Find Mankato to Minneapolis bus tickets
Why Choose Bus from Mankato to Minneapolis
Traveling from Mankato to Minneapolis offers a range of transportation options, but selecting the right one can significantly enhance your journey. Bus travel provides unique advantages that can make your trip more convenient and enjoyable compared to trains and flights.
💰 Cost-Effectiveness
pros
- Bus fares between Mankato and Minneapolis typically range from $7 to $20, making it a budget-friendly choice.
- Unlike flying, buses often have lower hidden costs such as baggage fees and travel insurance.
cons
- Longer travel times compared to flights may lead to extended disruption of travel plans.
🛎️ Convenience and Accessibility
pros
- Buses offer direct routes with minimal transfers, making travel more straightforward, especially for those unfamiliar with the area.
- The drop-off locations, like Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport and the Hawthorne Bus Center, are central and accessible to major attractions.
cons
- Limited schedules may require travelers to plan ahead and align their trips with available bus times.
⭐ Scenic Views
pros
- The Mankato to Minneapolis bus route offers picturesque views of Minnesota’s landscapes, which you might miss when flying or taking a train.
- Travelers can enjoy the scenic highways and local attractions along the way, enhancing the traveling experience.
cons
- Traffic conditions can sometimes extend travel times, potentially reducing the time spent enjoying the scenery.
highlights:
Travelers should account for longer travel durations compared to flights and the possibility of traffic delays.
Affordable pricing makes bus travel a suitable choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Convenient routes connecting major transit points help minimize transfer times.
Unique scenic views along the route provide a visually appealing travel experience.
Bus Options from Mankato to Minneapolis
| Type | company | departure station | arrival station | departure time | arrival time | Frequency | Duration | Price Range | layover city |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Direct | Land to Air Express | Mankato (Depot), Mankato, MN | Minneapolis (Hawthorne Bus Center), Minneapolis, MN | 08:00, 12:00, 16:00 | 11:05, 15:05, 19:05 | Three times daily | 3h 5m | $ 7-20 | |
| Connecting | Land to Air Express & Metro Transit | Mankato (Depot), Mankato, MN | Ramp B/5th St Transit Center, Minneapolis, MN | 09:30, 13:30, 17:30 | 13:03, 17:03, 21:03 | Three times daily | 3h 53m | $ 7-20 | Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport Terminal 2 |
| Connecting | Land to Air Express & Groome Transportation | Mankato (Depot), Mankato, MN | 2nd Ave S & Washington Ave S, Minneapolis, MN | 08:15, 12:15, 16:15 | 12:22, 16:22, 20:22 | Three times daily | 4h 7m | $ 7-20 | Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport Terminal 2,St. Cloud |
| Connecting | Land to Air Express & MVTA | Mankato (Depot), Mankato, MN | 4 St SE at 18 Av NE corner (Ridder Arena), Minneapolis, MN | 07:45, 11:45, 15:45 | 12:08, 16:08, 20:08 | Three times daily | 4h 23m | $ 7-20 | Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport Terminal 2,Burnsville Transit Station |
Comparison of Bus Operators from Mankato to Minneapolis
Comparing bus operators on the route from Mankato to Minneapolis is crucial for travelers looking for the best combination of price, amenities, and accessibility. With various options available, understanding each operator's offerings can help passengers make informed decisions based on their individual needs and travel preferences.
| Criteria | Land to Air Express | Metro Transit | Groome Transportation | MVTA |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price Range | $ 7 - $ 20 | $ 10 - $ 15 | $ 12 - $ 18 | $ 9 - $ 16 |
| pricing policies | ||||
| refund policy | Refunds available up to 24 hours before departure. | Non-refundable tickets. | Cancellations allowed up to 12 hours before departure for a full refund. | Non-refundable tickets unless due to service cancellation. |
| Ticket Changes | Changes allowed with a fee up to 1 hour before departure. | No changes allowed after purchase. | Changes allowed with no fee. | Allow changes up to 2 hours before departure for a fee. |
| discounts | Student and senior discounts available. | Discounts available for children and seniors. | Promotional offers available during off-peak seasons. | Discount passes for frequent travelers. |
| amenities | Wi-Fi, Comfortable seating, Restroom facilities | Air conditioning, Free Wi-Fi, Charge ports | Complimentary bottled water, Spacious legroom, Onboard entertainment | Bike racks, Comfortable seating, Real-time tracking app |
| baggage allowance | ||||
| free allowance | One carry-on and one checked bag up to 50 lbs free of charge. | One small bag under the seat. | Two pieces of luggage up to 40 lbs each. | One carry-on item per passenger. |
| Additional Fees | Additional baggage fee of $15 per extra bag. | Oversized baggage fee of $10. | Additional baggage fee of $15 for each bag over the allowance. | Extra bag fee of $5. |
| accessibility | Wheelchair accessible buses available; please notify at booking. | Fully accessible for passengers with disabilities; includes assistance services. | Accommodations available for wheelchair users and visually impaired passengers. | All buses equipped with lifts for wheelchair access. |
When considering a bus trip from Mankato to Minneapolis, passengers can choose from various operators based on their priorities. Land to Air Express offers the best options for comfort and luggage, while Metro Transit is ideal for budget-conscious travelers. Groome Transportation provides added amenities and flexibility, appealing to those who prioritize convenience. MVTA also stands out with accessibility features and competitive pricing. Selecting the right operator will depend on individual needs such as price sensitivity, preference for amenities, and required accessibility features.
