Omaha to Dickinson: Prairies, Badlands, and Route 2

This route starts in Omaha, where the Lewis and Clark expedition famously camped in 1804 before heading up the Missouri. You'll follow a path less traveled, trading interstate monotony for two-lane highways through the heart of the Great Plains.

The total drive spans about 600 miles, crossing Nebraska, South Dakota, and North Dakota. Expect a full day of driving—roughly 9 hours without stops—but that's only if you resist the pull of roadside attractions.

The landscape shifts from the tallgrass prairies of eastern Nebraska to the mixed-grass prairies of the Dakotas. In summer, the fields are a sea of green grass and wildflowers, punctuated by occasional shelterbelts of cottonwood and cedar. This is working land—you'll pass ranches, grain elevators, and wind farms.

Near the North Dakota border, the terrain becomes more rolling, and the first hints of the Badlands appear. The Badlands themselves are just east of Dickinson, offering dramatic buttes and rugged canyons. If you have an extra hour, detour to Theodore Roosevelt National Park's South Unit—it's worth it.

Local commerce thrives in small county seats. In towns like Valentine, NE, and Mobridge, SD, you'll find family-owned cafes serving homemade pies and burgers. Many operate only during daytime, so plan for a midday meal.

One way to uncover more unique stops is to learn how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities—this guide offers practical tips for off-the-beaten-path discoveries.

Road quality is generally good, with well-maintained asphalt and clear markings. However, in rural areas, watch for deer and cattle crossings, especially at dawn and dusk. Shoulder widths vary; on two-lane roads, some bridges are narrow—take precautions.

For families, several parks provide excellent breaks. In Chamberlain, SD, the Dignity of Earth and Sky statue is a quick photo op, and the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center has interactive exhibits. In Mobridge, kids will enjoy the Scherr-Howe Event Center's public pool.

Pets are welcome at most rest areas and outdoor attractions. Many motels along the route allow pets for a small fee, but check ahead. Rest areas are spaced every 30-50 miles, with picnic tables and waste bins.

To manage fatigue, plan a stop every 2 hours. A longer break at the 406-mile mark in Aberdeen, SD, allows a proper meal and a walk. Consider switching drivers if available.

From Omaha, head north on I-29 to Sioux City, then pick up US-20 west across northern Nebraska. At the South Dakota border, US-20 becomes US-12, continuing to Aberdeen and eventually west to Dickinson. The route is a mix of divided highways and quiet two-lanes, so construction delays are rare outside summer.

You'll cross the Missouri River near Sioux City, then climb gradually onto the Missouri Plateau. The highest point is about 2,500 feet near the South Dakota/North Dakota border, a gentle rise that's barely noticeable.

• For fuel, plan stops in Sioux City, IA, Yankton, SD, and Aberdeen, SD—these are the largest towns en route.
• Gas prices tend to be 5-10% lower in South Dakota than in Nebraska or North Dakota, so fill up in Aberdeen.
• Most towns along the route have at least one 24-hour gas station with convenience store, but between smaller towns, gaps can be 50 miles.
• No tolls on any of the highways used in this route.