Great Lakes, USA
MSP is the main airport serving the Twin Cities metropolitan area. It features two main terminals: Terminal 1 (Lindbergh) and Terminal 2 (Humphrey). A free light rail shuttle connects the two terminals. MSP is a hub for Delta Air Lines, with a wide network of domestic and international connections. Other major airlines operating at MSP include American Airlines, United Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Spirit Airlines, Sun Country Airlines, and several international carriers. Typical routes link MSP to virtually every major U.S. City and a growing number of international destinations.
Flight prices typically increase during the summer months (June-August). Holiday periods also see elevated prices. Shoulder seasons (spring and fall) often have better deals on airfare. While winter can present cheaper flights, be aware that severe weather can cause delays or cancellations. MSP has a wide range of amenities. Diverse dining options are found, from fast food to sit-down restaurants, and various retail stores. Free Wi-Fi is throughout the terminals. The airport also has airline lounges, pet relief areas, and dedicated MSP Travel Essentials stores.
Prices typically increase in summer and during holidays; shoulder seasons offer better deals.
Diverse dining, retail stores, free Wi-Fi, airline lounges.
Various hotel shuttles and private shared-ride services operate from MSP.
Find flight deals and alerts at Dollar Flight Club.
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Compare and book car rentals at DiscoverCars.com.
Amtrak, the national passenger rail service, serves Saint Paul's Union Depot, easily accessible from Minneapolis via the Metro Green Line. The most prominent route is the Empire Builder, which links the Twin Cities to Chicago in the east and Seattle or Portland in the west. This train journey has scenic views, but it is a slower travel option compared to flying. Greyhound and Jefferson Lines are major intercity bus companies that have services connecting the Twin Cities to various destinations across the U.S. Bus travel is generally the most budget-friendly option for long-distance travel, though it can be slower and less comfortable than other modes.
To drive in Minnesota, you need a valid driver's license. If your home country's license is not in English, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended or needed alongside your national license. Rental car companies typically are at least 21 years old (surcharge for under 25). You also need proof of insurance. Minneapolis roads are generally good, but winters can bring challenging conditions due to ice and snow. The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) has real-time road conditions online. Traffic can be heavy during rush hour (7-9 AM and 4-6 PM) on major highways.
Minneapolis, being an inland city, is not a port for sea-going vessels or large cruise ships. While the Mississippi River runs through Minneapolis, it is not a main mode of arrival for general tourism. Recreational riverboat tours operate on the Mississippi, notably near the Stone Arch Bridge, with sightseeing experiences rather than point-to-point transportation. Similarly, rental options are for paddleboats or kayaks on the city lakes.
This section is not applicable for domestic travel within the U.S. If you are traveling internationally by land, for example, from Canada, standard U.S. Border entry procedures apply. This includes presenting your valid passport and any needed visa or ESTA. Check the latest U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) guidelines for specific requirements before crossing any international land border.
Minneapolis and its twin city, Saint Paul, use Metro Transit, a comprehensive public transportation system. This network has buses and light rail lines, connecting major attractions, neighborhoods, and the airport. Minneapolis operates two light rail lines: Blue Line (Downtown Minneapolis, MSP Airport, Mall of America) and Green Line (Downtown Minneapolis, UMN, Downtown Saint Paul). It is a fast and direct route for these destinations. Metro Transit runs an extensive bus network that covers almost all parts of Minneapolis.
Taxis and ride-sharing services give convenient, on-demand transportation. Yellow Cab and Blue & White Cab are common taxi companies. Taxis can be hailed on the street in busy areas or called directly. Taxis operate on a metered fare system, with potential surcharges for airport trips or late night. Uber and Lyft are widely available and popular. They have a range of services from economy to premium. Download the apps and set up your account before your trip.
Minneapolis is very walkable, with wide sidewalks and scenic pathways in downtown, Chain of Lakes, and Mississippi Riverfront areas.
Extensive network of bike lanes and multi-use trails, including the nearly 50-mile Grand Rounds Scenic Byway.
Tour buses and recreational river cruises for sightseeing. No cable cars or funiculars.
To rent a car, you are typically at least 21 years old (surcharge for under 25). A valid driver's license from your home country is needed. If your license is not in English, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended or needed. A major credit card in the renter's name is also for the rental agreement. All major car rental companies operate at MSP Airport, with some having additional downtown locations. These include Hertz, Avis, Enterprise, Budget, National, Alamo, Thrifty, and Dollar.
Minneapolis operates a public bike share system called Nice Ride, with numerous stations throughout Minneapolis and Saint Paul. You can buy daily, monthly, or annual passes through the app or at kiosks. This is a good option for short rides. Numerous local bike shops (e.g., Tangletown Bike Shop, Freewheel Bike, Erik's Bike Shop) have daily or weekly rentals. Prices typically range from $15-$40 per day, based on the bike type. Motorcycle and scooter rentals are less common for general tourist rentals in Minneapolis. Specialized shops may have them, but they are not as widely available as cars or bicycles.
Drive on the right side of the road. Seatbelts are mandatory. Cell phone use while driving is restricted (hands-free okay, check local ordinances). Right turn on red is generally allowed after a full stop, unless signed "No Turn on Red."
Roads are generally good. Winter conditions (ice, snow, slush) can make driving challenging. Allow extra time and drive cautiously in winter. MnDOT has real-time road conditions online.
Metered street parking available (check signs for hours/restrictions). Numerous parking ramps and garages, especially downtown, can be expensive ($10-$25+ per day). Ask about hotel parking.
For efficient transit planning, use the Metro Transit app for real-time bus and train tracking. Google Maps also integrates Metro Transit schedules for seamless trip planning.
