Top Five Popular Attractions between Brooklyn Park and Forest Lake, Minnesota
Are you ready for an unforgettable trip in the heart of Minnesota? If you're looking for a quick day trip to explore some fascinating places, buckle up and read on. We've got the top five attractions to see between Brooklyn Park and Forest Lake.
The Route and Halfway Point
Starting from Brooklyn Park, you'll head North on Highway 65. Just about 15 miles away from our starting point, you'll hit our first stop in Blaine, MN! Blaine is our chosen midway point due to its proximity to other exciting places on our list.
Top Five Places to See List
1. National Sports Center
Looking for a place to enjoy sports and meet new people? If you head a couple of miles west of Highway 65, you'll find the National Sports Center in Blaine. With 600 acres of space, it's the world's largest amateur sports complex. From soccer fields and ice arenas to a golf course and velodrome, there's something for everyone. Whether you're a player or spectator, it's the perfect place to enjoy some sports and outdoor fun.
2. Aquatore Park
Located only 6.5 miles away from the National Sports Center, Aquatore Park in Blaine is a beautiful lakefront park with many amenities available. You can take a stroll on the boardwalk or simply relax on the beach. There's a splash pad and playground for children, and there are even paddleboard rentals available. It's a great place to have a picnic or cook up some burgers on the available grills.
3. Running Aces Casino & Racetrack
Heading further north on Highway 65, we arrive in Columbus, MN. Here, you'll find Running Aces Casino & Racetrack, a facility with a variety of entertainment options. The casino has over 1,300 slot machines and table games, while the racetrack offers live harness horse racing and simulcasting from around the country. You can also grab a bite to eat at one of the several dining options or catch a live show at The Trout Air Theater.
4. William O'Brien State Park
Continuing the journey north on Highway 95, we arrive at William O'Brien State Park, located just outside the town of Marine on St. Croix. It's the perfect place for those who enjoy hiking, camping, or just taking in the beautiful scenery. With over 12 miles of hiking trails and 114 campsites, there's plenty to do for everyone. You can even rent kayaks or canoes and paddle down the St. Croix River.
5. Franconia Sculpture Park
Our final destination is located just a few minutes west of Highway 95, off 8th Avenue in Franconia. The Franconia Sculpture Park is a 43-acre outdoor sculpture park with over 120 sculptures installed every year. It's the perfect place to take in some art, go on a guided tour, or even participate in workshops and residencies. With a mix of local and international artists, it's a truly unique experience.
Conclusion
There you have it, folks! Five exciting and unique attractions to visit between Brooklyn Park and Forest Lake. If you're looking for a quick day trip, we recommend starting from Brooklyn Park and following our suggested route, ending in Franconia, where you can grab a bite to eat at one of the nearby restaurants or breweries. Don't forget to take lots of pictures and enjoy the journey!