Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chanhassen, Minnesota to New Richmond, Wisconsin

As the weather starts to warm up, many people begin to plan road trips to explore the beauty of the Midwest. One such road trip that is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories is the drive from Chanhassen, Minnesota, to New Richmond, Wisconsin. The route takes you through picturesque towns, scenic countryside, and rolling hills, making it a perfect trip for a weekend getaway. This article highlights five unexpected places to stop along the way, each with unique experiences that will make your trip worthwhile.

The journey from Chanhassen, Minnesota, to New Richmond, Wisconsin, is approximately 90 miles and takes about an hour and forty-five minutes. The drive takes you through the suburbs of the Twin Cities, past various fields and small towns. On the way, you will see several farms and beautiful countryside landscapes surrounded by lakes, forests, and fields. As you approach the halfway point, you will enter the city of Woodbury, located in the eastern part of the Twin Cities metro area. Here, you can take a short break and enjoy the many attractions and landmarks that Woodbury has to offer.

1. Woodbury, MN (Halfway Point)

Woodbury is a vibrant city that many travelers overlook, but it is worth a stop. The city is home to several beautiful parks, including the 38-acre Carver Lake Park, and the 40-acre Ojibway Park. The parks offer hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and fishing spots. Additionally, if you are a history buff, you can visit the Historic Pond House, a two-story farmhouse that was built in the 1800s. The Pond House is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and now serves as a museum. For those who love to shop, Woodbury has several malls and shopping districts, including the Woodbury Lakes, a popular outdoor shopping center housing more than 50 stores and restaurants.

Favorite food to eat in Woodbury: Try out the famous BBQ ribs at Famous Dave's.

2. Afton State Park, MN

Located on the banks of the St. Croix River, Afton State Park offers some of the most beautiful views in Minnesota. The park covers over 1,700 acres and is home to miles of hiking trails, wildlife, and scenic overlooks. The park also has a swimming beach, picnic area, and camping facilities. If you are looking for a place to relax and unwind, Afton State Park is the perfect spot.

Favorite food to eat at Afton State Park: Grab a picnic basket and enjoy the view with a baguette, cheese, and wine.

3. The Franconia Sculpture Park, MN

If you're looking for a unique stop on your road trip, the Franconia Sculpture Park in Franconia, MN, is a must-visit. Here, you can enjoy the beautiful outdoor museum that houses more than 100 sculptures made by artists from around the world. The park spans over 43 acres and includes hiking trails, picnic areas, and an artist residency program. Whether you're an art enthusiast or just looking for something out of the ordinary, the Franconia Sculpture Park is sure to leave an impression.

Favorite food to eat at Franconia Sculpture Park: Pack a picnic basket and enjoy the view with a sandwich or salad.

4. Willow River State Park, WI

As you cross the St. Croix River and enter Wisconsin, you'll find yourself in Willow River State Park. The park boasts of a beautiful waterfall, hiking trails, and picnic areas, making it the perfect spot to stop for a nature break. The park also has campsites for those who wish to extend their stay and enjoy the beauty of nature.

Favorite food to eat at Willow River State Park: Enjoy a nice picnic by the waterfall with sandwiches and some fresh fruit.

5. New Richmond Heritage Center, WI

As you draw closer to New Richmond, you'll come across the New Richmond Heritage Center, a unique spot that offers an insight into the city's history. The center features a museum, an exhibit hall, several historic buildings, and an amphitheater. The museum features the rich history of Wisconsin, and visitors can take a tour of the various buildings that offer an insight into the city's past.

Favorite food to eat at New Richmond Heritage Center: Enjoy the famous fried chicken at Table 65.

Conclusion

A road trip from Chanhassen, Minnesota, to New Richmond, Wisconsin, offers breathtaking scenery, natural wonders, and unique experiences that you won't find elsewhere. Whether you are a nature lover, an art enthusiast, or a history buff, this road trip has something for everyone. So, next time you plan a road trip in the Midwest, consider this route, and don't forget to stop at these extraordinary places along the way. We guarantee you won't regret it!