Nestled on the banks of the Mississippi River, Red Wing, Minnesota, is a charming city known for its historic architecture, iconic pottery, and stunning bluffs. But beyond its picturesque facade, Red Wing holds a unique position as a vital transportation point—a mandatory stop on one of America’s great cross-country rail lines, and a convenient gateway to major metropolitan airports.
If you’re planning a trip to this Minnesota gem, understanding the multimodal transportation options—from the historic Amtrak station to the nearby international hub—is key.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about navigating Red Wing (RDW) via rail and air, complete with essential distance calculations.
Part 1: Stepping Aboard the Empire Builder
Red Wing is truly a classic American rail town. Its historic station is one of the essential stops on Amtrak’s famed Empire Builder route, which connects the Midwest to the Pacific Northwest.
The Red Wing Amtrak Station (RDW)
The station itself is a beautiful piece of history, reflecting the city’s importance along the rail lines.
- Station Code: RDW
- Status: Unstaffed (Essential services like ticketing and baggage must be handled remotely or at staffed stations).
- Operating Line: The Empire Builder (Route 27/28).
The Empire Builder runs daily between Chicago, Illinois, and two western termini: Seattle, Washington, and Portland, Oregon. Red Wing sits strategically about an hour southeast of the Twin Cities (St. Paul/Minneapolis).
Amtrak Distances from Red Wing (RDW)
Understanding the distances along the Empire Builder route helps travelers gauge overnight stays and travel times. Red Wing is an excellent place to begin or end a shorter leg of the journey, especially for travelers connecting to Chicago or the Twin Cities.
| Destination City | Route Direction | Approximate Rail Distance (Miles) | Estimated Travel Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| St. Paul-Minneapolis (MSP) | Westbound | ~50 miles | 1 hr 15 min |
| Milwaukee, WI | Eastbound | ~270 miles | 5 hours |
| Chicago, IL | Eastbound | ~360 miles | 6–7 hours |
| La Crosse, WI | Eastbound | ~100 miles | 2 hours |
| Seattle, WA | Westbound | ~1,990 miles | ~45 hours |
Part 2: Airport Operations and Accessibility
For travelers flying into the region, Red Wing is conveniently located near two commercial airports as well as its own regional facility. Proximity to the international hub in the Twin Cities makes planning easy.
Key Airports Serving Red Wing Travelers
The following table details the airports you might use, including their codes, status, and the crucial driving distances from downtown Red Wing.
| Airport (Code) | Type of Service | Approximate Driving Distance (Miles) | Estimated Driving Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minneapolis-St. Paul (MSP) | Major International Hub | 50 – 55 miles | 50 – 60 minutes |
| Rochester International (RST) | Regional Commercial | 60 – 65 miles | 70 – 80 minutes |
| Red Wing Regional (RGK) | General Aviation/Private | 5 – 7 miles | 10 – 15 minutes |
MSP: The Primary Hub
The vast majority of travelers visiting Red Wing by air utilize Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP).
- Location: South of Minneapolis and St. Paul, MSP is generally a straightforward drive down U.S. 52 or I-94/I-494.
- Connection Bonus: If you are connecting from the Empire Builder, the Amtrak station in St. Paul (MSP station code) is located just a short light rail ride from MSP Airport, offering a fantastic rail-to-air multimodal connection option.
RST: The Regional Alternative
Rochester International Airport (RST) is a smaller, regional alternative, often used by those visiting the Mayo Clinic area. While the drive is slightly longer than MSP, it can be a less congested option for regional flights.
RGK: Red Wing’s Local Asset
The Red Wing Regional Airport (RGK) serves general aviation, charter flights, and private pilots. It is located just outside the downtown core, ideal for visitors arriving by private aircraft but not typically used by commercial travelers.
Part 3: Essential Operational Tips for Red Wing Travelers
Whether you are arriving by train or plane, a few logistical tips will smooth your travels to and from Red Wing.
Tips for Amtrak Travelers (RDW)
- Ticket Collection: Since RDW is an unstaffed station, you must have your tickets printed or accessible digitally before arriving. No ticketing services are available on site.
- Baggage: Red Wing does not offer checked baggage service. All luggage must be carry-on (or checked at a major station like MSP or Chicago).
- Timing: The Empire Builder schedules can fluctuate, especially on long-distance routes. Always check the real-time status of Train 27 (Westbound) or Train 28 (Eastbound) on the Amtrak app before heading to the station.
- Shelter: While the station building is lovely, passengers typically wait on the platform or in the small covered shelter area. Be prepared for the weather, especially during Minnesota winters.
Connecting Air Travel to Red Wing
- Rental Cars are Key: While Red Wing is walkable downtown, and Amtrak serves the city center, accessing the airport or surrounding bluff country (like Barn Bluff) generally requires a car. Rental cars should be secured at MSP or RST.
- Shuttle Services: Limited local shuttle services may operate between Red Wing and the Twin Cities, but pre-booking is mandatory, and schedules are not as frequent as metropolitan services.
- Parking at the Station: If you are leaving your vehicle in Red Wing while taking the train, ensure you check local regulations regarding long-term parking near the RDW station.
Plan Your Perfect Red Wing Journey
Red Wing offers travelers the best of both worlds: the romance of historic rail travel right downtown and seamless connectivity to major international air routes just an hour away.
By knowing the distances, the operational hours, and the specific needs of the unstaffed Amtrak station, you can ensure your arrival in this scenic river city is as enjoyable and stress-free as the visit itself.
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