Whether you go camping, visit grandma and grandpa, or explore new adventures, summertime is primetime for road trips.
And no trip would be complete without a pilgrimage to the array of larger-than-life, colorful characters and must-see stops Minnesota’s roads have sprinkled along the way.
Here are a few one-of-a-kind sights to take in on your next trip:
Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox - Bemidji, MN
Is there anything more Minnesotan than Paul Bunyan? After all, Paul and his blue friend are purported to be responsible for creating our 10,000+ lakes! Visiting these two in Bemidji is as Minnesotan an activity as going to the state fair, ice fishing, or baking a hot dish!
World’s Largest Ball of Twine - Darwin, MN
Minnesota has many things to brag about - including the World’s Largest Ball of Twine! The twine ball sits in a glass-wall enclosure. At a lean 9-tons and 12-foot-wide, you betcha you’ll want to stop and marvel at France A. Johnson’s 29-year project.
Otto the Otter - Fergus Falls
What’s the cutest Minnesota stop? You “otter” know it’s Otto the Otter! Standing at 15-feet tall and 40-feet wide, this Otter Tail County mascot is fur-real a must-see stop!
Pelican Pete - Pelican Rapids, MN
It’s very fitting that Pelican Rapids is home to the world’s largest pelican, Pelican Pete. Built to celebrate the anniversary of the town, the 15.5-foot-tall bird stands majestically over the rapids of the Pelican River.
Jolly Green Giant - Blue Earth, MN
Standing at a whopping 55 feet tall, the Jolly Green Giant certainly earns his name. Built to welcome travelers speeding along I-90, he’s the last “employee” of the once local Green Giant canning factory!