Roadtripping from Chicago, Illinois to Saint Paul, Minnesota

Are you ready for a road trip that will take you from the Windy City to the Land of 10,000 Lakes? Buckle up, because this journey will take you through beautiful countryside, charming towns, and vibrant cities. Let's explore the museums, parks, and landmarks that make this route a must-see.

Fun Fact: Did you know that the stretch of highway between Madison and La Crosse, Wisconsin is one of the most scenic drives in the Midwest? You'll see rolling hills, deep valleys, and stunning vistas that will take your breath away.

Halfway Point: If you need a break, stop at Lyndon Station, WI, where you can stretch your legs at the rest stop or grab a bite to eat at the nearby diner.

This road trip covers a distance of about 400 miles, depending on your route. With stops and attractions, the journey can take anywhere from 8-12 hours, so plan your time accordingly.

Here are the top five places you don't want to miss on this road trip:

1. Field Museum of Natural History, Chicago, IL One of the largest natural history museums in the world, the Field Museum boasts an impressive collection of fossils, artifacts, and specimens. From Sue, the famous T. rex, to mummies from ancient Egypt, you'll find something fascinating around every corner.

Point of Interest: While you're in Chicago, take a stroll down Michigan Avenue, also known as the Magnificent Mile. You'll find high-end shops, art galleries, and great restaurants.

2. Wisconsin Dells, WI Known as the "Water Park Capital of the World," Wisconsin Dells is a fun-filled destination for families. With over 20 indoor and outdoor water parks, you can slide, splash, and swim year-round. But this town is not just about water parks - you can also explore scenic hiking trails, go on a boat tour of the Wisconsin River, or play mini-golf with kitschy landmarks like a giant dinosaur or a pirate ship.

Point of Interest: Don't miss the Tommy Bartlett Show, where water skiers and jetpack flyers perform daring stunts in front of an enthusiastic crowd.

3. Circus World Museum, Baraboo, WI Ever wonder what it was like to run away with the circus? At the Circus World Museum, you'll get a glimpse into the colorful history of the circus, complete with vintage wagons, costumes, and posters. You can even see live performances by acrobats, clowns, and animals in the summer months.

Point of Interest: If you're an animal lover, head to the nearby International Crane Foundation, where you can see the world's 15 species of cranes and learn about their conservation.

4. Mall of America, Bloomington, MN The Mall of America is not your average shopping mall - it's the largest mall in the United States, with over 500 stores and attractions. You can ride roller coasters at Nickelodeon Universe, explore the sea creatures at the SEA LIFE aquarium, or play a round of mini-golf at Moose Mountain Adventure Golf. And of course, there's plenty of shopping and dining options for everyone.

Point of Interest: If you're a Prince fan, make a pilgrimage to the nearby Paisley Park, the late musician's estate-turned-museum, where you can see his recording studio, stage costumes, and other memorabilia.

5. Como Park Zoo and Conservatory, Saint Paul, MN This beautiful park is home to a zoo, conservatory, and plenty of green space for picnicking and exploring. The zoo features a variety of animals from around the world, including giraffes, zebras, and polar bears. And the conservatory offers a tropical respite, with exotic plants and flowers.

Point of Interest: Right outside the park, you can visit the iconic Mickey's Diner, a 1930s-era diner that has been featured in movies and TV shows.

In conclusion, this road trip from Chicago to Saint Paul offers a diverse mix of attractions and scenery, from big cities to small towns to natural wonders. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or a thrill-seeker, there's something for everyone on this journey. So pack your bags, hit the road, and enjoy the ride!