Quick Answer
The best overall way for most travelers is the Metro Transit Light Rail to Downtown Minneapolis, transfer to the METRO Green Line train to Downtown St. Paul, then take bus #63 or a short rideshare. This balances cost and convenience. The fastest way is a direct Uber/Lyft or taxi (20-35 mins, $45-$65). The cheapest way is the Light Rail + Bus combination ($2.50 total), involving a 0.7-mile walk or a short bus ride from the closest stop.
Light Rail & Public Transit: The Detailed Budget Guide
This is the most economical and authentic local way to travel. While not direct, it's reliable and connects you to both downtown Minneapolis and St. Paul.
Step-by-Step Route: The Recommended Path (Light Rail + Green Line + Bus)
- Step 1: MSP to Downtown Minneapolis. From Terminal 1-Lindbergh or Terminal 2-Humphrey, follow signs to the Metro Blue Line. Take any train heading north (towards Target Field). Get off at U.S. Bank Stadium Station or Government Plaza Station.
- Cost: $2.00 (Off-Peak: 6-9 AM & 3-6:30 PM) or $2.50 (Peak).
- Time: ~25 minutes.
- Step 2: Cross-Platform Transfer to the Green Line. At either station, transfer to the METRO Green Line heading east towards Union Depot (St. Paul). This is usually a same-platform or very short walk transfer.
- Cost: Free transfer if you use the same contactless card/device within 2.5 hours.
- Step 3: Green Line to St. Paul. Ride the Green Line for about 45 minutes. Get off at the Capitol/Rice Street Station.
- Step 4: Final Leg to the Cathedral. From the station:
- Option A (Bus): Walk to the bus stop on Rice Street. Take Route #63 westbound (towards Cleveland Ave). Get off at Selby Ave & Western Ave. The Cathedral is a 2-block walk south. (Adds ~10-15 mins).
- Option B (Walk): It's a scenic but hilly 0.9-mile walk (18-20 minutes) up John Ireland Blvd directly to the Cathedral.
- Option C (Short Rideshare): Call an Uber/Lyft from the station for a 5-minute ride (~$10-12).
Total (with bus/walk): 75-90 mins | Cost: $2.50 + optional bus/rideshare.
Alternative Direct(ish) Bus Route (Simpler, Less Frequent)
From the Terminal 1 Transit Center, you can take Route 54 towards Maplewood Mall/Robert St. Get off at Downtown St. Paul (e.g., 5th St & Minnesota St). Then transfer to Route #63 as above. This skips Minneapolis but has fewer daily trips. Always check the Metro Transit Trip Planner for real-time schedules.
Private & Group Transfers: For Special Circumstances
Ideal for large families, corporate travel, or those seeking maximum comfort and certainty.
Pre-Booked Private Car/Van Services
- How it Works: Book online in advance. A driver meets you in arrivals with a name sign and assists with luggage.
- Companies: Services like ExecuCar (by SuperShuttle) or local limousine companies.
- Cost: $90 - $150+ for a sedan; $120 - $200+ for a van. Fixed, non-surge price.
- Best For: Business travelers, first-time visitors wanting reassurance, or groups where the fixed cost is preferable.
Rental Cars
Not Recommended for a trip solely to the Cathedral. Rental facilities are at MSP, but you'll pay for the rental, gas, and face parking challenges (~$10-15) at the Cathedral. Only consider this if you are starting a broader Minnesota road trip immediately upon arrival.
Cost & Time Comparison: Choose Your Best Option
This table summarizes all key data to help you decide at a glance.
| Transport Method | Approx. Travel Time | Approx. Cost (One Way) | Best For | Key Consideration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Light Rail + Bus/Walk (Recommended Public Transit) | 75 - 90 mins | $2.50 - $17.50* | Solo travelers, couples, budget travelers, sightseeing en route | Involves transfers and walking; not ideal late night. |
| Uber/Lyft (Standard) | 20 - 35 mins | $45 - $65 | Speed, convenience, groups of 1-3, luggage | Prices surge; dependent on traffic. |
| Taxi (Yellow Cab) | 20 - 35 mins | $55 - $75+ | Immediate availability, no app needed, fixed(ish) fare possible | Most expensive standard option; always tip. |
| Private Pre-Booked Car | 25 - 40 mins | $90 - $150+ | Luxury, business, large families/groups, special occasions | Fixed price, meet-and-greet service. |
*$2.50 for transit only with walk; up to $17.50 if adding a short rideshare leg from downtown St. Paul.
Traveler Tips & Local Insights
Navigational & Practical Advice
- The "Twin Cities" Are Separate: Minneapolis and St. Paul are distinct downtowns 10 miles apart. MSP Airport is geographically closer to Minneapolis. Don't be surprised that transit goes to Minneapolis first.
- Master the "Tap-to-Pay": Use a contactless credit/debit card or phone wallet (Apple/Google Pay) directly on Metro Transit validators. It automatically calculates the lowest fare (e.g., free transfers) and is far easier than paper tickets.
