The Twin Cities—Minneapolis and Saint Paul—offer a unique blend of cosmopolitan culture, natural beauty, and robust infrastructure. Whether you are flying in for a business trip or arriving by classic rail to explore the Great Lakes region, navigating the area’s central transportation hubs is key to a smooth journey.
This complete guide breaks down the operations of the Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP), details the essential Amtrak railway service, and provides crucial distances to help you plan your travel efficiently.
Part 1: MSP—The Midwest’s Central Air Hub
Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) is consistently ranked one of North America’s best airports for customer satisfaction. Operating just south of the main cities, MSP is easily accessible and serves as a major gateway for the upper Midwest.
Operational Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| IATA Code | MSP |
| Official Name | Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport |
| Terminals | Two: Terminal 1 (T1—Lindbergh) and Terminal 2 (T2—Humphrey) |
| Key Carriers | Delta Air Lines (major hub), Sun Country, Southwest |
| Connectivity | Connected directly to the METRO Blue Line Light Rail Transit (LRT) |
| Inter-Terminal Transport | Free 24/7 Blue Line LRT service connects T1 and T2 (approx. 5-minute ride). |
Airport Ground Transport Guide
MSP is strategically located to ensure quick access to both downtown areas. The most efficient methods of getting to and from the airport include:
- Light Rail Transit (LRT): The METRO Blue Line offers inexpensive and direct service from both T1 and T2 terminals straight into Downtown Minneapolis (Target Field Station).
- Rideshare/Taxis: Designated pick-up areas are available at both terminals. The drive time is highly dependent on tunnel traffic.
- Rental Cars: Both terminals house major rental car agencies.
Part 2: Connectivity and Crucial Distances
When planning your itinerary, knowing the distance between the key transportation points—the airport, the two downtown areas, and the historic Amtrak station—is essential.
The following table outlines the key navigation points, focusing on typical driving distances (which may vary significantly during peak traffic hours).
Twin Cities Key Distance Guide
| Start Point | Destination | Distance (Approx. Miles) | Approx. Drive Time (Off-Peak) | Primary Transit Option |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSP Airport | Downtown Minneapolis | 10 miles | 15–25 minutes | METRO Blue Line (LRT) |
| MSP Airport | Downtown St. Paul | 8 miles | 15–20 minutes | Taxi/Rideshare (No direct LRT) |
| MSP Airport | St. Paul Union Depot (Amtrak) | 9 miles | 15–20 minutes | Taxi/Rideshare |
| Downtown Minneapolis | Downtown St. Paul | 12 miles | 20–35 minutes | METRO Green Line (LRT) |
| St. Paul Union Depot | Downtown Minneapolis | 10 miles | 20–30 minutes | METRO Green Line (LRT) |
Note on LRT: The METRO Green Line connects Downtown St. Paul (near Union Depot) and Downtown Minneapolis. The Blue Line connects Downtown Minneapolis to the airport. To travel from MSP to Union Depot via rail, you must transfer from the Blue Line to the Green Line in Downtown Minneapolis.
Part 3: Riding the Rails—The Amtrak Empire Builder
Unlike many major U.S. cities, the primary Amtrak station for the Twin Cities is located in Saint Paul, not Minneapolis.
St. Paul Union Depot (SPD)
The station is a beautifully restored architectural landmark, connecting the past glamour of rail travel with modern transportation needs. It serves as a major hub for Amtrak, regional buses (Greyhound, Jefferson Lines), and the METRO Green Line.
| Amtrak Station Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Station Name | St. Paul Union Depot |
| Station Code | SPD |
| Location | 214 E 4th St, St. Paul, MN 55101 |
| Connecting Rail | METRO Green Line LRT (to Downtown Minneapolis) |
The Empire Builder Route
The only Amtrak route serving the Twin Cities is the famed Empire Builder, which runs daily between Chicago and the Pacific Northwest.
This route is essential for travelers looking to connect the Midwest to the dramatic landscapes of the northern U.S.
Key Destinations on the Empire Builder
| Direction | Major Destinations | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Eastbound | Milwaukee, Chicago | Service often departs St. Paul in the late morning/early afternoon. |
| Westbound | Fargo, Glacier National Park, Spokane, Seattle / Portland | The train splits in Spokane, offering service to both Seattle and Portland, Oregon. |
Part 4: Essential Twin Cities Travel Tips
To ensure your transition between air, rail, and city travel is flawless, keep these logistical tips in mind:
Top 5 Transit Tips for the Twin Cities
- Purchase an All-Day Pass: If you plan on using the LRT more than twice, a discounted all-day pass for the METRO system is the most economical choice.
- Know Your Lines: The Blue Line connects the airport to Downtown Minneapolis. The Green Line connects Downtown Minneapolis and Downtown St. Paul (and Union Depot).
- Allow Extra Time for I-94: The freeway corridor connecting the two cities (I-94) is notorious for congestion, especially during rush hours (7 AM–9 AM and 3 PM–6 PM). If using rideshare or taxis, add 15-20 minutes to your estimate.
- MSP Terminal Distinction: If you are being dropped off or picked up, confirm the terminal (T1 or T2) with your flight provider. Misidentifying the terminal can add significant delay since the terminals are not directly connected by road.
- Winter Preparedness: Minnesota winters require extra caution. If traveling between November and March, assume driving and flight delays are possible, and give yourself a wider buffer, especially when connecting between Amtrak and MSP.
Whether you’re visiting the historic streets of St. Paul or the glittering skyscrapers of Minneapolis, the Twin Cities offer robust transportation options designed to get you where you need to go quickly and comfortably. Enjoy your journey!
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