Rapid City, SD, USA to Rochester, MN, USA from $130: 1 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from Rapid City to Rochester: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$130 by busBest price

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Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Rapid City to Rochester with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

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Traveling From Rapid City to Rochester

Embarking on a journey from Rapid City to Rochester presents you with a fascinating shift from the rugged beauty of South Dakota's Black Hills to the vibrant, bustling atmosphere of Minnesota’s cultural hub.

Best Neighbourhoods in Rochester

Rochester boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and attractions.

Downtown Rochester

• Home to numerous dining and entertainment options.

• Features the iconic Plummer Building and Mayo Clinic.

Silver Lake Neighborhood

• Offers beautiful parks and recreational areas.

• Known for its friendly community vibe.

Kutzky Park

• Characterized by historic homes and tree-lined streets.

• Hosts vibrant local events and farmer's markets.

Best Times To Visit Rochester's Attractions

Timing your visit can significantly enhance your experience at Rochester's attractions.

Mayo Clinic

Visit early mornings or late afternoons to enjoy quieter surroundings.

The Rochester Art Center

Weekdays see fewer visitors, allowing you to appreciate exhibits fully.

Silver Lake Park

Early spring or fall offers stunning scenery and less crowded trails.

Rochester Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Rochester experiences a humid continental climate, with warm summers and cold winters, making seasonal planning essential for visitors. The best times to explore are in late spring and early fall when temperatures are mild and the scenery is particularly inviting.

Dining Recommendation in Rochester

Consider visiting the renowned Caffe Etc., where you can indulge in their famous Swedish pancakes accompanied by seasonal fruit compote, offering a delightful contrast to the more traditional steakhouse options in Rapid City. The vibrant atmosphere and focus on locally-sourced ingredients contribute to a dining experience that showcases Rochester's commitment to culinary creativity.

Rapid City - Rochester operators

Explore transport companies operating between Rapid City and Rochester, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus

Bus from Rapid City to Rochester

Average Duration

Estimated price

130-130

Rapid City to Rochester: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Rapid City and Rochester offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic road trip from Rapid City to Rochester covering a distance of 578 miles through the heart of the Midwest. Enjoy the journey of approximately 8 hours and 40 minutes, taking in the changing landscapes along the way. 💸 Experience the flexibility of pricing options ranging from $100 to $160 for a car trip from Rapid City to Rochester. Plan your budget accordingly and explore the affordability and convenience of traveling by road for this adventure.

Average price

$100 - $160

🛫 Traveling from Rapid City to Rochester by plane involves a journey with one stopover, typically taking around 4 hours and 46 minutes for the quickest route offered by airlines like United, Delta, and American. 🌍 While there is no direct flight available, the total travel time between Rapid City Airport and Rochester Airport is approximately 6 hours and 16 minutes. Despite the duration, passengers can enjoy a smooth connection between the two cities. 💸 Prices for flights between Rapid City and Rochester can vary widely, ranging from $253 to $844 depending on the airline, booking time, and other factors.

Departure Point

Rapid City Airport

Arrival Point

Rochester Airport. The quickest flight takes 4h 46m and has one stopover

Useful tips for plane travellers

• Be prepared for a longer travel time of approximately 7 hours and 12 minutes, as most flights from Rapid City to Rochester may include one or two layovers. Check the layover times to avoid tight connections and ensure a smoother trip.

• Upon arrival at Rochester International Airport (RST), expect a relatively small airport layout, making navigation straightforward. Keep an eye out for clear signage to baggage claim and transportation options; the airport is only about 10 miles from downtown Rochester.

• Taxi fares from Rochester International Airport to downtown Rochester typically range from $20 to $30, providing a convenient option to reach your destination quickly. Alternatively, consider checking out local ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft for potentially lower prices.

🚌 The journey from Rapid City to Rochester by bus requires a transfer in Minneapolis and takes approximately 13 hours and 45 minutes. 💰 The prices for the bus ticket between Rapid City and Rochester range from $112 to $276, offering an affordable travel option with a scenic route through the Midwest.

Departure Point

Rapid City, SD station

Arrival Point

Rochester, MN station

Frequently asked questions

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The distance between Rapid City and Rochester is approximately 537 miles or 578.3 miles by car. By taking a combination of bus and shuttle, it would take around 12 hours and 17 minutes to travel from Rapid City to Rochester. Alternatively, flying would be the quickest mode of transportation, with a travel time of about 6 hours and 16 minutes. If traveling from Rochester to Rapid City by car, it would take approximately 8 hours and 40 minutes. Taking a bus from Rapid City to Rochester would be the longest option, with a travel time of around 13 hours and 45 minutes.

The most cost-effective option for traveling from Rapid City to Rochester is to drive, as it is cheaper with costs ranging from $100 to $160. However, this option takes 8 hours and 40 minutes. If time-efficiency is a priority, the quickest way to travel is by flying and taking a bus, which takes 4 hours and 15 minutes but costs between $230 and $600. Ultimately, the choice between cost-effectiveness and convenience depends on individual preferences and priorities.

The prices for a bus ticket between Rapid City and Rochester range from $112 to $276, depending on the specific bus service and any discounts that may be available. It is recommended to check with different bus companies or online travel agencies to compare prices and find the best deal.

To get from Rapid City to Rochester without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of approximately 578 miles. The drive typically takes around 8 hours and 40 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. It is recommended to plan for rest stops and fuel breaks along the way, and the cost of a car rental or fuel expenses can range from $100 to $160.

If you don't have a car, the best option to travel from Rapid City to Rochester is by taking a bus and shuttle. This journey takes around 12 hours and 17 minutes. The cost of this transportation method ranges from $75 to $210. It's a convenient and affordable option for non-drivers looking to make this trip.

No, there is no direct link between Rapid City and Rochester. However, there is a bus service operated by Jefferson Lines that departs from Rapid City and arrives at Rochester via Minneapolis. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 13h 45m.

The flight duration between Rapid City and Rochester varies depending on the number of stopovers. The quickest flight with one stopover takes approximately 4 hours and 46 minutes. However, please note that there are no direct flights available between Rapid City Airport and Rochester Airport. As for the cost, the prices typically range from $253 to $844 for a round-trip ticket between these two destinations.

There are 70+ hotels available in Rochester to choose from. Prices for accommodations start at $55 per night. Some popular hotel options in the area include Hilton Rochester Mayo Clinic Area, Kahler Inn and Suites, and DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Rochester - Mayo Clinic Area. Visitors to Rochester have a variety of options to suit their budget and preferences for their stay.