Getting Around in Minneapolis

Getting around in Minneapolis is efficient and simple, with an efficient bus system and new light rail, but it is still limited for those living outside the city centre. If you plan to live on the city’s outskirts, you’ll most likely need a car. Public transport in Minneapolis is managed by Metro Transit, which maintains an integrated network of buses, light rail and commuter trains.

Public transport in Minneapolis

Buses

Metro Transit operates an extensive network of buses in Minneapolis, St Paul and the Twin Cities metro area. You can pay for your ticket with cash as you board the bus, but change is unavailable, so you’ll need the exact amount. If you travel frequently, you should get a Go-To Card as it’s much more convenient than paying cash.

Light rail

Minneapolis also has a light rail system run by Metro Transit. Although it is generally fast and efficient, it isn’t as extensive as the bus network. There are currently two lines: the Blue Line and the Green Line.

Commuter rail

The Northstar commuter railway line connects Downtown Minneapolis with Big Lake. Tickets for the Northstar Line are available from ticket machines at each station and must be purchased before boarding.

Useful links

• Metro Transit Official Website
• Northstar Commuter Rail

Taxis in Minneapolis

Taxis can be hailed off the street in downtown Minneapolis or booked in advance. When travelling from the suburbs, for instance, you’d have to order a taxi. Taxi fares are fairly reasonable, and you can even save some money in comparison to driving a car, especially when considering the significant parking and maintenance costs associated with owning a vehicle in the city.

Ride-hailing apps Uber and Lyft operate throughout Minneapolis after resolving some recent regulatory disputes over driver pay. Both services are widely available for convenient door-to-door transport.

Useful links

• Blue And White Taxi
• Yellow Cab Minnesota
• Uber
• Lyft
• City of Minneapolis: Rideshare And Taxi Information

Driving in Minneapolis

Although Minneapolis has a sufficient inner-city transport network, if you live farther out, you’ll probably find it necessary to have a car.

The Twin Cities is known for having some of the most polite drivers in the US, so you needn’t worry about being the target of road rage or reckless driving. Road conditions in Minnesota can be hazardous during winter due to snow and ice.

Driver’s licences

If you’re moving to Minneapolis, you’ll need to get a Minnesota driver’s licence within 60 days of relocating. New residents with valid US out-of-state licences don’t need to take the written test – you can convert directly. Foreign licence holders from Canada can also transfer without testing, whilst those from Germany and Taiwan have special conversion options. Drivers from all other countries will need to pass both written and practical tests to obtain a Minnesota licence.

Transport, Driving and Driver’s Licences in the USA

Useful links

• Minnesota Driver’s License Portal

Walking in Minneapolis

Minneapolis, particularly the city centre, is a compact and remarkably walkable city. The Minneapolis Skyway system connects over 80 city blocks across more than 11 miles (18km) of downtown through enclosed, climate-controlled pedestrian walkways. The Skyway network allows you to move easily between buildings, car parks and over streets without facing harsh winter conditions.

Cycling in Minneapolis

Minneapolis consistently ranks as America’s top large city for cycling, with an extensive network of on-street protected bike lanes and off-street bikeways spanning over 200 miles (320km) throughout the city. The city earned this recognition thanks to safety initiatives and bike infrastructure investments that make cycling both practical and enjoyable year-round.

Useful links

• Minneapolis Bicycling Information