Bus Stops and Stations from Mankato to Minneapolis
Knowing about the bus stops and stations is crucial for ensuring a smooth travel experience between Mankato and Minneapolis.
Main Bus Stations in Mankato
Mankato Bus Station
facilities
- Restrooms
- Waiting areas with seating
- Ticket counters and self-service kiosks
- Luggage storage lockers
- Free Wi-Fi
- Food and beverage options (cafés, vending machines)
- ATMs and currency exchange services
- Accessibility features (ramps, elevators)
Transportation Links
- Public transportation options: Blue Earth County buses
- Taxi and rideshare services availability
- Parking facilities for private vehicles available
- Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure for ticketing and boarding
- Be aware of security checks at the entrance
- Try to avoid early morning and late afternoon peak hours for less crowding
- Explore nearby amenities like local shops and restaurants if time permits
Main Bus Stations in Minneapolis
Minneapolis Bus Station
facilities
- Restrooms
- Waiting areas with seating
- Ticket counters and self-service kiosks
- Free Wi-Fi
- Food and beverage options (cafés, restaurants, vending machines)
- Luggage storage services
- ATMs and currency exchange services
- Accessibility features (ramps, elevators)
Transportation Links
- Public transportation options: Metro Transit buses and light rail
- Taxi and rideshare services available at the station
- Ample parking facilities for private vehicles nearby
- Plan to arrive 15-20 minutes before your scheduled arrival time to ease the disembarking process
- Be prepared for potential security checks when entering the station
- Try to avoid rush hour from 4 PM to 6 PM as it can become quite crowded
- Take advantage of the nearby attractions and dining options if you have extra time
En Route Stops
Madison Lake
facilities
- Basic restrooms
- Seating areas
- Vending machines
Lake Crystal
facilities
- Restrooms
- Small waiting area
- No food options available
Eden Prairie
facilities
- Restrooms
- Seating areas
- Access to food trucks during peak hours
Familiarizing yourself with the bus stations and key stops along the route will enhance your travel experience. Be sure to arrive early, observe the amenities, and enjoy your journey from Mankato to Minneapolis.
Travel Tips
⛰ Pack Snacks from Local Favorites
Before boarding, stop by one of Mankato’s local markets to pick up some homemade snacks or baked goods. You'll enjoy a taste of local flavor on your journey, and it can make the trip more enjoyable.
📍 Enjoy the Scenic River Views
As you travel north, keep an eye out for the stunning views of the Minnesota River. The changing landscapes along the route, especially during sunset, can be breathtaking—don’t forget your camera!
🚍 Download the Bus App
Make sure to download the bus service's official app for real-time updates on your trip. This app can provide you with notifications about stops, delays, and local attractions to explore once you arrive in Minneapolis.
🎭 Plan for Layovers Wisely
If your journey includes a layover at any stops, like those at North Mankato or Nicollet, consider checking out local attractions or eateries. For example, North Mankato's scenic parks can be a refreshing break.
🏛 Check for Special Events
Before your trip, look into any festivals or events happening in Minneapolis or Mankato on your travel day. Events like the Mankato Oktoberfest or the Minnesota State Fair can offer unique experiences but may affect travel times.
FAQ
Trips to
- Milwaukee to Minneapolis
- Saint Cloud to Minneapolis
- Chicago to Minneapolis
- Fargo to Minneapolis
- Grand Forks to Minneapolis
- Omaha to Minneapolis
- Ames to Minneapolis
- Madison to Minneapolis
- Des Moines to Minneapolis
- Iowa City to Minneapolis
- Bemidji to Minneapolis
- Winnipeg to Minneapolis
- Bismarck to Minneapolis
- Sioux Falls to Minneapolis
- Thief River Falls to Minneapolis
- Eau Claire to Minneapolis