The Ultimate Road Trip: Top Places to See When Driving from Alexandria, Minnesota to Avondale, Arizona

Are you looking for a road trip full of adventure and exciting sights? Look no further, because we have the ultimate road trip planned for you! Driving from Alexandria, Minnesota to Avondale, Arizona will take you through diverse landscapes and scenic routes. You will come across some of the most interesting places in the United States.

From natural wonders to man-made marvels, this trip has plenty of sights to see. Here are our top places to visit when driving from Alexandria, Minnesota to Avondale, Arizona.

The Start of Your Journey: Alexandria, Minnesota

Alexandria is a serene city situated in Douglas County, Minnesota. This small town with a population of just over 13,000 is known for its beautiful lakes and scenic beauty. If you plan to spend a day in Alexandria before starting your journey towards Avondale, make sure to visit the following places:

1. Lake Carlos State Park

Lake Carlos State Park is one of the most popular state parks in Minnesota. If you love outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, or camping, this is your go-to destination. The park is spread over 1,231 acres of land and includes a beach, a campground, and 14 miles of hiking trails.

2. Big Ole Viking Statue

This may come off as a quirky destination, but you cannot leave Alexandria without visiting the Big Ole Viking Statue. This 28-foot-tall statue was built in 1965 to commemorate the Viking heritage of the region. You can take a picture with the statue and learn about the history of the Minnesota Vikings.

3. Legacy of the Lakes Museum

If you love learning about history, make sure to visit the Legacy of the Lakes Museum. The museum displays over 10,000 artifacts and paintings depicting the history of boating, fishing, and the lakes around Alexandria. The museum also has a beautiful garden with a lake-view.

The Main Event: Top Places to Visit When Driving from Alexandria, Minnesota to Avondale, Arizona

Now that you have had a taste of Alexandria, let's dive into the main event - the top places to visit en route to Avondale, Arizona.

1. Badlands National Park, South Dakota

Your first stop should be the Badlands National Park in South Dakota. This national park is spread over 244,000 acres and is home to unique geological formations, wildlife, and a haunting beauty that is tough to beat. There are also multiple hiking trails with various difficulty levels.

2. Mount Rushmore, South Dakota

How can a trip from Alexandria, Minnesota to Avondale, Arizona be complete without a visit to Mount Rushmore? This iconic monument features the carved faces of George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, Thomas Jefferson, and Theodore Roosevelt and attracts millions of tourists every year.

3. Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona

Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona is one of the world's largest and most colorful concentrations of petrified wood. The park is filled with scenic drives, ancient ruins, and majestic trees that have turned to stone. If you are a nature lover, this park is a must-visit.

4. Grand Canyon, Arizona

The Grand Canyon is on almost everyone's bucket list, and for a good reason. It is a wonder of nature that never fails to amaze visitors with its beauty. The Grand Canyon is more than just a pretty sight; it is a symbol of the Earth's geological history. If you have extra time, make sure to take a helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon.

5. Sedona, Arizona

Sedona is a city in Arizona known for its stunning red rock formations and spiritual significance. Sedona has over 100 hiking trails, including the popular Cathedral Rock Trail, which is a must-visit. Sedona also has a vibrant art community with numerous galleries and shops.

Conclusion

This road trip from Alexandria, Minnesota, to Avondale, Arizona, will take you across some of the most beautiful landscapes in the United States. Starting from a serene small town in Minnesota to the red rock formations of Arizona, this road trip has something for everyone. With this list, you know exactly where to stop and make unforgettable memories. Get your car ready and head on to this once-in-a-lifetime adventure!