Navigating Your Way From Bloomington to Saint Louis Park: How Long Does It Take?

Getting from Bloomington to Saint Louis Park is no small feat, especially for those who are new to the area. With so many different routes and freeways to choose from, it's normal to feel a bit overwhelmed. But fear not! This guide will go over the fastest and slowest options, the distance of each route, and the typical amount of time it takes to traverse them.

Route Options for Bloomington to Saint Louis Park

One of the most direct routes between the two cities is via State Route 100. This route runs north-south and takes you straight from Bloomington to Highway 7 in Saint Louis Park. It's the fastest route with the shortest distance, as it's just under 10 miles long. This route typically takes around 20 minutes during off-peak hours.

An alternate option is to travel east via I-494, and then north on Highway 100. This is the most common route for those who need to bypass downtown Minneapolis and is typically the most congested during rush hour. If you're looking for a shorter distance, this route is around 10.5 miles. However, due to traffic, it can take anywhere from 25 to 45 minutes during peak travel hours.

Time Estimations

When planning your trip, knowing when to travel is key. During heavy traffic times, travel time can be up to twice as long as off-peak hours. For example, if you take the State Route 100 route during rush hour, your trip could take up to 40 minutes. However, travel time for this route can be cut down to just 15 minutes with no congestion. For the I-494 + 100 route, travel during off-peak times can take as little as 20 minutes, but this route can take up to 50 minutes during heavy traffic.

Taking the Fastest Route

If you're interested in taking the fastest route, State Route 100 is definitely the way to go. This route is also the shortest, which means you'll be conserving gas and saving money in the process. Not to mention, it's more scenic as you drive through the western suburbs of Minneapolis. The only downside to this route is that it can be prone to heavy traffic during rush hour, so be sure to plan accordingly.

Navigating Through I-494 + 100

If you're looking to bypass Minneapolis and the western suburbs altogether, I-494 is the way to go. However, it can be tough to navigate for newcomers, with multiple exits and lane changes. It's also important to be aware of your surroundings, as this route is notorious for heavy traffic during peak hours. Even though it's a bit longer than the State Route 100 route, it might be worth the extra distance if it means avoiding rush hour traffic.

Conclusion

In summary, getting from Bloomington to Saint Louis Park is relatively easy, with different route options to choose from depending on your preference. If you're looking for a quicker, more scenic route, State Route 100 is your best bet. For those who want to avoid downtown Minneapolis, I-494 + 100 is a viable option, but you'll want to plan your travel times accordingly. With some careful planning, you can easily navigate your way through the Twin Cities and arrive at your destination with ease.