Driving Time between Bristol, Tennessee and Sioux Falls, South Dakota

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The Great American Road Trip: Bristol, TN to Sioux Falls, SD

If you're looking for a classic road trip experience, heading from Bristol, Tennessee to Sioux Falls, South Dakota, could be just what you need. With tons of scenic routes and beautiful cities to stop in along the way, you'll have an adventure to remember for years to come.

The Routes

There are a few different ways to drive from Bristol to Sioux Falls, so it's worth considering your options to decide what's best for you.

Route 1: The Direct Route

If you're looking to get to Sioux Falls quickly, your best bet is to take the direct route. You'll head up I-81 and then onto I-70, and then turn onto I-29 to take you the rest of the way. This route covers approximately 1,155 miles and will take you around 17 hours of driving.

Route 2: The Scenic Route

If you're looking to take in some of the most beautiful parts of the Midwest, consider taking a scenic route. Start on I-81 heading north and then turn onto Route 460 West to head through the Appalachian Mountains. Then turn onto Route 219 north and you'll get to see some stunning views from the top of the Allegheny Mountains. From there, take Route 30 West to I-77 North and then onto I-90 West. This route covers around 1,300 miles and will take you roughly 21 hours.

Route 3: The Adventure Route

If you're looking for a truly epic road trip adventure, consider taking Route 66. You'll need to head west out of Bristol on Route 11 and then connect to Route 66 in Oklahoma. This route takes you on the historic "Mother Road," which covers around 2,300 miles and will take you between 30 to 40 hours to complete. While it's certainly not the fastest route, it's an opportunity to see some of the most iconic and unique roadside attractions in the country.

The Estimated Drive Times

Of course, the different routes will have different drive times, but here are some estimated times for each:

  • Route 1 (The Direct Route): around 17 hours
  • Route 2 (The Scenic Route): around 21 hours
  • Route 3 (The Adventure Route): between 30 to 40 hours

Keep in mind these times are estimates and could vary based on traffic, weather, and other factors.

No matter which route you choose, there are some great places to stop along the way. Here are a few recommendations:

  • Nashville, TN: This iconic music city is a great place to stop for a night and check out some incredible live music.
  • St. Louis, MO: Home to the Gateway Arch and some delicious BBQ, St. Louis is worth a stop if you're on the direct or scenic routes.
  • Amarillo, TX: If you're taking Route 66, stop in Amarillo to check out the Cadillac Ranch, a public art installation featuring ten Cadillacs stuck nose-first in the ground.
  • Badlands National Park, SD: This stunning park is a must-visit if you're on the scenic route.
  • Wall Drug, SD: If you're taking Route 90, you'll come across this quirky tourist attraction that's been around since the 1930s. It's a great stop for souvenirs and a cup of coffee.

No matter which route you choose or where you decide to stop along the way, driving from Bristol to Sioux Falls is sure to be a memorable experience. So grab some snacks, a great playlist, and get ready to hit the open road!