Top Places to See When Driving From Apple Valley, Minnesota to Arlington Heights, Illinois

Road trips can be one of the most exciting and adventurous ways to travel. Starting from Apple Valley, Minnesota, to Arlington Heights, Illinois, the journey is just over 400 miles, and there's a lot to see on the way. Whether you're traveling alone, with friends, or family, there's something for everyone. From picturesque small towns to vast natural beauty, here are some of the top places to see during your journey.

Exploring Small Towns

One of the most exciting parts of a road trip is discovering hidden gems in small towns. The drive from Apple Valley to Arlington Heights offers plenty of opportunities to explore charming towns along the way. Here are a few of our favourite small towns worth exploring.

La Crosse, Wisconsin

Located midway between Apple Valley and Arlington Heights, La Crosse is a charming midwestern town that's worth exploring. If you're a history lover, make sure to stop by the Riverside Museum, which provides insight into the history of the Mississippi River. The town also has plenty of other outdoor activities, including fishing, hiking, and biking.

Galena, Illinois

Known as the "town that time forgot," Galena is a historic small town that will transport you back to the 19th century. The town features stunning architecture, antique shops, and plenty of restaurants. Take a stroll down the main street and soak in the town's rich history.

Delavan, Wisconsin

If you're looking for a laid-back atmosphere, stop by Delavan in Wisconsin. The town is known for its beautiful lakes and charming downtown area. Visit the House of Gerhard for some of the best German food in the region.

Natural Beauty

Driving from Apple Valley to Arlington Heights offers some of the best opportunities to explore the great outdoors. Some of these spots might require a detour from your original route, but they're worth it.

Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

Lake Geneva in Wisconsin is one of the region's most popular destinations for recreational activities. The lake covers over eight square miles, and there are plenty of opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. The surrounding area is also known for its scenic golf courses and hiking trails.

Starved Rock State Park, Illinois

If you're a nature lover, you won't want to miss a visit to Starved Rock State Park in Illinois. The park is home to numerous hiking trails and stunning landscapes, including waterfalls and sandstone canyons. Spend a day exploring the park's various trails and appreciate the Midwest's natural beauty.

Interstate State Park, Minnesota/Wisconsin

Located on the border of Minnesota and Wisconsin, Interstate State Park was one of the country's first state parks. The park is home to unique geological formations, such as the "potholes" formed by glacial activity. Hiking trails take visitors through the park's rocky terrain, with beautiful views of the St. Croix River.

Food and Drink

While exploring small towns and natural beauty, you're sure to work up an appetite. Make sure to check out these spots for some excellent food and drink along the way.

White Castle, Minneapolis

Although not technically on the way to Arlington Heights, no midwestern road trip is complete without a stop at White Castle. Known as "sliders," these little burgers are a must-try for anyone traveling in the region.

Lou Malnati's Pizzeria, Chicago

No trip to Illinois is complete without a slice of deep dish pizza. Lou Malnati's Pizzeria is a Chicago institution that's been serving up piping hot slices since 1971. Make sure to try the classic "Malnati Chicago-style" pizza.

The Old Fashioned, Madison

If you're looking for a great place to grab a drink and a bite to eat, make sure to visit The Old Fashioned in Madison, Wisconsin. This gastropub is known for its excellent craft beers and classic Midwestern dishes like cheese curds and bratwurst.

Conclusion

From small towns to natural beauty to delicious food, the drive from Apple Valley to Arlington Heights offers plenty of excitement. Make sure to take the time to explore these hidden gems and create lasting memories on your next midwestern road trip.