The Cost of a Trip Between Cedar Rapids, Iowa and Bloomington, Minnesota: A Guide to Finding the Best Route Based on Gas Prices

If you're planning a trip between Cedar Rapids, Iowa and Bloomington, Minnesota, one of the most important considerations is the cost. Fuel prices can fluctuate dramatically, and different routes have different distances and costs. This guide will break down the various options you have for getting from point A to point B, so you can figure out the most cost-effective route for your trip.

Possible Routes

There are several routes you can take between Cedar Rapids and Bloomington, each with their own pros and cons. Here are some of the most popular routes to consider:

Route 1: I-35W North

This is the most direct route, with a distance of approximately 268 miles. You'll start on I-380 North in Cedar Rapids, then merge onto I-35W North in Minneapolis. From there, it's a straight shot to Bloomington.

The biggest advantage of this route is that it's the quickest way to get from Cedar Rapids to Bloomington. You can cover the distance in about 4.5 hours, assuming there's no traffic. Unfortunately, this route can also be the most expensive, as it requires a lot of gas and you're likely to encounter toll roads along the way.

Route 2: US-52 North

Another option is to take US-52 North, which is a slightly longer distance at approximately 280 miles. You'll begin on I-380 North once again, but instead of merging onto I-35W North, you'll stay on it until you reach US-52. From there, it's a straight shot to Minneapolis.

One advantage of this route is that there are no tolls to worry about. However, it's still a long drive, taking between 5-6 hours depending on traffic. Additionally, gas prices can add up due to the distance.

Route 3: US-52 North with a Stop in Rochester

If you're looking to break up the trip and avoid driving for too long in one stretch, you can consider taking US-52 North but making a stop in Rochester, Minnesota. This route is approximately 295 miles, and you'll still begin by taking I-380 North. You'll get off at US-52, but instead of continuing all the way to Minneapolis, you'll exit onto US-14 West towards Rochester. After your stop in Rochester, you'll take US-52 North to get to Bloomington.

The advantage of this route is that it gives you some time to stretch your legs and grab a bite to eat along the way. However, it will also add time and distance to your trip, likely taking around 6-7 hours in total. It's worth noting that gas prices in Rochester can be more expensive than in other parts of Minnesota.

Route 4: US-52 North with a Stop in Red Wing

Similar to the Rochester route, you can also stop in Red Wing, Minnesota to break up the drive. This route is approximately 306 miles, with I-380 North being the starting point once again. You'll then take US-52 North and exit onto MN-58 East towards Red Wing. After your stop, you'll continue on MN-58 East to US-61 North, which will take you to I-494 East and eventually to Bloomington.

The upside to this route is that you can see Red Wing, which is known for its beautiful bluffs and historic downtown area. However, it also adds time and distance to your trip, taking around 6-7 hours in total. Gas prices in Red Wing can also be higher than in other areas of the state.

Recommended Route

Out of the four routes we've discussed, our recommendation would be to take Route 2: US-52 North. This route is the most cost-effective, as it doesn't require you to pay tolls like Route 1 or make extra stops like Routes 3 and 4. Additionally, while it's slightly longer than Route 1, it's still a relatively direct route that will get you to Bloomington in a reasonable amount of time.

Of course, the best route for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you have time to spare and want to see some additional sights, Routes 3 and 4 might be more appealing to you.

Conclusion

No matter which route you choose, a trip between Cedar Rapids, Iowa and Bloomington, Minnesota is sure to be a scenic one. With our breakdown of the different options and their respective costs and distances, you should be able to choose the best route for your needs. Safe travels!