- Luggage Strategy: If you have large suitcases and plan to use transit, travel during off-peak hours (midday, evening after 7 PM). Avoid rush hour (7-9 AM, 4-6:30 PM) when trains are crowded with commuters.
- Weather Preparedness: The walk from the final bus stop or station to the Cathedral involves a significant hill. In winter (Nov-Mar), this can be icy and challenging. Dress accordingly or budget for the short rideshare from the Capitol/Rice St station.
- Airport Layout: Terminal 1 (Lindbergh) and Terminal 2 (Humphrey) are connected by a free light rail shuttle. Ensure you're on the correct platform for the Blue Line to Downtown Minneapolis, not the shuttle between terminals.
Making the Most of Your Visit
- Combine Your Trip: The Cathedral is near the Minnesota State Capitol and the James J. Hill House. Plan a few hours to explore this historic district.
- Check Cathedral Hours: The Cathedral is an active place of worship. Check their official website for mass times, tourist visiting hours, and possible closure for private events.
- Returning to MSP: Reverse the directions. From the Cathedral, use bus #63 or a rideshare to get to the Capitol/Rice St Green Line station, then take the Green Line west to downtown Minneapolis, and transfer to the Blue Line south to the airport.
FAQs: MSP Airport to Cathedral of Saint Paul
What is the cheapest way to get from MSP Airport to the Cathedral of Saint Paul?
The absolute cheapest way is the combination of the Metro Transit Light Rail (Blue Line) and a local bus (Route 63 or 54). The light rail fare from Terminal 1 or 2 to Downtown Minneapolis is $2-2.50 during off-peak/peak hours. A bus transfer is free within 2.5 hours. Total cost is approximately $2.50. If walking from the nearest bus stop (about 0.7 miles) is not an option, a short rideshare from downtown St. Paul adds $10-15, making the total $12.50-$17.50, still significantly cheaper than a direct taxi.
What is the fastest way to get from MSP to the Cathedral?
The fastest way for most travelers is using a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft, especially outside of rush hour (5-9 AM, 3-6 PM). A direct trip takes 20-35 minutes depending on traffic and costs $45-$65. During severe traffic, the Light Rail to Downtown Minneapolis + Green Line train to Downtown St. Paul + short bus/taxi might be more time-consistent, taking 60-75 minutes total.
Is there a direct train or shuttle from MSP Airport to the Cathedral?
No, there is no direct train or dedicated shuttle service from Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) to the Cathedral of Saint Paul. The Cathedral is located in St. Paul, while MSP's light rail connects directly to Minneapolis. You must use a combination of services: Light Rail + Bus, or Light Rail + Green Line Train + Bus/Walk, or a direct road vehicle like taxi/rideshare.
How do I get from MSP to the Cathedral late at night or early in the morning?
Public transit options are limited late at night. The Metro Transit Light Rail runs until approximately 1:30 AM, but connecting bus services end earlier (around 11 PM-12 AM). For arrivals between 11 PM and 4:30 AM, your only reliable options are taxi, rideshare (Uber/Lyft), or pre-booked private car service. Early mornings (from 4:30 AM), the Light Rail and buses begin service, making public transit viable again.
Is the public transit route wheelchair accessible?
Yes. All Metro Transit light rail trains and buses are 100% wheelchair accessible with level boarding (ramps or bridge plates) and designated securement areas. Stations have elevators. For the most direct route, we recommend the Light Rail to Downtown Minneapolis, transfer to the Green Line train to the Capitol/Rice Street station in St. Paul, then use the #63 bus which has a stop closer to the Cathedral (Selby Ave & Western Ave), reducing the walking distance. Use the Metro Transit Trip Planner and select 'Accessible Trip' options.
What is the best option for a group of 4 or family with lots of luggage?
For a group of 4+ with luggage, a rideshare XL (UberXL, Lyft XL) or a traditional taxi van is usually the most cost-effective and convenient option. A direct UberXL/Lyft XL costs $65-$90, which split 4+ ways is comparable to or cheaper than individual transit fares and spares you the hassle of luggage on trains and buses. Pre-booking a private van service may offer fixed rates and more space. Public transit is challenging with multiple large suitcases, especially during peak hours.
Can I use credit cards for all these transportation options?
Mostly yes, but with key notes: 1) Rideshares (Uber/Lyft) and taxis accept cards via app or in-car terminal. 2) Metro Transit Light Rail/Bus: You can use a contactless credit/debit card or smartphone wallet to tap and pay directly at validators. You can also buy a ticket with cash or card from vending machines at light rail stations. It's highly recommended to use the contactless 'Tap-to-Pay' method for easiest transfers. Having a small amount of cash as backup is never a bad idea.
Should I go to Minneapolis first if my hotel is there, even though the Cathedral is in St. Paul?
Yes, absolutely. If your accommodation is in Minneapolis, go there first from MSP (a quick 25-min Light Rail ride). Do not go directly to the Cathedral in St. Paul with your luggage. Settle in, then visit the Cathedral later as a day trip using the efficient METRO Green Line light rail that connects downtown Minneapolis to downtown St. Paul in about 45 minutes. This saves you significant time, money, and the stress of dragging luggage across two cities.