Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Carnduff, Saskatchewan to Brandon, Manitoba

Going on a road trip from Carnduff, Saskatchewan to Brandon, Manitoba is not only a great way to experience the scenic beauty of the Prairie Provinces but also a chance to discover hidden gems along the way. The drive is approximately 320 km and takes 3.5 hours. Along the route, there are unexpected places to stop, explore and grab a bite. Here are the top five destinations that are worth adding to your itinerary.

Halfway Point: Virden, MB

Before getting to the unique spots, we stop at Virden, Manitoba, that serves as the midpoint between Carnduff and Brandon. Virden has several food options and charming parks to explore. Its numerous historic sites like the Virden Oil King's memorial, heritage walking trail and the museum reflect the town's rich heritage. If you're travelling with kids, the Tundra Oil and Gas Place is the perfect place to let them have fun while learning about Virden's history. You can also stop by one of the many local cafes and patisseries to fuel up for your drive to the next destination.

1. Drop-in to See the Big Blue Bug

Hidden away from the highway is one of the most unexpected places in Saskatchewan- the Big Blue Bug. This colossal blue and green bug is over forty years old and stands over thirty feet tall. It was designed by an artist known as Andrew Niculescu, who created it as a tribute to the region's farming heritage. The bug is impossible to miss, and visitors can take pictures with it for their social media pages. The best part- it's free! Before heading to the next location, you can stop by the cafe in Arcola, Saskatchewan, where locals recommend the thick and creamy milkshakes.

2. Explore the Artistic Community of Kipling

For art enthusiasts, a stop at Kipling, Saskatchewan, is a must. Kipling is a warm and welcoming town with several sculptures, murals, and art galleries. If you're lucky, you might even get to meet some of the town's artists. One of the must-visit galleries is ArtWorks, where visitors can see works by local artists, including pottery, paintings, and jewelry. In Kipling, don't forget to visit the local burger spot, "The Drop-in," for a taste of the restaurant's famous burgers.

3. Discover the Icelandic Heritage of Riverton

If you want to go beyond the expected, a stop at Riverton, Manitoba, is sure to surprise you. Riverton is located in Manitoba's Interlake region, known as the "New Iceland." This area is the historic home to early Icelandic settlers, and their heritage is still present today. Visitors can explore the Riverton and District Pioneer Museum with artifacts dating back to the early 1900s. It's also home to the world's largest codfish, which stands over 25 feet tall- a great place to take unique photos. To satisfy your taste buds, drop by the local bakery and taste the traditional Icelandic pastry, kleina.

4. Visit the Ukrainian Heritage Village in Vita

The Ukrainian Heritage Village in Vita, Manitoba, is an open-air museum that recreates a typical Ukrainian village from the 1890s. The village includes buildings such as a church, a farmhouse, and a blacksmith shop, all brought from different locations and rebuilt on-site. Visitors can watch costumed interpreters demonstrate traditional crafts, take Ukrainian cooking classes or listen to old Ukrainian folktales. When in Vita, do not forget to stop by the local restaurant, "Annie's Kitchen," for a taste of traditional perogies.

5. Wander Through Brandon's Riverbank Discovery Centre

Before departing Brandon, Manitoba, make an unexpected stop at the Riverbank Discovery Centre. Located in the Assiniboine River, the centre focuses on the diversity of the surrounding ecosystem and the local Indigenous heritage. Visitors can walk through the indoor exhibits, including a 2,500-gallon aquarium or take a walk-in nature on one of the many nearby trails. Hungry travellers can dine at one of Brandon's many restaurants. For a unique experience, visit the "Blackbird Coffee House," which serves as a fundraiser for the local YMCA.

Conclusion

In summary, travelling from Carnduff, Saskatchewan to Brandon, Manitoba, is more than just a scenic drive. Exploring unexpected destinations such as the Big Blue Bug, Kipling's artistic community and Riverton's Icelandic heritage, will make your trip more unusual and exciting. A visit to the Ukrainian Heritage Village in Vita and the Riverbank Discovery Centre in Brandon will add another layer of cultural significance to your journey. So pack your bags, fuel up your car, and get ready for a road trip that you'll never forget.