Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Brooklyn Park, MN to Lakeville, MN

If you're looking for a fun road trip adventure that doesn't require a lot of preparation, then driving from Brooklyn Park to Lakeville, Minnesota might be just the thing. This route only takes about an hour and 20 minutes, but that doesn't mean there aren't plenty of interesting things to see along the way. In fact, there are five places that you should definitely consider stopping at during your journey.

The Halfway Point: Minneapolis, MN

Before we dive into the specific stops, let's acknowledge the halfway point of this trip—the beautiful city of Minneapolis. As the largest city in Minnesota, Minneapolis offers a range of activities and attractions that can appeal to anyone's interests. From theaters and museums to parks and shopping centers, there's something for everyone in this bustling metropolis. Consider stopping in downtown Minneapolis to grab a coffee and take a stroll along Nicollet Mall before continuing on your journey.

1. Elm Creek Park Reserve (Maple Grove, MN)

About 15 minutes into your drive, you'll arrive at the Elm Creek Park Reserve. This is one of the largest parks in the Twin Cities area, offering a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages. Take a hike through the beautiful trails that run through the park's forests, or rent a paddleboat to explore one of its many lakes. Picnic areas, playgrounds, and a swimming pond make it a great spot for a family outing. And if you visit during the winter months, the park offers skiing and snowshoeing trails as well as a tubing hill.

Favorite food to eat: If you're looking for a bite to eat, check out the food truck at the Eastman Nature Center, which serves up yummy sandwiches and salads.

2. Delano, MN

As you drive further west, take a detour to the charming town of Delano. The downtown area is filled with cute shops and restaurants that are perfect for a leisurely stroll. Be sure to check out the historic Delano Depot, which has been restored to its original 1868 glory. You can take a tour of the depot and learn about its role in the town's history as a major railroad hub.

Favorite food to eat: For a tasty lunch or dinner, stop by Peppermint Twist, a classic drive-in that serves up burgers, fries, and root beer floats.

3. Minnetonka Drive-In (Spring Park, MN)

About 45 minutes into your drive, you'll arrive at the Minnetonka Drive-In. This classic lakeside diner has been a fixture in the area since 1950 and is a perfect spot to grab a quick bite. The menu offers typical diner fare like burgers, hot dogs, and milkshakes, but you can also find unique options like a wild rice burger or fried cheese curds. The outdoor seating area overlooks the beautiful Lake Minnetonka, making it a great place to relax and take in the view.

Favorite food to eat: You can't leave the Minnetonka Drive-In without trying their famous homemade root beer.

4. Minnesota Landscape Arboretum (Chaska, MN)

Just a few miles after leaving the Minnetonka Drive-In, you'll arrive at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. This 1,200-acre nature reserve is home to over 5,000 plant species and offers a range of unique landscapes to explore. Visitors can walk through colorful gardens, hike through wooded areas, or relax on a bench near one of the many ponds. The arboretum also offers educational programs and events throughout the year.

Favorite food to eat: The Arboretum Café offers sandwiches, salads, and soups made with fresh local ingredients and served in a picturesque setting.

5. Buck Hill Ski Area (Burnsville, MN)

As you approach the end of your journey, consider stopping at Buck Hill Ski Area. Even if it's not winter, you can still take a ride on their famous alpine slide, zipline, or enjoy a game of mini-golf. And during the colder months, Buck Hill offers skiing and snowboarding lessons for all ages and skill levels.

Favorite food to eat: If you're looking for a sweet treat, check out their concession stand, which offers fresh-made mini donuts and hot cocoa.

Conclusion

Driving from Brooklyn Park to Lakeville might not seem like the most exciting road trip at first glance, but there are plenty of interesting places to visit along the way. From beautiful parks to historic downtowns, there's something for everyone on this journey. So why not pack up your car and hit the road—you might just discover a new favorite spot!