The Best Places to Visit on Your Drive from Apple Valley to Brooten, Minnesota

Minnesota is one of the most beautiful states in the US, offering some of the best scenic drives in the country. If you are planning a road trip from Apple Valley to Brooten, be prepared to encounter breathtaking vistas, historic landmarks, and plenty of small-town charm. Whether you are traveling solo, as a couple, or with your family, there are countless exciting things to see and do on this route.

In this blog post, we’ve compiled a list of the top places to visit as you drive from Apple Valley to Brooten. Take your time exploring each of these destinations, and enjoy every moment of your journey through Minnesota.

The Top Places to See When Driving From Apple Valley, Minnesota to Brooten, Minnesota

1. Minnesota Zoo, Apple Valley

No road trip to Minnesota would be complete without a visit to the state’s premier zoo. The Minnesota Zoo is home to over 5,000 animals representing over 500 species, making it one of the largest zoos in the world. From farm animals to exotic creatures, there’s something for everyone here.

Some of the must-see exhibits at the Minnesota Zoo include the Tropics Trail, where you can see tigers and monkeys roaming free, and the Minnesota Trail, which showcases the state’s native wildlife. You can also check out the aquarium, where you’ll find sharks, stingrays, and other fascinating sea creatures.

2. Minnehaha Falls Park, Minneapolis

Minnehaha Falls Park is a beautiful 193-acre park located alongside the Mississippi River. The park is named after the stunning 53-foot waterfall, which is one of the most photographed landmarks in Minnesota. You can take a stroll around the park's hiking trails and take in the beauty of the historic limestone bluffs and mature trees.

In addition, there is plenty to do in the park, including picnicking, biking, and playing disc golf. The park is also home to several historic buildings, including the John H. Stevens House, which was built in 1849.

3. Franconia Sculpture Park, Shafer

If you are an art enthusiast, do not miss the opportunity to visit Franconia Sculpture Park. This unique outdoor art museum is located on a 43-acre farm, where you can see dozens of large-scale sculptures created by local and international artists.

You can explore the park on foot or by bike, and even bring your furry friend along. In addition to the impressive art, the park also offers facilities like picnic tables, restrooms, and a gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs.

4. The Kensington Runestone, Alexandria

The Kensington Runestone is one of the most intriguing artifacts in Minnesota history. This alleged Viking artifact was discovered by a farmer named Olaf Ohman in 1898 in Kensington, Minnesota. The artifact has since become a controversial topic, with some historians claiming it is a hoax and others arguing that it is evidence of Viking explorers in North America.

Whether you believe in the stone’s authenticity or not, it is a fascinating piece of history that is worth seeing. You can view the runestone at the Runestone Museum in Alexandria, which also offers exhibits on the history of the region.

5. Glacial Lakes State Park, Starbuck

Set on over 2,000 acres of rolling hills, sparkling lakes, and lush forests, Glacial Lakes State Park is a nature lover's paradise. The park offers activities such as fishing, boating, hiking, and camping. If you love water sports, you can rent a canoe, kayak, or paddleboat and cruise around one of the park's eight lakes.

For hikers, there are several trails to choose from, including the challenging 7.5-mile Glacial Lakes State Trail, which is a former railroad bed. The park also has a picnic area with grills and picnic tables, making it the perfect spot for a family outing.

In Conclusion

Driving from Apple Valley to Brooten is an excellent opportunity to explore some of Minnesota's best attractions and picturesque towns. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, this route has something for everyone. Be sure to stop at these top destinations and take in all of the beauty and excitement that Minnesota has to offer. Don't forget to bring your camera and capture the memories you will make on this unforgettable road trip!