No, there is no direct passenger rail service between these two cities.

How long is the flight?

Connecting flights usually take between 5 and 7 hours.

What is the best time to visit?

Summer is ideal for enjoying the lakes and outdoor festivals.

There are minimal tolls on this route, mostly in the Midwest.

Is it a scenic drive?

Yes, the drive through the Rockies and the plains is quite beautiful.

Albuquerque

Minneapolis

Flight Driving

Albuquerque to Minneapolis

Updated: 28 May 2026

Traveling from Albuquerque to Minneapolis covers roughly 1,300 miles. By car, the route takes about 20 hours, primarily heading north through Colorado and Nebraska. Flying is significantly faster, with direct or one-stop flights available from ABQ to Minneapolis-St. Paul International (MSP). You will experience a dramatic shift from the high desert of New Mexico to the lake-filled landscapes of the Upper Midwest. This route is popular for those moving between the Southwest and the Great Lakes region.

Total Distance: 2,100 km driving distance; 1,750 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying takes approximately 5 hours total, including airport transit.

Cheapest Way

Driving is generally cheaper for families, while flights are more cost-effective for solo travelers.

Compare Albuquerque to Minneapolis Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	5 hours	20 hours
Avg Price	$300-$550	$300-$450 in fuel
Operator	Delta Air Lines	Personal Vehicle
Route	ABQ to MSP via Salt Lake City or Denver.	I-25 North to I-80 East, then I-35 North.
Tip	Delta offers the most frequent connections for this route.	Be prepared for heavy traffic when passing through Denver.

Travel Tips

Winter Driving
Avoid driving in Minnesota during heavy snowstorms; check MnDOT for road conditions.
Airport Transit
Use the METRO Blue Line light rail to get from MSP airport to downtown Minneapolis.
Packing
Bring layers, as temperatures in Minneapolis can drop rapidly even in spring.
Route Planning
Use I-25 to avoid the winding mountain roads of smaller highways.
Rest Stops
Plan stops in Omaha or Des Moines if you are driving the full distance in two days.

Safety Tips

Mountain Passes
Be cautious of high winds on I-25 in Southern Colorado.
Icy Roads
If driving in winter, ensure your vehicle has winter tires or chains.
Wildlife
Watch for deer on rural highways in Nebraska and Minnesota.
Emergency Supplies
Keep a winter emergency kit in your car, including blankets and a shovel.