Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Buckner, Missouri to Park Rapids, Minnesota
Has the open road ever called to you, beckoning you to leave everything behind and explore new horizons? From time to time, we all yearn for an adventure, a chance to forget about our routine lives and learn about a world beyond our four walls. Taking a road trip is one of those opportunities that allows you to discover hidden gems that you might have passed without even noticing. Buckner, Missouri and Park Rapids, Minnesota might be small towns, but the journey between them presents endless opportunities to experience the beauty of America.
If you’re ready to embark on a 10-hour drive across four Midwestern states, then pack your bags, fasten your seatbelt, and hit the road. You’ll be surprised by the number of unexpected places worth stopping at.
Halfway Point - Clear Lake, IA
As you pass the border between Missouri and Iowa, you’ll find yourself on a road lined with fields as far as the eye can see. After driving six hours without taking any major breaks, Clear Lake, IA will be a sight for sore eyes. This small town in north-central Iowa is named after Clear Lake, a stunning body of water surrounded by greenery. With its small-town charm and hospitable locals, Clear Lake will win you over in no time.
Clear Lake State Park: When you reach Clear Lake, State Park should be the first place you visit. With its vast lake, the park is perfect for swimming, boating, fishing, and picnicking. The park offers campsites and cabins, meaning you can extend your stay overnight if you wish. Try some of their famous s'mores and enjoy the tranquil outdoors.
Color the Wind Kites Festival: If you happen to be in Clear Lake on the third weekend of February, then you’re in for a treat. Every year, Clear Lake hosts the Color the Wind Kites Festival, where hundreds of bright-colored kites fill the sky. This festival is an excellent way to spend your day with family or friends and marvel at the grandeur of nature.
Favorite food: Try the famous Spicy Sweet Potato Soup, served at the Whiskey Creek Restaurant. Made of roasted sweet potatoes and onions, this creamy soup is the perfect comfort food for a chilly afternoon.
Leaving Clear Lake, you’ll notice that the terrain is becoming greener with every mile you travel. Enjoy the vistas, and keep driving until you reach your next stop.
Albert Lea, MN: This charming town in southern Minnesota is known for its historic landmarks, antique shops, and locally owned cafes.
Frank Lloyd Wright’s Historic Park Inn Hotel: Put on your tourist hat and visit Frank Lloyd Wright’s Historic Park Inn Hotel. Built-in 1909, the hotel is the last remaining Frank Lloyd Wright-designed hotel in the world. The hotel has been restored to provide you with the most authentic experience, so make sure you also stop at the historic bar for a drink.
Favorite food: Go to the Plaza Morena Campestre restaurant and order some of their famous tamales. Wrapped in corn husks, these pockets of flavor are filled with beef, pork, or chicken and served with salsa and guacamole.
Lanesboro, MN: Located in southeastern Minnesota, Lanesboro is a town that embodies the term ‘hidden gem.’ With a population of fewer than 800 people, Lanesboro is an oasis of peace, nature, and art.
Lanesboro Arts: Whether you're an art enthusiast or a lover of the creative process, Lanesboro Arts is a must-visit. This non-profit art organization aims to promote the arts in the Upper Midwest. With galleries, a production center, and a gift shop boasting excellent works by regional artists, Lanesboro Art is a creative hub you don’t want to miss.
Favorite food: Stop by Pedal Pushers Cafe, a local institution known for its homecooked pies. Try the Raspberry Rhubarb Pie, made with juicy raspberries and tart, fleshy rhubarb.
As you come close to Park Rapids, MN, you'll start to notice the abundant lakes, and the scenery will become even more captivating.
Itasca State Park: Itasca State Park is undoubtedly a gem of North America. As Minnesota's oldest state park, it draws tourists from far and wide. Home to the mesmerizing Mississippi River Headwaters, Itasca State Park combines majesty and mystique that you’ll never forget.
Park Rapids Farmers Market: If you’re the kind of traveler who likes to experience every place's culture by exploring its markets, then you must stop by Park Rapids Farmers Market. From fresh produce to handmade crafts, the market offers a wide variety of items to take home as souvenirs for your friends and family back home.
Favorite food: Indulge in some pan-fried walleye filets at the Great Northern Cafe. Served with creamy coleslaw and warm potato salad, this dish is a local favorite and for an excellent reason.
Conclusion
What started with the open road and a will to explore has resulted in an unforgettable journey filled with new sights, sounds, and flavors. The trip from Buckner, Missouri, to Park Rapids, Minnesota, might be long, but the memories you’ll make along the way will be worth it. Each destination on this trip presents a unique experience, from enjoying the Mississippi River Source to witnessing Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural brilliance. The combination of small-town charm and nature’s beauty makes it a trip that'll awakens your spirit of adventure. Don’t hold back; pack your bags and hit the road. You won’t regret taking this journey.