Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Calgary, Alberta to McMinnville, Tennessee

If you're up for an adventure and have a few days to spare, a road trip from Calgary, Alberta, to McMinnville, Tennessee, might be just what you need. The trip takes around 35 hours, which seems daunting, but is definitely worth it. You'll cross four time zones, pass by stunning landscapes and beautiful small towns, and drive through endless prairies and mountains before reaching your destination. Here are five unexpected places worth stopping at on the way.

Freeport, Minnesota - Halfway Point

After around 17 hours of driving, Freeport, Minnesota will be the perfect halfway point to take a break and recharge. This small town with a population of around 500 is home to a lovely community park, a local brewery, and a popular diner.

1. Stearns County Pioneer Club Museum

A short drive from Freeport, the Stearns County Pioneer Club Museum showcases a vast collection of antique tractors, farm machinery, and other historical artefacts. Visitors can take a guided tour or explore the exhibits at their leisure. While there, don't miss the chance to learn about the area's rich agricultural history.

Favorite food: Root beer floats at the museum's soda fountain.

2. Jules' Bistro

This cozy, family-owned restaurant offers a variety of dishes made with fresh ingredients sourced from local farms and gardens. They also have a great selection of beer and wine, making it the perfect place to stop for lunch or dinner.

Favorite food: Wild rice soup, a Minnesota specialty.

Decorah, Iowa

3. Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum

This fascinating museum houses over 33,000 artifacts that tell the story of Norwegian immigrants and their contributions to American culture and society. Visitors can explore the exhibits and also participate in hands-on activities such as traditional cooking and woodcarving.

Favorite food: Lefse, a traditional Norwegian flatbread, at the Vesterheim Museum Store.

Branson, Missouri

4. Silver Dollar City

This theme park nestled in the Ozark Mountains is a blend of traditional crafts and thrilling rides. Visitors can watch blacksmiths, glass blowers, and other artisans at work, then enjoy roller coasters, water rides, and live entertainment.

Favorite food: Cinnamon bread, a house specialty. 5. Table Rock Lake

This beautiful lake offers stunning views and a chance to relax and unwind before continuing the journey. Visitors can rent a boat and explore the lake's numerous coves or simply lounge on the beach and take in the scenery.

Favorite food: Freshly grilled burgers at one of the nearby lakeside cafes.

Memphis, Tennessee

6. Graceland

No visit to Memphis is complete without a stop at Graceland, the iconic home of Elvis Presley. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the mansion, explore the museum and archives, and even pay their respects at Elvis's grave.

Favorite food: Fried peanut butter and banana sandwich, a staple at Graceland's on-site restaurant.

After a long journey and several stops, reaching McMinnville, Tennessee, will feel like a reward. This charming town with a population of around 13,000 is home to countless boutiques, restaurants, and cultural attractions.

Taking a road trip from Calgary to McMinnville might seem like a daunting task, but with these five unexpected stops, it will be a fun-filled adventure that you'll cherish for years to come. From learning about Norwegian culture to exploring the home of the legendary Elvis Presley, there's something for everyone on this journey. So pack your bags, buckle up, and hit the road!