Points of Interest between Apple Valley, Minnesota to Elysian, Minnesota

picture of Apple Valley, Minnesota

Road Trip from Apple Valley, Minnesota to Elysian, Minnesota

Are you looking for a quick and exciting road trip in Minnesota? Look no further than the route from Apple Valley to Elysian. This 80-mile journey will take you through some of the most beautiful sites in the state, including museums, parks, and landmarks.

Did you know that the iconic Minnesota State Fair runs for twelve days every year at the end of August? It is the largest state fair in the United States by daily attendance.

The halfway point of the trip is Faribault, MN, a city filled with history and charm.

The trip should take around an hour and a half to two hours to complete, depending on the number of stops you make along the way.

Below are the top five places to visit on this road trip, along with a point of interest recommendation with each stop:

  1. Minnehaha Regional Park Minnehaha Regional Park is a stunning park located in Minneapolis, MN. It is best known for its 53-foot waterfall and beautiful limestone bluffs. The park also features picnic areas, walking trails, and a popular seafood restaurant, Sea Salt Eatery. We recommend getting some delicious seafood and enjoying it at one of the scenic picnic tables overlooking the falls.

  2. Minnesota Zoo The Minnesota Zoo is home to over 4,000 animals and 500 species from around the world. It is the perfect place for animal lovers of all ages. Visitors can see everything from tigers and monkeys to fish and birds. The landscape is designed to mimic the natural habitats of the animals. We recommend taking a Behind the Scenes tour to get a closer look at some of your favorite animals.

  3. Historic Fort Snelling Located near the airport in St. Paul, MN, Historic Fort Snelling is a historic site that dates back to the 1820s. The fort was built to protect the fur trade and later served as a military training ground before becoming a museum. Visitors can explore the military history of Minnesota, including the impact on Native Americans and African Americans. We recommend taking a guided tour to learn about the history of this important site.

  4. Minneopa State Park Minneopa State Park is located just outside of Mankato, MN, and is a must-see destination for nature lovers. It features a beautiful 39-foot waterfall, hiking trails, and a campground. The park is also home to a herd of bison, which can be viewed from a safe distance during certain seasons. We recommend bringing a picnic lunch and hiking to see the waterfall.

  5. Lake Washington Regional Park and Campground Lake Washington Regional Park and Campground is a peaceful spot located just outside of Elysian, MN. It features over 1,000 acres of parkland, a lake, and a campground. Visitors can hike, fish, swim, and relax in the serene surroundings. We recommend renting a kayak or paddleboard and exploring the lake.

In conclusion, this road trip from Apple Valley to Elysian is a great way to explore the beauty and history of Minnesota. With stops at Minnehaha Regional Park, the Minnesota Zoo, Historic Fort Snelling, Minneopa State Park, and Lake Washington Regional Park and Campground, there is something for everyone. Take your time to enjoy each site, and don't forget to try some local food and take plenty of pictures along the way!