Day 27

Fairmont to Austin

Tuesday, September 8, 2026

Did you know, in addition to Scotch tape, that Masking tape, Bisquick, Wheaties, and Green Giant vegetables were invented in Minnesota? Well, today is your chance to get a commemorative photo with the Jolly Green Giant himself. The 55.5 feet tall statue was commissioned by Paul Hedberg in 1978. Hedberg, the owner of a local radio station and host of a show called “Welcome Travelers”, gave each of his guests Green Giant vegetables from the local factory as a parting gift. When he learned that I-90 would bypass Blue Earth, he feared he would lose his supply of travelers so he took it upon himself to raise money for the statue in hopes that it would lure tourists to town. While Green Giant no longer owns the local canning plant and the radio show no longer exists, the town’s beloved statue still stands and has spawned a Giant Museum and Giant Days festival. If that’s not enough Americana for you today, be sure to visit the Spam Museum when you get to Austin.

Elevation Profile