Points of Interest between Baxter, Minnesota to Saint Louis, Missouri

picture of Baxter, Minnesota

The Best Places to See When Driving from Baxter, Minnesota to St. Louis, Missouri

If you're planning a road trip from Baxter, MN down to St. Louis, MO, then you're in for a treat. This journey will take you through some incredible landscapes that will leave you breathless. Along the way, there are plenty of sites to see, cities to visit, and attractions to check out. Here's a list of the best places to see when driving from Baxter, Minnesota, to St. Louis, Missouri.

The Scenic Route: The Mississippi River Valley Scenic Drive

The Mississippi River Valley Scenic Drive is a 287-mile journey from Red Wing, MN, to La Crosse, WI, that takes you along the Mississippi River and through some incredible landscapes. This route is perfect for those looking to soak up the beauty of the Midwest.

  1. Red Wing, MN - This riverside town is full of historic charm and offers great hiking trails along the bluffs of the Mississippi River. The town is home to the Red Wing Shoes Museum, where you can learn about the history of the iconic American work boot.

  2. Lake City, MN - Lake City is known for its excellent fishing, boating, and water sports. The town is also home to the National Eagle Center, where you can learn about the conservation and ecology of these majestic birds.

  3. Winona, MN - Winona is a vibrant town filled with art galleries, shops, and restaurants. Take a stroll along the riverfront and see the famous Sugar Loaf bluff, a massive rock formation that towers over the city.

  4. La Crosse, WI - La Crosse is the end of the scenic drive and is a charming city located on the banks of the Mississippi River. The city is full of history, with many well-preserved buildings from the 19th century.

The Big City: Minneapolis, MN

If you're looking for big-city excitement, then stop off in Minneapolis, MN, on your way to St. Louis. Minneapolis is the largest city in Minnesota and offers a wide range of attractions, from shopping and dining to museums and sporting events.

  1. Mall of America - The Mall of America is the largest mall in America, with over 520 stores, an aquarium, and an indoor amusement park. This is a must-visit for any avid shopper.

  2. Minneapolis Sculpture Garden - This outdoor park is home to over 40 works of art, including the iconic "Spoonbridge and Cherry" sculpture.

  3. Guthrie Theater - If you're a fan of the performing arts, then be sure to check out the Guthrie Theater. This world-renowned theater puts on a wide range of productions throughout the year.

  4. Target Field - Baseball fans won't want to miss the chance to catch a game at Target Field, home of the Minnesota Twins.

The Gateway to the West: St. Louis, MO

St. Louis is an iconic city located on the Mississippi River and is known as the "Gateway to the West." The city has a rich history and offers plenty of attractions for visitors to check out.

  1. Gateway Arch - The Gateway Arch is St. Louis's most iconic attraction and is the tallest arch in the world. Take a ride to the top for a stunning view of the city.

  2. City Museum - The City Museum is an interactive museum for both kids and adults, with a wide range of exhibits and attractions.

  3. The Missouri Botanical Garden - The Botanical Garden is one of the oldest botanical gardens in the US and offers over 79 acres of beautiful gardens, plant collections, and more.

  4. St. Louis Zoo - The St. Louis Zoo is one of the top-rated zoos in the country, with over 16,000 animals and 3,000,000 visitors per year.

Conclusion

Driving from Baxter, MN to St. Louis, MO, offers some incredible sights along the way. From the Mississippi River Valley Scenic Drive to the excitement of Minneapolis, MN, and the history and attractions of St. Louis, MO, there's something for everyone along this journey. So grab some snacks, fill up your gas tank, and hit the road for an adventure to remember.