The Most Affordable Minnesota Road Trip Takes You To 5 Stunning Sites For Under $100

With gas prices and car maintenance costs, road trips can put a bit of a strain on our wallets However, you can still take somewhat affordable road trips in the state. With a family of four in mind, we put together the most affordable Minnesota road trip that will take you to five different sites for under $100.

Follow our interactive map to find your way. Of course, you can also add any stops you would like as well. Ready to go?

1. Leif Erickson Park

We start our journey at Leif Erickson Park in Duluth. Here you will find a replica of a Viking ship as well as a rose garden and views of Lake Superior. Take in the views and enjoy the fact that it is free to visit!

Take a fly-over view of Leif Erickson Park in Duluth, MN, and the wonderful sights you can enjoy in this area:

2. Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center

Another free place to visit is the Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center which is operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. This Great Lakes maritime museum offers fascinating exhibits and programs and you can view the scale model displays.

3. Island Lake Park

Another free place to visit, Island Lake Park offers a lovely spot to sit for a while and take in the scenery. If you enjoy fishing, the lake is stocked with a variety of fish, so bring your poles! To learn more, visit the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources website.

4. Split Rock Lighthouse

Hopefully, you'll remember to bring your camera on this road trip because the next stop is as picture-perfect as they come. Split Rock Lighthouse may just be one of the most photographed lighthouses in the country. Its jaw-dropping beauty is beyond compare.

Admission for the grounds only is $8 per person while museum admission is $12 for adults and $8 for children ages 5-17.

Enjoy this video spotlight on what it is like to live at Split Rock Lighthouse with Hayes Scriven the lighthouse keeper at Split Rock:

5. Superior National Forest

At three million acres, Superior National Forest is the largest of its kind east of the Mississippi. With thousands of lakes found here, it's only part of the reason why Minnesota was nicknamed the Land of 10,000 Lakes. Most recreational activities at Superior National Forest, including hiking, are free.

Take a look at the many beautiful areas to explore in Superior National Forest from the Oberg loop trail to the Devil's Kettle waterfall, and the High Falls of the Pigeon River at Grand Portage State Park:

There is no reason we can't find affordable road trips in Minnesota. With so many beautiful areas to explore for free or low cost, there is plenty to do and see around the state. So, are you ready to head out on the most affordable road trip in Minnesota? What are some of your favorite parts of the state to explore that make for cheap vacations in MN? Let us know in the comments.