The Ultimate Road Trip: Museums, Parks, and Landmarks from Carlton, Minnesota to Dunbar, Wisconsin
Are you planning a road trip from Carlton, Minnesota to Dunbar, Wisconsin? If yes, you are in for a treat! This route passes through some of the most beautiful and historic landmarks, museums, and parks. In this blog post, we will be highlighting the top five places to visit along with points of interest recommendations.
Fun Fact: Carlton, Minnesota, is known as the 'Black Bear Capital' of the state, with plenty of opportunities for spotting these magnificent creatures in the wild.
Halfway through the trip is Ironwood, MI, which is home to the Ironwood Historic Depot and Museum, showcasing the history of railroads and their impact on the local community.
The journey from Carlton to Dunbar is around 325 miles and takes approximately 6 hours without factoring in stops along the way. Of course, since there's so much to see and do, it makes sense to take it slow and enjoy the sights at your own pace.
The Top 5 Places to Visit
The Great Lakes Aquarium Located in Duluth, Minnesota, The Great Lakes Aquarium is a perfect family-friendly stop. It's home to more than 70 species of freshwater fish, reptiles, and amphibians. Visitors can learn about the Great Lakes' wildlife and ecosystems, including the Sturgeon touch pool, Otter Cove, and Explorers Cove. Point of Interest Recommendation: Head to the rooftop plaza for unbeatable views of Lake Superior.
Gooseberry Falls State Park Just a few miles up the road from the Great Lakes Aquarium is the Gooseberry Falls State Park. The park features a variety of hiking trails winding around the cascading waterfalls of Gooseberry River. The park also has a visitor center with interactive exhibits, picnic areas, and camping grounds. Point of Interest Recommendation: The Upper Falls Trail offers stunning views and an up-close look at the cascading falls.
Split Rock Lighthouse State Park Split Rock Lighthouse is more than just a lighthouse with a breathtaking view of Lake Superior. At the park, visitors can take a guided tour and learn about the history of the lighthouse, how it played a role in the maritime industry, and the harsh reality of life on the shore of Lake Superior in the early 20th century. Point of Interest Recommendation: Catch the sunset at the park's picnic area and take in the view of the lighthouse from afar.
The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore About two hours away from Split Rock Lighthouse State Park, the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is a must-see for all who love the outdoors. The area has twelve islands, sandy beaches, and several lighthouses perfect for exploration. Visitors can go kayaking, hiking, take scenic boat tours or learn about the areas' thriving natural and cultural resources. Point of Interest Recommendation: Check out the caves, cliffs, and sandy beaches accessible only via boat tours.
Milwaukee Art Museum A perfect way to top off your road trip, the Milwaukee Art Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves art and architecture. The museum's unique design sets it apart from any art museum you've ever visited. Visitors can marvel at the stunning collections of over 40,000 works of art, including modern and contemporary art, American decorative arts, and much more. Point of Interest Recommendation: The Windhover Hall, an architectural feat inspired by Felix Candela's shell concrete sculptures.
In conclusion, if you're planning to drive from Carlton, Minnesota, to Dunbar, Wisconsin, you won't be disappointed with the numerous stops that offer picturesque scenery, history and cultural enrichment along the way. If you take your time and visit all of these exciting places, your trip will take approximately a week. However, it's well worth the time spent exploring all these hidden gems. Pack some snacks, grab a good playlist, and hit the open road!