A Road Trip from Buffalo, Minnesota to Minneapolis, Minnesota

Are you planning a road trip from Buffalo, Minnesota to Minneapolis, Minnesota? This 50-mile trip offers stunning views of the Minnesota countryside and a chance to explore some hidden gems along the way. Buckle up and let's discover some of the top places to visit on this road trip.

An Interesting Fact

Did you know that Buffalo, Minnesota is home to the world's largest ball of twine made by one person? Yes, you read that correctly! This giant ball of twine weighs over 17,000 pounds and is over 12 feet in diameter. It's definitely worth checking out on your way out of Buffalo.

Loretto, MN

At the halfway point between Buffalo and Minneapolis, lies Loretto, Minnesota. This small town is known for its historic Irish pub, Birch's On The Lake, located right on the shores of Long Lake. This charming pub features live music, delicious food, and beer brewed on site. It's a great spot to take a break and grab lunch while enjoying the beautiful lake views.

Trip Length

The trip from Buffalo to Minneapolis takes approximately 1 hour by car, depending on traffic conditions. The highway is well-maintained with plenty of exits, gas stations, and restaurants along the way.

5 Must-Visit Places

1. Minnesota Landscape Arboretum – Located in Chaska, MN, just a few miles south of Minneapolis, the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum is a 1,200-acre botanic garden featuring hundreds of plant species, gardens, trails, and water features. It's a perfect place for nature lovers and families to spend an afternoon.

   • Point of Interest Recommendation: Check out the Japanese Garden, a serene and peaceful space designed with traditional Japanese aesthetics.

2. Minnehaha Falls Park – Located in Minneapolis, Minnehaha Falls Park is a beautiful park that features a 53-foot waterfall, limestone bluffs, and hiking trails. It's a popular spot for picnics, hiking, and bike rides.

   • Point of Interest Recommendation: Visit the Sea Salt Eatery, a casual seafood restaurant located inside the park. They serve fresh seafood, beer, and wine.

3. Science Museum of Minnesota – Located in downtown St. Paul, the Science Museum of Minnesota features interactive exhibits, hands-on experiments, and educational programs for visitors of all ages. It's a great place to learn about science and technology.

   • Point of Interest Recommendation: Check out the Omnitheater, a giant dome-shaped screen where you can watch educational films on a variety of topics.

4. The Walker Art Center – Located in Minneapolis, The Walker Art Center is a contemporary art museum featuring modern art exhibits, films, and performances. It's a great place to explore the world of contemporary art.

   • Point of Interest Recommendation: Visit the sculpture garden, an outdoor space featuring over 40 works by artists like Claes Oldenburg and Alexander Calder.

5. The American Swedish Institute – Located in Minneapolis, The American Swedish Institute is a cultural center and museum that celebrates Swedish culture and heritage. It features exhibits, music, and performances.

   • Point of Interest Recommendation: Visit the FIKA café, a cozy café located inside the institute. They serve delicious Scandinavian food and coffee.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a road trip from Buffalo, Minnesota to Minneapolis, Minnesota offers plenty of opportunities for exploration, adventure, and fun. With stunning views of the countryside, great food, and amazing museums, parks, and landmarks, this road trip is definitely worth embarking on. It should take you about an hour to get from Buffalo to Minneapolis, but make sure you allow extra time to enjoy all of the amazing places along the way. Happy travels!