Flight
Driving
Big Lake to Columbus
Updated: 29 May 2026
Traveling from Big Lake to Columbus covers roughly 750 miles. The most common route involves taking I-94 East to I-90, then transitioning to I-80 and I-71 South. This journey takes approximately 12 hours of driving time. Alternatively, you can fly from MSP to John Glenn Columbus International Airport. The route passes through major hubs like Chicago and Indianapolis, offering plenty of stopover potential.
Total Distance: 1200 km driving, 950 km air distance.
Fastest Way
Flying from MSP to CMH is the fastest, taking about 5 hours.
Cheapest Way
Driving is significantly cheaper for multiple passengers.
Compare Big Lake to Columbus Routes
|
Connecting
|
Direct
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 5 hours including layover | 12 hours |
| Avg Price | $280-$500 | $140-$200 in fuel |
| Operator | United Airlines | Personal Vehicle |
| Route | MSP to CMH via ORD. | I-94 E to I-90 E to I-71 S. |
| Tip | Flights usually connect through Chicago or Detroit. | Plan your fuel stops in advance to avoid high prices near major cities. |
Travel Tips
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TrafficAvoid I-71 through downtown Columbus during morning and evening rush hours.
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TollsThe Ohio Turnpike is a toll road; use an E-ZPass for convenience.
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DiningStop in Cleveland for a variety of lunch options if taking the northern route.
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ParkingUse the ParkColumbus app to find street parking downtown.
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NavigationDownload offline maps as cellular service can be spotty in rural Indiana.
Safety Tips
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Speed LimitsObserve speed limits strictly in small towns along the route.
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WeatherCheck for lake-effect snow warnings if traveling in late autumn.
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RestStay at a hotel in Indianapolis if you need to break up the 12-hour drive.
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VisibilityUse headlights during rain or fog, which is common in the Ohio Valley.
People Also Ask
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Is there a bus?Yes, Greyhound offers service, but it takes significantly longer than driving.
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How long is the flight?Total travel time is usually 5 to 6 hours with a layover.
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Are there tolls?Yes, the Ohio Turnpike requires tolls.
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Is Columbus walkable?Downtown and the Short North area are very walkable.
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What is the best route?I-94 to I-90 to I-71 is the most direct path.
Quick Info
- From Big Lake, Minnesota, United States
- To Columbus, Ohio, United States
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Modes
Best Time to Travel
Late spring or early autumn for mild temperatures.
Things to Do in Columbus
1
COSI
The Center of Science and Industry is a premier science museum in downtown Columbus.
2
Franklin Park Conservatory
Features beautiful botanical gardens and glass art by Dale Chihuly.
3
German Village
A historic neighborhood with brick streets, cafes, and bookstores.
4
Ohio Statehouse
A historic government building offering guided tours of the state capitol.
Tags
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Midwest road trip
I-94 to I-70 route
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