Traveling from Denver to Minneapolis covers about 915 miles and takes 13–15 hours by car via I-76 E and I-35 N. Nonstop flights take only 2 hours, while buses require 20–23 hours and trains around 15–18 hours with one connection. Driving costs roughly $100–$140 in fuel, flights average $120–$260 round-trip, and buses cost $90–$150 one way. Getting from Denver to Minneapolis takes 13–15 hours by road or 2 hours by air. Learn the full breakdown of travel times, prices, and routes in this 2025–2026 guide.
Driving from Denver to Minneapolis takes 13–15 hours (915 miles, $100–$140 fuel). Flights take 2 hours ($120–$260), buses 20–23 hours ($90–$150) in 2025–2026.
Best Ways to Get to Minneapolis From Denver [2025–2026]
You can reach Minneapolis from Denver by car, plane, bus, or train. Flying remains the fastest and most convenient, while driving provides scenic freedom through the Great Plains.
• By Car: Driving via I-76 E → I-80 E → I-35 N covers 915 miles in 13–15 hours. Fuel costs $100–$140 each way, depending on vehicle efficiency and gas prices. The route passes through Nebraska, Iowa, and southern Minnesota.
• By Flight: Direct flights from Denver International Airport (DEN) to Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) take 2 hours. Round-trip fares range $120–$260 with major airlines operating daily routes.
• By Bus: Greyhound and Jefferson Lines offer 20–23-hour trips from Denver Bus Center to Minneapolis Downtown Station, costing $90–$150 one way.
• By Train: Take Amtrak’s California Zephyr to Chicago and transfer to the Empire Builder for Minneapolis–Saint Paul. Travel time is 15–18 hours, cost $120–$200.
Driving From Denver to Minneapolis [2025–2026]
Driving lets you explore open highways and Midwest landscapes at your own pace. This trip is best suited for those who enjoy long drives and road-side discoveries.
• Route: Follow I-76 E → I-80 E → I-35 N, passing through Omaha and Des Moines before reaching Minneapolis. Alternate route via I-25 N → I-90 E adds slightly more distance but offers Black Hills views.
• Travel Time: 13–15 hours under normal conditions. Winter weather in Nebraska or Iowa can extend this by 1–2 hours.
• Gas Cost: With fuel at $3.70–$4.10 per gallon, expect $100–$140 in total fuel for the 915-mile trip.
• Car Rental: Mid-size cars from Denver average $70–$100 per day. One-way drop-off fees to Minneapolis range $150–$250.
• Parking: Downtown Minneapolis parking costs $10–$25 per day. Hotel garages charge around $25–$35 per night.
Flying From Denver to Minneapolis [2025–2026]
Flying is the fastest and most comfortable option for travelers on tight schedules or business trips.
• Flight Duration: Nonstop flights take about 2 hours; connecting flights via Chicago or Kansas City take 4–5 hours total.
• Airfare: Round-trip tickets typically cost $120–$260. Budget carriers like Frontier may offer deals below $100 in off-peak months.
• Airlines: Delta, United, Southwest, and Frontier operate multiple daily flights from DEN to MSP.
• Ground Travel: MSP is 10 miles south of downtown Minneapolis. Light rail (Blue Line) costs $2.50 and takes 25 minutes; taxis or rideshares cost $25–$40.
• Total Travel Time: Including check-in and transit, door-to-door journeys take 4–5 hours.
Taking a Bus From Denver to Minneapolis [2025–2026]
Buses are a budget-friendly option for those willing to trade comfort for affordability.
• Bus Operators: Greyhound and Jefferson Lines depart from Denver Bus Center to Minneapolis Downtown Station.
• Travel Duration: Trips take 20–23 hours with stops in Omaha or Des Moines.
• Cost: One-way tickets range $90–$150; round trips average $180–$260. Booking early reduces costs by 15–25%.
• Arrival Point: Buses arrive near Minneapolis Downtown Transit Center, close to light rail and local bus routes.
