Road Trip: Buffalo, MN to Rutherfordton, NC
Are you itching for a fun road trip across the country? There’s no better way to explore America than by car. To that end, we’ve mapped out some of the best routes you can take from Buffalo, Minnesota to Rutherfordton, North Carolina. Join us as we take you through the different routes, distances, and travel times, so you can make an informed decision about the best way to get there.
Route 1: I-94E and I-75S
Total Distance: 1221 miles (1965 km) Total Driving Time: 18 hours
The first route we’re taking is on I-94E and I-75S, which is the shortest distance between Buffalo and Rutherfordton. It’s a straight shot until you reach Knoxville, TN, but it's an excellent option for those who want to reach their destination quickly. Along the way, you’ll pass Minneapolis, Chicago, Indianapolis, and Knoxville, before arriving in Rutherfordton.
Pro Tip: If you’re tired of driving, take a break at the Mall of America, which is the most expansive mall in the United States. Or drop by the Crown Hill Cemetery in Indianapolis, which is the final resting place for some of America’s greatest leaders.
Route 2: I-94E and I-65S
Total Distance: 1269 miles (2042 km) Total Driving Time: 19 hours
If you’re looking for another option, you can take I-94E to I-65S, which is a bit longer but has some great sceneries. This route will take you through Wisconsin, Illinois, Kentucky, and Tennessee before you reach Rutherfordton, North Carolina. You’ll pass through different cities like Gary, IN, and Louisville, KY, where you can stop and take some photos.
Pro Tip: If you’re looking for some great BBQ, stop by 17th Street BBQ in Marion, IL. This is known as the “BBQ Belt,” where you can find some of America’s most mouth-watering meat.
Route 3: I-90E and I-77S
Total Distance: 1359 miles (2186 km) Total Driving Time: 20 hours
Another option is to take I-90E to I-77S, which passes through some beautiful scenery and charming small towns. This route will take you through South Dakota, Wyoming, Nebraska, Missouri, and Virginia. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to explore various national parks and enjoy scenic drives.
Pro Tip: Stop in Mitchell, South Dakota, to check out the world's only corn palace. You can also spend some time hiking in Shenandoah National Park, one of America’s most beautiful national parks.
Route 4: I-90E and I-81S
Total Distance: 1379 miles (2220 km) Total Driving Time: 20 hours
Finally, there’s the I-90E and I-81S route, which is the longest but has some amazing attractions to visit along the way. You’ll travel through Wisconsin, Illinois, Pennsylvania, and Virginia before arriving in Rutherfordton. This route will take you through many National parks, small towns, and historical monuments.
Pro Tip: To break up the long journey, visit Hershey’s Chocolate World in Hershey, PA, and learn about the history of chocolate making. Or stop by President Thomas Jefferson’s home, Monticello, in Charlottesville, VA.
Conclusion
All the different routes from Buffalo, Minnesota to Rutherfordton, North Carolina, have their attractions and scenic drives. The choice you make depends on the time you have and the experiences you crave. No matter which option you choose, you’ll have the time of your life exploring the United States of America.