Points of Interest between Blaine, Minnesota to Excelsior, Minnesota

picture of Blaine, Minnesota

The Top Five Most Popular Attractions On a Trip Between Blaine and Excelsior

If you're looking for an exciting adventure, then embark on a journey from Blaine, Minnesota, to Excelsior, Minnesota. There are numerous attractions, and you're bound to find something that tickles your fancy. With a distance of approximately 42 miles, this journey shouldn't take more than an hour. Let's get started and explore what this trip has in store for us.

The Route and the Halfway Point

Our journey begins in Blaine, just northwest of Minneapolis, on US-10 West. Along the way, you'll enjoy a few scenic views. You'll pass Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park, with its breathtaking views of the Coon Rapids Dam that spans the Mississippi River. The journey continues on I-694 West, and you'll eventually merge onto I-94 West. Our destination is Excelsior, a charming city on Lake Minnetonka. However, our halfway point is in Maple Grove, MN. As we reach Maple Grove, it's worth stopping by one of the shops or restaurants in The Shoppes at Arbor Lakes, where you can grab a bite to eat or do some shopping before continuing with the journey.

The Top Five Places to See

  1. The Bakken Museum This museum in Minneapolis is an immersive experience in history, technology, and science. The exhibitions showcase the inventions and innovations that made Minnesota famous in the fields of medicine and electrical engineering.

  2. Minnehaha Park The Minnehaha Park is an ideal spot for nature lovers. It's located along the Mississippi River and offers stunning views, hiking trails, biking, and jogging paths. The highlight of the park, however, is the beautiful waterfall, which is a popular photography spot.

  3. Mall of America What's a trip to Minnesota without a stop at the famous Mall of America? The mall boasts over 500 shops, a variety of restaurants, and numerous attractions, including an aquarium, a theme park, and mini-golf.

  4. Lake Minnetonka Lake Minnetonka covers approximately 14,000 acres and features numerous bays and inlets, making it an ideal spot for water-based activities. It's also home to several lakeside restaurants, such as Maynards, which is famous for its seafood and stunning views of the lake.

  5. Excelsior Bay Excelsior Bay, on the south side of Lake Minnetonka, is a perfect place to relax and unwind. The area features numerous restaurants, shops, and a long shoreline that's open to the public. You can rent boats, paddleboards, and kayaks to explore the lake.

Conclusion

This road trip from Blaine to Excelsior offers something for everyone, from museums and shopping centers to lush parks and breathtaking waterfalls. While on the journey, don't forget to stop in Maple Grove for some shopping or a quick bite. If you're in a hurry, Interstate 94 is your best bet. However, if you're in the mood for a scenic drive, US-10 West is your best choice. Whatever your decision, this journey will undoubtedly be an adventure you won't forget.