Travel and Transportation
Airport (Minneapolis – MSP) and Transportation
The nearest airport is the Minneapolis International Airport (MSP). There are ride-share and taxi services available for around $40. There is also a light rail that goes directly from the airport to the university for $2-3.25 depending on the day and time. For more information about travel options visit the UMN transportation website.
The Twin Cities has public transportation via a bus system and light rail and more information can be found on their website. The University also has a campus shuttle that goes between the two campuses.
Light Rail Directions from the Airport to UMN East Bank Station
A quick, easy way to get from the airport to campus is to take the light rail. Take the Blue Line to U.S. Bank Stadium station in downtown Minneapolis. Transfer to the Green Line toward St. Paul. Get off at East Bank station. There is a West Bank station stop first that is part of the UMN but this stop will put you on the other side of campus, across the river. The entire trip takes about 35 minutes.
Note that the Blue Line leaves the airport every 10 minutes during peak hours and every 10–15 minutes at other times of day. Tickets are sold at ticket machines at the rail station.
Parking on Campus
There are a plethora of options for those who would like to rent a car, either at the airport or from various car rental companies in Minneapolis. The daily parking rate at the UMN is $15 max and the best parking lot options are the Church Street garage or the 4th Street ramp.
Campus Maps
Interactive campus maps
East Bank map
Interactive building map
Lodging
Dorms
There are both on-campus and off-campus lodging options available. The on-campus options include accommodations in residence halls through Conference and Events services. For rates for the 2025 session please see Appendix A. There will most likely be a 6% rise in cost for the summer of 2026.
Amenities include:
Air conditioned buildings
A linen/towel package
Laundry access
Computer lab access,
Guest WiFi is available
Hotels
Due to the current environment in the Twin Cities we cannot recommend hotels at this time that are safe. Our goal is to offer recommendations at a later date. Thank you for your patience with this inconvenience as we navigate these circumstances that are changing rapidly, often multiple times a day. At this time we recommend airBnB or another lodging share platform. We will have information regarding dorms available soon.