- Must visit
Walker Art Center
Major contemporary art museum with acclaimed architecture, rotating exhibitions, and one of the top collections in the region.
Cheapest price
zł267
Average price
zł294
Fastest journey
4 h 6 m
Average duration
4 h 6 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
286 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Detroit Lakes, MN to Minneapolis, MN is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Detroit Lakes, MN to Minneapolis, MN will cost around zł294 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only zł267.
Of the 2 trains that leave Detroit Lakes, MN for Minneapolis, MN on Wed, Aug 05, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Aug 05 the direct trains cover the 286 km distance in an average of 4 h 6 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 6 m .
On Wed, Aug 05 the slowest trains will take 4 h 6 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
28 Empire Builder
8 Empire Builder
28 Empire Builder
8 Empire BuilderTrains from Detroit Lakes, MN to Minneapolis, MN run on average 2 times per day, taking around 4h 6m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at zł118 if you book in advance.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:27, the last at 23:13. The fastest train covers the 177 miles (286 km) distance in 4h 6m.
Distance 177 miles (286 km) |
Average train duration 4h 6m |
Cheapest ticket price zł118 |
Trains per day 2 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 4h 6m |
First train 4:27 AM |
Last train 11:13 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Best time to book 21 days |
The table below shows live departures for Detroit Lakes, MN to Minneapolis, MN trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
8 Empire Builder | 4:27 AM Detroit Lakes Station, Detroit Lakes, MN | 4h06 | 8:33 AM Union Depot, Saint Paul, MN | 0 transfersDirect | |
28 Empire Builder | 4:27 AM Detroit Lakes Station, Detroit Lakes, MN | 4h06 | 8:33 AM Union Depot, Saint Paul, MN | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Discover the best of Minneapolis, MN — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Minneapolis, MN trip today.
Major contemporary art museum with acclaimed architecture, rotating exhibitions, and one of the top collections in the region.
Smithsonian-affiliated history museum inside Mill City Museum, exploring Minneapolis industry, flour, and riverfront development.
Leading fine arts museum with global collections, period rooms, and strong Native, Asian, and modern works.
Famous urban sculpture garden with the Spoonbridge and Cherry, linking art, skyline views, and easy walking paths.
Lakeside park with beaches, trails, and classic Minneapolis scenery; ideal for walks, biking, and sunset views.
Historic riverfront district with cobbled character, trails, bridges, and excellent views of the Mississippi and downtown.
The iconic Minnesota hot dish: ground beef, vegetables, cream soup, and tater tots baked until crisp. A beloved Upper Midwest comfort food common at family gatherings.
A Scandinavian potato flatbread central to Minnesota holiday tables. It reflects the region’s strong Nordic heritage and is often served with butter or sugar.
Minnesota’s famous wild rice soup combines nutty native wild rice with cream, vegetables, and often chicken. It highlights an ingredient deeply tied to the state.
Acclaimed fine-dining destination showcasing Minnesota ingredients with refined tasting menus. Elegant, polished, and nationally respected.
Long-running restaurant known for excellent walleye and classic supper-club style. Comfortable setting near Minnehaha Falls.
Legendary South Minneapolis tavern famous for the original Juicy Lucy. Casual, lively, and essential for a classic local burger experience.
Moderate for a major US city. Hotels, dining, and attractions are mid-priced, while transit is affordable and budget eats are easy to find.
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, 10-15% for taxis, and spare change or $1 at cafes.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Detroit Lakes, MN to Minneapolis, MN by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Minneapolis, MN, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Detroit Lakes, MN to Minneapolis, MN trains use the Detroit Lakes Station to Union Depot station pair. Use this guide to compare Detroit Lakes, MN and Minneapolis, MN train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Detroit Lakes Station has practical services for this route, including Dining, ATM, and Accessibility.
Food and drink options are available at Detroit Lakes Station.
ATMs are available at Detroit Lakes Station.
Accessibility facilities are available at Detroit Lakes Station.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need