Stops Worth Slowing Down For From Duluth to Minneapolis/St. Paul

If you’ve ever driven the familiar stretch of I-35 between Duluth and Minneapolis/St. Paul, chances are you’ve zoomed right past some incredible places without even knowing it. But tucked along this well-traveled route you’ll find surprising museums, rugged state parks, cozy cafés, and rich Minnesota history.

I grew up in Duluth so I’ve driven this route countless times over the years – not only when I lived in Duluth but since moving to the Twin Cities, my family and I have driven back to Duluth to visit family and friends.

On one of our drives, we took the time to stop a few places — and we were so glad we did.

Note: Some of these stops are along Old Highway 61 which runs parallel to I-35, intersecting it at times.

Here are some unforgettable stops along I-35 that are worth the detour (and absolutely photo-worthy!):

🍬 Sweet Kismet Candy Store – Carlton

Just off I-35 near Cloquet (across the highway from Black Bear Casino), Sweet Kismet Candy Store in Carlton is a delightful surprise that’s well worth the stop. Inside, you’ll find walls of colorful candy, from old-school classics to modern treats, plus nostalgic toys, gifts, and handmade fudge. The shop has a cozy, small-town feel and makes for a perfect stop to stretch your legs — and load up on road trip snacks! Kids (and adults!) will love the vintage vibe and giant candy selection.

🏛️ Pine County History Museum – Askov

You’d never guess it from the outside — it’s just a humble school building along the road — but the Pine County History Museum is bursting with charm and quirky treasures!

Inside this former high school, you’ll find an ever-growing collection of local history spread across dozens of themed rooms:

✈️ A Wright Brothers Flyer replica (yes, really — right in the gym!)
🚗 A car covered entirely in wood (what!?)
🚂 A detailed model railroad display that maps out Pine County town-by-town, with a seasonal landscape and a train circling the ceiling

🎶 Rooms filled with old pianos, spinning wheels, and hand-crafted items
🪖 A military exhibit honoring Pine County veterans from WWI through Desert Storm
🪆 An entire classroom dedicated to antique dolls, including an 1850 doll and buggy

We grabbed lunch at the Little Mermaid Café inside — a cozy spot with surprisingly good food and a nod to Askov’s Danish roots (you’ll notice bilingual street signs in town, too). It’s fun, nostalgic, and full of surprises at every turn.

The Pine County History Museum also has a one-of-a-kind Antique & Gift Shop as well as a seasonal Thrift Store right across the street, open May-October, Saturdays 9-4!

🔥 Hinckley Fire Museum – Hinckley

A short drive south on I-35 brings you to the Hinckley Fire Museum, which tells the powerful story of the Great Hinckley Fire of 1894 — a catastrophic event that changed the landscape and lives of thousands.

The museum is housed in the town’s restored train depot and offers moving exhibits, survivor stories, and historical artifacts that bring the fire’s impact into sharp focus. It’s sobering and informative — and essential Minnesota history.

Give your family some time here and be sure to start with the movie.

🏞️ Banning State Park – Sandstone

Ready to stretch your legs? Banning State Park is one of those parks that feels rugged, wild, and untouched — yet it’s just minutes off the freeway.

Here, the Kettle River carves through sandstone cliffs, creating scenic views, waterfalls, and excellent hiking trails. Whether you’re after a quick walk or a longer adventure, it’s the perfect nature break in any season.

(Frugal Tip: There are several FREE state park admission days in Minnesota each year. Plan a visit on one of those days!)

🪶 Snake River Fur Post – Pine City

History comes alive at the Snake River Fur Post, a recreated North West Company trading post that takes you back to 1804.

We joined a guided tour that was hands-on and interactive — great for kids and adults alike. From fur pelts and trade goods to the reconstructed buildings, it’s one of the most immersive historic experiences we’ve had in Minnesota.

Tip: Check their hours before you go as they’re only open seasonally.

🍳 Whistle Stop Café – Hinckley

Small-town charm and solid comfort food? Yes, please. We stopped at the Whistle Stop Café in Hinckley for breakfast and were greeted with warm service and classic diner fare.

It’s the kind of spot where you can enjoy a big breakfast (we definitely had plenty!), grab a slice of pie, or just relax over coffee before heading back on the road.

🥧 Tobies Restaurant & Bakery – Hinckley

Of course, no I-35 road trip is complete without a stop at Tobies. This Minnesota institution has been serving travelers since 1948, and it never disappoints.

Since growing up in Duluth I’ve stopped here countless times over the years, and it’s always worth it — whether for a hearty meal, a cinnamon roll the size of your head, or something sweet from their legendary bakery. The caramel rolls and pies are as good as they say (and we’ve got the crumbs to prove it lol).

Oh, and don’t miss the ice cream (open seasonally)!

🍔 A&W Drive-In – Pine City

If you’re craving a bit of nostalgia, don’t miss the A&W Drive-In in Pine City — one of the last remaining carhop-style A&Ws in Minnesota. Pull in, turn on your headlights, and a server will come right to your car, just like the good old days. The classic root beer floats, cheeseburgers, and crinkle-cut fries taste even better with a side of retro charm. It’s a fun, family-friendly stop that feels like a step back in time — perfect for a treat before hitting the road again.

Though we ate inside, my favorite part was the classic root beer in a mug!

🐉 Cedar Park Dragon Playground – Forest Lake

Just before reaching the Twin Cities, make one last fun stop at Cedar Park in Forest Lake, home to a giant dragon sculpture that doubles as a playground!

Kids can literally climb inside and get “eaten” by a dragon — and it makes for fantastic photo ops. With slides, swings, and open green space, it’s a great place to burn off some road trip energy before heading into the city. A magical and unexpected roadside surprise!

Here’s an interactive map of these places!

📸 Final Thoughts

Whether you’re heading north to Duluth or south to the Twin Cities, take the scenic approach and give yourself permission to explore. Interstate 35 is full of hidden gems, and a few extra stops along the way turn a simple drive into a real adventure.

All photos in this post are from our trips — hope they inspire your own!

Have you stopped at any of these places? Drop your favorite I-35 finds in the comments!

Where to Stay?

If you’re staying overnight in the area, I recommend the Grand Hinckley Inn. We stayed there. It has nice rooms and a pool. Plus it’s right next to Grand Casino Hinckley. (Note: Grand Hinckley Inn is closed Mondays to Wednesdays.)

Special Note:

Pinehaven Farm in Wyoming, MN is along the way and is a great place to visit in the fall! Be sure to subscribe to my email newsletter for discounts there closer to fall.

And of course, I have to include Duluth and the Twin Cities in this post.

Heading to Duluth? Read my guide, “Ten Ways to Enjoy Duluth on a Budget.”

And I include so much more of Minnesota in my guide: “The Ultimate List of Minnesota Family Fun”

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