Amtrak's Empire Builder serves Minneapolis, but requires travel to Chicago first.

How long is the flight?

The flight is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Is Minneapolis walkable?

Downtown is very walkable, especially with the skyway system.

What is the best time to visit?

Summer offers the best weather for outdoor activities.

A car is helpful for visiting suburbs, but not strictly necessary downtown.

Rochester

Minneapolis

Flight Driving

Rochester to Minneapolis

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Rochester to Minneapolis spans roughly 600 miles. You can fly from Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW) to Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) in about 90 minutes. Driving via I-94 West takes approximately 9 to 10 hours. You will pass through Chicago and Madison along the way. This route connects the industrial Midwest to the Twin Cities.

Total Distance: 950 km driving, 800 km air.

Fastest Way

Flight from DTW to MSP takes 1 hour 30 minutes.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most cost-effective for groups.

Compare Rochester to Minneapolis Routes

	Flight Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	1 hour 30 mins	9 hours 30 mins
Avg Price	$120 - $300	$100 - $150 in fuel
Operator	Delta Air Lines	Personal Vehicle
Route	DTW to MSP	I-94 W
Tip	Delta operates multiple daily non-stop flights.	Expect heavy congestion near Chicago on I-90/I-94.

Travel Tips

Skyway System
Use the climate-controlled skyway system to walk between downtown buildings in winter.
Public Transit
Use the METRO light rail to get from the airport to downtown.
Dining
Try a Jucy Lucy burger at a local pub.
Weather
Pack layers, as Minnesota weather changes rapidly.
Navigation
Use Google Maps to avoid construction zones on I-94.