By Contributing Writer
Minnesota may not have big name attractions like neighboring South Dakota's Mount Rushmore, or Arizona's Grand Canyon. But what the state does have is lots of options for the traveler looking for quirky, offbeat, and interesting tourist stops. Here's some places that you may not have heard of, but are definitely worth checking out if you find yourself in the area.
World's Largest Ball of Twine
Darwin, Minnesota is a tiny town in central Minnesota along US Highway 12, but lays claim to something very big. It is home of the World's Largest Ball of Twine. The ball is over 12 feet in diameter and weighs over eight and a half tons. The ball of twine resides in a park at the center of town, where curious tourists can take pictures. The town holds a Twine Ball Festival every August.
World's Largest Ball of Twine
1st St., Darwin, MN
(320) 693-6651
Paul Bunyan's Birthplace
While Bangor, Maine sometimes claims to be the birthplace of the gigantic logging legend, his true hometown is in Akeley, Minnesota, the former home of the Red River Lumber Company who created the first Paul Bunyan stories for their company brochures.
Akeley continues to pay homage to the town's most resident with a 33-foot statue of Paul Bunyan kneeling on one knee. It is the largest statue of Bunyan in the state. Bunyan's hand is on the ground, palm up, allowing visitors to sit in his gigantic hand and have their picture taken.
Right next to the statue is Paul Bunyan's Cradle. The cradle is large enough for a group of people to stand in and get their picture taken.
Paul Bunyan Statue and Cradle
Broadway St, Akeley, MN
Niagara Cave
Niagara Cave in Harmony, Minnesota is one of Minnesota's most unique experiences. This underground features a 60-foot waterfall, as well as many fossils dating back millions of years. There is a guided tour of the cave that gives information on the history of the cave. It is also a popular spot for weddings.
Niagara Cave
P.O. Box 444 Harmony MN
(800) 837-6606
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