Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Road Trip from Cedar Lake, Indiana to Willmar, Minnesota

Are you ready for a road trip adventure? A drive from Cedar Lake, Indiana, to Willmar, Minnesota, is approximately 560 miles and takes roughly ten hours to complete. However, why not make this journey extra special by stopping at some exciting and unusual locations along the way? Buckle up because we have five unexpected places to make your journey even more memorable.

Halfway Point: Tomah, Wisconsin

Before getting to the main attractions, let us first talk about the halfway point: Tomah, Wisconsin. Located ninety minutes from Madison, this small town is worth a visit for its charm and history. Take a stroll through downtown, and you will come across numerous boutique shops, antique stores, and cafes. If you are interested in the local history, be sure to check out the Cranberry Discovery Center, which explores the importance of cranberry farming in the area. Treat yourself to some mouth-watering pastries at Koffee Kup, a family-owned bakery that has been serving the community for over 70 years.

1. Minnesota Marine Art Museum - Winona, Minnesota

Winona, Minnesota, is a small town located along the Mississippi River and is home to the Minnesota Marine Art Museum. The museum's mission is to showcase the relationship between water and humanity through art. The extensive collection features works from artists such as Claude Monet, Vincent van Gogh, and Georgia O'Keeffe. The museum's unique design of natural light streaming down from above creates a captivating ambiance throughout the exhibits. After your visit, head down to Garvin Heights Lookout for a scenic view of the Mississippi River. Be sure to try the famous burger at the Winona Grill.

2. SPAM Museum - Austin, Minnesota

If you thought you would never visit a museum dedicated to canned meat, think again. The SPAM Museum is a quirky and fun destination in Austin, Minnesota. It celebrates the 80-year legacy of the iconic SPAM brand. Walk through interactive exhibits while learning the history and culture of this globally recognized product. The museum has recently undergone a renovation, featuring state-of-the-art technology and interactive experiences, pop art exhibits, and the opportunity to design your virtual can of SPAM. Stop at Piggy Blue's BBQ, famous for its pulled pork sandwiches, and don't forget to sample the SPAM.

3. Pipestone National Monument - Pipestone, Minnesota

The mountains and beaches are not the only natural wonders to take your breath away. Pipestone National Monument, located in southwestern Minnesota, is home to the sacred pipestone quarries. The unique red stone is still used by Native American tribes to create ceremonial pipes. Take a self-guided tour of the quarry pits and see the quarried rock that is carved into numerous shapes. Visit the Pipestone Indian Shrine Association to purchase hand-crafted items made from this sacred stone, including jewelry, pipes, and carvings. After exploring, dine at Lange's Cafe, known for its famous pies.

4. The House on the Rock - Spring Green, Wisconsin

Traveling to Spring Green, Wisconsin, is like landing on another planet. This destination is home to The House on the Rock, a bizarre attraction resembling something out of a fairytale. The House showcases collections ranging from antique dolls to musical instruments and vintage cars. Tourists can also visit the world's largest indoor carousel, featuring 269 animals and numerous band organs, and take a stroll through the Infinity Room, a narrow glass-enclosed hallway that extends 218 feet over the valley. After visiting, stop at Freddy Valentine's Public House for a unique dining experience.

5. National Eagle Center - Wabasha, Minnesota

The final stop on your road trip adventure is the National Eagle Center in Wabasha, Minnesota. America's national bird, the bald eagle, is the star of this attraction, featuring exhibits dedicated to this magnificent creature. The center has interactive exhibits aimed at spreading awareness about conservation efforts to protect these birds' habitats. Be sure to catch the daily raptor programs, where visitors can get an up-close view of birds of prey, including the bald eagle and peregrine falcon. Round off your visit with a delicious meal at the Olde Triangle Pub.

Conclusion

The journey from Cedar Lake, Indiana to Willmar, Minnesota, is long, but the excitement of visiting the above-mentioned locations will make the journey worthwhile. With the unique museums, natural wonders, and quirky attractions, one cannot pass up the chance to embark on this adventure. Every stop offers something for everyone, from history buffs to foodies, adventure enthusiasts to those seeking tranquillity. Take the first step and start planning a memorable road trip today!