With spectacular views of the Duluth skyline, Spirit Mountain is a popular spot for skiing, snowboarding, tubing and all sorts of winter fun activities (peak adult lift tickets cost $20). During the past few years,  Duluth has invested some serious cash to develop the ski resort into a more well-rounded destination with new attractions like the Timber Twister Alpine coaster, the Timber Flyer zip line and a mini-golf course. Opened in July 2010, the Alpine coaster thrills with a three-minute ride around an off-the-ground roller coaster track in individual cars. Riders determine how fast they want to go by controlling two bars, but speeds can reach up to 26 miles an hour.

Available year-round, the untraditional Timber Flyer zip line is a little tamer but still worth a look. The ride operates more like a ski lift—guests are seated and belted in as opposed to hanging from a line, and the 90-second experience includes a pull back up to the top. Single-rider tickets cost $8; double-rider tickets are $12. The miniature golf course, open since late 2011, offers nine holes that feature fun geometric shapes.