Top Places to See When Driving From Alabama to Minnesota
Planning a road trip from the warm and exciting state of Alabama to the cold and beautiful Minnesota? Look forward to visiting various states with stunning landscapes and attractions that will make your journey memorable. With different sites to choose from, you might feel overwhelmed. But don't worry; we've compiled a list of must-see landmarks and. Read further to see the top places to visit.
Natural Wonders
Memphis Botanic Garden - Memphis, Tennessee
Traveling to Tennessee, you must visit the Memphis Botanic Garden. The garden covers 96 acres and features different themes, including Japanese, herb, and rose gardens. The environment is serene and calming, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and those looking to relax.
The Nature Interpretive Center located at the entrance has indoor exhibits portraying ways in which humans and nature work together. You can also get a guided tour to enrich your experience. It's an excellent spot to grab a snack, a beverage, or picnic while admiring the beautiful surrounding landscapes.
Gateway Arch - St. Louis, Missouri
Arriving in the state of Missouri, the Gateway Arch is a site you don't want to miss. It's a 630-foot monument in downtown St. Louis and represents the country's expansion to the west. Built-in 1965, it hosts over two million visitors yearly, making it one of the most visited landmarks. Take a ride up and enjoy the dazzling view of St. Louis from the top.
The interior has a museum where you learn about the expansion and diversification of America to its present state. The park's landscape includes 91 acres with different activities for visitors, including hiking, biking, picnicking, and fishing.
Badlands National Park - South Dakota
The Badlands National Park is one of the most stunning natural sites in America, with striking age landscapes and dramatic rock formations. Located in South Dakota, it covers 244,000 acres of grasslands, rugged terrains, and striking flaxen-hued rock formations.
The park has several trails that will make your visit unforgettable, like the Castle Trail, the Notch Trail, and the Pinnacles Overnight Trail. You can also partake in activities like camping, backpacking, bird watching, and stargazing. During hikes, you may spot some wildlife like bison, bighorn sheep, and pronghorns.
Historical Sites
Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park - Atlanta, Georgia
The Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park is located in Atlanta and is dedicated to the late Martin Luther King Jr. The Park covers over 30 acres, including important landmarks such as King's birth home, church, and gravesite. The Park's main attraction is King's monument and tomb, which symbolizes his mission for freedom, equality, and peace.
The museum has exhibitions and historical artifacts about king's life and contributions to the Civil Rights Movement, which will enrich your experience. The park and museum are the perfect place for history enthusiasts of all ages and individuals who enjoy learning about significant historical events.
Mount Rushmore National Park - South Dakota
Mount Rushmore National Park is another impressive historical site and national monument located in South Dakota's Black Hills region. The site features a 60-foot carving of four significant US Presidents - George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, and Teddy Roosevelt - engineered by Gutzon Borglum.
The visitors' center exhibits different themes, including President's history, engineering, natural resources, and wildlife. You can also participate in activities like hiking, family programs, and ranger-led walks. The park is open year-round, but some facilities may be closed during the winter period.
Urban Attractions
The Mall of America - Bloomington, Minnesota
Make a stop at the Mall of America, located in the diverse city of Bloomington, Minnesota. It features over 500 stores, entertainment options, and attractions. It covers over 5.6 million square feet and is the biggest mall in America.
The facilities include an amusement park, aquarium, cinema, mini-golf, and many dining options and hotels. It's a fantastic spot for families to enjoy while on the road trip. You can also catch famous events and concerts hosted in the malls' theatres.
The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum - Nashville, Tennessee
Traveling to Tennessee, you must visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. The museum covers over 350 thousand square feet of engaging exhibits, featuring different instruments, costumes, records, and artifacts about country music's history.
The museum hosts various live performances, book discussions, and educational programs ideal for families. It's a perfect spot for music enthusiasts who want to learn about the evolution of country music while enjoying great performances.
Conclusion
On your road trip from Alabama to Minnesota, make sure to visit these must-see attractions. The diverse range of sites includes natural wonders, historical sites, and urban attractions that will make your trip unforgettable. From the breathtaking view of St Louis from the top of the Gateway Arch to the stunning landscapes of the Badlands National Park, these destinations will leave you yearning for more. Happy travels!