Optimized Family-Friendly Two-Day Road Trip from Pewee Valley, KY to St. Paul, MN via Tapawingo Park and Family Stops

Day 1: Drive & Explore

Pewee Valley, KY to Lafayette, IN on May 11, 2025

6:00am

Depart Pewee Valley, KY

Begin your family road trip early to reach your first break at Tapawingo Park in Indianapolis by 9:00 AM.
Fuel approx USD15, 2h45m

9:00am

Morning Play at Tapawingo Park - Indianapolis, IN

Enjoy a relaxing 30-minute break with playground and nature trails, perfect for kids to stretch and explore.
Free, 0h30m

9:30am

Drive to Lafayette, IN

Continue your journey northwest to Lafayette, aiming to arrive around 12:30 PM for lunch and a park visit.
Fuel approx USD20, 2h45m

12:30pm

Lunch at Black Sparrow Restaurant - Lafayette, IN

Dine on fresh and seasonal dishes with family-friendly options in a welcoming atmosphere.
USD15 per person approx, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Columbian Park Zoo - Lafayette, IN

Spend 1 hour exploring this small, well-kept zoo perfect for children to see animals and enjoy nature.
USD5 per person, 1h

2:30pm

Drive to hotel and check-in - Lafayette, IN

Rest and refresh for the evening after a day of driving and activities.
Varies by hotel, 1h

5:30pm

Dinner at Trio Grill - Lafayette, IN

Enjoy American classics and kid-friendly meals in a family-friendly setting to end the day.
USD18 per person approx, 1h

Day 2: Drive with Stops

Lafayette, IN to St. Paul, MN on May 12, 2025

6:30am

Depart Lafayette, IN

Early start to cover the long drive to St. Paul with planned stops approximately every three hours.
Fuel approx USD20, 3h

9:30am

Stop at Brucemore Historic Site - Cedar Rapids, IA

Take a 1-hour walk around the beautiful estate grounds and gardens, a pleasant break for the family.
USD5 suggested donation, 1h

10:30am

Drive to Rochester, MN

Continue northwest to Rochester with a planned lunch stop and park visit.
Fuel approx USD15, 2h15m

12:45pm

Lunch at Apache Mall Food Court - Rochester, MN

Variety of family-friendly eateries available for a quick and satisfying lunch.
USD12 per person approx, 1h

1:45pm

Visit Soldiers Field Veterans Memorial Park - Rochester, MN

A short visit to this park featuring playgrounds and picnic areas for kids to enjoy before the final drive.
Free, 0h45m

2:30pm

Final Drive to St. Paul, MN

Complete the last leg of your journey, arriving late afternoon to relax and explore the city.
Fuel approx USD20, 2h30m

5:00pm

Check-in and Rest - St. Paul, MN

Unwind after your drive and settle in your accommodation before dinner.
Varies by hotel, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at The Blue Door Pub - St. Paul, MN

Savor delicious gourmet burgers and a casual atmosphere perfect for families ending the trip on a high note.
USD18 per person approx, 1h