Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chapel Hill, North Carolina to St. Francis, Minnesota

The road trip from Chapel Hill, North Carolina to St. Francis, Minnesota covers almost 1,100 miles. The distance between these two cities could take around 17 hours to drive, but it's not always about getting from point A to point B. The journey is as important as the destination, especially when there are unexpected places that can add more fun and excitement to the trip. Here are five surprising pit stops that travelers should add to their itinerary.

Halfway Point: Frankfort, Indiana

Before diving into the five surprising pit stops, let's highlight the halfway point between Chapel Hill and St. Francis - Frankfort, Indiana. This small town in Clinton County is home to interesting sites like the Frankfort Community Public Library and the TPA Park. Visitors can also dine in some of the town's famous family-owned restaurants like El Camino Real, The Oasis Diner, and The Red Barn. With Frankfort's affordable accommodation options like Super 8 by Wyndham and Shangrila Inn, it's an ideal halfway stopover.

1. Carhenge - Alliance, Nebraska

Carhenge is an unexpected roadside attraction that mimics the iconic Stonehenge in England. Instead of huge rocks, visitors can view a sculptural formation of cars. Created in the 1980s by Jim Reinders, Carhenge has been attracting tourists from around the world. The formation of 38 cars that constructed the landmark resembles the historical Stonhenge precisely. It's a perfect blend of art, history, and automobiles. While in Alliance, visitors can satisfy their cravings with the best pan-fried chicken at The Knight Museum Cafe.

2. Wall Drug - Wall, South Dakota

Known for its 5-cent coffee, Wall Drug is one of the most unique pit stops that travelers can experience. Located in Wall, South Dakota, this roadside store has been running since 1931, offering a variety of things like western wear, souvenirs, homemade doughnuts, and even a jackalope statue. With more than 76,000 square feet of retail, dining, and interactive entertainment attractions, this store is a paradise for shopaholics who can't get enough of quirky merchandise.

3. Time Zone Bridge - Baker, Montana

In Baker, Montana, travelers can witness a bridge that seems to cross two different time zones. En route to St. Francis from Chapel Hill, the Ted Schwinden Memorial Bridge is an architectural gem that provides a fascinating illusion. During the drive, visitors will see two clock faces. One tells the standard time zone while the other shows mountain time zone. Driving under the clocks is a memorable experience. And since traveling across different time zones can make you hungry, make sure to munch the famous Montana-style fried chicken at Deuces Wild Brewery.

4. Mitchell Corn Palace - Mitchell, South Dakota

The Mitchell Corn Palace in South Dakota is another unique stop along the way. This arena-like structure is made up of thousands of colorful and multi-patterned corn cobs. The Corn Palace has been renovated a few times but has been standing in Mitchell for over 120 years. Besides the stunning architecture, visitors can enjoy live entertainment performances, a sports expo, and a farmer's market. Before leaving Mitchell, check out the Hometown Family Restaurant and taste the best goetta, a breakfast sausage made of pork and oats.

5. World's Largest Buffalo - Jamestown, North Dakota

The World's Largest Buffalo is a roadside landmark that can't be missed in Jamestown, North Dakota. The statue of a buffalo with its calf stands 26ft high and 46ft wide and weighs almost 60 tons. Built-in 1959 and made of steel and concrete, this larger-than-life statue is an excellent way to commemorate the history of the area. While in Jamestown, travelers can satisfy their hunger at the Sabir's Buffalo Grill and try their famous Buffalo Burgers.

In Conclusion

Traveling from Chapel Hill, North Carolina to St. Francis, Minnesota can be a long journey, but it doesn't have to be monotonous. There are surprising destinations, incredible food, and adventurous experiences to be had along the way. From the corn cobs of Mitchell's Corn Palace to the illusion of crossing two time zones in Baker, Montana, each side trip offers something unique and worth exploring. So why not break up your journey, skip the freeway, and begin an unforgettable adventure today!