Thinking about living in Como Park and wondering how long it will take to get to work or school? You are not alone. Whether you prefer the bus, light rail, bike, or car, having realistic commute times can shape a smart home search. This guide breaks down what you can expect and how to choose the route that fits your routine. Let’s dive in.
Why Como Park works for commuters
Como Park sits on the north side of Saint Paul, close to both downtowns and the University of Minnesota. Many guides place the neighborhood roughly 2 to 5 miles from key urban cores, depending on your exact address. At the county level, Ramsey County’s mean travel time to work hovers around 22 to 22.5 minutes, which is a useful benchmark for planning your daily commute. U.S. Census data confirms that context.
Transit options from Como Park
Route 3 on Como Avenue
Route 3 runs directly along Como Avenue and connects you to downtown Minneapolis, downtown Saint Paul, and the U of M corridor. It is a core local route with frequent service and easy transfers. Check Metro Transit’s Route 3 page for current schedules and rider alerts.
A Line on Snelling Avenue
The METRO A Line is a bus rapid transit service with a station near Snelling and Como. It offers frequent, all-day service and quick connections along Snelling to other routes. See the A Line overview and FAQs for stop details and frequency.
Green Line connections
The METRO Green Line runs on University Avenue and links downtown Saint Paul, the U of M, and downtown Minneapolis. Stations such as Lexington Parkway, Hamline, and Snelling are a short ride or transfer from much of Como Park. The rail trip between the downtowns typically takes about 45 to 50 minutes end to end. Learn more about the Green Line on University Avenue.
Typical transit times
- To the University of Minnesota: about 15 to 30 minutes using Route 3 or an A Line transfer to the Green Line, depending on your starting point and time of day.
- To downtown Minneapolis: about 20 to 45 minutes by Route 3 or Route 3 plus a Green Line connection.
- Within Saint Paul: many addresses are a quick hop to central Saint Paul with nearby bus or BRT connections.
Tip: For door-to-door timing, use Metro Transit’s trip tools on the Route 3 page and check rider alerts before you go.
Bike commuting made practical
Bikeways on Como Avenue
Biking in and around Como Park keeps getting better. Saint Paul adopted an updated Bicycle Plan in April 2024 to expand separated bikeways citywide. Como Avenue also received dedicated multi-use facilities that help close gaps and make east–west riding feel smoother. Explore the Saint Paul Bicycle Plan and an overview of recent Como Avenue bikeway improvements.
Regional trails nearby
Regional routes like the Bruce Vento Regional Trail and the Gateway State Trail create low-stress options for longer rides and weekend connections. These trails do not cut through every block of Como Park, yet they are close enough to factor into many commute plans.
Realistic bike time ranges
- To the U of M: about 10 to 25 minutes for most addresses in Como Park, quicker from the west side.
- To downtown Saint Paul: about 5 to 20 minutes, depending on your exact starting point.
- To downtown Minneapolis: about 25 to 45 minutes based on route choice and pace.
Bike plus transit tips
Metro Transit supports bikes on buses and trains, which makes hybrid commutes simple when weather or distance is a factor. Review bike rack and locker details on Metro Transit’s Bicycle and Transit page.
Driving times and distances
Downtown Saint Paul
Many Como Park addresses sit roughly 1 to 3 miles from downtown Saint Paul. Off-peak drives often take 5 to 12 minutes. Expect longer times during rush hours or major events.
University of Minnesota
From Como Park, you are typically 2 to 6 miles from the U of M. Off-peak drives often run 10 to 20 minutes and can extend to 20 to 35 minutes or more in peak traffic. See general distance references between Saint Paul and the campus via Travelmath’s U of M page.
Downtown Minneapolis
Plan for 6 to 9 miles depending on your exact address and route. Off-peak drives commonly run 15 to 30 minutes. Peak periods or special events can push that to 25 to 45 minutes or more.
MSP airport
The drive to Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport is commonly 20 to 35 minutes from Como Park, depending on route and traffic. As always, build in extra time for parking and security. Find a general reference for regional travel times on Travelmath’s STP to MSP page.
Parking and events
Street parking around Como Park varies by block. Areas near park attractions or university-adjacent streets can be busier. Event days, including major gatherings in and around the park, can change both drive times and parking availability. Always check posted signs and local city guidance.
Quick planning tips for buyers and sellers
- Use ranges. Note off-peak and typical peak times for each mode so your plan matches real conditions.
- Keep transfers simple. If you want a smooth transit commute, choose a home near Route 3, the A Line, or an easy Green Line connection.
- Combine bike and transit. Riding to a Green Line or A Line station can cut door-to-door time.
- Plan for winter. If you bike year-round, plan alternate routes and consider the bike-plus-transit option when conditions change.
- Verify before you go. Check Metro Transit’s real-time tools and a map app for current trip estimates.
Ready to align your home search with a commute that fits your life? Reach out to Christian Klempp for local guidance, buyer and seller representation, relocation support, and a clear plan to move with confidence.
FAQs
How long is the commute from Como Park to the University of Minnesota?
- Most trips take about 15 to 30 minutes by transit, 10 to 25 minutes by car off-peak, and roughly 10 to 25 minutes by bike depending on your exact starting point.
Is public transit practical for daily commuting from Como Park?
- Yes. Route 3 serves Como Avenue directly, and fast transfers to the A Line and the Green Line make daily trips to the U of M and both downtowns straightforward.
Can I bring my bike on buses and light rail in the Twin Cities?
- Yes. Metro Transit supports bikes on buses and trains and offers bike lockers at select stations, which helps with year-round commuting.
What are typical drive times from Como Park to MSP Airport?
- Plan for about 20 to 35 minutes depending on your exact location in Como Park, traffic, and route, and add extra time for parking and security.
Which bus lines stop near Como Zoo & Conservatory in Como Park?
- Route 3 and Route 83 serve the park area, with details listed in the zoo’s visitor transit guidance for planning your trip.
