Road Trip from Audubon, MN to Valentine, NE: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

Are you planning a road trip from Audubon, Minnesota to Valentine, Nebraska? Look no further than this travel guide for tips on the best routes, drive times, and recommendations for places to stop along the way.

The Route Options

There are a few different routes to choose from when embarking on the journey from Audubon to Valentine. The most direct route is to take US-81 South, which clocks in at around 395 miles. However, this drive can take up to 7 hours and may not be very scenic. Another option is to take US-275 West to US-81, which adds on an extra hour of driving but is more picturesque.

Alternatively, you could take a more southern route, driving through South Dakota. This would take you on I-29 South and US-18 West, with a total distance of around 500 miles and a drive time of approximately 9 hours. While this adds on some extra time, it is a good option if you want to see the stunning Badlands National Park or visit the tourist hotspot of Wall Drug.

Drive Times

The most direct route from Audubon to Valentine via US-81 takes approximately 7 hours, as mentioned before. If you opt for the more scenic route through US-275, this adds on about an extra hour of driving time. The southern route through South Dakota will take closer to 9 hours, but as mentioned before, this is a great option for those looking to add some tourist destinations to their itinerary.

Recommended Stops

If you’re looking to break up the drive with some fun stops, there are plenty of options along the way. One popular destination on the US-81 route is Sioux Falls, South Dakota. This city offers beautiful city parks, museums, and art galleries, as well as restaurants and bars to grab a bite to eat.

For those taking the US-275 route, consider stopping in Norfolk, Nebraska. This city boasts a historic downtown area with charming shops and restaurants. Or, take a slight detour to visit Omaha, Nebraska, which offers plenty of sightseeing options such as the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium or the Old Market district.

Finally, if you’re taking the southern route through South Dakota, make sure to stop at Badlands National Park, where you can take in breathtaking views of the unique rock formations and wildlife. Another popular destination is the tourist mecca of Wall Drug, which offers charming souvenir shops and plenty of photo opportunities.

Conclusion

No matter which route you choose, the drive from Audubon, Minnesota to Valentine, Nebraska is a beautiful journey that should not be missed. Make sure to plan out the route and any stops beforehand to ensure the best road trip experience possible. Happy travels!