Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Brooklyn Park, Minnesota to Marshall, Minnesota

Brooklyn Park, Minnesota to Marshall, Minnesota - a trip full of scenic drives, breathtaking views, and cultural discoveries. Along the 160-mile stretch in the southern part of Minnesota, there are plenty of things to see and do, making it a perfect route for a memorable road trip.

At just about halfway between Brooklyn Park and Marshall lies a small town called Hector, MN. Although it's a small town, Hector is a great place to stop for a bite to eat or to stretch your legs. There are plenty of parks and trails to explore, and the scenery is worth the stop.

Here are the top five things to do on a road trip from Brooklyn Park to Marshall:

1. Visit the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum

The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum is a must-see destination for nature lovers. With over 1,200 acres of gardens, trails, and natural habitats, visitors can explore a variety of ecosystems, including prairies, forests, and wetlands. In addition to the stunning scenery, visitors can also take part in educational programming and events throughout the year.

Interesting Fact: The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum is home to over 5,000 different plant species, including rare and endangered plants.

2. Explore the Historic Forestville

Step back in time and explore Historic Forestville, a restored 1800s village that gives visitors a glimpse into life in rural Minnesota over 150 years ago. Visitors can tour the village, interact with costumed interpreters, and learn about traditional crafts like broom-making, basket-weaving, and candle-dipping.

Interesting Fact: Historic Forestville served as a trading center for farmers, merchants, and travelers, and played a vital role in the development of southeastern Minnesota.

3. Have Fun at the Minnesota Children's Museum Rochester

The Minnesota Children's Museum Rochester provides hands-on, interactive exhibits and programming designed for children of all ages. Visitors can explore exhibits like "Big Fun with Big Trucks," "Earth World," and "Noodle Forest," and take part in educational workshops and special events.

Interesting Fact: The Minnesota Children's Museum Rochester moved to its current location in 2018 and doubled the size of its exhibit space.

4. Visit the Pipestone National Monument

The Pipestone National Monument is a sacred site for indigenous people, who have quarried the red pipestone for centuries to create ceremonial pipes. Visitors can explore the quarries, learn about the cultural significance of the site, and hike the trails that wind through the surrounding prairies and forests.

Interesting Fact: The Pipestone National Monument is an important site for Lakota, Dakota, and other indigenous peoples, who believe that their ancestors' spirits reside in the landscape.

5. Discover the Art of Minneota

The small town of Minneota, MN is home to a vibrant arts community, with galleries and studios showcasing the work of local artists. Visitors can explore galleries like the Minneota Arts Council Gallery and take part in events like the Minneota Art Walk, which showcases the work of over 50 artists from Minnesota and beyond.

Interesting Fact: Minneota is known as the "Heart of Lyon County," and is named after Minneota Creek, which flows through the town.

All in all, the trip from Brooklyn Park to Marshall is a journey of adventure and discovery, and one that offers something for everyone. Be sure to take your time, explore the small towns along the way, and take in the stunning scenery that southern Minnesota has to offer.

The trip took about 2 hours and 45 minutes to complete without stops, but with so many great things to see and do, visitors should plan on taking their time and enjoying the journey.