Points of Interest between Cloquet, Minnesota to Cottage Grove, Minnesota

picture of Cloquet, Minnesota

Exploring the Best of Minnesota: Top Five Popular Attractions

If you're planning a road trip between Cloquet and Cottage Grove in Minnesota, get ready for an adventure filled with charming towns, beautiful landscapes, and fascinating attractions. From one-of-a-kind museums to stunning natural wonders, there's something for everyone to enjoy along this scenic route.

The trip between Cloquet and Cottage Grove covers approximately 200 miles, taking you through picturesque small towns, lush forests, and rolling hills. One of the must-see spots along the way is Rock Creek, MN, the halfway point of your journey. This quaint little town offers a chance to stretch your legs, grab a bite to eat, and soak in the peaceful surroundings before continuing on your adventure.

Top Five Places to See List

  1. Jay Cooke State Park Make a stop at Jay Cooke State Park to experience the breathtaking beauty of the St. Louis River, which winds its way through rocky gorges and lush forests. Hike along the stunning trails, marvel at the historic swinging bridge, and take in the majestic views of the river and its surrounding landscape. This is a nature lover's paradise not to be missed.

  2. St. Croix National Scenic Riverway As you continue your journey, be sure to visit the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, where the St. Croix and Namekagon Rivers flow through a pristine and protected landscape. Enjoy a leisurely boat ride, go fishing, or simply relax and take in the serene beauty of this designated Wild and Scenic Riverway.

  3. Franconia Sculpture Park Art enthusiasts won't want to miss the opportunity to explore the Franconia Sculpture Park, where over 120 contemporary sculptures are spread across 43 acres of land. This outdoor museum showcases a diverse range of artworks created by emerging and established artists, providing an immersive and thought-provoking experience for all visitors.

  4. Minnesota Marine Art Museum Make a stop in Winona to visit the Minnesota Marine Art Museum, home to an impressive collection of over 1,000 paintings, photographs, and sculptures celebrating the beauty of marine and maritime art. From classic masterpieces to modern works, this museum offers a unique and enriching cultural experience.

  5. Carpenter St. Croix Valley Nature Center Conclude your journey by exploring the Carpenter St. Croix Valley Nature Center, where 425 acres of prairies, woodlands, and wetlands await. Take a leisurely walk, observe the diverse wildlife, and learn about the importance of environmental conservation in this beautiful and educational setting.

After exploring these top attractions, you'll have experienced a diverse range of Minnesota's natural, artistic, and historical treasures. As you head towards Cottage Grove, take the time to enjoy the picturesque countryside and charming towns that make this route a memorable journey for all travelers.

In conclusion, the best route for this trip is to take Interstate 35 South from Cloquet, passing through the beautiful landscapes of eastern Minnesota, and eventually reaching Cottage Grove. Along the way, be sure to make stops at Rock Creek, Jay Cooke State Park, the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, Franconia Sculpture Park, the Minnesota Marine Art Museum, and the Carpenter St. Croix Valley Nature Center. Each of these attractions offers a unique and enriching experience that will make your road trip between Cloquet and Cottage Grove an unforgettable adventure.