Train
Flight
Big Lake to Philadelphia
Updated: 28 May 2026
The journey from Big Lake to Philadelphia covers approximately 1,850 km. You will first drive 45 minutes to Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport. From MSP, direct flights to Philadelphia International Airport take roughly 3 hours. Alternatively, you can take the Amtrak Empire Builder from St. Paul to Chicago and transfer to the Capitol Limited. This route offers a mix of urban transit and scenic rail travel across the Midwest.
Total Distance: Driving distance 1,850 km, straight-line air distance 1,600 km.
Fastest Way
Direct flight from MSP to PHL taking approximately 3 hours in the air.
Cheapest Way
Flight from MSP to PHL booked during off-peak mid-week hours.
Compare Big Lake to Philadelphia Routes
|
Connecting
|
Direct
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 32 hours | 6 hours |
| Avg Price | 300-700 USD | 250-550 USD |
| Operator | Amtrak | Delta Air Lines |
| Route | St. Paul Union Depot to Chicago Union Station to Philadelphia 30th Street Station | MSP to PHL |
| Tip | Upgrade to a Roomette for a more comfortable overnight experience. | Book at least 21 days in advance to secure lower fares. |
Travel Tips
-
Airport AccessUse the Northstar Commuter Rail from Big Lake to downtown Minneapolis to connect to the light rail for MSP.
-
Public TransitPhiladelphia's SEPTA system is highly efficient for navigating the city center.
-
WalkingCenter City is very walkable; wear comfortable shoes to explore the historic district.
-
DiningReservations are recommended for popular restaurants in the Rittenhouse Square area.
-
WeatherPack layers as Philadelphia experiences humid summers and cold, windy winters.
Safety Tips
-
Stay AlertKeep your belongings secure in crowded tourist areas like the Liberty Bell site.
-
Night TravelStick to well-lit main streets when walking at night in unfamiliar neighborhoods.
-
Public TransportKeep your SEPTA Key card accessible to avoid fumbling for cash at turnstiles.
-
EmergencyDial 911 for any emergency services while within city limits.
People Also Ask
-
Is there a direct train from Minnesota to Philadelphia?No, you must transfer in Chicago at Union Station.
-
How far is Big Lake from MSP Airport?It is approximately 45 miles or a 50-minute drive.
-
What is the best airport for Philadelphia?Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) is the primary hub.
-
Are there direct flights from MSP to PHL?Yes, Delta Air Lines operates daily direct flights.
-
Is Philadelphia walkable?Yes, the historic district and Center City are very pedestrian-friendly.
Quick Info
- From Big Lake, Minnesota, United States
- To Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
-
Modes
Best Time to Travel
May to September for mild weather and clear skies for flight departures.
Things to Do in Philadelphia
1
Independence Hall
Visit the site where the Declaration of Independence was signed. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in Old City.
2
Philadelphia Museum of Art
Famous for its steps featured in the Rocky films. It houses a massive collection of European and American art.
3
Reading Terminal Market
One of the oldest public markets in the country. Sample local delicacies like the Philly cheesesteak.
4
Eastern State Penitentiary
Explore the ruins of this historic prison known for its grand architecture and famous inmates like Al Capone.
Tags
Big Lake to Philadelphia flights
MSP to PHL travel
train from Minneapolis to Philadelphia
Amtrak Empire Builder route
traveling from Minnesota to Pennsylvania
best way to reach Philadelphia from Big Lake
flight duration MSP to PHL
Philadelphia travel tips
