Is there a direct train from Berkeley to Minneapolis?

No, you must take a bus or train to Emeryville and transfer to the California Zephyr, which requires a connection in Chicago.

What is the best airport for Minneapolis?

Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) is the primary hub serving the city.

How long is the drive from Berkeley to Minneapolis?

The drive takes approximately 28 hours of pure driving time, usually spread over three days.

Are there tolls on the route?

Yes, expect tolls on certain sections of I-80 in the Midwest.

Is Minneapolis walkable?

Downtown Minneapolis is highly walkable, especially with the indoor skyway system.

Berkeley

Minneapolis

Flight Driving

Berkeley to Minneapolis

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Berkeley to Minneapolis spans approximately 2,700 km across the American West and Midwest. Most travelers choose a flight from Oakland International Airport to Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport for speed. Driving involves taking I-80 East through Nevada, Utah, and Nebraska before connecting to I-35 North. You will cross the Continental Divide and the Great Plains during this trek. The route offers diverse landscapes ranging from Sierra Nevada mountains to expansive cornfields. Expect a travel time of roughly 4 hours by air or 28 hours of pure driving time.

Total Distance: 2,700 km driving distance; 2,450 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flight from Oakland (OAK) to Minneapolis (MSP) takes approximately 4 hours.

Cheapest Way

Driving is often cheaper for groups of three or more people sharing fuel costs.

Compare Berkeley to Minneapolis Routes

	Flight Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	4 hours 15 mins	28 hours
Avg Price	$250 - $500	$400 - $600 in fuel
Operator	Delta Air Lines	Personal Vehicle
Route	OAK to MSP	I-80 E to I-35 N
Tip	Book at least three weeks in advance to secure lower fares.	Check your tire pressure and coolant levels before crossing the Nevada desert.

Travel Tips

Pack Layers
Minneapolis weather changes rapidly; always carry a light jacket even in summer.
Use Skyways
Utilize the extensive downtown skyway system to walk between buildings during winter.
Public Transit
The METRO light rail connects the airport directly to downtown Minneapolis efficiently.
Dining
Try a Jucy Lucy burger, a local specialty featuring cheese stuffed inside the meat patty.
Parking
Downtown parking can be expensive; use public parking ramps instead of street meters.

Safety Tips

Winter Driving
If driving in winter, ensure your vehicle has snow tires and an emergency kit.
Pedestrian Safety
Always use designated crosswalks, especially in high-traffic downtown areas.
Emergency Contacts
Keep a list of local emergency numbers and roadside assistance saved in your phone.
Personal Belongings
Keep your valuables out of sight when leaving your car parked in public lots.