Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Champlin, Minnesota and North St. Paul, Minnesota
Planning a road trip from Champlin, Minnesota to North St. Paul, Minnesota? Look no further for the best attractions to visit, as this article provides a detailed guide to the top five things to do on your road trip. Along the way, travelers will experience the best that Minnesota has to offer from breath-taking natural scenery to interesting and informative cultural sites.
The total distance from Champlin to North St. Paul is approximately 30 miles, which is an estimated 45-minute drive without traffic. The halfway point of the trip is Circle Pines, MN, a small city known for its wealth of green spaces and hiking trails. From the Circle Pines, MN landmark, the journey continues to North St. Paul, where visitors can look forward to exploring its unique cultural attractions.
1. Visit The Anoka County Historical Society and Lyric Arts Main Street Stage
One of the most popular attractions to check out on a road trip from Champlin to North St. Paul is the Anoka County Historical Society in Anoka, MN. The Anoka County Historical Society preserves and shares the historical artifacts and stories of Anoka County. It has numerous exhibits that will keep visitors entertained while educating them about the history of the region. The organization's mission is to engage with the community and educate people about Anoka County's history. For theater lovers, the Lyric Arts Main Street Stage in Anoka offers a unique experience that combines the history of Anoka and live theater. They provide top-notch productions throughout the year and a holiday celebration that includes a classic play. The Lyric Arts Main Street Stage is a must-visit location for any theater enthusiast.
Interesting Fact: Anoka was the first U.S. city to celebrate Halloween, dating back to 1920.
2. Check out the Elm Creek Park Reserve
Elm Creek Park Reserve is the largest park in the Three Rivers Park District with miles of trails and cross-country skiing paths. It is a must-see attraction on your journey from Champlin to North St. Paul. Elm Creek Park Reserve has something for everyone, including a beach, swimming pool, disc golf courses, nature and cultural centers, wildlife exhibits, and even a maple syrup operation. Visitors can enjoy a lovely walk among the trees and even have a picnic with a picturesque view.
Interesting Fact: Elm Creek Park Reserve is the quietest park in the district, with limited human-made noise pollution, making it a totally natural experience.
3. Explore The Minnesota State Capitol
The Minnesota State Capitol is considered one of the most beautiful in the country, with an eye-catching dome surrounded by a bearded gilded Atlas called the Quadriga, a sculpture representing progress of civilization. Visitors can experience the magnificence of the building at any time of the year. A guided tour will give them an in-depth understanding of the Capitol's architecture, including the exterior, chambers, and artwork. The Minnesota State Capitol's artwork features a lot of gold, celebrating the state's prosperity and fortune.
Interesting Fact: The building is made from materials native to Minnesota, except for one notable exception. The exterior dome is coated with Renaissance Revival style terra cotta tiles from Ohio.
4. Walk through the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory
The Como Park Zoo and Conservatory in St. Paul is one of the oldest parks in the Twin Cities, with a zoo, conservatory, and serene gardens. Visitors can experience the Masai giraffe, gorillas, snow leopards, sea lions, tigers, and more at the zoo. The conservatory and gardens offer beautiful landscapes with exotic plants and flowers. It has something for everyone: families with children, animal lovers, nature admirers, or just someone looking for a rejuvenating and peaceful environment.
Interesting Fact: The Como Park Zoo and Conservatory was created as a streetcar destination for the public to enjoy Minnesota's natural beauty.
5. Visit The Fitzgerald Theater
The Fitzgerald Theater is a must-visit spot for music fans, as Minnesotans honors this historic venue as the home of live radio music shows, including the famous show, "A Prairie Home Companion." The Fitzgerald Theater has undergone some significant changes but retains its historical ambiance. Visitors to the theater can feel like they have taken a journey back in time to experience what it felt like to witness the live performances of the 30s and 40s.
Interesting Fact: The Fitzgerald Theater has remained active for over a century since its inception in 1910 and is regarded as Minnesota's oldest theater.
Conclusion
Visitors embarking on a road trip from Champlin to North St. Paul should expect stunning natural views, rich history, and diverse cultural experiences. A 30-mile drive to North St. Paul offers an unforgettable mix of adventure and fun. The trip can take as little as 45 minutes to an hour, with many attractions to visit along the way. Experience the sweetness of nature at Elm Creek Park Reserve; take in the historical exhibits at Anoka County Historical Society, Lyric Arts Main Stage Theater, and the Minnesota State Capitol, and explore the Como Park Conservatory and Zoo. Finish the journey in grand style by attending a live show at the historic Fitzgerald Theater, ensuring that the adventure concludes with lifelong memories.