How to Get from MSP Airport to Target Center

The Metro Transit Blue Line is the most efficient, economical, and stress-free public transit link between MSP Airport and downtown Minneapolis, stopping literally at the doorstep of Target Center.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Find the Station: From Terminal 1 (Lindbergh), follow signs to the "Light Rail" on the tram level between the Blue and Red parking ramps. From Terminal 2 (Humphrey), the station is directly accessible from the terminal.
2. Purchase a Ticket: Use the ticket vending machines (cash or card). Select a "Airport to Target Field" fare. Peak (6-9 AM, 3-6:30 PM M-F): $3.25. Off-Peak: $2.50. Validate your ticket.
3. Board the Train: Ensure you board a train heading northbound towards Downtown Minneapolis / Target Field.
4. Ride & Arrive: Stay on for about 12 stops (~35-40 mins). Your stop is the terminus: Target Field Station.
5. Walk to Target Center: Exit the train and follow the clearly marked indoor skyways for a 2-5 minute walk directly into the Target Center complex.

Deep Dive: Why It's the Best Choice for Most Travelers

Comprehensive Advantages:

• Unbeatable Value: Costing less than a coffee, it saves groups significant money.
• Predictable Timing: Not affected by road traffic congestion, especially during rush hours.
• Zero Transfers: A true one-seat ride from airport to arena.
• Frequency: Trains run every 10-15 minutes for most of the day.
• Luggage Friendly: Ample space for suitcases and bags near train doors.

Considerations: The ride makes multiple stops. While generally safe, practice standard urban transit awareness, especially late at night.

When door-to-door convenience and speed are priorities over cost, rideshares and taxis are the premium choice.

Rideshare (Uber & Lyft) – The Modern Standard

• Pickup: Designated Rideshare Pickup zones at both terminals. Follow airport signage or app instructions precisely.
• Cost: Highly variable based on demand (surge pricing). Typical range: $25 to $45 to downtown. During peak events or bad weather, fares can exceed $60.
• Options: UberX/Lyft Standard (up to 4), UberXL/Lyft XL (for 5-6 passengers or more luggage).
• Tip: For the best price, check both apps. Slight wait times can sometimes yield lower fares as surge pricing fluctuates.

Taxis – The Traditional, Always-Available Option

• Pickup: Official taxi stands are located on the ground transportation level of both terminals.
• Cost: Metered, with a flat airport-to-downtown rate available (confirm with driver). Expect $50 to $65+, including tip. Often more expensive than non-surge rideshares.
• Best For: Travelers without smartphone apps, during extreme surge pricing, or when immediate pickup is required.

Bottom-Line Analysis: For a solo traveler or couple, the Light Rail is vastly more economical. For a group of 3-4 splitting a rideshare, the per-person cost ($7-$15) and time savings (20-30 mins) can make it a compelling alternative, especially with heavy luggage or after a long flight.

Shared Ride Shuttles (e.g., GO Airport Shuttle)

• How it Works: You share a van with other passengers heading to various downtown hotels/destinations. You may make several stops before yours.
• Cost: Approximately $20-$35 per person one-way. Advanced online booking often secures a discount.
• Pickup: Book in advance. After baggage claim, call the provider or go to their desk in the ground transportation area.
• Pros: Pre-booked, fixed price (no surge), door-to-hotel service, often includes luggage assistance.
• Cons: Travel time can be 45-60+ minutes due to multiple stops. Must wait for the van to fill.

Private Shuttles & Town Cars

For a premium, pre-arranged experience, services like Express Limousine offer private sedans or vans.

• Cost: $80-$150+ depending on vehicle size and service level.
• Best For: Corporate travel, large families/groups (6+), special occasions, or travelers desiring maximum convenience and professionalism.

Key Advice: Renting a car solely to get from MSP to Target Center is almost always a poor logistical and financial decision.

• Rental Costs: Daily rental rates vary, but expect $40-$80/day plus taxes/fees.
• The Real Challenge: Parking. Downtown Minneapolis parking, especially near Target Center for events, is expensive ($15-$40+ per event) and can fill up quickly. Hotel overnight parking adds $25-$50/night.
• Driving & Navigation: I-494 and downtown streets can be congested. Navigating one-way streets and parking ramps adds stress.
• When It Makes Sense: Only rent a car if you are: 1) Staying outside downtown, 2) Planning day trips to Mall of America, St. Paul, or beyond, 3) Traveling for an extended period where a car's utility outweighs the cost.

Alternative Strategy: Use the Light Rail/Uber for your airport transfer and downtown stay. If needed, rent a car later from a downtown location for the remainder of your trip.

Maximize Your Trip:

• Get a Metro Transit Pass: If you'll use transit beyond the airport trip, consider a 6-Hour Pass ($4) or Day Pass ($5) from the ticket machine. It's a steal for exploring.
• Event Day Logistics: On game/concert days at Target Center, the Light Rail is packed with fans. It's part of the fun, but allow extra time. Rideshares will have severe surge pricing immediately after events end—wait an hour or walk a few blocks away from the venue to request.
• Weather Contingency: The skyway connection from Target Field Station to Target Center is a lifesaver in Minnesota's winter cold or summer heat. Know that you can get there completely indoors.
• Luggage for Events: Target Center has a strict bag policy for events (often clear bags only or small clutches). If arriving straight from the airport with luggage, check if the arena offers bag check for a fee, or plan to drop bags at your hotel first.
• Airport Layover? If you have a long layover (5+ hours) at MSP and want to see downtown, the Light Rail makes it perfectly feasible for a quick trip to the Mississippi Riverfront or a meal in the North Loop near Target Center.