Buses and Trains
Public transportation is provided by Metro Transit and other regional providers, and includes all public buses and light rail trains.
Metro Transit's website has information about the public transportation system, including maps and bus schedules and routes. You can also use Trip Planner, a tool to help you figure out how to get from one location to another at any time of day or night using the public transport. Trip Planner can also help you plan your trip according to different criteria, such as Faster Trip, Fewer Bus Transfers, and Less Walking.
University of Minnesota students who pay the Transportation and Safety Fee have unlimited access to the regional transit system in the Twin Cities metro area (rides on the NorthStar require a small supplemental fare for each ride). The Universal Transit Pass is on your U Card. Some students who do not pay the fee are able to opt in. Learn more on the Parking & Transportation Services website.
If you are on University of Minnesota payroll, you can purchase a Metropass discounted, unlimited-ride pass good for use on all Metro Transit routes, including the Light Rail.
You can find more information about fares and the various types of discounted passes on the Metro Transit website.
If you do not have a Universal Transit Pass or Metropass, you can pay cash for your ticket. Pay the driver the exact fare (normally $2 off-peak/$2.50 peak) as you board the bus or use the ticket vending machines on the train platforms.
You can also use the Metro Transit app to buy tickets for buses and trains and plan your trips. Download the free app on Google Play or the App Store. After you’ve found your trip and departure time, you can buy and use mobile tickets right from your smartphone. Simply show your ticket to the bus driver or officer.
Busing Around the University Campus
The University runs its own bus service. All campus buses are free and come equipped with wheelchair lifts and bike racks. The Connector links the Minneapolis and St. Paul campuses. The Circulators serve particular campus areas. Schedules and additional information are available online.
Biking
Minneapolis is one of the best biking cities in the country, with an average of 10,000 people riding daily for commuting and recreation (there are significant seasonal variations, but many people bike year-round). In fact, Minneapolis has one of the highest percentages of residents who commute by bicycle than any other large city in the country. There are 40 miles of on-street bike lanes and 82 miles of off-street bike trails in Minneapolis alone. Remember to wear your helmet.
UMN is a Platinum Level Bicycle Friendly University, the highest level of accreditation by the League of American Bicyclists, so expect great facilities and programs to make cycling enjoyable. Learn more about biking around campus.
Scooters
Motorized foot scooters are a great alternative for short trips to and from campus. Remember to ride safely and park only at bike racks. Learn more about scooters.
Driving
The University of Minnesota Twin Cities is one the largest urban campuses in the country, spanning five miles from east to west. Parking and Transportation Services (PTS) has a number of programs and services to assist you in your planning.
For those who choose to drive to campus, parking options include:
- Student Contract Parking
- Daily/Hourly Public Parking (range from $6-$15/day)
Motorist Assistance Program (MAP) is a free service for all legally parked PTS customers.
Other options include:
- HOURCAR and Evie Carshare, car-sharing programs available if you need to use a car, but choose not to buy one. Student and staff discounts are available.
- Ride-Sharing, carpool or vanpool for students, staff, or faculty
