There is an extensive network of buses that run throughout the city area, all of which go to the downtown area. If you want to travel from one area of the city to another, you will have to change buses in the centre. There are also several taxi companies that operate within the city and their fares are controlled by the City of Rochester. Many hotels also offer complimentary shuttle services to their guests. If you prefer to hire your own car, you will find several major car hire companies located in the downtown area near the Mayo Clinic. Rochester does not have a train service, so the nearest station is located in Winona, which is 50 minutes’ drive to the east.
Getting from the Airport to the City
Rochester International Airport (ROC) is situated 7 miles (11 km) south of Rochester just off Highway 63. Transfer to the city centre area of Rochester is easy by taking a taxi or shuttle bus from the airport. There are various local taxi companies that service the airport and also a shared ride service. There are also five major car rental companies that operate at the airport building.
Rochester airport overview
Located 11km (7 miles) southwest of central Rochester, Minnesota, Rochester International Airport is a tiny regional air field serving only two airlines. Processing fewer than 400,000 passengers each year, the airport’s main function is as a hub for AirMed, a medical airline.
Many passengers flying into Rochester do so to get to the renowned Mayo Clinic, a state-of-the-art non-profit medical practice and research facility. The airport was founded by the Mayo Foundation in 1928 as a way to transport patients from far-flung locations.
Flights to Rochester International Airport come in from only a few cities, with direct connections available from Chicago, Detroit, and Minneapolis. Many more able-bodied passengers choose to fly into Minneapolis-St Paul International Airport, which is only a 90-minute drive from Rochester and is connected by bus and train. Those who fly through Rochester International Airport however, get an immediate taste of Minnesotan hospitality from the friendly and welcoming staff members.