Whether you are driving from Minneapolis to the North Shore, the Twin Cities to Duluth, or all the way to Texas, you are spending most of your time on I-35—one of the most popular freeways in Minnesota and a companion on many road trips. Though a lot of the drive on I-35 in Minnesota can be “boring” and full of farms and fields, there are stops along the way that you don’t want to miss.
The list starts all the way up in Duluth and continues until we hit Iowa. Note: I-35 splits into two (35W and 35E) from Forest Lake to Burnsville (Twin Cities), but ultimately connects back to one. A few places on the list are within the split and noted below.
Road Trip Stops on I-35 in Minnesota
Aerial Lift Bridge
Duluth
Starting up in Duluth, the Aerial Lift Bridge is an iconic sight to see. Built (originally) in 1905, and located on Lake Ave., people flock to catch a glimpse, walk across, and better yet, watch the bridge lift and lower. The massive Aerial Lift Bridge spans the canal entrance to Duluth Harbor. Check it out and snap some photos!
More in Duluth, Minnesota
You could spend days in Duluth, Minnesota before running out of things to do. But if you need a quick stop, a chance to stretch your legs, or a cold beverage, there are plenty of options.
- Enger Tower: climb up the 80-foot (five-story) stone observation tower that sits atop Enger Hill in Duluth. You will get some incredible views!
- Breweries: there is no shortage of places to stop for a craft beer in Duluth. Solid options are Bent Paddle Brewing Co., Hoops Brewing Co., or Fitger’s Brewhouse.
- Hikes: There is a ton of great hiking in Duluth. Check out some of the best trails here.
Black Bear Casino
Carlton
Time to test your luck! A little over 20 miles south of Duluth is Black Bear Casino Resort. There are hotels, a golf course, dining options including a steakhouse, buffet, deli, bar, and coffee shop, and of course, a large space with slots, blackjack, poker, and more. Stop in for a quick hand or spend the night!
Jay Cooke State Park
Cloquet
One of the most scenic state parks in Minnesota. Jay Cooke State Park views are incredible any time of year. I highly recommend September-October for all of the pretty colors and/or in the wintertime which is gorgeous with fewer people—it’s one of the top 10 most visited state parks in the state. Make sure you don’t miss the swinging bridge (it’s not far from the parking lot) or meandering around the rocky river gorge below.
Banning State Park
Sandstone
Another state park can be checked off your list while cruising down (or up!) I-35 in Minnesota. A bit lesser known than others in the state, Banning State Park is beautifully located along Kettle River and includes hiking trails, a waterfall, and activities like river fishing and snowmobiling.
Tobies Restaurant & Bakery
Hinkley
Famous for a reason! Tobies, an iconic stop along I-35 in Minnesota, is a full bakery and restaurant that serves fresh pies, bread, and rolls, as well as homemade soups, 3-egg omelets, sandwiches, and pasta. No matter what time of day, stop here for something delicious to eat. And make sure to grab cinnamon rolls—again, no matter what time of day! It’s the perfect sweet treat.
More in Hinkley, Minnesota
- Hinkley is also home to Grand Casino Hinkley where you can roll the dice and try to boost that road trip fund.
Froggy’s
Pine City
I had to throw a quality dive bar into the mix. If you’ve been driving just a little too long and are getting antsy, exit in Pine City and fuel up on bar food and beer at Froggy’s. There’s a jukebox and a pool table, too, if you’re really trying to have a good time. Drink responsibly!
Running Aces Casino
Columbus (Forest Lake)
Apparently a lot of places to flush your money down the toilet while driving I- 35 in Minnesota. LOL jk. Get out of the car and double your money at Running Aces! They even have seasonal horse races (as well as corgi and bulldog races lol). Plus, this place actually has some really good food! There are a bunch of cuisine options and the pho is always a good choice.
Young Joni
Minneapolis (I-35W)
If you don’t feel like eating at a casino, no worries. Just 35 minutes south as you enter the city, you can grab some of the best pizza (and other options like chicken wings and short ribs) at Young Joni. I love this place and can’t say enough about it. Dark ambiance, both traditional and more off-the-wall pizza options, and even cookies and milk for dessert. Don’t miss it!
Stone Arch Bridge
Minneapolis (I-35W)
One of the best views of Minneapolis…maybe #1! As you pass through the cities, make sure to get out and admire the Stone Arch Bridge, one of Minnesota’s most iconic destinations. The perfect place to walk around and stretch your legs! You’ll get views of the cityscape and St. Anthony Falls.
Mall of America
Bloomington
Okay, so it’s not technically right off I-35W, but only 5 minutes off of it and seems big enough (literally) to add to the list. Now, I’ll be real. I avoid Mall of America like the plague. That said, I have lived here most of my life. I’ve been there, done that 10+ times. Is it worth it just to experience it? Absolutely. Any store you can think of, you can visit. Plus, there are bars, restaurants, and even an amusement park. Don’t miss the Log Chute!
Once you leave Bloomington headed south, it’s pretty much a whole lot of nothing—as far as quality stops are concerned. There are bigger suburbs like Burnsville and Lakeville, but hold tight until you get to Northfield.
Froggy Bottoms PaDio
Northfield
You gotta stop in this quaint little college town. Northfield, Minnesota is one of the most underrated cities in the entire state. Here lives one of my favorite bars, Froggy Bottoms, with a lively outdoor space on the water. Their wings are great too so stop for apps & taps! And before or after your meal, take a stroll through downtown and some of the shops.
BONUS: A little bit farther east, you’ll find Red Barn Farm. I highly recommend this place! Made to order wood-fired pizza that uses fresh ingredients. It’s BYOB—both booze and blanket! And they even have a few farm animals to meet. Note: they are open May-October.
For a FULL rundown of this awesome area, read A Night in Northfield, Minnesota.
Crack of Dawn Bakery
Faribault
Faribault, Minnesota is another little gem that is often overlooked. And if you stopped at Tobies way up in Hinkley, make sure to stop at Crack of Dawn Bakery for the ultimate cinnamon roll taste test. I’ve had both and it’s honestly hard to say! But, I might say Crack of Dawn…
Read about more Things to Do in Faribault Minnesota.
Myre-Big Island State Park
Albert Lea
And lastly, just before you hit Iowa, sits Myre-Big Island State Park. There are hiking trails along Albert Lea Lake, a ton of camping/RV sites plus picnic tables and group center. Check off a Minnesota State Park and stretch your legs.
I-35 in Minnesota
Road trips don’t need to be boring from one destination to the next. Make note of these great stops along I-35 in Minnesota for your next trip. What are your I-35 must stops?
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