Key Highlights
- The Minneapolis light rail system features two main routes: the Metro Blue Line and the Metro Green Line.
- These lines connect key destinations like Downtown Minneapolis, the Mall of America, and the University of Minnesota.
- The Metro Blue Line provides convenient access to both terminals at the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport.
- Easily purchase fares using the Metro Transit app or ticket machines located at every light rail station.
- The light rail integrates with Metro Transit buses and the Northstar Commuter Rail Line for broader travel.
- Future projects include the Green Line Extension to expand service into the surrounding suburbs.
Overview of the Minneapolis Light Rail System
Exploring the Twin Cities is simple with the METRO system, a public transportation network serving the entire Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area. Operated by Metro Transit, the system’s backbone is its light rail transit, which consists of two primary metro lines designed for efficient and easy travel.
The Blue Line and Green Line are your primary light rail routes, connecting the vibrant Downtown Minneapolis with Saint Paul and surrounding communities. The Green Line, also known as the Central Corridor, is a key connector between the two cities, with expansions like the Green Line Extension already underway to broaden the network.
Key Routes: Blue and Green Lines
The Metro Blue Line, originally named the Hiawatha Line, is a major artery for the region. This light rail route runs from Target Field in Downtown Minneapolis southward, passing through the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport before terminating at the famous Mall of America in Bloomington. It offers a direct and convenient link between the city’s core and major shopping and travel hubs.
Connecting the Twin Cities, the Metro Green Line travels from Target Field through the University of Minnesota campus and along University Avenue to its final stop at Union Depot in Downtown Saint Paul. This line is essential for students, commuters, and visitors looking to explore both metropolitan centers without needing a car.
Looking ahead, the Metropolitan Council is actively planning to expand these services. The Metro Green Line Extension, or Southwest LRT, will push service westward into the suburbs, while the Blue Line Extension aims to bring light rail access to northern communities like Brooklyn Park, promising even greater connectivity.
Integration With Metro Transit Bus Services
Your light rail journey is part of a much larger, interconnected system. Metro Transit ensures that the light rail lines work seamlessly with its extensive network of bus routes, including local and Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) services. Many light rail stations are designed as transfer hubs, making it easy to switch from a train to a bus to reach your final destination.
These connections provide expanded rapid transit services throughout the metropolitan area. For example, you can easily transfer between rail and bus at several key points:
- The A Line BRT connects with the Blue Line at 46th Street Station and the Green Line at Snelling Avenue Station.
- Mall of America Station serves as a hub for the Blue Line and the Red Line and D Line BRT services.
- Target Field Station links both light rail lines with multiple BRT services.
In cases of planned maintenance or service disruptions, Metro Transit provides replacement bus service. These replacement bus trips are arranged to follow the light rail route as closely as possible, ensuring you can still complete your journey with minimal interruption.
Navigating Stations Along the Blue and Green Lines
The Blue and Green lines are dotted with 37 stations, each serving as a gateway to different neighborhoods and attractions. From the bustling Warehouse District in Downtown Minneapolis to the suburbs, each light rail station is placed to get you where you need to go. Major hubs like Target Field Station, Mall of America Station, and Saint Paul Union Depot are central points in the system.
Navigating these stations is straightforward, whether you’re a daily commuter or a first-time visitor. In the sections below, we’ll explore the most important stops and hubs and explain how to use the system for specific destinations like the airport.
Major Stops and Transit Hubs
Certain stations act as major transit hubs, allowing you to transfer between light rail lines and connect to other transit services. Target Field Station is the primary hub, serving as the northern terminus for both the Blue Line and Green Line. It also connects riders to the Northstar Line commuter rail and several Bus Rapid Transit lines.
Another critical hub is Mall of America Station, which connects the Blue Line with the Red Line and D Line BRT services, providing a gateway to southern suburbs. In Saint Paul, Union Depot connects the Green Line to the Gold Line and B Line BRT, establishing it as a key hub for the eastern metro. The University of Minnesota is also served by multiple Green Line stations.
Below are some of the most important transit hubs and their connecting lines.
| Station/Hub | Connecting Lines |
|---|---|
| Target Field Station | Blue Line, Green Line, Northstar Line, C Line, D Line, Orange Line |
| Mall of America Station | Blue Line, Red Line, D Line |
| Saint Paul Union Depot | Green Line, Gold Line, B Line |
| 46th Street Station | Blue Line, A Line |
| Snelling Avenue Station | Green Line, A Line |
Airport Access and Connectivity
Getting to and from the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) is incredibly easy using the light rail. The Metro Blue Line provides direct airport access, with dedicated stops at both Terminal 1 (Lindbergh) and Terminal 2 (Humphrey). This makes it a stress-free option for travelers heading to or from the airport.
If you need to travel between the two terminals, the light rail offers free and frequent service. Simply hop on the train at either terminal station for a quick ride to the other—no ticket is required for this short trip. This service is available 24/7, with a shuttle bus operating during late-night hours when the train has a service gap.
From the airport, the Metro Blue Line offers a straight shot to Downtown Minneapolis in one direction and the Mall of America in the other. If your destination is in Saint Paul, you can take the Blue Line to any of the shared downtown stations and make a simple transfer to the Green Line to complete your journey.
How Does the Light Rail System in Minneapolis Compare to St. Louis?
The light rail system in Minneapolis offers an extensive network, connecting key areas with efficiency and reliability. In comparison, st. louis metro transit operates a more limited service, primarily serving urban areas. While both systems aim to enhance public transport, Minneapolis excels in coverage and frequency, making it a preferred choice for commuters.
Ticketing, Fares, and Rider Tips
Paying for your ride on the Minneapolis light rail is simple, thanks to its proof-of-payment system. Before you board, you can buy a ticket from the ticket machines located at every station or use the convenient Metro Transit app on your smartphone. Remember to keep your ticket or have your app ready, as staff may ask to see it.
Fares are valid for 2.5 hours of unlimited rides on both light rail and most bus routes. Special 50-cent fares are available for trips within the designated Downtown Zones of Minneapolis and Saint Paul. For frequent riders, all-day or multi-day passes offer great value.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the light rail to get to Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport?
Yes, you can. The Metro Blue Line provides direct light rail service to both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 of the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport. This line conveniently connects the airport with major destinations like the Mall of America and Downtown Minneapolis, where you can transfer to reach Saint Paul.
How much does it cost to ride the light rail in Minneapolis?
Standard adult fares are typically $2.00 during off-peak hours, with reduced prices for seniors and youth. You can purchase tickets from ticket machines or the Metro Transit app. Fares include unlimited rides for 2.5 hours. Travel within downtown zones is just 50 cents, though these tickets do not include transfers.
Does the Minneapolis light rail run 24 hours?
No, the Minneapolis light rail does not operate 24 hours a day. Trains typically run from the early morning until late at night. During the overnight service gap, Metro Transit often provides a replacement bus service. Always check the official Metro Transit schedule for the most up-to-date departure times.