Ames to Rochester, Minnesota: Road Trip Guide & Distance

149.1 miles 239.9 km · straight line
186.3 miles estimated 299.9 km · driving distance
3h 45min estimated drive time
$18 - $22 estimated fuel cost
~48min flight time
23° NNE bearing direction

How far is Ames from Rochester, Minnesota?

The distance from Ames to Rochester, Minnesota is 149.1 miles (239.9 km) as the crow flies. Rochester, Minnesota is located NNE of Ames. By car, the driving distance is approximately 186.3 miles, taking about 3h 45min. A direct flight would take roughly 48min. Both are located in United States — Ames in Iowa and Rochester, Minnesota in Minnesota.

For a drive of this length, it's recommended to plan at least one quick rest stop to stretch your legs and grab a coffee. Heading East means you'll be driving into the sunrise if you start early. Keep your windshield clean for the best visibility. Given the short distance, driving or taking a train is often faster and more convenient than dealing with airport security and flight boarding times.

Coordinates come from public place data for Ames and Rochester, Minnesota. The driving distance is estimated from straight-line distance with a road-factor model, so confirm the route in your navigation app. Fuel, flight, bus, and train values are planning estimates and can change by date, provider, road closures, and border rules.

How to Get from Ames to Rochester, Minnesota

Method Time Est. Cost Best For
Drive 3h 45min $18 - $22 Flexible stops
Fly ~48min $80–200* Speed
Bus ~4h 30min $15–$28* Budget
Train ~3h 34min $22–$65* Comfort

Suggested Stops Between Ames & Rochester, Minnesota

Quick Facts

Ames
42.03°N, 93.62°W
America/Chicago
287m elevation
Rochester, Minnesota
44.02°N, 92.47°W
America/Chicago
312m elevation
Explore more routes from Rochester, Minnesota

Did You Know?

  • At walking speed (3 mph), it would take about 50 hours of non-stop walking
  • By bicycle at 12 mph, the journey would take roughly 12 hours
  • You could travel this distance about 167 times to circle the Earth's equator
Data Sources & Estimate Notes GeoNames · OpenStreetMap · Driving distance estimated using road factor coefficients