Red Wing, MN to Ludington, MI: Ultimate Road Trip Guide

The Mississippi River town of Red Wing, MN, lies at the confluence of the Cannon and Mississippi Rivers, while Ludington, MI, sits on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan. The direct route between them involves a 350-mile drive through Wisconsin’s dairy heartland, culminating in a four-hour ferry crossing aboard the historic SS Badger—the last coal-fired passenger steamship in the United States.

This guide answers key questions: how long to drive Red Wing, MN to Ludington, MI (approximately 6 hours driving plus 4 hours ferry), is it worth driving Red Wing, MN to Ludington, MI (absolutely, for the scenic variety and maritime experience), and highlights things to do between Red Wing, MN and Ludington, MI.

Wisconsin’s rolling farmlands give way to the bluffs of the Mississippi Valley near Red Wing. Farther east, the Wisconsin Dells region offers sandstone formations and river gorges. The Lake Michigan shoreline near Ludington features sandy beaches and dunes.

• Natural Landscapes: Devil's Lake State Park (near Baraboo) is a detour for quartzite bluffs; Point Beach State Forest (north of Manitowoc) offers Lake Michigan shoreline.
• Local Commerce: Cheese shops in Plymouth, WI; cherry farms near Sturgeon Bay. In Manitowoc, visit the Wisconsin Maritime Museum before boarding the ferry.

While the route has no UNESCO World Heritage Sites, it passes near the Wisconsin Dells (a National Natural Landmark) and the historic SS Badger, a National Historic Landmark.

The drive follows US-61 and MN-50 from Red Wing to I-94 East, then continues through Eau Claire, Wisconsin Dells, Madison, and Milwaukee. From Milwaukee, take I-43 North to Manitowoc. The SS Badger ferry operates seasonally (May–October); reservations are recommended. Fuel stops are abundant along I-94, with prices averaging $3.50/gal.

• Fuel Economy: Average sedan uses ~12 gallons for the drive; budget ~$42.
• Road Quality: I-94 is well-maintained; construction common near Madison.
• Ferry Cost: $80–120 per vehicle plus passengers.

For more tips on planning, see how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

Interstate 94 is a divided highway with rest areas every 30–50 miles. For families, the Wisconsin Dells area has water parks and amusement parks. Pets are welcome at rest areas and on the SS Badger (in designated areas).

• Hidden Off-Route Spots: Horicon Marsh (between Fond du Lac and Oshkosh) is a vast wetland with wildlife viewing.
• Fatigue Management: Rest stops near Portage, WI, and Sheboygan, WI have picnic areas. Drive within 2-hour chunks.
• Pet-Friendly: Many chain hotels in Manitowoc and Ludington accept pets; ferry requires pets in vehicle or kennel.

Road quality is generally good, but watch for deer crossings near agricultural areas. Winter travel is not recommended due to lake-effect snow on the ferry route.