• Comfort: Most long-distance buses offer Wi-Fi, USB charging, reclining seats, and rest stops every 3–4 hours.
Taking a Train From Denver to Minneapolis [2025–2026]
Train travel is slower but comfortable, with beautiful views of the Midwest along the way.
• Route: Board Amtrak’s California Zephyr from Denver to Chicago, then transfer to the Empire Builder to Minneapolis–Saint Paul.
• Travel Time: 15–18 hours total, depending on schedule and connections.
• Cost: Standard coach tickets run $120–$200. Sleeper rooms cost extra but include meals and private space.
• Amenities: Amtrak trains feature dining cars, lounge areas, Wi-Fi on select routes, and power outlets.
• Arrival Station: Trains arrive at Saint Paul Union Depot, about 12 miles from downtown Minneapolis with local bus and light rail connections.
Road Trip Experience From Denver to Minneapolis [2025–2026]
The drive from Denver to Minneapolis is a classic Midwest journey filled with plains, rolling hills, and small-town charms.
• Scenic Stops: Consider stopping in Omaha for the Old Market, Des Moines for the State Capitol, and Clear Lake for lakeside views before crossing into Minnesota.
• Accommodation: Motels and mid-range hotels along I-80 and I-35 cost $90–$160 per night. Omaha and Des Moines make good overnight stops.
• Dining Options: Plan $20–$35 per person for meals. Try Kansas City BBQ, Iowa steaks, and Minnesota’s famous Juicy Lucy burger along the route.
• Best Season: May–October offers warm temperatures and green landscapes. Winter travel can bring ice and snow, so check forecasts and carry supplies.
Travel Tips for Visiting Minneapolis [2025–2026]
Plan ahead to make the most of your Minneapolis trip, whether for business or a weekend escape.
• Book Flights Early: Prices rise around summer events and sports seasons; book 4–6 weeks in advance.
• Use Public Transit: Metro Transit’s light rail and buses cover downtown, Mall of America, and the University area affordably.
• Stay Centrally: Downtown, North Loop, and Uptown offer convenient access to restaurants and nightlife.
• Visit in Summer or Fall: June–September brings warm weather and festivals; October offers beautiful fall foliage.
• Pack for Winter: If traveling in winter, temperatures often drop below 15 °F—bring layers, gloves, and boots.
Summary Table: How to Get to Minneapolis From Denver [2025–2026]
| Travel Method | Total Travel Time | Estimated Cost (One Way) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car (Drive) | 13–15 hours | $100–$140 (fuel) | Flexible route, great for road trips |
| Flight | 2 hours (4–5 total) | $120–$260 (round trip) | Fastest and most convenient |
| Bus | 20–23 hours | $90–$150 | Budget option, limited comfort |
| Train | 15–18 hours | $120–$200 | Scenic but slower route |
FAQ: How to Get to Minneapolis From Denver [2025–2026]
Q1: What’s the fastest way to reach Minneapolis from Denver?
A1: Flying nonstop from DEN to MSP takes about 2 hours, the quickest option available.
Q2: How far is Denver from Minneapolis by road?
A2: It’s approximately 915 miles via I-76 E and I-35 N.
Q3: How much does it cost to drive from Denver to Minneapolis?
A3: Expect to spend $100–$140 on fuel one way, depending on vehicle type and gas prices.
Q4: Are there direct flights between Denver and Minneapolis?
A4: Yes, multiple daily nonstop flights are available on Delta, United, Southwest, and Frontier.
Q5: How long is the bus ride from Denver to Minneapolis?
A5: Buses take 20–23 hours with rest stops and transfers in Omaha or Des Moines.
Q6: Is there a train from Denver to Minneapolis?
A6: Yes, Amtrak offers service via Chicago with a total journey of 15–18 hours.
Q7: What’s the best time to visit Minneapolis?
A7: June–September for warm weather and festivals, or October for fall colors and fewer crowds.