The Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Chanhassen, Minnesota and Saint Paul, Minnesota
Overview
The road trip from Chanhassen, Minnesota to Saint Paul, Minnesota is a scenic journey spanning over 30 miles of open land, historic sites, and entertainment options. The halfway point Bloomington, MN is known for its Mall of America, the largest mall in the United States. Aside from visiting the mall, other unique and exciting activities await along this route.
Top Five Things to Do
Mall of America
The Mall of America is a destination in itself. With over 520 stores, this shopping center offers a variety of shops to purchase goods, dine, and enjoy films in theaters. Visitors can engage in activities such as visiting the mall's amusement park, Nickelodeon Universe, or enjoying indoor mini-golf and mirror mazes at Moose Mountain Adventure Golf. Nevertheless, the Great Wolf Lodge Water Park, Sealife Aquarium, and Crayola Experience are all located within the mall, providing a wholesome family experience.
Interesting Fact: The Mall of America is home to a unique store called "The Shark," where customers are welcomed to shop with a shark swimming above their head in a tank.
Minnehaha Park
Minnehaha Park is a scenic park located near the interstate. With an array of walkways, picnic areas, and playgrounds, the park is a great destination for families and individuals alike. It serves as a great place to stroll or jog along the creek, view the beautiful Mississippi river, or explore wildlife at its best. Most importantly, the park contains a beautiful waterfall, the Minnehaha falls, that attracts thousands of visitors every year.
Interesting Fact: Minnehaha Park is a place of historical significance in American Indian legend, and it is said to be the place where Hiawatha and Minnehaha fell in love.
Minnesota Zoo
The Minnesota Zoo is another family-friendly destination that offers animal encounters and exhibits in an array of terrains. Visitors can explore the vast areas that house monkeys, bears, wolves, and the marine mammals that call this zoo home. The zoo also offers a range of indoor and outdoor activities for children and adults, including a ropes course and a zip line.
Interesting Fact: The Minnesota Zoo is a leader in environmental education programs, hosting over 30,000 students annually.
Science Museum of Minnesota
The Science Museum of Minnesota is great for science lovers, history buffs, and anybody who wants a fun and educational experience. The museum showcases over 100,000 species including dinosaurs, volcanoes, and various cultural exhibits. Visitors can indulge in interactive exhibits, including virtual reality booths, and a huge Omnitheater.
Interesting Fact: The museum is home to a mysterious rock that is believed to have struck the earth some 74 million years ago, called the "Petrified Lightning."
Como Park Zoo and Conservatory
The Como Zoo is a classic family outing that never disappoints. It is easily accessible and offers exhibits from polar bears, gorillas, giraffes, and much more. Visitors can hike through the zoo, relax in a gazebo, or visit the nearby lake area. The Como Park Conservatory offers a serene setting, allowing visitors to enjoy a range of beautiful flora and fauna.
Interesting Fact: The park was once home to the world-famous Gertie the Goose, who was a trained goose that would pull children in carts around the park.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 30-mile trip from Chanhassen, Minnesota, to Saint Paul, Minnesota, is one full of entertainment and unforgettable experiences. The five must-visit attractions include the Mall of America, Minnehaha Park, the Minnesota Zoo, Science Museum of Minnesota, and Como Park Zoo and Conservatory. Enjoy the scenery, grab some delicious bites along the way, and make this road trip one to remember. With our top destinations, the journey will take a little over an hour, but the adventures should last a lifetime.