Minnesota Travel Directory
Minnesota: The Gateway to the American South
Welcome to Minnesota, where the historic Jefferson Highway leaves the Canadian border and begins its journey southward toward the Gulf of Mexico. Nicknamed the "Central Route" for its balance of scenery and accommodations, the highway follows a historic path that today approximates the I-35 / US Route 65 corridor in the southern half of the state. Explore the lakeside history of Albert Lea, step back in time in Owatonna, and find nature and history in Faribault. This directory will guide you through Minnesota's charming towns, historic architecture, and beautiful lake country along the "Palm to Pine" route.
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.
Attractions & Experiences
Discover the best natural, historical, and unique experiences to add to your Jefferson Highway journey through Minnesota.
Minnesota State Capitol
An architectural masterpiece built in 1905, designed by Cass Gilbert. It serves as the seat of the state's government and offers free tours and stunning Beaux-Arts architecture.
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Address: 75 Rev Dr Martin Luther King Jr Boulevard, St Paul, MN 55155
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Phone: +1 651-296-2881
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Website: https://www.mnhs.org/capitol
Greaser Park
An intact, restored New Deal-era WPA roadside park located directly on the original Jefferson Highway alignment (West Broadway) in the Twin Cities metro area.
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Address: 4400 Lakeland Ave N, Robbinsdale, MN 55422
Visitor Information Centers & Tourism Operations
Plan the Minnesota portion of your Jefferson Highway adventure with these travel and tourism organizations.
Escape the city and discover the charm of Southern Minnesota.
The Minne-Roadtrip invites you to explore three scenic and historic towns—Owatonna, Faribault, and Northfield—all located along the Southern Minnesota stretch of the historic Jefferson Highway and easily accessible via Interstate 35. Click here to learn more...
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Website: https://www.minneroadtrip.com/
Faribault Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism
Find resources and guides to Faribault's historic architecture, unique downtown shops, and River Bend Nature Center.
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Address: 530 Wilson Avenue, Faribault, MN 55021
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Phone: (507) 334-4381
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Website: https://visitfaribault.com/
Visit Northfield
Your guide to exploring the infamous 1876 James-Younger Gang bank robbery site and Northfield's vibrant arts community.
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Address: 19 Bridge Square, Northfield, MN 55057
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Phone: (507) 645-5604
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Website: https://www.visitnorthfield.com/
Owatonna Chamber of Commerce & Tourism
Get visitor guides to Louis Sullivan's architectural gem, the Orphanage Museum, and Owatonna's local attractions.
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Address: 120 South Oak Ave., Owatonna, MN 55060
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Phone: (507) 451-7970
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Website: https://owatonna.org/visit/
Visit Thief River Falls
Your guide to the scenic Red River Valley region, offering resources for historic sites, outdoor adventures, and local events in Northern Minnesota.
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Address: 102 Main Avenue North, Thief River Falls, MN 56701
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Phone: +1 218-686-9785
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Website: https://visittrf.com/