Yes, but it is an 11-hour drive.

What is the best airport?

John Glenn Columbus International (CMH).

Columbus is a mid-cost city; budget accordingly.

St. Cloud

Columbus

Flight Driving

St. Cloud to Columbus

Updated: 29 May 2026

The most practical way to reach Columbus from St. Cloud is to drive to Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) and take a direct flight to John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH). The flight takes approximately 1.5 hours. Driving is a long journey of over 700 miles, taking at least 11 hours of driving time. Columbus is a major city, and renting a car is recommended for exploring the area.

Total Distance: 1,200 km driving distance; 900 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying from MSP is the fastest method, saving over 9 hours of travel time.

Cheapest Way

Flying is significantly cheaper and faster than the fuel and hotel costs of a long drive.

Compare St. Cloud to Columbus Routes

	Flight Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	1.5 hours	11 hours
Avg Price	$150-$300 round trip	$150-$250 in fuel
Operator	Delta Air Lines	Personal Vehicle
Route	MSP to CMH.	I-94 E to I-90 E to I-71 S.
Tip	Delta and other carriers offer frequent direct flights from MSP.	This is a long day of driving; plan for frequent breaks.

Travel Tips

Traffic
Columbus traffic is heavy; avoid driving during rush hours.
Transit
Use the COTA bus system to navigate the city.
Airport
CMH is very busy; allow extra time for security and terminal transfers.
Booking
Book hotels in the downtown or Short North areas for easy access to attractions.
Dining
Explore the diverse food scene in neighborhoods like the Short North and German Village.

Safety Tips

Awareness
Stay alert in crowded tourist areas and on public transit.
Driving
Be prepared for heavy traffic and aggressive driving on Columbus freeways.
Emergency
Keep your hotel address and emergency contacts handy.
Sun Safety
The Ohio sun is strong; wear sunglasses and sunscreen.