Top Five Places to Visit on a Trip Between Chaska and Scandia

Do you love a road trip? Are you craving some adventure that's close to home? Look no further than a tour through the beautiful state of Minnesota! If you're planning a drive between Chaska and Scandia and want to make the most of it, check out these top five destinations that are sure to elevate your journey.

Exploring the Route

The drive from Chaska to Scandia is about an hour and a half long. Along the way, you'll pass through charming towns and scenic routes. Don't miss your midway point, St. Anthony, located roughly halfway between the two cities. This small neighborhood in the heart of Minneapolis is packed with shopping, bars, and restaurants that are worth a stop on your journey.

Top Five Places to Visit

1. The Landing Historic Landing and Pioneer Village
   The Landing is an open-air museum that takes visitors back in time to experience daily life from the 1840s to the 1890s in Minnesota. The site has several buildings and artifacts that replicate the time period, as well as interpreters who bring history to life with their costumes and storytelling. As you walk through the grounds, you'll learn about the early settlers of Minnesota, including immigrants and native people. Don't miss the popular schoolhouse where kids and adults alike can participate in a one-room school lesson.

2. Minnesota Landscape Arboretum Nature Preserve and Garden
   Located in Chaska, the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum is a beautiful destination to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The arboretum offers guided tours and educational exhibits and events that showcase the natural beauty of Minnesota. Take a walk through the gardens, which include over 5,000 plant species, or explore the woods, where trails lead to scenic overlooks of the surrounding prairie. Don't forget your camera – this park is a photographer's dream.

3. Franconia Sculpture Park Outdoor Art Museum If you're looking for something a little more unique to make your journey memorable, take a detour to Franconia Sculpture Park in Shafer. The park is home to over 100 sculptures on a sprawling 43-acre property. Each year, the park hosts a variety of rotating exhibits, making every visit different. You can walk through the park and admire the art, or attend one of the events that take place throughout the year, including concerts and artist talks.

4. St. Croix Vineyards Winery and Vineyard Wine lovers, rejoice! Just outside of Stillwater is St. Croix Vineyards, a family-owned winery that produces award-winning wines from over 20 different varieties of grapes grown on-site. You can take a tour of the vineyards and production facility, then relax on the outdoor deck with a glass of their signature raspberry-infused wine. If you visit during the autumn months, you can participate in a grape stomp and crush your grapes to make your wine.

5. William O'Brien State Park Nature Reserve Last but certainly not least is William O'Brien State Park in Marine on St. Croix. This park is perfect for nature lovers of all ages, with hiking trails, birdwatching, and picnicking all available. Take in the stunning views of the St. Croix River from one of the lookout points, or explore the marshes and prairies that make up the diverse landscaping. Bring your camping gear if you want to stay overnight in one of the park's camping sites, or just stop in for a picnic lunch on your journey.

Final Thoughts

A road trip is all about the journey, not just the destination. By incorporating these five Top Places to Visit on a Trip Between Chaska and Scandia, you'll make memories that last a lifetime. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or wine, there's something on this tour for everyone. So grab some snacks, fill up your gas tank, and hit the road – your adventure awaits!