Highway 61 from Wabasha to Lake City promises breathtaking views of the river valley and towering bluffs, making it an ideal road for motorists and an afternoon car ride. During the winter, the trees open up providing amazing views of the river below. In the spring, the road comes to life with every shade of green and makes you feel like you are driving through a tunnel of trees. In the fall, people come from all around to watch the leaves change color and see the bluffs light up with yellows, reds, and oranges!
Located in the middle of all this is Reads Landings Brewing Company, the perfect place to stop for a drink and bite to eat before exploring either direction.
Traveling 10 minutes South on HWY 61 will lead you to Wabasha, MN. This river town boasts many unique things to do including visiting the National Eagle Center, shopping at the Seasonal Boutiques, strolling down the shops in historic downtown, and, of course, enjoying the Mississippi River. Wabasha also has many lodging options including hotels, camping, and accommodating B&Bs. Feeling adventurous? Take a bike ride along the newly designated bike paths or rent a kayak and explore the Mississippi!
Another 5 minutes down the road you will find LARK Toys & Carousel. This is a must see for people of all ages. Enjoy delicious ice cream, walk through the toy store and book store, visit with the friendly llamas and ride the hand carved wooden carousel. LARK Toys is a store that embraces the inner child in everyone and encourages visitors to have fun!
So you’ve explored Wabasha and Kellogg, what happens when you drive North from Reads Landing Brewery Company? Within 20 minutes on the scenic highway you will enter Lake City. Birthplace of water skiing, this town is a river lover’s paradise! Take advantage of Lake Pepin with beaches, prime fishing holes, boat rentals, and more! The marina is the center piece of this town and there are many shops to explore, places to eat, parks to hike and so much more in this beautiful town. Camp near the shore of the Mississippi at Camp Hok-Si-La or enjoy a soft bed at one of the many hotel in the area.
Next time you are down for a visit, relax and stay a while. You never know what hidden gem you might discover!