Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chicago, Illinois to Ramsey, Minnesota

Are you tired of the same old road trip routes? Do you want to add some unexpected stops and unique experiences to your next road trip? Look no further than a drive from Chicago, Illinois to Ramsey, Minnesota. This route is approximately 420 miles and takes just under seven hours. Along the way, there are plenty of hidden gems to explore.

Halfway Point: Mauston, WI

Before diving into the unexpected places to stop on this road trip, it's important to mention the halfway point – Mauston, WI. Located about 210 miles into the journey, Mauston offers a variety of hotels, restaurants, and gas stations. It's the perfect spot to take a break, stretch your legs, and grab a bite to eat before continuing on.

Now, without further ado, here are five unexpected places to stop on a drive from Chicago, Illinois to Ramsey, Minnesota:

1. House on the Rock (Spring Green, WI)

House on the Rock is a bizarre and fascinating attraction that has to be seen to be believed. Located about two hours into the drive, this unique museum features collections of art, antiques, and oddities. Visitors can explore room after room of strange and beautiful displays such as a massive whale sculpture, a room filled with automatons, and an infinity room with a never-ending floor. There is even a carousel with over 20,000 lights and 269 animals, some of which are mythical creatures.

Must-try food: Cheese curds from the on-site restaurant.

2. Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum (Pepin, WI)

Literature lovers and history buffs alike will appreciate a stop at the Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum in Pepin, WI. This museum celebrates the life and legacy of author Laura Ingalls Wilder, who wrote the beloved Little House on the Prairie series. Visitors can see some of the real-life locations and artifacts that inspired the books, such as a replica of the Little House in the Big Woods, the dresses Laura and her sister Mary wore, and a quilt made by Laura's mother.

Must-try food: Homemade pie from the bakery across the street.

3. SPAM Museum (Austin, MN)

SPAM is one of those foods that people either love or hate, but regardless of your feelings on the canned meat product, the SPAM Museum in Austin, MN is worth a visit. This museum explores the history and culture of SPAM, which has been produced by Hormel Foods in Austin since 1937. Exhibits include a SPAM-themed grocery store, a World War II exhibit featuring SPAM's role in feeding soldiers, and a Hormel Foods trivia game.

Must-try food: A SPAM burger from the on-site café.

4. Mary Tyler Moore Statue (Minneapolis, MN)

Fans of the classic TV show The Mary Tyler Moore Show will recognize this iconic statue of Mary Richards tossing her hat into the air from the show's opening credits. The statue is located on Nicollet Mall in downtown Minneapolis, about an hour from Ramsey. It's a fun and quirky photo op that pays homage to a beloved TV show and its impact on pop culture.

Must-try food: A Juicy Lucy burger from Matt's Bar, a Minneapolis institution.

5. Franconia Sculpture Park (Shafer, MN)

Art lovers won't want to miss Franconia Sculpture Park, a free outdoor sculpture park located in Shafer, MN, just a short drive from Ramsey. The park features over 120 sculptures on 43 acres of land, and visitors are welcome to explore, take photos, and even touch some of the works of art. The park also hosts artists-in-residence and offers educational programming.

Must-try food: A picnic lunch from the nearby Chucker's Café.

Conclusion

If you're looking for a road trip with a little bit of everything – quirky museums, literary history, pop culture landmarks, delicious food, and beautiful art – this drive from Chicago, Illinois to Ramsey, Minnesota is the perfect choice. With just a few hours of detours along the way, you can experience some unexpected and unforgettable stops. Don't miss out on these hidden gems – hit the road and embark on a journey full of surprises.