Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Bemidji, Minnesota and Portales, New Mexico

Bemidji, Minnesota and Portales, New Mexico are two cities that are separated by 1,175 miles. Although the distance may be daunting, a road trip between these two cities is an excellent way to discover new places in the United States. This article provides an overview of the road trip between Bemidji, Minnesota and Portales, New Mexico, along with the top things to do and interesting facts about each location.

The trip from Bemidji, Minnesota to Portales, New Mexico takes an estimated 19 hours, but this journey is a trip of a lifetime. This route is filled with stunning views, unique attractions, and memorable experiences. Belleville, KS, the halfway point of the journey is a quaint city with friendly residents, delicious food, and a lovely park. If you have some time to spare, you can visit The Boyer Museum of Animated Carvings, which features toys and automata.

Top Five Things to Do

1. Visit Custer State Park in South Dakota

Custer State Park is an extraordinary location for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. This park covers over 71,000 acres and is home to a variety of wildlife, including bison, pronghorns, and mountain goats. Visitors to the park can also hike, camp, go boating, or take a scenic drive. The park has several hiking trails ranging from easy to challenging, and there are ample campsites to accommodate tent campers or RVs. Beyond the natural beauty, the park also features several historic sites dating back to the gold rush era.

Interesting Fact: Custer State Park is one of the largest state parks in the United States and was once the residence of General Custer.

2. Explore Mount Rushmore in South Dakota

Mount Rushmore is one of the most iconic landmarks in the United States. This national monument features the faces of four of the country's most beloved presidents - George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, and Theodore Roosevelt - hewn into a mountain. The monument is a testament to the skill and determination of the sculptor, Gutzon Borglum, and the workers who made it possible. Visiting Mount Rushmore is a once-in-a-lifetime experience to see the American history come to life.

Interesting Fact: Mount Rushmore took 14 years to carve out of granite and cost nearly $1 million to create but is recognized as one of the most significant achievements of American art.

3. Visit the Denver Museum of Nature & Science in Colorado

The Denver Museum of Nature & Science is one of the premier attractions in Colorado and a must-visit destination for people who appreciate science and history. This museum features exhibits ranging from space exploration, anthropology, and geology to wildlife, Western art, and more. Visitors will have an opportunity to see fossils, learn about prehistoric times, and see how scientific ideas have evolved over the years. The museum boasts a planetarium, an IMAX theater, and various interactive exhibits.

Interesting Fact: The Denver Museum of Nature & Science sits on a historic, natural landmark known as the Montclair Terrace, which is home to more than 1,000 species of plants.

4. Spend time in Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe is a stunning city that has a deep history and rich culture. This city is known for its art galleries, unique cuisine, and beautiful architecture. Santa Fe is home to numerous museums, including the New Mexico Museum of Art and the Museum of International Folk Art. Visitors can also attend music and dance performances or stroll through the city's many parks and plazas. The city has a charming, cozy vibe that visitors find welcoming and calming.

Interesting Fact: Santa Fe is the nation's oldest capital city, founded in 1610.

5. See the Carlsbad Caverns in New Mexico

The Carlsbad Caverns are a natural wonder found underground. This national park features more than 119 caves, with the most famous being the "Big Room," which is 4,000 feet long and 255 feet high. Visitors to the Caverns can take a guided tour or explore on their own. The park has several hiking trails, a visitor center, and a restaurant. This incredible geological formation is one of the most significant natural wonders in the world.

Interesting Fact: The Carlsbad Caverns were first discovered by a 16-year-old named Jim White in 1898.

Conclusion

A road trip from Bemidji, Minnesota to Portales, New Mexico is an unforgettable experience that allows you to see many of the fantastic things that the United States has to offer. Along the way, visitors can experience stunning landscapes, explore major landmarks, and learn about new cultures and traditions. Although the road trip is a long one, it is worth embarking on. From Custer State Park to Carlsbad Caverns and everything in between, the journey is filled with memorable moments that will last a lifetime.