Is there a direct flight?

Yes, Delta and United offer direct flights from IAH to MSP.

How long is the drive?

It is approximately 20 hours of driving time.

What is the best time to visit?

Summer and early fall are the most pleasant times.

There are tolls in Texas and Oklahoma, but few in the Midwest.

The drive through the Ozarks and Iowa farmland is quite scenic.

Galveston

Minneapolis

Flight Driving

Galveston to Minneapolis

Updated: 30 May 2026

Traveling from Galveston to Minneapolis covers over 2,000 kilometers. The most practical method is flying from Houston IAH to Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport. If driving, you will follow I-45 to I-35, passing through Dallas, Oklahoma City, and Kansas City. This journey takes approximately 20 hours of driving time. Expect a significant climate shift from the Gulf Coast to the Upper Midwest.

Total Distance: 2,050 km driving distance; 1,800 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying from IAH is the fastest, taking 5 hours total.

Cheapest Way

Driving is cheaper if traveling with multiple passengers.

Compare Galveston to Minneapolis Routes

	Flight Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	5 hours	20 hours
Avg Price	$300-$500	$350-$450 in fuel
Operator	Delta Air Lines	Personal Vehicle
Route	IAH to MSP.	I-45 N to I-35 N.
Tip	Direct flights are available from IAH, saving significant time.	Plan for at least one overnight stop in Kansas City.

Travel Tips

Winter Driving
If driving in winter, ensure your vehicle has snow tires and an emergency kit.
Airport Transit
Use the Light Rail Transit (LRT) to get from MSP airport to downtown Minneapolis.
Packing
Layer your clothing, as Minneapolis temperatures can fluctuate rapidly.
Dining
Try a 'Juicy Lucy' burger, a local Minneapolis specialty.
Navigation
Download offline maps, as cell service can be spotty in rural Iowa.

Safety Tips

Black Ice
Be extremely cautious of black ice on bridges during the winter months.
Emergency Contacts
Keep a list of local emergency numbers for each state you pass through.
Vehicle Check
Check your battery health before departing, as cold weather drains batteries quickly.
Rest Stops
Use designated rest areas rather than parking on highway shoulders.