Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Burnsville to Rosemount

If you're looking for a scenic drive through the Minnesota countryside, the route from Burnsville to Rosemount is a must-see. The journey takes approximately 40 minutes, and you'll be treated to six miles of stunning woodland, farmland, and the shimmering waters of the scenic Minnesota River.

The halfway point of the drive is the stunning valley city of Apple Valley. This city has a large number of forests, parks, and outdoor recreational areas that visitors should explore. The city’s calm and peaceful atmosphere makes it an ideal spot to recharge before continuing your journey.

Now, without further ado, let's dive into five unexpected places to stop on a drive from Burnsville to Rosemount.

1. Olives Fresh Pizza Bar (Savage, MN)

Olives Fresh Pizza Bar is a unique pizza joint located in Savage, MN, just a 10-minute drive from Burnsville. They serve Neapolitan-style pizzas made with the freshest ingredients that you won’t find anywhere else. Delicious savory flavors, such as shrimp scampi, artichokes, feta cheese, and roasted garlic, are included in their large selection of specialty pizzas. The restaurant's atmosphere is warm and cozy, with beautiful decor and attentive staff.

According to their menu, some of the must-try pizzas are Margherita, Gianluca, and Shrimp in Love.

2. Murphy-Hanrehan Park Reserve (Savage, MN)

Murphy-Hanrehan Park Reserve is an expansive nature reserve located in Savage, MN. This park has everything you can think of for outdoor adventures, including miles of walking trails, natural prairies, and teeming wetlands. You will also get a chance to spot various wildlife creatures such as white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, eastern bluebirds, and red-tailed hawks.

You can pack your lunch and have a family picnic in the park. If you’re in the mood for something a little more active, the park’s mountain bike trails will take you on an adrenaline-pumping ride through some of the best bike trails in the state, including advanced trails for experienced bikers.

3. Minnesota Zoo (Apple Valley, MN)

The Minnesota Zoo, located in Apple Valley, MN, is a must-visit destination on your way to Rosemount. The zoo's mission is to connect people, animals, and the natural world. The zoo contains over 4,000 animals belonging to more than 500 species from all over the world, including tigers, bears, wolves, and monkeys. You can learn more about these incredible creatures while exploring the zoo's diverse habitats.

The Minnesota Zoo features various attractions such as a penguin exhibit, a marine center, and a farm exhibit, and a butterfly garden. The special guided tours and interactive exhibits will enhance your zoo experience, making it unforgettable.

4. Karst Brewing (Faribault, MN)

Karst Brewing is a family-owned brewery located in Faribault, MN, about half an hour’s drive from Rosemount. This small brewery produces quality and distinctive craft beers with flavors ranging from traditional to bold. Visitors can enjoy savoring a beer while playing some of the games available on the arcade table.

Karst Brewing isn't just a brewery; they also offer guided tours outlining the fundamentals of beer-making and its history. Guests can learn about the brewing process as they tour the brewery's facilities.

5. The Fishtale Bar & Grill (New Prague, MN)

The Fishtale Bar & Grill is a top-rated restaurant located in the town of New Prague, MN. The laid-back atmosphere and the friendly staff are the highlights of the restaurant. When it comes to food, the restaurant offers an extensive menu of small plates, flatbreads, salads, pastas, sandwiches, and burgers. They serve delicious fish and chips, mouth-watering steak quesadillas, and potato skins loaded with bacon.

The lake-view dining at The Fishtale Bar & Grill is remarkable and more enjoyable during the summer hours. They also have live music from local artists to keep visitors entertained.

Conclusion

There you have it, five unexpected places you should not miss on your drive from Burnsville to Rosemount. Whether your goal is relaxing, adventurous, cultural, or culinary, these destinations offer something unique and engaging. The scenic views and the welcoming atmosphere of all these spots won't disappoint you. Pack your bags and hit the road. Your memorable drive is waiting for you.