Top Five Popular Attractions on a Trip from Cedar Rapids, IA to Minneapolis, MN

Are you looking for an adventure on your next road trip? From Cedar Rapids, Iowa to Minneapolis, Minnesota, there are tons of exciting places to stop and explore. Here are the top five attractions you won't want to miss.

Halfway Point: Clear Lake, IA

Before we get to the must-see sites, make sure to stop in Clear Lake, Iowa, which is halfway between Cedar Rapids and Minneapolis. The town is nestled next to a beautiful lake, and has plenty of charm to offer. Take a walk down Main Street to check out the quaint shops and restaurants. If you're a music fan, you might want to visit Surf Ballroom, which hosted the final performance of Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and the Big Bopper.

Top Five Places to See List

1. Mall of America (Bloomington, MN)

The Mall of America is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country, and for good reason. With over 520 stores, an indoor amusement park, an aquarium, and much more, there's something for everyone here. Not to mention, the mall is massive - you could easily spend an entire day exploring here.

2. Field of Dreams (Dyersville, IA)

If you're a fan of the classic baseball movie "Field of Dreams," you have to make a stop in Dyersville, Iowa. The movie was filmed here, and you can visit the actual baseball diamond used in the film. You can even play a game of catch on the field if you want.

3. Mayo Clinic (Rochester, MN)

While going to a hospital might not sound like a fun tourist activity, the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota is truly impressive. The campus is massive and beautifully designed, and there are plenty of places to eat and shop on site. Plus, if you're interested in the medical field, it's fascinating to see how a top-ranked hospital operates.

4. SPAM Museum (Austin, MN)

That's right, there's a museum dedicated entirely to the canned meat product SPAM. But before you roll your eyes and skip this entry, hear us out - the museum is surprisingly entertaining. You'll learn about the history of SPAM, see all sorts of weird SPAM-related memorabilia, and even get to taste some different SPAM flavors.

5. Iowa 80 Trucking Museum (Walcott, IA)

If you're into all things transportation, the Iowa 80 Trucking Museum in Walcott, Iowa is a must-visit. The museum has a huge collection of vintage trucks and trucking memorabilia, including antique fuel pumps, signs, and more. Even if you're not a big truck person, it's interesting to see how transportation has evolved over the years.

Conclusion

If you're planning a road trip from Cedar Rapids to Minneapolis, you have plenty of exciting sites to choose from. We recommend starting in Clear Lake, Iowa, and then heading to the Mall of America for a full day of shopping and entertainment. From there, make your way to Dyersville to visit the Field of Dreams, and then stop at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester for a unique glimpse into the medical world. Next, visit the quirky SPAM Museum in Austin before ending your journey at the Iowa 80 Trucking Museum in Walcott. With these five attractions, your road trip is sure to be unforgettable.