hiking trails, there are paved pathways around the overlook area for a short stroll.
Amenities include clean restrooms, ample parking, picnic tables, vending machines, and information guides about the surrounding area.
Some visitors have noted a groundskeeper who may approach visitors with questions about their stay or activities. This is something to be aware of.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing a picnic to enjoy at one of the tables, turning a simple rest stop into a mini-adventure. The sheer size of the lake is often a highlight for children, providing a sense of wonder. It’s a safe and accessible spot for a brief, enjoyable interlude during your family road trip.
💰 Budget Travelers
Utilize the picnic areas to save money on meals by packing your own food. This overlook allows you to experience a beautiful natural vista and rest comfortably, all while keeping your travel expenses low. It’s a practical and scenic stop that maximizes value for money.
🚗 Road Trippers
Take advantage of the clean facilities and picnic spots to recharge. The panoramic view offers a fantastic photo opportunity and a moment to appreciate the vastness of Lake Superior. It’s a convenient and rewarding stop that enhances the overall road trip experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Scenic Splendor of Thompson Hill
The overlook is strategically located just before entering Duluth, making it an ideal first or last stop for travelers. It offers a moment to pause, appreciate the scenery, and get a sense of the city's layout before you immerse yourself in its attractions. The sheer scale of Lake Superior from this vantage point is awe-inspiring, reminding visitors of the powerful natural forces that shape this part of Minnesota.
Beyond the visual feast, Thompson Hill Overlook is a practical stop. It features well-maintained restrooms, ample parking, and picnic areas, ensuring a comfortable break for travelers. While it's a place to relax and enjoy the view, some visitors have noted interactions with a groundskeeper who may ask questions about their stay. Despite this, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the cleanliness and convenience of the facilities.
Practicalities and Visitor Experience
For those looking to extend their stay briefly, the overlook provides picnic tables, encouraging visitors to enjoy a meal with a view. This feature is particularly appreciated by families and those on longer road trips. Furthermore, the overlook is known to allow overnight parking for vehicles, making it a budget-friendly option for travelers who need a safe place to rest.
While the overlook is generally a welcoming space, some visitors have mentioned encountering a groundskeeper who may inquire about their activities or length of stay. This aspect, though noted, does not detract from the overall utility and scenic appeal of Thompson Hill Overlook as a convenient and beautiful stop along the highway.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit