A Roadtrip from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, to Plymouth, Minnesota
If you are looking for the perfect road trip, set in the Midwestern United States, then a journey from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, to Plymouth, Minnesota, should definitely be on your list. The route is perfect for exploring the great outdoors and delving into some Midwestern culture, history, and architecture. In this article, we'll explore some of the best places to visit and what makes them so unique and interesting.
Did you know that Cedar Rapids, Iowa, is the second-largest city in the state, with a population of over 120,000 people? Moreover, Plymouth, Minnesota, is the 7th largest city in the state, with a population of nearly 80,000 people. So, you're not going to be traveling through small towns and country roads - it's going to be a proper road trip!
Clear Lake, IA, is a great place to stop halfway on this trip. Clear Lake is a peaceful town located on the shores of a beautiful lake of the same name, and it's famous for its quirky and colorful surf ballroom where many rock 'n' roll legends have played, like Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and The Big Bopper.
This road trip covers a distance of 200 miles, taking around 4 hours - but, of course, this depends on how many stops you make along the way! Here are five must-visit destinations on this route that should not be missed:
- Silver Lake Park in Rochester, MN: This park is known for its beautiful man-made lake, sandy beaches, and its great hiking trails. It's perfect for a picnic and getting away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Point of Interest: If you're a fan of architecture, Rochester, MN, is home to the world-famous Mayo Clinic and several impressive neo-gothic buildings.
- Pinky's Ice Cream in Waseca, MN: Pinky's Ice Cream, a classic ice cream shop situated in Waseca, is a must-stop for anyone with a sweet tooth. With over 40 flavors to choose from, there's something for everyone!
Point of Interest: Waseca is a small town with a few museums – the Waseca County Historical Society and the Loon Lake Wind Farm Visitors Center - that are worth checking out.
- New Ulm Hermann Monument in New Ulm, MN: The Hermann Monument in New Ulm, MN, is a 102-ft tall statue commemorating Hermann, a chieftain who united Germanic tribes to defeat the Romans in 9 AD. The monument celebrates its German heritage, and there's a museum below the statue that showcases the town's history and heritage.
Point of Interest: In the town itself, there's Flandrau State Park, where you can hike to the top of the 500 ft. high cliffs and get a panoramic view of the town.
- Minneopa State Park in Mankato, MN: Minneopa State Park, located in Mankato, MN, boasts a beautiful waterfall, stunning prairies, and great hiking trails. The park is famous for its bison herd and Jacob's well, a natural spring that plunges into an underground cave.
Point of Interest: Mankato is home to the Blue Earth County Historical Society, where you can learn about the town's history.
- Schell's Brewery in New Ulm, MN: Schell's Brewery in New Ulm is Minnesota's oldest brewery, having been in business since 1860. They offer brewery tours, tastings, and a gift shop where you can buy their famous beer.
Point of Interest: In addition to the brewery, New Ulm has the August Schell Museum of Brewing, where you can learn more about the town's brewery history and sample some of their lesser-known beers.
By choosing any of the five points of interest mentioned above, you'll have an endless supply of fun and memories. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and explore the hidden gems of the Midwest.