Planning a trip from Chicago to Mall of America in Bloomington, Minnesota? This 2025 guide covers every travel option available—whether you’re flying, driving, taking a bus, or riding the train. The Mall of America is one of the most iconic destinations in the Midwest, and this detailed travel guide will help you reach it from Chicago to Mall of America with ease.
✈️ Fly from Chicago to Minneapolis–St. Paul Airport (MSP)
Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to get to Mall of America from Chicago.
Airports:
- Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD)
- Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW)
- Arrive at: Minneapolis–St. Paul International Airport (MSP)
Flight Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Airlines (2025): Delta, United, American, Southwest, Sun Country
Fares: $89–$250 roundtrip (book early for best rates)
After landing at MSP, the Mall of America is just 12 minutes away via the Metro Blue Line Light Rail, taxi, or rideshare.
🚗 Drive from Chicago to Mall of America
Prefer a road trip? Driving from Chicago to Mall of America is a scenic option.
Distance: 400 miles (640 km)
Route: Take I-90 W to I-94 W through Wisconsin and into Minnesota
Drive Time: 6 to 7 hours (traffic and weather dependent)
Tolls: Approx. $8–$10
Gas Cost (2025): $45–$60 one-way for standard vehicles
Parking: Mall of America offers free parking in covered and open lots.
Tip: Stop in Madison or Wisconsin Dells for rest breaks or attractions.
🚄 Take the Train (Amtrak Empire Builder)
Amtrak’s Empire Builder provides an enjoyable, relaxed ride from Chicago Union Station to St. Paul–Minneapolis Union Depot.
Route: Chicago → Milwaukee → St. Paul
Train Time: 8 hours
Fares (2025): $79–$139 for coach; business and sleeper options available
From St. Paul Union Depot, you can take a Metro Green Line train to downtown Minneapolis and then transfer to the Blue Line to reach Mall of America.
Total Travel Time: 9 to 10 hours including transfers
🚌 Bus from Chicago to Mall of America (Cheapest Option)
Megabus, Greyhound, and FlixBus offer routes from Chicago to Minneapolis.
Bus Duration: 8 to 9.5 hours
Fares (2025): $35–$79 one-way (book early for lower prices)
Drop-off Location: Minneapolis Bus Station (950 Hawthorne Ave)
Last-mile to Mall of America:
- Walk to Nicollet Mall Station
- Take Metro Blue Line toward Mall of America (40 minutes)
This is the most affordable option but may involve multiple transfers.
🚐 Rent a Car or Use Rideshare
Rent a car for flexibility if you’re planning to explore the Twin Cities beyond just the mall.
Alternatively, use Uber or Lyft from downtown Minneapolis to Mall of America (~$25–$35 one-way).
🛍️ Why Visit Mall of America?
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or just a day trip, Mall of America is more than shopping. It features:
- 500+ stores and restaurants
- Nickelodeon Universe indoor amusement park
- SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium
- FlyOver America ride, escape rooms, and live events
It’s one of the top family-friendly attractions near Minneapolis, perfect for all ages.
✅ FAQs
Q: How do I get from Chicago to Mall of America in 2025?
You can get to Mall of America from Chicago by flying to Minneapolis (1.5 hours), driving (~7 hours), taking an Amtrak train (8 hours), or riding a bus (8–9 hours). Flying is the fastest option.
Q: What is the cheapest way to travel from Chicago to Mall of America?
The cheapest way is by bus, with fares starting at $35–$40 one-way from Chicago to Minneapolis. From there, take the Metro Blue Line to Mall of America.
Q: How far is Mall of America from Chicago?
The distance between Chicago and Mall of America is about 400 miles (640 kilometers). Driving takes approximately 6 to 7 hours.
Q: Is there a direct train from Chicago to Mall of America?
There is no direct train. You can take Amtrak’s Empire Builder from Chicago to St. Paul and then use local Metro Transit services to reach Mall of America.
Q: Can I fly from Chicago to Mall of America directly?
You can fly from Chicago to Minneapolis–St. Paul Airport (MSP) and then take a 12-minute light rail ride or 10-minute taxi to reach Mall of America.
🔗 Trusted Sources
- Amtrak – Empire Builder Route
- Metro Transit Minneapolis
- Mall of America Official Site
- MSP Airport Transportation