Is there a direct flight?

Direct flights are rare; most routes involve a layover in a major hub.

How long is the drive?

The drive takes approximately 19 to 20 hours of pure driving time.

What is the best route?

I-35 North is the most direct and reliable highway route.

Yes, you will encounter tolls in Texas and potentially in Oklahoma.

Is Minneapolis walkable?

Downtown Minneapolis is very walkable and features an extensive skyway system.

San Antonio

Minneapolis

Flight Driving

San Antonio to Minneapolis

Updated: 28 May 2026

Traveling from San Antonio to Minneapolis covers a distance of approximately 1,900 kilometers. The most efficient way to travel is by air, with flights departing from San Antonio International Airport (SAT) to Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP). If you choose to drive, you will follow I-35 North for nearly the entire duration, passing through Oklahoma City, Kansas City, and Des Moines. This route is a straight shot north through the central United States. Expect a significant climate shift from the humid subtropical climate of Texas to the humid continental climate of Minnesota.

Total Distance: 1,900 km driving distance; 1,720 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying is significantly faster, saving over 14 hours of travel time.

Cheapest Way

Driving is cheaper for families, while budget airlines offer competitive flight deals.

Compare San Antonio to Minneapolis Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	5 hours	19 hours
Avg Price	$400 - $700	$300 - $450 in fuel
Operator	Delta Air Lines	N/A
Route	SAT to MSP via hubs like DFW or ORD.	I-35 N through Oklahoma, Kansas, Missouri, Iowa.
Tip	Delta offers the most frequent connections for this specific route.	Break the trip into two days with an overnight stop in Kansas City.

Travel Tips

Winter Driving
Avoid driving in Minnesota during winter months unless you are experienced with snow and ice.
Airport Transit
Use the Light Rail Transit (METRO) at MSP to reach downtown Minneapolis affordably.
Hydration
Stay hydrated during the long drive through the dry plains of Kansas and Oklahoma.
Booking
Use flight comparison tools to track price drops for SAT to MSP routes.
Parking
Check hotel parking fees in downtown Minneapolis as they can be expensive.

Safety Tips

Tornado Awareness
Monitor weather apps for tornado alerts when driving through the central plains in spring.
Wildlife
Be cautious of deer crossing the road, especially during dawn and dusk in rural areas.
Vehicle Prep
Check your battery health before heading to the colder climate of Minnesota.
Communication
Ensure you have a portable power bank for your phone during the long drive.