Road Trip USA | Milwaukee to Minneapolis

There’s 337 miles of highway between Milwaukee, Wisconsin and Minneapolis, Minnesota. And whether you’re taking your time or whizzing from Point A to Point B, that stretch of I-94 is perfect for your next road trip. We made a handy travel itinerary for you. The next time you drive from Milwaukee to Minneapolis, check out these memorable spots along the way.

Road Trip Stop #1: Feed animals at the Concord Zoo

Thirty minutes outside Milwaukee, right off the highway behind the Concord General Store, road trippers will find the charming Concord Zoo. Goats, pigs, mini-horses, alpacas and more are there for your viewing (and petting) pleasure. The General Store has jumbo-sized carrots that you can feed some of the animals. (And better yet: the zoo is free!)

Road Trip Stop #2: Grab lunch in Madison

Don’t drive on an empty stomach. Instead, take a break in Madison, Wisconsin. The city, best known for its University (go Badgers), is also a culinary hotspot. Marie’s Soul Food features some of Madison’s best home-cooking. And since you’re in cheese country, you might want to swing by the cheese monger Fromagination. If you’re craving sweets, visit Greenbush Bakery and snag some donuts for the road — their sour cream donuts come highly recommended. Madison’s most prestigious restaurant, L’Etoile, is run by a James Beard Award-winning chef, and is a stellar option if you’re in Madison at dinnertime.

Book your stay at Best Western Premier Park Hotel.

Road Trip Stop #3: See Eau Claire’s many murals

Once you’ve left Madison, you’ll drive a few hours before arriving in Eau Claire. Jam-packed with cool murals, the city is an outdoor art haven, and the perfect place to stretch your legs. Go for a walk downtown and enjoy its eye-popping mural tour.

Book your stay at Best Western Plus Eau Claire Conference Center.

Road Trip Stop #4: Enjoy nature in Willow River State Park

You’ve almost made it to Minneapolis! But every road trip should include communing with nature. We recommend Willow River State Park, near the Wisconsin and Minnesota border. The sprawling park covers nearly 3,000 acres, plenty of space for all kinds of outdoor adventures: swimming, fishing, hiking, camping, and inspiring views of Willow Falls and the Willow River Gorge.

Road Trip Stop #5: Frederick R. Weisman Art Museum

With mammoth metal panels that collide like a Picasso painting, the Weisman Museum is as breathtaking outside as it is inside, thanks to legendary architect Frank Gehry. Its collection includes some 20,000 pieces of art, and is a true artistic beacon of the Midwest. Take in the beautiful sights, decompress, and reflect on your legendary road trip.
And when you’re ready to fully relax, start your stay Best Western Normandy Suites. You’ve earned it! We hope this trip is one for the books.

The Great Lakes region is one of America’s finest. Learn more about travel opportunities in Wisconsin, as well as all the memorable spots to visit in Minnesota. Our lowest rates are guaranteed when you book direct at bestwestern.com.