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01 Feb 2025Updated last time
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Road Trip From Minnesota To Yellowstone Itinerary

Minnesota to Yellowstone Road Trip Itinerary

Embark on an epic road trip from the urban landscapes of Minneapolis, MN, to the wild, natural wonders of Yellowstone National Park, WY. Start your journey in Minneapolis, enjoying the contemporary arts scene and sprawling malls. As you venture further, visit Sioux Falls, SD, to witness the majestic waterfalls and enjoy the serene parks.

Next, explore the surreal Badlands National Park, where the stark beauty of eroded buttes and pinnacles will captivate you. Don't miss the iconic Mount Rushmore, where the faces of four US presidents are etched into history. A stop at the mysterious Devils Tower in WY will reward you with its awe-inspiring geologic formation, beckoning climbers and curious sightseers alike.

Before you reach your final destination, stop at Cody, WY, the Rodeo Capital of the World, for a taste of the Wild West. Finally, Yellowstone National Park awaits with its geysers, wildlife, and rugged landscapes. Here, adventure and discovery are endless, from the steaming geothermal vents to the thunderous waterfalls and vast wilderness roaming with bison and elk.


Recommended Activities

  • Trip Point Pin1

    Minneapolis, MN

    Minneapolis offers a vibrant arts scene, beautiful parks, and a bustling economy. It's known for the famous Mall of America, its cultural landmarks like the Walker Art Center and the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden.
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    Sioux Falls, SD

    Sioux Falls is known for its stunning waterfalls at Falls Park. The park is a central feature in the city and a place for outdoor activities, and the city itself offers a charming downtown with unique shops and restaurants.
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  • Trip Point Pin3

    Badlands National Park, SD

    Badlands National Park is famous for its dramatic landscapes, rugged beauty, and unique geological formations. It's a great destination for hiking, fossil hunting, and stargazing within its vast prairies.
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    Mount Rushmore, SD

    Mount Rushmore is an iconic national monument that features the faces of four U.S. presidents carved into granite. It symbolizes the nation's history and democracy and is set within the Black Hills region which offers beautiful scenery and outdoor recreation.
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    Devils Tower, WY

    Devils Tower is a striking geologic feature that rises dramatically above the rolling plains. It is a sacred site to many Northern Plains Tribes and offers unique climbing opportunities, as well as trails that provide close-up views and photography chances.
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  • Cody, known as the 'Rodeo Capital of the World,' boasts a deep connection to Wild West history. Visit the Buffalo Bill Center of the West for insights into the American West, and enjoy authentic rodeo experiences, western parades, and access to nearby outdoor adventures.
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  • Trip Point Pin7

    Yellowstone National Park, WY

    Yellowstone National Park is the first national park in the world and is an unparalleled natural wonder. It features dramatic canyons, alpine rivers, lush forests, hot springs and gushing geysers, including its most famous, Old Faithful. It's also home to hundreds of animal species, including bears, wolves, bison, elk and antelope.
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Restaurants

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    Hell's Kitchen

    Hell's Kitchen

    A unique, chef-owned restaurant in Minneapolis with a slightly gothic atmosphere and a creative menu.
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    Falls Overlook Cafe

    Falls Overlook Cafe

    This cafe offers views of Sioux Falls and serves dishes made from local ingredients; perfect for a lunch break while enjoying the scenery.
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    Wall Drug Store

    Wall Drug Store

    Located near the Badlands National Park, this eclectic drug store is famous for its free ice water, dinosaur statues, and classic American diner fare.
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    Carver's Cafe

    Carver's Cafe

    A restaurant right by Mount Rushmore with a view of the monument, offering classic American meals and a taste of local flavors.
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  • The Fort

    An eatery in Cody, WY that brings the Old West to life with its cowboy-inspired cuisine and authentic western ambiance.
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    The Buffalo Jump Saloon & Steakhouse

    The Buffalo Jump Saloon & Steakhouse

    Found in Beulah, WY near Devils Tower, it's a restaurant known for its wild game dishes and rustic decor.
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    Roosevelt Lodge Dining Room

    Roosevelt Lodge Dining Room

    Located within Yellowstone itself, dine in a historic lodge setting and savor traditional American fare with wilderness views.
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    Snake River Brewing

