The Perfect Road Trip Stop Between Chicago and the Black Hills
Chicago to Fairmont: 6 Hours, 50 Minutes | 455 Miles
Fairmont to Rapid City: 6 Hours, 20 Minutes | 455 Miles
Why Fairmont Is the Ideal Halfway Stop
If you are planning a road trip from Chicago to the Black Hills, Fairmont, Minnesota is the perfect place to stop and recharge. Conveniently located along Interstate 90, Fairmont sits exactly halfway between Chicago and the Black Hills, making it an easy and natural break in your drive.
Fairmont offers everything road trippers need for a quick, convenient stop:
✔ Easy access just off I-90
✔ A welcoming small-town feel
✔ Beautiful lakes right in town
✔ Plenty of dining, shopping, lodging, and fuel options
✔ Safe and easy to navigate community
Stretch Your Legs Along the Chain of Lakes
Fairmont’s lakes are easy to enjoy, even if you are only stopping for a short time. Take a quick walk, enjoy the views, or let kids stretch their legs at a lakeside park. It is a simple way to get fresh air and take a break before getting back on the road.
Chain of Lakes »
Grab a Bite (or a Treat) Worth Stopping For
Road trip food does not have to mean fast food. Fairmont has a variety of restaurants and quick stops that are easy to reach from Interstate 90. Check out a few Fairmont favorites such as the Channel Inn or Dairy Freeze.
Where to Eat »
Stay the Night, Start Fresh
Fairmont is a great place to rest overnight during a long drive. With 4 hotels right on the interstate, including Best Western, Hampton Inn, Quality Inn, and Super 8, you can get a good night’s sleep before continuing your journey.
More Places to Stay »
Make It a Memory, Not Just a Stop
Fairmont is more than just a stop on your road trip. You can slow down, enjoy small-town Minnesota hospitality, and make the break part of the fun. Even a few hours here can turn a long drive into a highlight of your journey.
Fairmont’s Favorite Things to Do:
- Accessible Playground at Gomsrud Park
- Fairmont Aquatic Park
- Free Bike Rentals
- Free Mini Golf
- Rent a Kayak or Pontoon and Explore the Lakes
- Martin County Historical Society
- Red Rock Center for the Arts
- Martin County Veterans Memorial
- Bowlmor (Bowling & Arcade)
- Fairmont 5 Theaters
- Local Shopping
- Fairmont Brewery
- Frisbee Golf or Hike at Cedar Creek Park
- Find All 101 Pig Statues
More Things to Do»
Get Your Visitor Guide
Before you hit the road, be sure to order the Fairmont Visitor Guide for trip ideas, local favorites, and helpful tips to make the most of your stop.
Visitor Guide»
Stay In
Fairmont
Let the hospitality in Fairmont welcome you! Just off Interstate-90, you’ll find a wide selection of hotels and restaurants. Perhaps a more rustic stay at a cabin or camping near the lake is more your style – we’ve got you covered.
Area Visitor’s Guide
Check out the Fairmont Area Visitor’s Guide online for tips and insights to exploring our area. Or, we can mail one to you!
