Have you ever dreamed of cosplaying as a banana and being chased by a gorilla? Maybe not. But ever since hearing about the Going Bananas Run in Duluth, Minnesota, I have.
So about three months ago, I laced up my running shoes and started training. Was this mostly an excuse to go to Duluth? Absolutely. Would highly recommend it.
What’s the Going Bananas Run?
The Going Bananas Run is a themed 2ish mile fun-run in Duluth, Minnesota (and other places in Minnesota). It’s not that far, but for someone who hadn’t run at all in a LONG time, it felt like something I had to work toward.
Instead of a race t-shirt, you get a banana suit to wear on race day. After a two minute head start, they release the gorilla to chase the bananas. If you beat the gorilla, they donate a portion of your bib fee to charity. This year, they had two gorillas, one who ran the race in 15:09 and a less fast gorilla who ran the race in 24:54. I beat the less fast gorilla but the fast gorilla caught up to us basically no time had passed. He is a beast.
The race is pretty chill, family friendly and fun. People don’t take the running that seriously, and everyone’s mostly there to have a good time. Personally, I loved the premise of the race, and it felt good to be running for a good cause. The proceeds of the run go to Project Joy, which strives to make sure no children in the region go hungry.
Speaking of hunger, the Going Banans Run also has sponsors to feed you all the bananas you want, cookies, and $5 beers.
Where to go:
Outside of Duluth, there are lots of nature things! Nearby, check out Gooseberry Falls, walk down the ore docks and frolic on Black Sand Beach. Note to everyone: the water is COLD, even if the weather feels nice. Adjust expectations accordingly.
Where to eat:
Tobie’s Restaurant and Bakery
On the way up to Duluth, there’s a cute diner that purports to be “Minnesota’s famous halfway stop.” They have great caramel rolls, brunch food and overall good service. Worth the stop even if it’s just for the bakery.
404 Fire Monument Road Hinckley MN, 55037
Betty’s Pies
If you go exploring a little bit outside of Duluth, Betty’s Pies in Two Harbors is worth the drive! Famous for their pies, Betty’s Pies looks like a diner straight from a storybook. Of course get pie…or even pie as a shake, but don’t neglect their actual menu where you can try lots of local favs such as broasted chicken which is marinated and pressure fried (YUM) and local fish, the walleye which is also quite delicious.
2019, 1633 MN-61, Two Harbors, MN 55616
OMC Smokehouse
After the race, we walked from the Bent Paddle Brewery (the starting point of the Going Bananas Run) to OMC Smokehouse. They have large portions, and they even some specials for racers. You are encouraged to come in your banana suit, no need to change or take it off if you don’t want to.
1909 W Superior St, Duluth, MN 55806
Cloud 9 Asian Bistro
I didn’t technically go here, but I DoorDashed sushi from Cloud 9 Asian Bistro to the hotel, and I’m still thinking about their sashimi salad. They have very reasonable prices, and the sashimi was super fresh and given in generous portions. If I go to Duluth again, I’d definitely go again.
308 S Lake Ave., Duluth, MN 55802
Where to stay:
Cotton Mansion – Duluth, Minnesota
Can’t recommend this hotel enough. I was skeptical at first because of the asynchronous check-in/check-out (I’ve had some bad experiences with this before), but it was actually a fantastic place. I loved that they have people take off their shoes by the front door. It made the whole thing feel like a big Airbnb stay with beautiful interiors. Plus, I didn’t have to do any chores at the end.
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