Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Brooklyn Center to Coralville

Driving from Brooklyn Center, Minnesota to Coralville, Iowa is a road trip that takes approximately 5 hours and spans over 300 miles. The drive takes you through beautiful countryside and small towns that offer numerous intriguing attractions worth stopping to explore. If you're embarking on this adventure, here are five unexpected places to stop and enjoy on your journey.

Halfway There: Mason City, IA

Before we jump into the rest of the five top places to stop on your road trip from Brooklyn Center to Coralville, it's worth mentioning the midpoint - Mason City, Iowa! The city is home to a world-renowned architectural destination, which draws thousands of visitors each year to experience the work of Frank Lloyd Wright. You'll find the Wright-designed Park Inn Hotel there, the last standing hotel in the world that was designed by the legendary architect in the early 1900s.

1. Northfield, Minnesota

Northfield is a small town in Minnesota that boasts diverse cultural attractions, such as the Northfield Historical Society Museum and the James-Younger Gang Historic Site. The James-Younger Gang was a group of notorious outlaws that attempted to rob the First National Bank of Northfield back in 1876, and the museum features the site of the historic building on the outskirts of town. If you're feeling hungry, head over to Tiny's Hotdogs for some mouth-watering junk food.

2. Albert Lea, Minnesota

If you're looking to get some fresh air and relax in the beauty of nature, makes sure you stop in Albert Lea, Minnesota and visit the Myre-Big Island State Park. The 1,578-acre park, located in Lake Albert, offers a wide range of activities such as fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and camping. Once you're done exploring and hiking, don't forget to grab some juicy burgers and ice cream at Wedgewood Cove Restaurant & Resort.

3. Clear Lake, IA

Clear Lake is a charming small city that offers a beautiful lake on its western edge and numerous recreational activities, such as boating, kayaking, and fishing. The town's most famous attraction is the Wooden Foot Bridge, which offers breathtaking views of Clear Lake. After a long day outdoors, enjoy some savory pizza and pasta at the Lake Time Brewery.

4. Cedar Falls, Iowa

Cedar Falls is known for its unique and delicious food scene. Make sure you stop at the Montage Restaurant for some of their famous gourmet burgers and massive selection of craft beers. The city's art museum is also worth checking out, featuring a vast collection of artworks from various mediums and artists. If you're a history buff, the Cedar Falls Historical Society & Museum is a great place to explore Iowa's rich history.

5. Amana Colonies, Iowa

Amana Colonies is a tiny town that is known for its over 300 years of history and cultural heritage. The town was originally settled by Germans who came from Europe, and you can still see and experience the German heritage through the town's unique architecture, cuisine, and customs. Be sure to stop by the Amana Woolen Mill for some authentic German-style woolen clothing and blankets, and don't leave without grabbing some scrumptious traditional Bavarian food at the Amana Colonies Bakery and Cafe.

Conclusion

Any road trip is an opportunity to relax, unwind, and discover new places. The journey from Brooklyn Center to Coralville is no exception. With numerous off-the-beaten-path stops, you'll have the chance to experience new cultures, beautiful landscapes, and gastronomical delights. From Northfield's rich cultural heritage to Cedar Falls' delicious gourmet burgers, this road trip offers something for everyone. So pack your bags, fill up your tank, and hit the open road - adventure awaits!