Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Brooklyn Park, MN to Lake Oswego, OR

Driving from Brooklyn Park, Minnesota to Lake Oswego, Oregon is a journey that spans over 1,800 miles and takes approximately 27 hours. The road trip takes you across several states, each with its unique landscapes, attractions, and culture. From the Great Plains of North and South Dakota to the Rocky Mountains of Montana and Idaho, to the majestic Pacific Coastline - this road trip is one not to be missed. In this article, we're going to highlight five unexpected places to stop on the route that you might not have otherwise considered.

Halfway Point: Reed Point, MT

Reed Point, MT, is the halfway point between Brooklyn Park, MN, and Lake Oswego, OR. This small town is located in the Stillwater County of Montana, and although it's not somewhere you’d typically stop, it has a great little diner, the Wagon Wheel Cafe. This diner serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and their pies are a must-try.

1. Amana Colonies, IA

The Amana Colonies is a community of seven villages located in East-Central Iowa that was founded in the mid-1800s by German immigrants. The village is home to several artisan shops featuring handmade crafts, furniture, and clothing. The Heritage Museum is a great place to learn about the history of the community. You also can’t miss the communal kitchen restaurant, where visitors can experience a family-style meal served by the communal-style restaurant staff.

2. Wall Drug Store, SD

Wall Drug Store is a classic roadside attraction located in Wall, South Dakota. This store was established in 1931 by a pharmacist who wanted to attract travelers heading towards the Black Hills for vacation. The store has grown to cover an entire block and features Western-themed stores, souvenir shops, and restaurants. Wall Drug Store is famous for its free ice water and its homemade donuts.

3. National Oregon Trail Center, ID

The National Oregon Trail Center, located in southeastern Idaho, provides visitors with an opportunity to learn about the famous Oregon Trail that led pioneers to the West in the 19th century. The center offers exhibits, performances, and outdoor trails featuring covered wagons and interactive exhibits. Visitors can also watch a film that takes them on a virtual journey along the Oregon Trail. A must-try food in this location is the Marionberry Pie.

4. Oregon Sand Dunes National Recreation Area, OR

The Oregon Sand Dunes National Recreation Area is located on the Oregon Coast between Florence and Coos Bay. This park boasts the largest expanse of coastal sand dunes in North America and features a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, and off-road vehicle riding. For food lovers, the local seafood, such as fish and chips and clam chowder, is a must-try.

5. Bonneville Salt Flats, UT

The Bonneville Salt Flats is located in northwestern Utah and is known for its vast stretches of sparkling white salt, which create an otherworldly landscape. These salt flats have been used for speed trials for over a century, and the park still hosts several land speed events each year. Visitors can also hike, hunt for quartz crystals, and visit the nearby interpretive center. A great food to eat in this location is the local Utah cuisine, which typically includes a variety of meats, such as bison and elk.

In conclusion, this road trip provides an opportunity to experience the vast landscapes and diverse cultures that make up America. The five unexpected places highlighted in this article provide an excellent starting point for planning your route, and we encourage you to visit them on your trip. From the colonial history of the Amana Colonies to the sparkling salt flats of Utah, there’s something for everyone on this road trip. So pack your bags, grab your keys, and hit the road. You're off to an adventure of a lifetime!