Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Carver, MN to Rosemount, MN

Minnesota is a beautiful state filled with many hidden gems and surprising discoveries. A drive from Carver to Rosemount, MN, covers about 29 miles and can be done in just under an hour. However, it's the unexpected and idyllic places dotted along the way that make the trip worthwhile.

The journey begins in Carver, a small city located just 30 miles from Minneapolis. The route then travels southeast, taking travelers through multiple towns before arriving in Rosemount. The trip is a perfect way to explore some of the state's charms, including its many parks and historical sites. Here are five unexpected places to stop and admire along the way.

Shakopee, MN

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The city of Shakopee stands out as the midway point for your journey, and one that offers a lot of fun activities and places to visit. It's home to the famous Valleyfair Amusement Park, which promises to provide a day filled with screams and laughter. Another spot to check out is Canterbury Park, where horse racing enthusiasts can catch exciting races. Also, there is the Shakopee Dakota Convenience Store, which offers a wide variety of native handcrafts and goods. A must-try while in Shakopee is the "Juicy Lucy," a burger filled with cheese, which can be enjoyed at O'Brien's Public House.

Mystic Lake Casino Hotel

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Just east of Shakopee is the Mystic Lake Casino Hotel, vast entertainment complex that offers world-class accommodations, gaming options, as well as entertainment. Even those who are not gambling enthusiasts will appreciate a walk around the hotel's amenities, including its spa, fitness center, and golf course. The vast gaming options ranging from bingo to slot machines, coupled with its inviting blend of Native American décor and modern gaming facilities, should also appeal to those who love casinos. A great way to recharge after a long drive is by eating the famous crab legs available at the Mystic Steakhouse.

Murphy-Hanrehan Park Reserve

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Murphy-Hanrehan Park Reserve is located southeast of Lakeville and perfectly showcases the vast natural beauty of Minnesota. This park provides over 2,500 acres of rolling hills and woodlands with exciting trails for hiking, biking, and horse riding in the summer and cross-country skiing in the winter. The park also has a swimming beach and access to the Murphy Lake for canoeing and fishing. Visitors can fill up on deliciously cooked hotdogs while enjoying the picturesque views and the refreshing breeze.

Dakota City Heritage Village

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Located southeast at the confluence of Dakota and Le Sueur Counties' borders is Dakota City Heritage Village, an open-air museum that can take visitors back to Minnesota's early days. The village offers exhibits that showcase how life was in the late 19th century. Visitors can relive the past by taking a walk through the blacksmith and print shops, touring the historic buildings, and watching demonstrations of craftspeople working on their trades. Food lovers can sample homemade waffle cones at the ice cream parlor while wandering around this historic village.

Vermillion Falls

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The drive ends with Vermillion Falls, a hidden gem located in the heart of Hastings. The falls drop about 20 feet and draw its source from the Vermillion River. Visitors can take a relaxing stroll along the river banks or indulge in the activities surrounding the falls. It's also an excellent spot for nature lovers and photographers, with its unique beauty that gives visitors a scenic and peaceful frame of mind. While in Hastings, visitors should treat themselves to the famous pies at the Onion Grille.

Conclusion

While there are plenty of ways to get to Rosemount from Carver, exploring the scenic route in between is a great way to experience the charm of Minnesota. From the Mystic Lake Casino Hotel to the Dakota City Heritage Village, each stop offers a chance to learn more about the state and experience its diverse cultures. By traveling through these various places, visitors can have a better appreciation for Minnesota's historical and natural beauty. Carver to Rosemount offers a remarkable journey where visitors can see, explore, and taste, the best Minnesota has to offer.