Is there a direct train?

No, you must transfer in Chicago Union Station.

How long is the drive?

Approximately 16 hours of pure driving time.

Yes, expect significant tolls on the Indiana and Ohio Turnpikes.

What is the best airport?

Minneapolis-St. Paul International (MSP) is the closest major hub.

Is Pittsburgh walkable?

Downtown Pittsburgh is highly walkable, but suburbs require a car.

Northfield

Pittsburgh

Flight Driving

Northfield to Pittsburgh

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Northfield to Pittsburgh spans approximately 1,050 miles. Most travelers drive north to Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport for a flight or take the I-90 East corridor. Driving takes roughly 16 hours through Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio. Amtrak service is available from St. Paul Union Depot via the Empire Builder to Chicago, then the Capitol Limited to Pittsburgh. This route traverses the heart of the American Midwest and the Rust Belt.

Total Distance: 1,690 km driving distance; 1,350 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flight from MSP to PIT with a connection, totaling 5.5 hours including layover.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the cheapest for groups of two or more, costing roughly $200 in fuel.

Compare Northfield to Pittsburgh Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	5 hours 30 mins	16 hours
Avg Price	$250 - $450	$180 - $250 in fuel
Operator	Delta Air Lines	Personal Vehicle
Route	MSP to PIT via DTW or ORD.	I-35 N to I-90 E to I-80 E.
Tip	Book at least three weeks in advance to secure lower fares from MSP.	Expect heavy tolls on the Indiana and Ohio Turnpikes.

Travel Tips

Airport Access
Use the light rail or shuttle services from Northfield to reach MSP efficiently.
Toll Preparation
Carry an E-ZPass to save time and money on the Ohio and Pennsylvania Turnpikes.
Winter Driving
Avoid I-90 during heavy snowstorms as lake-effect snow can cause major delays.
Amtrak Booking
Book the Empire Builder and Capitol Limited together as a single itinerary for better protection.
Local Transit
Use the Pittsburgh Port Authority bus and light rail system once you arrive downtown.

Safety Tips

Road Fatigue
Stop every four hours to prevent driver exhaustion on long interstate stretches.
Weather Alerts
Monitor the National Weather Service for wind warnings across the open plains of Minnesota.
Vehicle Check
Ensure your tires and battery are serviced before embarking on a 1,000-mile trip.
Emergency Kit
Keep a winter emergency kit in your trunk including blankets and non-perishable food.