Top Places to See When Driving From Bellevue, Wisconsin to Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota

The stretch from Bellevue, Wisconsin to Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota encompasses typical Midwestern towns and picturesque countryside. The long drive of around 300 miles is a perfect opportunity to explore the hidden gems of the region. Along the way, you will come across welcoming towns, museums, lakes, and state parks that make for great pit stops. We’ve listed out the top places to see when driving from Bellevue to Inver Grove Heights.

Enchanting Towns

Guttenberg, Iowa

Guttenberg is an enthralling river town in northeast Iowa that invites you for a stopover. Nestled alongside the Mississippi, Guttenberg is picturesque with rolling hills, green valleys, and historic architecture. The Guttenberg Marina and Park are great places to breathe in some fresh air and absorb the serene beauty of the town. Don't forget to stop at the Lock and Dam Number 10, where you can watch towboats and barges move through the river.

Spring Valley, Minnesota

Spring Valley is located in the southeastern part of Minnesota and is known for its vibrant community. The town that was once frequented by traders and travelers, now boasts an array of family-owned businesses. Break your journey and visit the unique Crystal Cave - an underground marvel that's over a million years old. You can admire the pristine crystal formations and fascinating fossils inside the cave.

Red Wing, Minnesota

Red Wing is a pleasant surprise on the road to Inver Grove Heights. World-famous for the Red Wing shoes and boots, the town is situated where the Mississippi and Cannon Rivers meet. Its big attraction is the towering Barn Bluff, which overlooks the shining waters of the Mississippi. Visitors can also check out the Red Wing Pottery Museum and Anderson Center, an art-filled campus on the outskirts of the town.

Natural Wonders

Hoffman Hills State Recreation Area, Wisconsin

Located a few miles east of Menomonie, the Hoffman Hills State Recreation Area is a natural haven with rolling hills and heart-stirring vistas. The park has miles of hiking trails with varying difficulty levels. The view from the observation tower that's stationed atop the highest hill is breathtaking. Visitors can also go birdwatching and observe the park's flora and fauna.

Lake Pepin, Wisconsin

Lake Pepin, a part of the Mississippi River, is an enchanting freshwater lake that's perfect for a picnic. The views of the surrounding hills and bluffs are a photographer's delight. The town of Pepin sits on the banks of the lake, where you can visit the rustic restaurant Pepin Local Food Market. If you love water sports, you can go kayaking, canoeing or fishing on Lake Pepin.

Vermillion Falls, Minnesota

Vermillion Falls is a hidden gem located in the charming city of Hastings in Minnesota. The waterfall that once powered local mills is now a well-maintained community park. You can spend some time here admiring the waterfall, as well as take a walk along the river. Do look out for the unique fossils that are encrusted on the riverbed when the water levels are low.

Historical Sites

Indian Mounds Park, Minnesota

Indian Mounds Park located in Saint Paul, Minnesota offers awe-inspiring views of the city and the Mississippi River. The park is home to ancient burial mounds of Native American origin. Historians believe that these burial mounds were constructed over a century ago. Visitors must visit the park's observation tower and the visitor center to learn more about the cultural significance of the mounds.

National Farm Toy Museum, Iowa

The National Farm Toy Museum in Dyersville, Iowa is a treat for tractor enthusiasts, both young and old. The museum has extensive displays of farm toys from different eras. Visitors can take a walk through the vintage farm toy displays and also look at real farm equipment that was used throughout history. You can relive childhood memories with classics like John Deere, Case, and Farmall.

With such an array of midwestern gems how can you resist a road trip from Bellevue, Wisconsin to Inver Grove Heights? You can enjoy the natural beauty of the countryside, discover new towns, and learn something new about the history of the area. Be sure to check these top places on the way and stop by for an unforgettable experience!