It’s Time for a Summer Road Trip!
We love a good road trip, don’t you?
We don’t want to alarm you but summer is nearly over and if you haven’t made the most of the season yet now is the perfect time to hop in the car and take in the sights. Minnesota is packed with amazing things to see and do – whether you’ve only got a day or a whole weekend there is a road trip for you.
Here are a few of our top favorite Minnesota road trip destinations and what to know before you hit the road this summer…
Top Minnesota Road Trip Destinations
The North Shore
The drive along the north shore is 142 miles and takes you through scenic, jagged coastline of Lake Superior – the largest freshwater lake in the world. Since the North Shore is quite large you may want to consider focusing on the Duluth and Two Harbors areas as they have many trails, parks, restaurants, shops, breweries and a rich history.
Little Falls
Little Falls has loads of small-town charm on the Mississippi River just 45 minutes from St. Cloud. The Historic Downtown has Great River Arts Center where you can view the talents of local artists. You can check out the grounds of the Linden Hill Conference and Retreat Center, Lindbergh State Park and visit the childhood home of local hero Charles A. Lindbergh. The area is also rich with local history, and you might want to stop into the Minnesota Fishing Museum, and the Charles A. Weyerhaeuser Museum. A short drive to the north takes you to Camp Ripley where you can spend time at the Minnesota Military Museum.
Lake Vermillion-Soudan Underground Mine State Park
Check out a mine tour at Minnesota’s oldest iron ore mine. The Soudan mine opened in 1882 and closed in 1962. You can also explore other things the park has to offer, located on the rocky south shore of Lake Vermilion: hiking trails, fishing, boat access and a visitor center with interpretive exhibits.
Jeffers Petroglyphs
About a two and a half hour drive from Minneapolis, this site is not to be missed. Out in the prairies, the American Indians carved symbols known as Petroglyphs into the stones that tell a story spanning 7,000 years. The site remains a holy site to this day.
What to Know Before You Go
The Standard Road Trip Checklist
Every road trip comes with risks, too, so why not minimize them by making sure your car is safe and running smoothly. Like a boy scout, it helps to always be prepared. A few simple checks and a little preparation can save you a lot of headaches, time, and money.
- Oil
- Fluids
- Tires
- Battery
- Emergency Roadside Kit
Related: Summerize Your Car
Prepare With AAMCO Minnesota
The Key to a Great Road Trip
About to take a road trip to one of these amazing Minnesota destinations? Stop by one of our many local AAMCO Minnesota locations near you or schedule online for your free summer safety check and make sure your car is road trip ready.
Schedule An Appointment
