Scenic Road Trip from Casa Grande, AZ to Chippewa Lake, Wisconsin

Day 1: Desert to High Plains

Casa Grande, AZ to Albuquerque, NM on May 17, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Caffé Bianco

Start your day with artisanal coffee and pastries at the legendary Caffé Bianco in Casa Grande, known for its rich espresso and cozy ambiance.
USD15, 1h

8:30am

Departure from Casa Grande

Begin your drive towards Albuquerque, NM, a roughly 8-hour trip covering scenic desert and mountain landscapes.
USD0, 8h0m

12:30pm

Lunch Stop in Holbrook, AZ at Joe & Aggie's Cafe

Enjoy authentic Southwestern cuisine at Joe & Aggie's, a historic Route 66 eatery famous for its Navajo tacos and friendly atmosphere.
USD20, 1h

4:30pm

Check-in at hotel in Albuquerque, NM

Relax and refresh at your accommodation to prepare for an evening walk around Old Town Albuquerque.
USD0, 1h

6:00pm

Evening Stroll at Old Town Albuquerque

Explore historic adobe buildings, local shops, and art galleries. The area is charming and ideal for photos during sunset.
USD0, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Sadie's of New Mexico

Enjoy hearty New Mexican dishes like green chile stew at this vibrant and popular local restaurant open until 9pm.
USD25, 1h

Day 2: Mountain Views and Prairie

Albuquerque, NM to Sioux Falls, SD on May 18, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at The Grove Cafe & Market

Delight in fresh farm-to-table breakfast options with local coffee near downtown Albuquerque, opens at 7am.
USD18, 1h

8:30am

Depart Albuquerque for Sioux Falls

A long driving stretch of about 10 hours that will take you through New Mexico, Colorado, Nebraska, then into South Dakota.
USD0, 10h

12:30pm

Lunch at Runza Restaurant in North Platte, NE

A popular Nebraska chain specializing in Runza sandwiches – a regional specialty with ground beef and cabbage in a yeast bun.
USD15, 1h

6:30pm

Arrive and Check-in at Sioux Falls Hotel

Settle in for the night and rest up before exploring Sioux Falls tomorrow.
USD0, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Minervas Restaurant

Enjoy a refined menu with steaks and seafood at this local favorite near the falls, open until 9pm.
USD30, 1h

Day 3: Falls and Lake Views

Sioux Falls, SD to Chippewa Lake, WI on May 19, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Queen City Bakery

Grab fresh baked goods and coffee at this popular bakery opening at 7am in downtown Sioux Falls.
USD12, 1h

8:00am

Visit Falls Park

Explore Sioux Falls’ iconic waterfalls and scenic trails. The park opens early and is free to visit.
USD0, 1h30m

9:30am

Depart for Chippewa Lake, Wisconsin

A 7-hour drive east through Minnesota and into Wisconsin passing scenic rural landscapes and lakes.
USD0, 7h

12:30pm

Lunch in Rochester, MN – at Chester's Kitchen & Bar

Stop in Rochester for farm-to-table cuisine featuring fresh, local ingredients in a warm atmosphere.
USD20, 1h

4:30pm

Arrive in Chippewa Lake, WI

Enjoy the serene lake views and check into local lodging.
USD0, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at The Depot Restaurant

Eat at this cozy local restaurant serving seafood and American classics by the lakeshore.
USD28, 1h

Day 4: Relax and Explore

Chippewa Lake, WI on May 20, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Lakeview Cafe

Enjoy a casual breakfast with lake views and freshly brewed coffee.
USD15, 1h

9:30am

Kayaking on Chippewa Lake

Rent a kayak and explore the beautiful calm waters of Chippewa Lake, a wonderful way to enjoy nature. Rentals open from 9am to 5pm.
USD30, 2h

12:00pm

Picnic Lunch at Chippewa Lake Park

Pack a picnic or pick up local deli fare to enjoy at one of the lakeside picnic areas.
USD15, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Chippewa Lake Historical Museum

Learn about the local history and heritage. The museum is open from 1pm to 5pm, highlighting the lake area culture.
USD5, 1h

5:00pm

Evening Relaxation and Sunset Viewing

Sit by the lake or stroll along the shore to enjoy a peaceful sunset.
USD0, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at The Lakeview Grill

End your trip with grilled specialties and seasonal dishes accompanied by lakeside ambiance.
USD30, 1h