Transportation in Minnesota

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With a prime central U.S. location, Minnesota enjoys numerous regional, national and international transportation options.

There are over 100 public airports in Minnesota, not including several public seaplane bases. As Minnesota’s largest airport, Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport accommodates four regional, ten domestic and three international airlines and is Northwest Airline’s major hub.

As a participating state in the Midwest Regional Rail Initiative, Minnesota is preparing to become a major high-speed rail participant. Under the initiative, Minnesota will establish 140 miles, from La Crescent to St. Paul, of high-speed rail system. Minnesota is currently serviced by Amtrak and is developing several new commuter and light rail corridors.

Minnesota is one of few inland states with access to the Atlantic Ocean, through its St. Lawrence Seaway. Incorporating an additional 231 miles (372 km) of navigable waterways along the Mississippi River, including 5 ports, transportation via Minnesota’s two major waterways is a viable option.

There are three major Interstate freeways traversing Minnesota, I-35, I-90 and I-94. I-35 provides direct access through the heartland, ending at the Mexican border. I-90, the longest U.S. interstate, crosses the entire U.S., with 275 miles (443 km) through southern Minnesota. I-94 links important northern cities such as St. Paul, Chicago and Detroit.

Whether by air, train, sea or highway, Minnesota offers various transportation options, providing ready access to local, national and international markets.

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