Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Champlin, Minnesota to Bethesda, Maryland

Driving from Champlin, Minnesota to Bethesda, Maryland is a journey that covers almost 1,200 miles and can take up to 18 hours of driving time. It can be a long but fun trip with breathtaking landscapes, numerous small towns, and roadside attractions along the way. This article will share five unexpected places to stop on a drive from Champlin, Minnesota to Bethesda, Maryland that you might never have discovered without reading this guide.

Halfway Point: Fremont, IN

Before we start exploring the unexpected places to visit on this journey, it's essential to mention the midway point between the two cities: Fremont, Indiana. Fremont is the perfect place to break the trip's monotony and stretch your legs. Fremont is a small town of just over 1,000 people, but it has everything you need after several hours of driving. There are gas stations, convenience stores, and places to eat, including Sassafras Tea Room, considered one of Fremont's best-kept secrets. This cozy and friendly restaurant is worth a visit for its variety of comfort food and delicious homemade pies.

Now, let's explore the five unexpected places that you should stop at during this drive.

1. Mitchell, SD - The Corn Palace

Approximately eight hours from Champlin, Minnesota, you will find The Corn Palace located in Mitchell, South Dakota. The Corn Palace is a historic building made entirely of corn (yes, you read that right). It's an attraction that dates back to the 19th century and hosts several events throughout the year. The exterior of the palace is decorated with colorful murals made out of corn, which are replaced annually to keep up their tradition. Inside, the building has a theater and a basketball court. The palace is free to visit, and it's a sight you won't forget. Be sure to try their delicious popcorn, which they make right on site.

2. Des Moines, IA - The Iowa State Fair

Des Moines, Iowa, is famous for hosting the Iowa State Fair every August. The fair draws close to one million visitors every year and is one of the largest state fairs in the United States. From concerts to carnival rides, to food-on-a-stick, the Iowa State Fair has something for everyone. It's a perfect pit stop for families and friends who want to have fun and explore Midwest culture. One of the most exciting things at the fair is the Butter Cow, a lifesize cow sculpted entirely out of butter. At the fair, be sure to try the famous pork chop on a stick.

3. Terre Haute, Indiana - The Clabber Girl Museum

Terre Haute, Indiana, is home to the iconic Clabber Girl brand, and you can learn all about it at the Clabber Girl Museum. It offers visitors a chance to peek into the production process of Clabber Girl's famous baking powder and other ingredients. The museum presents a history of the company, from the family that founded it to the current owners, what makes the area's air and water perfect for Clabber Girl's production. Along with the museum, there's a café that serves delicious baked goods like biscuits and gravy and the famous cheeseburger soup.

4. Cambridge, Ohio - The National Museum of Cambridge Glass

The National Museum of Cambridge Glass is located in Cambridge, Ohio. The museum houses an extensive collection of glassware that was produced by the Cambridge Glass Company from 1902 - 1954. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the museum and see beautiful glass creations like vases, bowls, tumblers, and plates. The museum also offers glass-blowing demonstrations that are sure to captivate you. While visiting, be sure to stop by the glass shop to buy a piece of history.

5. Falling Waters, West Virginia - The Frank Lloyd Wright House

Frank Lloyd Wright's masterpiece, Fallingwater, is located in southwestern Pennsylvania, close to the West Virginia border. The house is dubbed as one of the greatest achievements of American architecture. The house itself was built over a natural fall, which makes it seem like part of the surrounding environment. The house is now open for public tours and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It is an awe-inspiring place that will make you want to stay forever. While visiting, be sure to try the local West Virginia-style hot dogs.

Conclusion

The drive from Champlin, Minnesota, and Bethesda, Maryland, is much more than just a long road trip. From the Corn Palace in South Dakota to the Clabber Girl Museum in Indiana, you'll encounter a variety of unexpected places and experiences that make the journey worthwhile. Whether it's exploring Midwest culture at the Iowa State Fair, admiring beautiful glass creations in Cambridge, Ohio, or visiting the iconic Fallingwater House, you'll appreciate these unique destinations you might otherwise have missed. So pack up your car and hit the open road for an adventure of a lifetime!