Points of Interest between Chapel Hill, North Carolina to Cottage Grove, Minnesota

picture of Chapel Hill, North Carolina

A Road Trip to Remember: Top Five Popular Attractions between Chapel Hill, NC and Cottage Grove, MN

Are you looking for an epic road trip that you won’t forget? Exploring the route from Chapel Hill, NC to Cottage Grove, MN offers adventure, scenic views, and unforgettable destinations along the way. Whether you are traveling with family or friends, you’ll find plenty of excitement and diverse experiences to satisfy your wanderlust.

Halfway Point Highlight: Lebanon, IN

As you cross over from North Carolina to Minnesota, make sure you don’t miss Lebanon, IN. This beautiful and historic town has plenty of charm and a myriad of activities to enjoy. You can visit the Boone County Courthouse, which was built in 1911 and has an impressive dome-shaped roof. Head to Memorial Park, and take in the serene landscapes and scenic trails before ending your day at one of the town's famous local restaurants.

  1. Mammoth Cave National Park, KY Located in central Kentucky, Mammoth Cave National Park is the largest cave system in the world. This majestic park offers more than 400 miles of explored caves and tunnels that will leave you spellbound. Take a 1.5-hour guided tour through the limestone caverns and listen to the echoes of the underground rivers. You can also explore the park’s nature trails or take a kayaking trip down Green River, which runs right through the park.

  2. Abraham Lincoln’s Birthplace National Historical Park, KY At Abraham Lincoln's Birthplace National Historical Park, you'll find a memorial hall dedicated to Lincoln's life and a symbolic log cabin representing the one he was born in. The chapel built on the site serves as a tribute to Lincoln, the Emancipation Proclamation and Union soldiers from the Civil War.

  3. Gateway Arch, MO Located in downtown St. Louis, the Gateway Arch is an iconic monument representing the unique blend of history and culture that this city has to offer. Take a ride up the elevator to the observation deck at the top of the Arch for an incredible view of the Mississippi River.

  4. Mall of America, MN Touted as the largest mall in the United States, the Mall of America offers shopping, dining, and a variety of entertainment options all under one roof. With over 400 stores and attractions that include Nickelodeon Universe theme park and the Sea Life Minnesota Aquarium, the mall is a haven for visitors of all ages.

  5. Minnehaha Park, MN Minnehaha Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers seeking a serene atmosphere and adrenaline junkies looking for an adventure. The park features a 53-foot waterfall that streams into the Mississippi River, biking and hiking trails, and a popular seafood restaurant overlooking the river.

Best Route

To make the most of your road trip between Chapel Hill, NC to Cottage Grove, MN, we recommend taking I-64 W and I-70 W through Indianapolis, IN. From Lebanon, IN, take I-65 N to Louisville, KY, and then catch I-64 W to St. Louis, MO. Finally, take I-35 N to Minneapolis, MN, and you'll arrive at Cottage Grove. This route offers a balance of major highways and scenic routes, allowing you to explore the best attractions along the way.

So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, plan your route, and set off on an unforgettable road trip to savour the incredible experiences from Chapel Hill, NC to Cottage Grove, MN.