I adapted the New York to Providence and Philadelphia to Atlantic City routes for this article because they didn’t fit the topic. Verify the current schedule and rates on amtrak.com before making your reservation.
Why Take the Train from Minneapolis to Red Wing
Red Wing is a river town on the Mississippi, home of the shoe company Red Wing Shoes, art pottery, beautiful bluffs, and a charming walkable downtown. Taking the train from the Twin Cities is a more scenic, relaxing way to get there.
- You don’t have to worry about driving or parking in the city.
- More comfortable seats with extra legroom compared to a bus
- Extra legroom to see the scenic views of the Mississippi River.
- Perfect to combine with a shorter trip or visit to the Twin Cities
- More environmentally friendly compared to flying
Something to keep in mind: Amtrak does not have a station in Minneapolis. To catch the Twin Cities Service, you will have to go to the Saint Paul Union Depot.
Which Amtrak Trains Run from Minneapolis to Red Wing?
Serviced by the Empire Builder, Amtrak’s train that connects Chicago to the Pacific Northwest, Red Wing provides train service to those in the area. Amtrak also has a newer service on the eastern part of the corridor called Borealis that also serves the same area as the Empire Builder. Go to Amtrak.com for more information about other services available during your travel dates.
| Detail | Information |
| Train | Empire Builder (check for Borealis availability) |
| Departure station | Saint Paul Union Depot (STP) |
| Arrival station | Red Wing Station (RDW) |
| Direction | Eastbound toward Chicago |
| Reservations | Required |
Because it is a long-distance service, train times are scheduled less frequently, with long gaps between each train. As a passenger, you plan your travel according to the train times, instead of arriving and boarding the next train.
Minneapolis to Red Wing Train Schedule: Departure Times and Frequency
This route has limited service, usually just one eastbound departure each day from St. Paul to Red Wing.
- Frequency: Expect one train a day in each direction on the Empire Builder.
- Eastbound (St. Paul to Red Wing): Departs early morning.
- Westbound (Red Wing to St. Paul): Arrives in Red Wing in the evening. Because of the later arrival in Red Wing, it is difficult to do a same-day round-trip on the route.
- Delays: Expect some delays with long-distance trains.
Because the westbound train arrives in Red Wing later in the day/evening, most travelers stay overnight in Red Wing or take a bus or drive back. The schedules on Amtrak.com or the Amtrak app are useful for checking the exact departure times. Schedules change seasonally.
Minneapolis to Red Wing Train Travel Time: How Long Does It Take?
It takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to travel by rail from the Saint Paul Union Depot to Red Wing. The route follows the river and is about 55 miles long.
| Segment | Approximate Time |
| Downtown Minneapolis to Saint Paul Union Depot (Metro Green Line) | 35 to 45 minutes |
| Saint Paul Union Depot to Red Wing (Amtrak) | 1 hr 15 min to 1 hr 30 min |
| Total door-to-door | About 2.5 to 3 hours |
You must arrive at the depot at least 30 minutes before departure to check in. Allow extra time to get to the depot.
Terminal Station Guide for Passengers
Saint Paul Union Depot (departure)
- Address: 214 4th Street East, Saint Paul
- Heated Waiting Area, Restrooms, and Ticket Services
- Connected to the Green Line of the Light Rail, making it easily accessible from downtown Minneapolis
- Nearby Paid Parking, with Ride-Share drop-off at the Entrance
- (No Ratings Yet)
Red Wing Station (arrival)
- Near the river and downtown
- Limited station amenities; be self-sufficient.
- Near many shopping, dining,g and lodging options. Also consider: Close to the river and downtown.
Key Stops Between Saint Paul and Red Wing.
A short trip with not many stops in between. The Empire Builder runs from Red Wing to Winona and other locations along the way, including La Crosse, Tomah, Wisconsin Dells, Portage, Columbus, Milwaukee, and Chicago. You can take a longer trip by getting on the train at any of these locations along the way. The route hugs the Mississippi River, offering scenic views of bluffs and river scenery.
Ticket Prices and Best Ways to Save Money on Amtrak
Prices for this short leg are not bad, but do vary. They can be cheaper if booked further in advance. You can check prices and book on Amtrak.com.
| Fare Type | What to Expect |
| Coach, booked early | Lowest fares, usually the cheapest option |
| Coach, booked late | Higher fares as seats sell |
| Business or Sleeper | Rarely worth it for a short hop |
Ways to save:
- Book well in advance to get lower fares.
