Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Bloomington, MN to Oak Park Heights, MN

If you're looking for a scenic drive through Minnesota, you can't go wrong with a journey from Bloomington to Oak Park Heights. The trip takes just under an hour if traffic conditions are good, but there are plenty of beautiful and interesting places to stop along the way. Here are five unexpected places worth checking out on this route.

The Halfway Point: South St. Paul, MN

South St. Paul, located right in the middle of the journey, is a great place to take a break. The city has a rich history in the meatpacking industry that is still visible today. There are several murals throughout the downtown area that tell stories of the industry's impact on the community. You can also visit the Kaposia Landing Recreation Area, which offers riverside trails, picnic areas, and a playground for the kids.

Place 1: Lilydale Regional Park

Just a short drive from South St. Paul, Lilydale Regional Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. The park is located in a lush river valley and features scenic bluffs and forests. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and bird watching. One of the unique features of the park is the large sandstone caves that were once used as a storage facility for mushrooms. Today, they're a popular spot for rock climbing and exploration.

Favorite food to eat at Lilydale Regional Park: Pack a picnic and enjoy it in one of the park's many scenic spots.

Place 2: St. Croix Vineyards

Wine connoisseurs won't want to miss the chance to visit St. Croix Vineyards. Located in the scenic St. Croix River Valley, the vineyard produces a variety of award-winning wines. Visitors can taste the wines and tour the winery and vineyards. The property also features a beautiful garden and patio area.

Favorite food to eat at St. Croix Vineyards: Bring your own cheese and crackers to enjoy with your wine tasting.

Place 3: Franconia Sculpture Park

Art lovers and outdoor enthusiasts should put Franconia Sculpture Park on their list of must-visit destinations. The park is a large outdoor sculpture park that features contemporary sculptures from artists worldwide. Visitors can view over 100 sculptures, watch artists at work, and learn about the creative process. The park also offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and educational programming for all ages.

Favorite food to eat at Franconia Sculpture Park: Pack a hearty sandwich and enjoy it in one of the park's picnic areas.

Place 4: Marine on St. Croix

Marine on St. Croix is a small town located on the banks of the St. Croix River. The town is known for its historic architecture and charming shops and restaurants. Visitors can stroll through the downtown area and visit the Marine Mill, a preserved 19th-century flour mill that is now a museum. The town is also home to the oldest continuously operating general store in Minnesota.

Favorite food to eat in Marine on St. Croix: Grab a burger at the Brookside Bar and Grill.

Place 5: St. Croix Boom Site

The St. Croix Boom Site is a historic location that played a significant role in the lumber industry in the 1800s. The site was used to sort and deliver lumber downriver to markets in the Midwest and beyond. Today, visitors can hike along the river, enjoy the scenic views, and learn about the site's history.

Favorite food to eat at the St. Croix Boom Site: Pack a snack and enjoy it while watching the boats pass by on the river.

Conclusion

If you're looking for a mini-road trip through Minnesota, a drive from Bloomington to Oak Park Heights is the perfect choice. The route offers a range of beautiful scenery, charming small towns, and unexpected destinations. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or art, there's something for everyone along this drive. So grab a friend or family member and hit the road!