Duluth and northeastern Minnesota are right next to Lake Superior and Wisconsin, and are just 100 miles south of Thunder Bay, Ontario, and south of Manitoba, Canada.

People interested in traveling in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area, Quetico National Park, or Voyaguers National Park should be advised that canoe trips into those areas may require permits.
There are many outfitters and lodges that can help you have a great time there - before or after the conference.
http://www.canoecountry.com/