    Snake River Brewing

    Although slightly off the direct route in Jackson, WY, this brewpub offers locally crafted beers and upscale pub grub in a laid-back, mountain-town setting.
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Hotels

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    The W Foshay

    The W Foshay

    This historic skyscraper in Minneapolis blends Art Deco elegance with modern luxury, providing a memorable stay in the heart of downtown.
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    Hotel Alex Johnson

    Hotel Alex Johnson

    Located in Rapid City, SD, and close to Mount Rushmore, this hotel is steeped in Native American tradition and 1930s artistry, and is rumored to be haunted.
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    The Corn Palace Hotel

    The Corn Palace Hotel

    Adjacent to the world-renowned Corn Palace in Mitchell, SD, this hotel offers quirky and colorful rooms inspired by the earthen art deco structure.
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    The Irma Hotel

    The Irma Hotel

    Opened by Buffalo Bill in Cody, WY, this historic hotel offers an authentic Old West experience complete with rustic furnishings and wild game cuisine.
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    Explorer Cabins at Yellowstone

    Explorer Cabins at Yellowstone

    These cabins in West Yellowstone, MT, offer a cozy and unique retreat with all the modern comforts just a stone's throw from the national park entrance.
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    Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel & Cabins

    Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel & Cabins

    Stay inside Yellowstone National Park at this historical hotel, which offers access to the beautiful Mammoth Hot Springs and comfortable, family-friendly accommodations.
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Local Events & Happenings

  • Event Icon

    Cody Johnson

    Cody Johnson

    The event will take place at Summit Arena at The Monument in Rapid Ciy .
    Map IconSummit Arena at The Monument in Rapid Ciy (27.84 mi)
    Calendar Icon7 Sep 2024
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    The Price Is Right Live - Stage Show

    The Price Is Right Live - Stage Show

    The event will take place at Fine Arts Theatre at The Monument in Rapid City.
    Map IconFine Arts Theatre at The Monument in Rapid City (27.84 mi)
    Calendar Icon13 Sep 2024
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    Black Jacket Symphony

    Black Jacket Symphony

    The event will take place at Fine Arts Theatre at The Monument in Rapid City.
    Map IconFine Arts Theatre at The Monument in Rapid City (27.84 mi)
    Calendar Icon11 Nov 2024
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    Ian Munsick: Two-Day Ticket

    Ian Munsick: Two-Day Ticket

    Friday, June 7th 2024: 9:30pm Ian Munsick 8:00pm Ryan Charles 7:00pm The Munsick Boys 6:00pm Doors open Saturday, June 8th 2024: 9:30pm Ian Munsick 8:00pm William Clark Green 7:00pm Tyler Halverson 6:00pm Doors open
    Map IconDeadwood Mountain Grand in Deadwood (42.08 mi)
    Calendar IconN/A
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    Lauren Alaina

    Lauren Alaina

    At the age of 16, Lauren Alaina held the title of runner-up on season 10 of American Idol behind Scotty McCreery. At 20, she had her first chart topping single as well as a hit duet with friend Kane Brown. Her trajectory continues to rise with the re...
    Map IconDeadwood Mountain Grand in Deadwood (42.08 mi)
    Calendar Icon28 Jun 2024
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  • Event Icon

    The Marshall Tucker Band with Special Guest Jefferson Starship

    The Marshall Tucker Band with Special Guest Jefferson Starship

    Two iconic bands are coming together for a historic show in 2024, bringing their collective hits to audiences across the nation. The Marshall Tucker Band (MTB) and rock staple Jefferson Starship are teaming up for their joint Live on Cloud 9 Tour'" w...
    Map IconDeadwood Mountain Grand in Deadwood (42.08 mi)
    Calendar Icon7 Sep 2024
    Picture for The Marshall Tucker Band with Special Guest Jefferson Starship
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    Hairball

    Hairball

    The event will take place at Deadwood Mountain Grand in Deadwood.
    Map IconDeadwood Mountain Grand in Deadwood (42.08 mi)
    Calendar Icon17 Nov 2024
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Travel Gems from Reddit

  • Reddit Icon

    So I'm planning on a road trip out to Montana/Wyoming for the middle/end of next June. Starting from Minneapolis, driving to Glacier NP, then staying in Bozeman for a 2 nights...

