Top Five Popular Attractions on a Road Trip from Chaska, MN to Cannon Falls, MN

Heading out on a road trip from Chaska to Cannon Falls? You're in for some spectacular views and great times. Here are our top five picks for places you should visit along the way.

The Route and the Halfway Point: Inver Grove Heights, MN

The drive from Chaska to Cannon Falls takes you through some quintessentially Midwestern landscapes — rolling hills, farm fields, and quaint small towns. And about halfway through this scenic route, you'll come across the charming town of Inver Grove Heights.

With well-manicured parks and trails, inviting eateries and breweries, and friendly locals, Inver Grove Heights is an ideal spot to take a break from the drive and refuel before continuing onto Cannon Falls.

So, without further ado, here are the top five attractions on this road trip:

1. Minnesota Landscape Arboretum

The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. With over 1,200 acres of gardens, forests, and wetlands, you can spend hours exploring and discovering new sights.

The arboretum also hosts a slew of events throughout the year, including guided hikes, garden tours, and cultural festivals. Plus, the onsite Oswald Visitor Center is home to a great gift shop and Hugo's Restaurant, where you can grab a bite to eat.

2. Mall of America

No trip to the Twin Cities area is complete without a visit to the Mall of America. This massive shopping and entertainment complex is like no other, with over 5.6 million square feet of space.

From high-end boutiques to kid-friendly attractions like Nickelodeon Universe and Sea Life Aquarium, there's something for everyone at the Mall of America.

3. Minnehaha Regional Park

Minnehaha Regional Park is a natural oasis in the heart of the city. With beautiful hiking trails, a stunning waterfall, and plenty of picnic spots, it's the perfect spot to soak up some Minnesota nature.

Plus, the park is home to the Sea Salt Eatery, which serves some of the freshest seafood in the state. Grab a lobster roll and enjoy it at one of the outdoor tables overlooking the waterfall.

4. Red Wing Shoes Museum

Red Wing, Minnesota is known for its iconic work boots and American-made craftsmanship. At the Red Wing Shoes Museum, you can learn about the history of this legendary brand and see some of the earliest examples of their boots.

The museum also includes interactive exhibits that allow visitors to try on vintage boots and learn about the production process. And if you're in the market for a new pair of Red Wings, the onsite store has plenty to choose from.

5. Cannon Falls Winery

Last but certainly not least, the Cannon Falls Winery is a hidden gem on this road trip. This family-owned winery and vineyard offers tours and tastings, as well as live music and events throughout the year.

Their wines are made from locally grown grapes, and they offer a range of reds, whites, and fruit wines. One of their most popular wines is the Raspberry Infusion, which is made with fresh raspberries picked from their vineyard.

Conclusion

This road trip from Chaska to Cannon Falls is a great way to explore Minnesota's natural beauty and vibrant culture. Along the way, be sure to take a break in Inver Grove Heights, where you'll find plenty of amenities and friendly locals.

And don't miss out on the top five attractions we've recommended for this trip, from the sprawling Mall of America to the scenic Minnehaha Regional Park and the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. Happy travels!