I-94 in Minnesota is one of the most popular freeways in the state. You might be heading east on your way to Wisconsin, making your way west to North Dakota, visiting the Twin Cities, or on your way to a lake out west. In any of these cases, Interstate 94 is involved! A likely road trip companion while exploring Minnesota, there are a ton of places to stop and enjoy your drive along the way.
I-94 is 259 miles east-west right through the central part of Minnesota. It runs through both Minneapolis and St. Paul, as well as up to Fergus Falls and across to Hastings.
Road Trip Stops Off I-94 in MN
Willow River State Park
Hudson, WI
Okay, yes I know. This isn’t Minnesota. But it’s so dang close and so dang cool that I am going to claim it as a Minnesota thing to do! Willow River State Park is one of the most fun state parks in the Midwest. They have a ton of different hiking paths, places to kayak, and also a series of waterfalls where you can actually get in, wade in the water, and go underneath. If you haven’t been here yet, make it a priority!
For all of the information, read Day Trip to Willow River State Park.
Rice Park
St. Paul
Located right in the heart and soul of Downtown St. Paul, Rice Park features sculptures of characters from the Peanuts cartoons, a fountain, a bandstand for music in the park during warmer months, and an ice-rink during the colder ones. Rice Park is located at 4th St and Washington St and sits along the Mississippi River. There is a pathway between eight different significant buildings which makes for a great place to get out, stretch your legs, and take in a little bit of St. Paul!
BONUS: Add to your St. Paul vibes by heading over to Cafe Astoria (less than a mile from the park) to experience one of the best-known coffee shops in the Twin Cities. Their drinks and food are pure artwork and taste as delicious as they look.
The Gnome Pub
St. Paul
If you’re looking for a place to pull off and grab some cold beverages, I recommend The Gnome Pub. Located right off 94, its been recently renovated under new ownership. The bar has over 100 beers on tap, an impressive patio space (heaters, fireplace, benches, hammock chairs, and giant trees), and indoor areas that includes two bars, a lounge, and a game room. This is the perfect place to stop for a bite to eat and a beer.
Code Blu Coffee
Minneapolis
I could not leave this one off the list. This is definitely a lesser-known coffee shop in Minneapolis and I have no idea why. Code Blu Coffee is right off I-94 in Minnesota and you will be so happy you stopped here! A small space packed with a big punch. Their beans are roasted in-house, the baristas are beyond friendly and parking is easy-breezy. Their Honey Oat Milk Latte is delicious and don’t forget a tasty treat to go with it.
Pizza Luce
Minneapolis
Pizza Luce never disappoints and is worth every single penny. This is my go-to spot when we order pizza. It’s not paper thin but also not too thick. Their sausage is my fav. And the sauce is perfection. It’s a casual environment and their menu includes both classic and creative pizzas along with sandwiches and pasta. As far as recommendations, I can’t share enough! The Luce is what started the business so you can’t go wrong! If you don’t eat meat, the Wild Mushroom is next-level. Grab the Beef Italiano if you are going with a sandwich–complete with spicy giardiniera vegetables. And the Greek Salad if you’re looking to add some veggies to the mix!
Sculpture Garden
Minneapolis
This is a really cool spot to explore when it’s a nice day. An 11-acre park across the Walker Art Center that is completely free and packed with local art and sculptures. The Minneapolis Sculpture Garden has walking paths, 60+ sculptures, views of the skyline, and places to take iconic Minnesota photos–including the cherry in the spoon. Millions of locals and tourists flock to the Sculpture Garden to enjoy the city and admire the grounds. Make sure to pull off of I-94 in Minnesota next time you’re in the area!
From here, I-94 in Minnesota starts taking you north along the Mississippi River and then eventually starts to head back west and out of the Twin Cities area. Fear not, there are still a lot of quality road trip stops. Which brings us to…
Albertville Outlets
Albertville
If you need to get some shopping done, pull off and hit the outlet mall. Who doesn’t love walking around an outlet mall finding brand names on the cheap? Okay, I’ll admit that I need to be in the right mood for this kind of thing, but it’s available if you’re looking for it! The Albertville Premium Outlet Mall includes Lululemon, Nike, Lucky, The North Face, Ugg, Kate Spade, and a whole lot more. Pull off when cruising on I-94 and find yourself some deals!
Lake Maria State Park
MONTICELLO
Check a state park off your list while cruising along I-94 in Minnesota! Lake Maria State Park is a great stop if you are craving some nature. Get out into the woods and enjoy the landscape complete with hills, trees, and a few lakes. There is also camping and cabins here so if you’re looking for an overnight, this is a great place to do it!
Quarry Park & Nature Reserve
St. Cloud
Another spot just a bit farther along I-94 in Minnesota is Quarry Park which is great for some Minnesota hiking. A hidden gem, Quarry Park offers a ton of activities in any season. Make sure to hike, explore the quarries (they are deep!), and enjoy the views. There are two spots designated for swimming–one is a 116 ft deep quarry with high rock formations and the other is 40 ft deep with a sandy beach. Crazy! There are also areas designated for rock climbing, cross country skiing (with lights for the night time), fat tire biking, fishing, and even scuba diving!
Note: there is a $5.00 daily pass fee to enter the park. All of the money is used to maintain the facilities.
Lakes—You’ve Got Options
Alexandria
Minnesota is the Land of 10,000 lakes and this area surely helps boost that number; check out the map. There are lakes on lakes and if you are ready for a swim or a little relaxation at the beach, pull off and enjoy one of your many options. Here are a few:
- Visit Lake Miltona: near downtown Alexandria with a pristine sandy beach.
- Relax at Lake Latoka: another sandy beach perfect for kids.
- Enjoy Lake Le Homme Dieu: two sandy beaches to choose from.
Mabel Murphy’s
Fergus Falls
Ready for another beer? You made it to Fergus Falls so why not stop right off I-94 in Minnesota and hit Mabel Murphy’s, an Irish eatery and bar that has a rustic vibe. Not only are there bar food options, but fine dining including steak, seafood, and pasta. They do pull tabs, live trivia nights, karaoke, and darts. It’s the perfect road trip break!
Don’t forget Fargo, North Dakota
Fargo
Since we started with one that was technically in Wisconsin, I’ll end with one in North Dakota. And full disclaimer: I’ve never been here! But it’s on my list. And who would want to drive right through when you’re on I-94 in Minnesota? Hopefully, I make it here soon to give you my recommendation, but in the meantime, let me know yours in the comments!
I-94 in Minnesota
Road trips don’t need to be boring from one destination to the next. Make note of these great stops along I-94 in Minnesota for your next trip. What are your I-94 must stops?
And don’t miss the Ultimate Guide to Road Trip Stops Off I-35 in Minnesota for everything going north and south!
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