Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Brooklyn Center, Minnesota and Brookings, South Dakota

If you're looking for a road trip that combines scenic landscapes, quaint towns, and hidden gems along the way, look no further than the drive from Brooklyn Center, Minnesota, to Brookings, South Dakota. This trip covers a distance of approximately 300 miles and can be done in around 6 hours, depending on the route you choose and how many stops you make. To break up the journey and make it even more exciting, we've compiled a list of five unexpected places to stop along the way.

The Halfway Point: Olivia, MN

Before we get started on the five unexpected places, we thought it was important to mention Olivia, MN, the halfway point of the journey. Olivia is a small town in Renville County, with a population of just over 2,000 people. Don't let its size fool you, though - this town has plenty to offer. If you're a fan of history, be sure to stop by the Renville County Historical Society Museum, which features exhibits on Native American history, pioneer life, and local agriculture. For a taste of local cuisine, check out Dairy Queen, where you can grab a classic soft-serve cone or a hot fudge sundae.

1. Pipestone National Monument

Just a little over an hour's drive from Olivia, Pipestone National Monument is a fascinating stop for anyone interested in Native American history and culture. The monument is home to a quarry of red stone that has been used by Native Americans for thousands of years to carve sacred pipes. Visitors can take a guided tour, watch a pipe-carving demonstration, and learn about the history and significance of the site. Afterward, check out the gift shop for Native American crafts and souvenirs. For lunch, stop by Lange's Cafe in Pipestone for a delicious homestyle meal.

2. The Corn Palace, Mitchell, SD

A little further down the road, in the town of Mitchell, SD, you'll find one of the quirkiest attractions in the Midwest - the Corn Palace. This unique building is covered in murals made entirely out of corn, and it's been a beloved landmark since it was first built in 1892. Visitors can take a tour of the inside of the building, which features more corn murals and exhibits on the history of the Corn Palace. For lunch, head to Culver's, where you can try the ButterBurger - a must-have for anyone passing through the Midwest.

3. Porter Sculpture Park, Montrose, SD

About an hour's drive from the Corn Palace, you'll reach Porter Sculpture Park, a hidden gem of the Midwest art scene. The park features over 50 larger-than-life metal sculptures, all created by local artist Wayne Porter. Visitors are free to wander the park and see the sculptures up close, and you may even run into the artist himself. For a true taste of South Dakota, stop by Porter's Pub, located right next to the sculpture park, for a bison burger and a local craft beer.

4. Uffda Shop, Beresford, SD

As you near the end of your journey, be sure to make a pit stop in Beresford, SD, to check out the Uffda Shop. This Scandinavian gift shop is a treasure trove of Nordic-inspired items, from Viking hats and T-shirts to traditional Scandinavian foods and candies. Whether you're of Scandinavian descent or just looking for a unique souvenir, the Uffda Shop has something for everyone. For a quick snack, grab a hot dog at the local convenience store - they're a local favorite.

5. South Dakota Art Museum, Brookings, SD

Last but not least, your journey ends in the charming town of Brookings, SD, and what better way to cap off your trip than with a visit to the South Dakota Art Museum. The museum features a fantastic collection of traditional and contemporary art, including works by Native American artists, regional artists, and nationally recognized names. Admission is free, and the museum is located on the campus of South Dakota State University. For dinner, head to Nick's Hamburger Shop, a local institution that's been serving up hot, juicy burgers since 1929.

Conclusion

If you're looking for a road trip that takes you off the beaten path and introduces you to some of the hidden gems of the Midwest, this drive from Brooklyn Center to Brookings is a must. From sacred Native American sites to quirky roadside attractions and world-class art museums, there's something for everyone on this journey. So gather some friends, gas up the car, and hit the road - you won't regret it.