Is there a direct train?

No, there is no direct train service from Altoona to Baltimore.

What is the best airport?

BWI is the most convenient airport for reaching downtown Baltimore.

How long is the drive?

The drive takes approximately 18 hours of pure road time.

Yes, expect tolls on the Indiana and Pennsylvania turnpikes.

Is public transit available?

Yes, Baltimore has an extensive bus and light rail system.

Altoona

Baltimore

Flight Driving

Altoona to Baltimore

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Altoona to Baltimore spans approximately 1,150 miles. You should drive to Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport for a flight to Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport. Alternatively, a cross-country drive follows I-90 East through Chicago and Cleveland. Expect significant traffic near the Chicago metropolitan area. This route transitions from the Midwest plains to the Mid-Atlantic coastal region.

Total Distance: 1,850 km driving, 1,580 km air.

Fastest Way

Flight from MSP to BWI is the fastest at 4.5 hours total travel time.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the cheapest for groups of three or more people.

Compare Altoona to Baltimore Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	4 hours 30 mins	18 hours
Avg Price	$350-$600	$250-$400
Operator	Delta Air Lines	Personal Vehicle
Route	MSP to BWI via Detroit or Minneapolis hub.	I-90 E to I-80 E through Chicago and Pennsylvania.
Tip	Book at least three weeks in advance to secure lower fares.	Avoid driving through Chicago during rush hours between 7 AM and 9 AM.

Travel Tips

Airport Parking
Use the MSP Quick Ride Ramp for cheaper long-term parking options.
Toll Roads
Carry an E-ZPass to navigate tolls on the Pennsylvania Turnpike efficiently.
Traffic Alerts
Use real-time navigation apps to bypass congestion on I-90 near Chicago.
Packing
Pack layers as the weather in Baltimore can shift rapidly near the Chesapeake Bay.
Local Transit
Use the Baltimore Light Rail to navigate the city center without a car.

Safety Tips

Vehicle Check
Ensure your tires and fluids are serviced before a long-distance drive.
Night Driving
Avoid long-distance night driving on rural stretches of I-80 to prevent fatigue.
Emergency Kit
Keep a roadside emergency kit with jumper cables and water in your trunk.
Urban Awareness
Stay in well-lit, populated areas when exploring downtown Baltimore at night.