The Long Drive from Boston to Minneapolis: How Long Will It Take?

Are you planning a road trip from Boston to Minneapolis but wondering how long it would take? Well, you're in the right place. This blog post will highlight the different routes you can take when driving from Boston to Minneapolis, the distance of each route, and the time it takes based on traffic patterns. Here’s what you need to know before hitting the road.

The Fastest Route

The fastest route when driving from Boston, Massachusetts, to Minneapolis, Minnesota, is via I-90 West. This route covers a distance of approximately 1,331 miles and takes approximately 20 hours, 22 minutes, assuming you don't encounter traffic. This route goes through multiple states, including New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois, before reaching Minnesota.

The Slowest Route

The slowest route between Boston and Minneapolis is via I-80 W and I-35 W. This route covers approximately 1,534 miles and takes approximately 24 hours, 26 minutes. While it may be longer, it offers some scenic views as you pass through cities such as Cleveland, Des Moines, and Cedar Rapids.

Time it Takes Based on Traffic Patterns

The time it takes to drive from Boston to Minneapolis can also vary depending on traffic patterns, especially in urban areas. It’s important to keep in mind that peak traffic times can add hours to your travel time. Generally, weekdays during the rush hours of 6 am to 9 am and 4 pm to 7 pm should be avoided as much as possible. Rush hour traffic in cities such as Chicago, Cleveland, and Minneapolis can be quite intense. At peak traffic times, the journey can take well over 24 hours.

Alternate Routes

If you want to take a different route, you can opt for I-90 West, which goes through Buffalo, Cleveland, and Chicago, then I-94 West, which passes through Madison before reaching Minneapolis. This route covers a distance of approximately 1,379 miles and takes approximately 21 hours, 44 minutes. It’s an excellent alternative if you want to skip the urban areas in the Northeast.

Conclusion

In conclusion, driving from Boston, Massachusetts, to Minneapolis, Minnesota, can be a long and tiring journey. However, the trip can be made more manageable if you know what route to take and when to travel. Always remember to check the traffic patterns before hitting the road and opt for the fastest or alternate route, depending on your preference. With the right planning and a bit of patience, you can make the long drive from Boston to Minneapolis without breaking your back.