Fans planning trips to sporting events, concerts, and other large events are invited to review their transportation options and consider taking transit, often a more convenient and affordable alternative to driving. In a recent regional survey, 8 of 10 respondents said they'd consider taking transit to an event.
Here are a few things to know before heading out the door.
Trip planning
If you've never taken transit before, or if it's been a while, review how to purchase fares and plan a trip here. Transit experts can also help people review their options and plan trips by text, chat, or phone. Make note of the stop numbers for your stops so you can track your bus in real time using NexTrip.
Note: Several bus routes are on long-term detours due to construction on Hennepin Avenue South and in downtown St. Paul. The latest information can be found online; for text or email updates, subscribe to Rider Alerts.
Fares
All-Day Passes can be purchased in advance through the Metro Transit app or at any light rail or bus rapid transit station. An All-Day Pass costs up to $5 and allows riders to take as many trips as they like from their first ride through 2 a.m. the next day. Groups traveling together on Northstar can also save money by buying a Northstar Roundtrip Family Pass.
Special service
Northstar service is being provided to Minnesota Twins games that begin during the day on weekdays and all weekend games. Trip times for every game that will be served this season can be found online. Northstar service will also be provided to every Vikings regular season home game this season.
Three-car trains and additional light rail trips will be provided after big events when larger crowds are expected. Those taking light rail to concerts are asked get in line as soon as possible after the show ends.
Park & Ride options
Ample free parking is available at every Northstar station and at the METRO Blue Line’s 30th Avenue and Fort Snelling stations. Eventgoers traveling from the east can park at the Union Depot and board the Green Line there.
Onboard presence
To provide a positive customer experience, Metro Transit police officers, Transit Rider Investment Program Agents, Community Service Officers, security officers, and trained staff ambassadors will be onboard vehicles or at stations where eventgoers board and exit.
Help us help you by reviewing these safety tips.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed onboard all trains and can be placed on front bike racks of buses. Bike racks are also available at all light rail and bus rapid transit stations; Go-To Card users can access a secure bike storage area in Ramp B, next to Target Field.
Let us get you to the State Fair!
In addition to regular route service to the fairgrounds, State Fair Express Bus Service will be provided to and from six Park & Ride locations this year. Express service begins at 8 a.m. and runs every half hour throughout the day and evening.
For more information, visit these pages: