Buffalo, Minnesota to Watertown, South Dakota: Road Trip Guide & Distance

159.3 miles 256.4 km · straight line
199.1 miles estimated 320.5 km · driving distance
4h 0min estimated drive time
$19 - $24 estimated fuel cost
~49min flight time
264° W bearing direction

How far is Buffalo, Minnesota from Watertown, South Dakota?

The distance from Buffalo, Minnesota to Watertown, South Dakota is 159.3 miles (256.4 km) as the crow flies. Watertown, South Dakota is located W of Buffalo, Minnesota. By car, the driving distance is approximately 199.1 miles, taking about 4h 0min. A direct flight would take roughly 49min. Both are located in United States — Buffalo, Minnesota in Minnesota and Watertown, South Dakota in South Dakota.

For a drive of this length, it's recommended to plan at least one quick rest stop to stretch your legs and grab a coffee. Since you'll be heading mostly West, pack a good pair of sunglasses if you plan to drive during the late afternoon to avoid the harsh sun glare. Given the short distance, driving or taking a train is often faster and more convenient than dealing with airport security and flight boarding times.

Coordinates come from public place data for Buffalo, Minnesota and Watertown, South Dakota. The driving distance is estimated from straight-line distance with a road-factor model, so confirm the route in your navigation app. Fuel, flight, bus, and train values are planning estimates and can change by date, provider, road closures, and border rules.

How to Get from Buffalo, Minnesota to Watertown, South Dakota

Method Time Est. Cost Best For
Drive 4h 0min $19 - $24 Flexible stops
Fly ~49min $80–200* Speed
Bus ~4h 48min $16–$30* Budget
Train ~3h 48min $24–$70* Comfort

Suggested Stops Between Buffalo, Minnesota & Watertown, South Dakota

Quick Facts

Buffalo, Minnesota
45.17°N, 93.87°W
America/Chicago
283m elevation
Watertown, South Dakota
44.90°N, 97.12°W
America/Chicago
528m elevation
Explore more routes from Watertown, South Dakota

Did You Know?

  • At walking speed (3 mph), it would take about 53 hours of non-stop walking
  • By bicycle at 12 mph, the journey would take roughly 13 hours
  • You could travel this distance about 156.3 times to circle the Earth's equator
Data Sources & Estimate Notes GeoNames · OpenStreetMap · Driving distance estimated using road factor coefficients