Top Places to See When Driving From Arlington, Virginia to Minneapolis, Minnesota

Thinking of driving from Arlington, Virginia to Minneapolis, Minnesota? There are many hidden gems and must-see attractions littered all through the route. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or foodie, there are plenty of unique and exciting places to visit.

The journey from Arlington, Virginia, to Minneapolis, Minnesota, is about 1,100 miles, which can take you through multiple states, national parks, and cities. It's an excellent opportunity to explore America's heartland, from the vibrant cities to scenic national parks. If you are looking to embark on this exciting road trip, here are the top places you should stop along the journey.

Explore the Stunning Natural Scenery at the Shenandoah National Park

If you're starting your journey in Arlington, Virginia, one of the first stops to make is the Shenandoah National Park. Situated in the Blue Ridge Mountains, this vast park covers over 200,000 acres and offers majestic views of the Appalachian Mountains. Visitors can explore the park's serene waterfalls, hike through the scenic trails, and camp under the stars.

The park is inviting all year round, but during fall, it transforms into a breathtaking scenic wonderland. The leaves on the trees turn various shades of gold, yellow, and red, creating an enchanting aura. It's no surprise that Shenandoah National Park is regarded as one of America's most beautiful national parks.

Visit the Nation's Capital City, Washington D.C.

As you drive from Arlington, Virginia, through the busy Interstate 395, a short detour to the nation's capital city, Washington D.C., is an excellent place to make a stop. This major city is packed with iconic landmarks and historic sites that are well worth a visit. Some of the must-sees are the White House, the Lincoln Memorial, the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, and the Washington Monument.

You can also schedule a visit to the United States Capitol, where you can tour the halls of Congress and even witness live sessions. The city is also home to several excellent restaurants where you can sample some of its signature cuisines like half-smokes, jumbo slice pizza, and the iconic Ben's Chili Bowl.

Experience the Great Lakes at Duluth, Minnesota

Duluth, Minnesota, is one of the cities that should be on your itinerary when traveling to Minnesota. The city sits on the shore of the great Lake Superior, the largest freshwater lake in the world. You can take a leisurely walk down the lakewalk, which offers a picturesque view of the vast lake.

If you have some time to spare, take a boat tour to go and explore the sea caves that line the shoreline or even the popular Apostle Islands, situated further up the shoreline. The city also has an excellent culinary scene featuring some of the freshest seafood, craft beer, and local wine.

Discover the Badlands National Park, South Dakota

Another stop to make on your journey to Minneapolis is the Badlands National Park, a picturesque natural wonder located in South Dakota. The park covers over 244,000 acres of unique eroded rock formations, serene grasslands, and diverse wildlife that include bison, bighorn sheep, and prairie dogs.

You can take a scenic drive through the park's vast landscape or hike one of the numerous trails to explore the area more intimately. At night, set up camp at one of the park's campsites and enjoy a sky full of twinkling stars.

Learn About the Country's Famous Landmark at the Mount Rushmore National Memorial

Mount Rushmore National Memorial has to be one of the most famous landmarks in the United States. The National park covers over 1,200 acres and has a towering monument that features the faces of past United States Presidents- Roosevelt, Lincoln, Washington, and Jefferson. The park also has an extensive network of hiking trails that take you through the rugged terrain surrounding the monument.

There is also the avenue of flags, which features over 50 different state flags, and the visitor center that has a museum showcasing the history of the monument's construction. At night, the monument is dramatically lit, adding a unique aura to the already stunning monument.

Conclusion

From Arlington, Virginia, to Minneapolis, Minnesota, the road trip offers an unforgettable experience. With plenty of scenic national parks, vibrant cities, and cultural landmarks, you can be sure of a memorable journey. Make sure to stop by Shenandoah National Park, Washington D.C., Duluth, Minnesota, Badlands National Park, and Mount Rushmore National Memorial, among other iconic attractions. Whether you're traveling solo or as a group, there's an adventure that awaits you along the journey. Safe travels!