#Exploring the Twin Cities: A Road Trip from Apple Valley to Plymouth
Are you ready to hit the road and explore some of Minnesota's most famous landmarks and parks? Join us on a journey from Apple Valley to Plymouth and discover the best places to visit along the way.
Fun Fact: Did you know that Minnesota is known as the "Land of 10,000 Lakes"? In reality, the state is home to over 11,000 lakes, making Minnesota the state with the most natural lakes in the United States.
Halfway Point: Edina
As you make your way from Apple Valley to Plymouth, you'll come across the charming city of Edina, a perfect place to take a break and stretch your legs. Located just under 10 miles south of downtown Minneapolis, Edina is home to various shops, restaurants and parks, such as Centennial Lakes Park, an ideal spot for a picnic or a stroll around its beautiful gardens and pond.
Trip Length
The distance between Apple Valley and Plymouth is approximately 25 miles and depending on traffic, the journey can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour.
Top 5 Places to Visit
- Minnehaha Park (4801 S Minnehaha Dr, Minneapolis, MN 55417): Located on the banks of the Mississippi River, Minnehaha Park is one of the most popular parks in the Twin Cities. Best known for its stunning waterfall, Minnehaha Park offers hiking and biking trails, playgrounds, picnic areas, and even a wading pool for kids. Don't forget to bring your camera and snap some photos with the impressive 53-foot falls as your backdrop!
Point of Interest: Stop by the Sea Salt Eatery, located within the park, for some delicious seafood and refreshing beverages.
- Mall of America (60 E Broadway, Bloomington, MN 55425): A must-visit for any shopaholic, the Mall of America is the largest mall in the United States, home to over 500 stores, multiple restaurants, an aquarium, a theme park, and even a miniature golf course. With so many options, you could easily spend the entire day at this shopping mecca.
Point of Interest: Take a ride on the Mall of America's Nickelodeon Universe indoor roller coaster, Spongebob Squarepants Rock Bottom Plunge, for an adrenaline rush.
- Como Park Zoo and Conservatory (1225 Estabrook Dr, St. Paul, MN 55103): Explore over 25 acres of gardens, a Japanese garden, a zoo, and a conservatory at the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory. Get up close and personal with animals such as zebras, gorillas, and penguins or enjoy a peaceful stroll in the gardens while admiring the colorful flowers and plants.
Point of Interest: Check out the Sparky the Seal show at the Seal Island exhibit and watch these adorable animals perform tricks and interact with their trainers.
- Walker Art Center (725 Vineland Pl, Minneapolis, MN 55403): Art enthusiasts won't want to miss the opportunity to visit the Walker Art Center, known for its contemporary art exhibitions, including paintings, sculptures, and multimedia installations. With a stunning outdoor sculpture garden and beautiful architecture, this museum offers a unique and inspiring experience for visitors.
Point of Interest: Grab a coffee and a bite to eat at the museum's well-known cafe, Esker Grove, and enjoy the breathtaking view of the sculpture garden while you dine.
- Wayzata Beach (220 Grove Ln E, Wayzata, MN 55391): Relax and unwind by the water at Wayzata Beach, located on the shores of Lake Minnetonka. With a playground, volleyball court, and picnic areas, this beach is perfect for families or groups of friends. Take a walk along the pier or simply lay out a blanket and soak up the sun.
Point of Interest: Stop by the Wayzata Depot, a historic train station built in 1906, and learn about the history of the area while admiring the beautiful architecture.
Conclusion
From impressive waterfalls to the largest mall in the United States, this road trip from Apple Valley to Plymouth offers something for everyone. With a total driving distance of approximately 25 miles, you can easily visit all of these five attractions in one day. So gather your family or friends and hit the road for a fun-filled day of exploring the Twin Cities.