Is Minneapolis a good place to visit?

Yes, it is a city with a great lake and museum scene.

Yes, multiple airlines offer direct service.

Is it better to drive or fly?

Flying is much faster for this distance.

Columbia

Minneapolis

Flight Driving

Columbia to Minneapolis

Updated: 30 May 2026

The journey from Columbia to Minneapolis is approximately 1,900 km. Flying from BWI to Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) is the fastest option, taking about 2.5 hours. Driving via I-80 and I-94 takes roughly 19 hours, passing through the Midwest. Minneapolis is a major city on the Mississippi River, known for its lakes and vibrant culture. It is a very long drive through the heart of the country.

Total Distance: Driving distance 1,900 km, air distance 1,700 km.

Fastest Way

Direct flight from BWI to MSP is the fastest at 2.5 hours.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most cost-effective for groups.

Compare Columbia to Minneapolis Routes

	Flight Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	2 hours 30 mins	19 hours
Avg Price	$200 - $400	$200 - $300 in fuel
Operator	Delta Air Lines	Personal Vehicle
Route	BWI to MSP	I-80 W to I-94 W
Tip	MSP is well-connected to the city via the light rail.	The drive is very long; plan for multiple overnight stops.

Travel Tips

Traffic
Avoid driving through downtown Minneapolis during rush hour.
Public Transit
Minneapolis is best explored by car, but has a light rail system.
Dining
Try the local food in the North Loop neighborhood.
Weather
Winters are extremely cold; pack accordingly.
Events
Check the local calendar for events at the U.S. Bank Stadium.

Safety Tips

Driving
Be prepared for heavy traffic on I-94.
Personal Safety
Minneapolis is generally safe, but use standard city precautions.
Emergency
Keep a roadside kit for the long drive.
Navigation
Use a GPS to navigate the city's streets.