As a Winnipegger, it’s easy to fall into familiar patterns when traveling to Minnesota. Whether it’s the whirlwind of the Mall of America, the thrills of Nickelodeon Universe, or splashing around at Great Wolf Lodge, these popular stops are always crowd-pleasers. But this time, we decided to hit the road and explore something a little different—a 90-minute drive from the hustle of the Twin Cities, landing us in Austin, Minnesota, home of the quirky and charming Spam Museum.
While you might not think of Spam as a destination-worthy attraction, this museum offers a delightful dive into the world of the iconic canned meat that’s beloved worldwide—especially in the Philippines. For Filipinos, Spam isn’t just a convenient pantry staple; it’s a cultural touchstone, often enjoyed as part of traditional dishes like Spamsilog (Spam, garlic rice, and fried egg). It’s the kind of comfort food you’ll find in countless Filipino households, and the museum does a fantastic job highlighting Spam’s global reach.
Upon entering the Spam Museum, we were greeted by friendly “Spambassadors” who shared the story of Spam’s journey from its humble beginnings in 1937 to its pivotal role in feeding troops during World War II. The Philippines became a major market for Spam during this time, and it has since become a beloved part of Filipino cuisine.
As we walked through the exhibits, we found a section dedicated to Spam’s international influence. It was fascinating to see how Spam has made its mark not only in the Philippines but in places like South Korea and Hawaii, each with its own take on incorporating Spam into local dishes.
For breakfast lovers, the museum might inspire you to whip up your own Spamsilog when you get back home. A quick fry of Spam slices, paired with perfectly seasoned garlic rice and a sunny-side-up egg—it’s a dish that brings together simplicity and flavor, just the way Spam was meant to be enjoyed.
If you’re looking for a fun, quirky stop on your next road trip, the Spam Museum is a perfect off-the-beaten-path destination. Plus, it’s free! So next time you find yourself heading to Minnesota, consider skipping the usual attractions for something a little more flavorful.