- Optimize your travel days to travel on days with the lowest demand.
- Look out for sales and promotions.
- Look for membership and service-specific discounts.
- Use reward points if you have them.
- Have flexible travel dates and compare surrounding days for lower fares.
Onboard Amenities on the Minneapolis to Red Wing Train
- Large, reclining coach seats with more legroom
- Large windows and an observation car on the Empire Builder
- Electrical outlets
- Wi-Fi (however, the signal can be spotty along the river)
- Cafe for food and drink service
- Free baggage allowance of all kinds (checked and carry-on) at staffed stations
- Quiet, big restrooms
Minneapolis to Red Wing Train vs. Other Travel Options
Driving provides more flexibility and speed. However, the train provides a more comfortable, scenic, and stress-free journey. The train is the better option when you plan to spend the night on a trip.
| Option | Approx. Time | Comfort | Best For |
| Train | 1.5 hrs (plus transfer to Saint Paul) | High | Scenic, relaxed travel |
| Car | About 1 hr | Moderate | Flexibility and day trips |
| Bus | Varies | Moderate | When train timings do not fit |
Tips for First-Time Travelers on the Minneapolis to Red Wing Route
- Remember you board in Saint Paul, not Minneapolis.
- It is recommended to arrive at the station 30 minutes early.
- Bring a valid photo ID and your e-ticket from the Amtrak app.
- Check your train status the day of travel, as delays are common.
- Keep in mind the time the train arrives, as it may restrict your ability to make same-day trips.
- Pack light, as the station is only a short walk to downtown.wn
- For the best river views, ask an employee which side of the train to sit on, or look on the route map.
- Dress in layers as the weather in Minnesota can be unpredictable.
- Look up fun activities to do near downtown and enjoy your trip!
What to Do When You Arrive at Red Wing Station
Walk the riverfront and downtown: You’ll find historic buildings, cafes, and shops near the station.
- Check out the Red Wing Shoe Museum: Learn about the area’s best-known brand.
- Check out Red Wing Pottery: A well-known local craft with a showroom and shop.
- Hike Barn Bluff: A short but scenic hike with great river views.
- Stay at the St. James Hotel: A historic hotel right on the main drag.
- Visit Colvill Park: A nice spot along the Mississippi.
Your Minneapolis to Red Wing Amtrak Ticket
- Make reservations at Amtrak.com or on the Amtrak app
- Leave from Saint Paul, MN (STP) and arrive in Red Wing, MN (RDW)
- Seats are reserved. No walk-up sales.
- Your e-ticket will be in your email. Show the conductor the e-ticket when boarding.
- Know the change and cancellation policy before paying.
- Contact Amtrak to set up assistance for travel if needed.
Best Time to Travel from Minneapolis to Red Wing by Train
Fall (September to October): Peak colors on the bluffs.
Summer (June to August): Festivals and warm weather, but higher fares and demand.
Spring (April to May): Mild temperatures and less crowded.
Winter (December to February): Less visitors, lodge stays more comfortable, and less crowded, but snow can cause travel delays.
Weekdays: Less crowded and usually cheaper than weekends.
Frequently Asked Question
1. Is there a direct train from Minneapolis to Red Wing?
There is no Amtrak service in Minneapolis. You would take the Metro Green Line from Minneapolis to St. Paul, and then take Amtrak to Red Wing from St. Paul.
2. Which Amtrak train goes to Red Wing?
The Empire Builder serves Red Wing, and Borealis may also serve that corridor. Check Amtrak.com for that day.
3. How long does the train take?
The Amtrak segment from St. Paul to Red Wing takes about 1.5 hours.
4. How often does the train run?
Usually once a day in each direction with the Empire Builder, so plan around the timetable.
5. How much does a ticket cost?
Fares are usually not expensive, and change based on demand and date. Booking in advance gets you lower fares.
6. Can I do a same-day round trip?
Because the return train from Red Wing leaves so late, most travelers stay overnight or use alternate transportation.
7. Do I need a reservation?
Yes, Amtrak requires reservations for this line, so plan and book using the website or app.
8. Is there Wi-Fi and are there power outlets on board?
Yes, most seats have power outlets, and while Wi-Fi is provided, it is not always dependable.
9. Is the Red Wing station close to downtown?
Yes, the station is next to the river and within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and hotels.
10. Is the train better than driving?
Driving is usually quicker and more convenient, but the train is scenic and relaxing, and good for people wanting to take the stress out of travel and enjoy an overnight stay.
