2021-12-15 10:18:32
The North Star State is easy to reach, whether you’re flying, driving or arriving by train. No matter how you get here, we want your travels to be as smooth and hassle-free as possible. Read on for travel information and tips. ARRIVING BY AIR The Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) is a major hub of the Upper Midwest, and the 17th busiest U.S. airport for passengers. Minnesota is only about an hour away by air from most Midwest cities, and a two- or three-hour flight from the East and West coasts. The Twin Cities can be reached from several countries on direct international flights. The airport is conveniently located on the south side of the metropolitan area, 12 miles southeast of downtown Minneapolis, 10 miles southwest of downtown St. Paul and just minutes from Mall of America in Bloomington. Other Minnesota cities served by commercial air service include: Bemidji, Brainerd, Chisholm-Hibbing, Duluth, Fargo-Moorhead, Grand Forks-East Grand Forks, International Falls, Rochester and Thief River Falls. MINNESOTA BY TRAIN The Empire Builder Amtrak route crosses the state between the southeast and northwest borders, with stops in Winona, Red Wing, Minneapolis-St. Paul, St. Cloud, Staples, Detroit Lakes and Fargo-Moorhead. This route runs between Chicago and Seattle or Portland. DRIVING TO MINNESOTA Minnesota’s central location makes it convenient to reach by car from much of the United States. It is midway between the east and west coasts, and the northernmost state along the Mississippi River. The interstate highway system makes driving to Minnesota from other states a breeze, and eight Minnesota/Canada border crossings provide easy access for our northern neighbors. DRIVING DISTANCES In miles to the Minneapolis-St. Paul Area Chicago, IL . . . . . . . . . 400 Denver, CO . . . . . . . . 915 Des Moines, IA . . . . . 240 Detroit, MI . . . . . . . . . 690 Fargo, ND . . . . . . . . . . 240 Green Bay, WI . . . . . . 300 Indianapolis, IN . . . . . 590 Lincoln, NE . . . . . . . . 430 Madison, WI . . . . . . . . 275 Milwaukee, WI . . . . . . . 340 Omaha, NE . . . . . . . . 375 Sioux Falls, SD . . . . . . 240 Winnipeg, CA . . . . . . . 450 TAKE THE BUS Megabus provides express bus service to Minneapolis from several Midwest cities, including Chicago, Madison and Milwaukee. In addition, Greyhound and Jefferson Lines off er service to many Minnesota cities and provide convenient inter-city travel options within Minnesota. WHAT TO PACK Spring and fall, bring layers that can be added, depending on the temperature, and a lightweight coat or jacket. For winter trips, pack warm clothes, including sweaters, fleece or a blazer. You’ll need a heavy coat, boots, a warm hat and lined gloves or mittens. As we like to say here, there’s no bad weather, only bad clothing! INTERNATIONAL VISITORS Visitors from other countries are advised to exchange currency at their first convenience, since most Minnesota businesses don’t accept foreign currency. Currency can be exchanged at the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport and at most large banks, or withdrawn from automated teller machines (ATMs). TIME ZONE Minnesota is in the Central Time Zone, one hour behind the East Coast, two hours ahead of the West Coast. CLIMATE MINNESOTA’S Part of Minnesota’s appeal is its four distinct seasons, each with its own particular pleasures. MINNESOTA’S WELCOME CENTERS Welcome Centers are located on major highways at key points in the state. Stop in for statewide travel information. Scan the QR code below to see a map and a list or visit ExploreMinnesota.com/WelcomeCenters. MORE TRAVEL TIPS Find more ways to visit Minnesota and plan your trip today! ExploreMinnesota.com/GettingHere
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