    Planning a road trip that will pass through Wyoming, need help ...

    So I'm planning on a road trip out to Montana/Wyoming for the middle/end of next June. Starting from Minneapolis, driving to Glacier NP, then staying in Bozeman for a 2 nights...

    /r/wyoming
  • Reddit Icon

    It'll get you into Yellowstone, Grand Teton, Badlands, and any other federal fee areas you stop at for the next 12 months. If you were to go to those 3 parks I listed on your ...

    Road trip to Yellowstone

    It'll get you into Yellowstone, Grand Teton, Badlands, and any other federal fee areas you stop at for the next 12 months. If you were to go to those 3 parks I listed on your ...

    /r/yellowstone
  • Reddit Icon

    Me and my girlfriend are planning to have a roadtrip to Yellowstone from Minnesota. It's a pretty long way, so we are thinking to stop one night in South Dakota or North Dakot...

    Minnesota to Yellowstone, where to stop by?

    Me and my girlfriend are planning to have a roadtrip to Yellowstone from Minnesota. It's a pretty long way, so we are thinking to stop one night in South Dakota or North Dakot...

    /r/roadtrip
  • Reddit Icon

    Posted by u/megasota - 4 votes and 7 comments

    road trip from Minnesota to Yellowstone, any tips?

    Posted by u/megasota - 4 votes and 7 comments

    /r/travel
  • Reddit Icon

    Here is my trip report, driving from Minneapolis to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, Sept. 11 through Sept. 18, 2020. I am a solo traveler on this trip, driving my ...

    Trip Report - Solo road trip - Minnesota to Yellowstone and Grand Teton ...

    Here is my trip report, driving from Minneapolis to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, Sept. 11 through Sept. 18, 2020. I am a solo traveler on this trip, driving my ...

    /r/roadtrip
  • Reddit Icon

    Skip to main content. Open menu Open navigation Go to Reddit Home. r/roadtrip A chip A close button

    Minnesota to Yellowstone. Tips?

    Skip to main content. Open menu Open navigation Go to Reddit Home. r/roadtrip A chip A close button

    /r/roadtrip

Music for Your Journey

  • Music Icon

    John Denver - Take Me Home, Country Roads

    John Denver - Take Me Home, Country Roads

    An iconic song that evokes the beauty of rural America, perfect for long drives through the countryside.
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    Rascal Flatts - Life is a Highway

    Rascal Flatts - Life is a Highway

    A high-energy track that captures the excitement and freedom of hitting the road on an epic trip.
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  • Music Icon

    Willie Nelson - On The Road Again - Live

    Willie Nelson - On The Road Again - Live

    Willie Nelson's classic tune that celebrates the joys of travel and the open road.
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    Bruce Springsteen - Born to Run

    Bruce Springsteen - Born to Run

    Bruce Springsteen's anthem on the longing for escape and the open road, embracing the spirit of adventure.
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  • Music Icon

    Eagles - Hotel California - 2013 Remaster

    Eagles - Hotel California - 2013 Remaster

    A timeless track with a mysterious storyline, perfect for reflective moments on the journey.
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  • Music Icon

    Chuck Berry - Route 66

    Chuck Berry - Route 66

    A tribute to one of America's most legendary highways, its rhythms are sure to enhance your driving experience.
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  • Music Icon

    Lynyrd Skynyrd - Sweet Home Alabama

    Lynyrd Skynyrd - Sweet Home Alabama

    An upbeat Southern rock song that brings out a sense of place and beloved regional pride.
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  • Music Icon

    Beyoncé - AMERICA HAS A PROBLEM (feat. Kendrick Lamar)

    Beyoncé - AMERICA HAS A PROBLEM (feat. Kendrick Lamar)

    A song that captures the vast and diverse landscapes of America, inspiring exploration and discovery.
    Listen on Spotify
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  • Music Icon

    Canned Heat - Going Up The Country

    Canned Heat - Going Up The Country

    With its rustic feel and lyrics about heading out into the country, it's a fitting choice for a nature-filled excursion.
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  • Music Icon

    Luke Combs - Fast Car

    Luke Combs - Fast Car

    A moving story of hope and the yearning for a better life, with a melody that's both driving and introspective.
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