Where the Jefferson Highway Heads South

In Minnesota, the historic Jefferson Highway heads south from the Canadian border toward the Gulf of Mexico. Nicknamed the “Central Route” for its balance of scenery and accommodations, it follows a path that today approximates the I-35 / U.S. Route 65 corridor in the southern half of the state.

Explore the lakeside history of Albert Lea, step back in time in Owatonna, where Louis Sullivan designed one of the country’s most admired small-town banks, and find nature and history in Faribault and Northfield. Together, Owatonna, Faribault, and Northfield make up the Minne-Roadtrip, an easy weekend along Interstate 35.

In the Twin Cities, tour the 1905 State Capitol in St. Paul, visit the New Deal-era Graeser Park on the original alignment in Robbinsdale, or stay in Minneapolis for sculptures, skyways, and where to stay in our Minneapolis City Guide.

Pssst.! Save the date for the 2027 JHA Conference (July 19-21) in St. Cloud!

Minnesota Travel Directory Map

A work in progress, this Minnesota Travel Directory Map displays the Jefferson Highway corridor. Use the interactive pins to locate our featured listings, including Visitor Bureaus, historic lodgings, restaurants, attractions and activities, and other businesses that welcome travelers along the route.