The Top Five Best Places to Visit on a Trip Between Brainerd, Minnesota and Evanston, Illinois

Are you planning a road trip between Brainerd, Minnesota and Evanston, Illinois? Here are five must-visit places along the way.

Halfway Point: Black River Falls, WI

Before we dive into the top five places to visit along this route, let's talk about the halfway point: Black River Falls, Wisconsin. This charming town offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and fishing. You can also explore local history at the Jackson County Historical Society museum. Make sure to stop by Sand Creek Brewing Company for some tasty brews and live entertainment on the weekends.

Now, let's get into our top five places to visit on your road trip.

1. Mall of America - Bloomington, MN

"The Ultimate Shopping Experience"

No trip to Minnesota is complete without a visit to Mall of America, located in Bloomington. This massive shopping center boasts over 500 stores, an indoor amusement park, an aquarium, and dozens of restaurants. Spend an entire day here browsing the latest fashion trends, riding roller coasters, and exploring the underwater world. It's no surprise that this attraction draws over 40 million visitors each year.

2. Wisconsin Dells - Wisconsin Dells, WI

"The Waterpark Capital of the World"

If you're traveling with kids or just love water parks, you won't want to miss Wisconsin Dells. This small town is home to a staggering 20 water parks, offering everything from lazy rivers to adrenaline-pumping slides. But the fun doesn't stop at the water parks - Wisconsin Dells also has mini-golf courses, go-kart tracks, and scenic boat tours. Stay for a few days to explore this family-friendly destination.

3. Field Museum - Chicago, IL

"Discover the World's Wonders"

Head to Chicago's Museum Campus to visit the Field Museum, one of the largest natural history museums in the world. Here, you can see Sue, the largest, most complete Tyrannosaurus rex ever discovered, as well as ancient Egyptian artifacts and interactive exhibits on the natural world. Don't miss the 3D movies and special exhibitions, and be sure to take a selfie with the iconic mammoth statue outside the museum.

4. Millennium Park - Chicago, IL

"A City Oasis"

After a day at the Field Museum, take a stroll through Millennium Park, a 25-acre park in the heart of downtown Chicago. Here, you'll find the world-famous Cloud Gate sculpture (affectionately known as "The Bean"), as well as outdoor art installations, gardens, and a skating rink in the winter. Check the park's website for free concerts and events throughout the summer months.

5. Ravinia Festival - Highland Park, IL

"Summer Nights Under the Stars"

End your road trip on a high note with a night at Ravinia Festival, located just north of Chicago in Highland Park. This outdoor music venue hosts concerts by some of the world's most renowned musicians, from classical to pop to jazz. Bring a picnic basket and a bottle of wine to enjoy under the stars while you listen to live music. The season runs from June to September, so plan accordingly.

In conclusion, a road trip from Brainerd, Minnesota to Evanston, Illinois offers a variety of unique and exciting destinations. Whether you're a shopaholic, nature enthusiast, history buff, or music lover, you're sure to find something to enjoy along the way. Don't forget to take lots of photos and create memories that will last a lifetime. Safe travels!