Roll north on this epic trip through northeastern Minnesota. Along the road, you might hook a walleye and spot a bald eagle. You’ll cruise along the mighty Mississippi and visit the city where Prince started his career. You could win a bundle at a glittery casino. And you’ll wind up relaxing on a park bench overlooking one of America’s natural jewels, Lake Superior, the largest of America’s Great Lakes.

1. Wabasha

Starting Point • History, Nature, Outdoor Recreation, Shopping

Visit the Mississippi River town made famous by the movie “Grumpy Old Men.” You may find some old grumps but also plenty of fun including checking out the historic downtown’s 50 buildings on the National Historic Register. Meet live bald eagles at Wabasha’s National Eagle Center. Cruise the river in a sailboat, riverboat or kayak. Hang gliding, parades, festivals, 100-mile garage sales — it’s all in Wabasha.

Photo: Brianegge

2. Minneapolis

Drive 85.2 miles, 1 hour, 43 minutes • Entertainment, Food, Quirky, Shopping

Pop culture, anyone? Music superstar Prince got his start here. Tour his remarkable 65,000-acre Paisley Park. Stroll the Mississippi waterfront and then visit the huge Mall of America’s 520 stores, 50 restaurants and indoor theme park. Enjoy an interactive murder mystery dinner. Catch a Twins game. See a 50-foot waterfall at Minnehaha Park. Got kids? Don’t miss the Crayola Experience’s 25 colorful attractions.

3. Hinckley

Drive 81.1 miles, 1 hour, 16 minutes • Entertainment, Nature, Outdoor Recreation

Halfway between the urban hubs of Minneapolis and Duluth, Hinckley is a small town with big reasons to visit. The Grand Casino Hinckley offers every kind of gaming plus dining and top entertainment. Four area golf courses offer almost 10 miles of challenging fairways. Commune with Nature in a kayak down the Kettle or St. Croix Rivers; bring your fishing gear and hook a prize walleye.

4. Duluth

Drive 74.7 miles, 1 hour, 13 minutes • Entertainment, History, Nature

Duluth’s right on Lake Superior, the largest of America’s Great Lakes. Grab a bench in Canal Park and see ships from around the world. Watch the historic Aerial Lift Bridge raise and lower vertically. See the freshwater Great Lakes Aquarium and learn the history of American maritime navigation at the Maritime Visitor Center, courtesy of the US Army Corps of Engineers.