Driving Time between Bloomington, Minnesota and Oak Park Heights, Minnesota

A picture depicting driving

The Time It Takes to Drive from Bloomington to Oak Park Heights: Route Options and Driving Times

Living in the Twin Cities metro area often comes with the need to travel between different suburbs and neighborhoods. One common drive is from Bloomington, in the south of the Twin Cities, to Oak Park Heights, in the northwest. This route may be necessary for those commuting to work, visiting family or friends, or simply exploring the area. But how long does it take to drive from Bloomington to Oak Park Heights? The answer depends on the route you choose and the traffic patterns.

Route Options

There are three main routes to choose from when driving from Bloomington to Oak Park Heights. Each of them presents unique advantages and disadvantages depending on the time of day, type of vehicle, and personal preferences. Let's take a closer look at each option:

  • I-494 and I-94W: This is the most direct route, taking you through St. Paul and the eastern suburbs. It has the advantage of being quick and efficient, but it can also be congested during peak hours. Taking this route will cover a distance of about 28 miles.
  • US-212 and MN-5W: This route takes you through the southwestern suburbs, bypassing the downtown areas. It can be a more scenic drive with less traffic, but it is slightly longer than the I-494 and I-94W route, covering approximately 30 miles.
  • MN-62W and MN-100N: This is the northernmost option, taking you through Edina and the western suburbs. It can be a good choice for those who want to avoid downtown and St. Paul traffic, but it may also be slow during peak hours. This route covers around 29 miles.

Driving Times

The driving time from Bloomington to Oak Park Heights can vary widely depending on the route you choose and the traffic conditions. Here are some estimates for peak and low traffic times:

  • I-494 and I-94W: During peak hours (7-9 a.m. and 4-6 p.m.), this route can take around 45-60 minutes. At low traffic times (midnight to 6 a.m.), it can take as little as 30 minutes.
  • US-212 and MN-5W: During peak hours, this route can take around 50-70 minutes. At low traffic times, it can take around 35-45 minutes.
  • MN-62W and MN-100N: During peak hours, this route can take around 40-55 minutes. At low traffic times, it can take as little as 25 minutes.

Keep in mind that these are estimates, and actual driving times may vary based on weather conditions, accidents, and road work.

Conclusion

When it comes to driving from Bloomington to Oak Park Heights, there are several route options to choose from, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. If you're in a hurry and don't mind traffic, the I-494 and I-94W route may be your best bet. If you want a more scenic drive with less traffic, the US-212 and MN-5W route might be a good choice. And if you want to avoid the downtown areas, the MN-62W and MN-100N route may be the way to go. Whatever route you choose, be sure to allow extra time during peak hours and check for road closures or construction before you head out. Safe travels!