Minneapolis to Chicago: Stops to Make & Transportation Options in 2023

Traveling from Minneapolis to Chicago is easy and there are many different ways of going about it.

Whether you’re looking for an exciting road trip, a comfortable bus or train ride, or the convenience of air travel, there are plenty of ways to make the 400-mile journey between these two cities.

Depending on your budget and how much time you have, each option provides something unique and can be tailored to fit your needs.

And if you decide to drive, there are many stops that can be made along the way to make the road trip even more enjoyable!

Read on to learn more about the different ways to get to Chicago from Minneapolis!

Distance from Minneapolis, MN to Chicago, IL

The driving distance between Minneapolis, Minnesota, and Chicago, Illinois is approximately 400 miles.

The trip usually takes about 6 hours by car but can vary depending on traffic and road conditions.

Traffic can get pretty rough within the two cities, but the distance between goes pretty quickly, because it’s mostly driving through small towns that don’t see a lot of traffic.

Driving this distance can definitely be done in just one day, especially if you leave early in the morning and get a head start!

Best Ways to Get from Minneapolis to Chicago

The best way to get from Minneapolis to Chicago is by car, whether that be by a rental or your own vehicle.

Driving the approximately 400 miles gives travelers the opportunity to take in some of America’s most beautiful landscapes, as well as many small towns and historic sites.

Another option is to take a bus or train. Amtrak offers routes from the Twin Cities through Wisconsin and Illinois, arriving in downtown Chicago.

Flying into Chicago is also an option, with many airlines offering nonstop flights from MSP Airport.

Below you’ll find more information on the top ways to get from city to city.

By Car [MOST CONVIENIENT]

If you want the most convenient option to get between these two places, then consider either getting a rental car or driving your own car.

Having your own car during a visit to a large city can be so convenient because you’ll be able to make stops along the way and do whatever you want while in Chicago.

While the drive can feel long at around 400 miles, it really will only take about one day, and then you’ll have your own car to drive around!

This way you won’t have to worry about finding rides via Uber, taxi, or the bus once you’re in the city.

Another option is to pick up a rental car once you’ve arrived in Chicago via a flight. This way will also offer you the chance to have freedom, but it will cost more.

By Plane [FASTEST]

By far the fastest and easiest way to arrive in Chicago from Minneapolis to book a flight and take an airplane.

The flights are fairly short, typically under 2 hours, and there aren’t usually any layovers since the flight is so short and easy.

Multiple airlines service this flight, including Delta, United, Sun Country, and American, although each of their service dates varies.

The average prices also vary, but the cheapest flights typically range anywhere from $100-$300, depending on the time of year that you’re flying.

You’ll fly out of Minneapolis-St.Paul Airport and into O’Hare International Airport, which is found right in Chicago. You can also fly into Chicago Midway Airport.

The cheapest time of year to fly is in the fall months.

By Amtrak [CHEAPEST]

The cheapest way to get to Chicago from the Twin Cities is to book a ticket on the Amtrak train.

There are several trains that leave every day from the Union Depot in St. Paul and pull into the Union Station in Chicago.

Most of the trains are direct routes and will take around 8 hours to arrive.

The average price varies, but if you’re opting for the cheapest option, it’s typically around $60 to $80 one way.

The biggest problem with taking Amtrak is finding a way to get around the city once you’ve arrived, although there is public transport in Chicago.

By Bus

Another option for getting to Chicago from Minneapolis is to take the Greyhound bus, which offers quite a few rides every day.

There are 4 rides throughout the day, starting at 1:45 am and operating throughout the day.

Prices for the bus will vary depending on how far in advance you book and on what day you’re traveling but usually range from $60 to $100 one way.

If you’re making a last-minute booking, it may cost even more.

Driving Routes to Get to Chicago from Minneapolis

There are multiple ways that you can get between these two cities, but there are two main routes that you should consider, as they’re the fastest.

Here is a bit more information about each of those routes.

Route #1: I-94/I-90 (tolls)

The route along I-94 and I-90 is going to be the fastest way to get from the Twin Cities to Chicago, taking just over 6 hours, or around 400 miles.

