The Drive From Buffalo to Minneapolis: How Long Will It Take?

If you're planning on taking a drive from Buffalo, Minnesota to Minneapolis, you might be wondering how long the journey will take you. The good news is that there are multiple routes that will get you there, each with its own distance and traffic patterns. Here's everything you need to know about the time it takes to drive from Buffalo to Minneapolis.

The Fastest Route

The fastest route from Buffalo to Minneapolis is via I-94E. This route covers a distance of approximately 40 miles and takes around 35-40 minutes. It's a fairly straight-forward route, with minimal twists and turns, making it an easy drive even for novice drivers. Of course, traffic patterns will affect the journey time, so it's important to check traffic before setting off.

The Scenic Route

If you're in no rush to get to Minneapolis, you might want to take the scenic route. This involves taking MN-25S and US-12E, which takes you around Lake Independence and through the quaint towns of Delano and Independence. This route covers a distance of approximately 50 miles, and will take you around an hour to complete. It's a great option for those who want to enjoy a leisurely drive through the beautiful Minnesota countryside.

The Slowest Route

The slowest route from Buffalo to Minneapolis is via MN-55E. This route covers a distance of approximately 50 miles, but due to the high amount of traffic on this route, it can take up to 1 hour and 15 minutes to complete. This route is often the busiest, as it passes through several towns, so it's important to plan your journey accordingly.

Traffic Patterns

The traffic patterns on the different routes vary depending on the time of day. Without any traffic, the fastest route will take around 35-40 minutes, and the scenic route will take around an hour. However, during peak hours, the travel time can extend by 20-30 minutes or more. The slowest route, on the other hand, is often congested, particularly during rush hour, which can add up to 45 minutes to the journey time.

Plan Your Journey

When planning your journey from Buffalo to Minneapolis, it's essential to take traffic into account. Check online traffic updates, and consider using a GPS app that offers real-time traffic information. If you're in a hurry, it's best to take the fastest route, while those who want to enjoy the journey might prefer the scenic route. Whatever your preference, just make sure to factor in traffic patterns to get to your destination on time.

In conclusion, the time it takes to drive from Buffalo to Minneapolis depends on the route you take and traffic patterns. With this guide, you can plan your journey, and choose the best route to suit your needs. Safe travels!