You’ll follow I-94 E until you get to around Tomah, Wisconsin. From here, the road becomes I-90 E.

This route does have tolls, and if you have a 2-axle vehicle, you’ll likely pay around $6-10 per way in tolls.

Route #2: US-52/US-18 (tolls)

Unfortunately, there aren’t any great ways to avoid tolls on your way into Chicago, but here’s another option for travel.

This route follows US-52 through Rochester until it merges with US-18 in Wisconsin.

If you choose to go this way, it will take closer to 8 hours and covers around 450 miles.

So in my opinion, your best bet is to take route #1, following I-94 and I-90.

Best Stops to Make on the Way

If you’ve decided to make the drive to Chicago from Minneapolis, you may be looking for a few places to stop along the way to make the most of your road trip.

Below are a few of the best places to visit during your drive, not including all of the great activities in Minneapolis and Chicago themselves!

Willow River Falls State Park

Distance to Chicago: 380 miles; 6 hours

This beautiful state park isn’t too far from Minneapolis but offers a nice place to stop and admire the beauty of Wisconsin.

Take a short hike into the woods and you’ll be met with a fascinating waterfall that cascades over multiple areas.

During the summer, kiddos wade in the water, making the perfect place to get out some energy for those littles before hitting the road.

Eau Claire, WI

Distance to Chicago: 320 miles; 5 hours

Whether it be a few hours or an entire spent in Eau Claire, you’ll have plenty to do!

Spend time checking out the breweries and distilleries nearby, playing a game of Kubb, or hiking at Lowes Creek County Park.

Other fun includes grabbing a bite to eat at the many local restaurants or exploring their local art district, as Eau Claire is known for their fantastic art scene.

Wisconsin Dells

Distance to Chicago: 200 miles; 3 hours

The waterpark capital of the world certainly couldn’t be a bad place to stop during your drive from Minneapolis to Chicago!

Purchase a day ticket to Noah’s Ark, the largest waterpark in Wisconsin Dells (which is saying a lot!), and spend the day splashing around.

Other great parks include Mt. Olympus (featuring America’s first rotating water slide!) or Kalari, each of which offers day passes.

Devil’s Lake State Park

Distance to Chicago: 190 miles; 3 hours

While slightly out of the way, Devil’s Lake State Park in Wisconsin has beautiful views from above a quartzite cliff, over Devil’s Lake.

The park is home to some of the most beautiful views in southern Wisconsin, so it’s certainly worth a stop.

Plus, it’s a nice spot to stretch your legs with a hike, when you’re about halfway through the drive to Chicago.

Madison, WI

Distance to Chicago: 150 miles; 2.5 hours

Madison, Wisconsin is a great place to visit on the way with plenty of attractions and activities for all ages.

Explore the city’s historic Capitol building, or take a stroll around the University of Wisconsin campus.

Visit one of Madison’s many parks and check out the Olbrich Botanical Gardens. And because they’re so well known for their craft beers, you have to check out a brewery.

FAQs

Is Minneapolis Close to Chicago?

Yes, Minneapolis and Chicago are actually very close to one another. They are about 400 miles apart, which takes about 6 hours to drive.

Can you Drive from Minneapolis to Chicago?

Yes, the drive from Minneapolis to Chicago will only take about 6 hours to complete, so it’s totally doable and can even be done in one day!

How Many Miles is it to Chicago from Minneapolis?

If you’re planning to drive, ensure that your car can handle around 400 miles of driving. This will take you about 6 hours, without considering traffic or any stops.

How Long is a Flight from Minneapolis to Chicago?

The flight from Minneapolis to Chicago is very short, usually lasting only about 1.5-2 hours, as long as everything goes smoothly.

Wrap-Up: Minneapolis to Chicago

Whether you’re planning a road trip to Chicago from Minneapolis, are visiting friends or family, or are just taking a fun little trip, there are a few options for getting there.

Options include flying, driving, or taking the train or bus, and there’s something to fit within everyone’s budget.

No matter which way you decide to get from Minneapolis to Chicago, I’m sure that you’ll have a great time exploring the Windy City.