Red Wing’s Rich Transportation Infrastructure

Red Wing has an extensive transportation infrastructure, including a working port and a regional airport. This comprehensive mix of transportation options is rare for a small town. It enables a variety of businesses to thrive.

Airport

Red Wing Regional Airport is a valuable asset that enables commercial and private air travel to and from the Red Wing region. Many non-aviation businesses have chosen to locate in the Red Wing area in part due to the excellent airport system.

The airport offers faster and more convenient air travel than larger nearby airports in Minneapolis or Rochester. It is well used by a range of local businesses, including retailers and manufacturers. Find out more about the airport’s capabilities.

Highways

U.S. Routes 61 and 63 run through Red Wing. The city also has convenient access to several interstates — I-94, I-90 and I-35 are all within an hour’s drive from Red Wing.

Proximity to Twin Cities

The Minneapolis-St. Paul Metro Area is only a 45-minute drive from Red Wing. This means residents enjoy the finest aspects of a vibrant small town but have easy access to big city amenities when needed.

Port

Red Wing is one of only four river ports in Minnesota. The Mississippi River defines the city, both aesthetically and economically. Nearly 97,000 tons of commodities moved through Red Wing’s port in 2015.

The river enables barges carrying a variety of commodities to traverse inland marine highways that extend throughout 38 states in the heart of the nation. Learn more about Red Wing’s working port.

Transient Dock

The mighty Mississippi drives area tourism with wonderful recreational boating options. In addition to private boating opportunities, Red Wing’s scenic beauty and historic downtown make it an appealing destination for old fashioned paddlewheel boat tours.

The American Queen Steamboat Company views Red Wing as an important stop on its tours of the Mississippi. The company’s tours help inject millions of dollars into the local economy. The city is building a transient dock to help accommodate touring riverboats. Learn more about the rise of river cruising.

Highway 61 Bridge

The Eisenhower Bridge crosses the Mississippi River at Red Wing. Since 1960, it has served as an essential connector between Minnesota and Wisconsin.

The bridge is an integral part of infrastructure that supports the area’s economy, since 40 percent of Red Wing’s workforce commutes from Wisconsin. Time and use have taken a toll on the bridge, which is now being replaced.

The new bridge is expected to be finished in August of 2020. It will feature expanded shoulders and a shared use path for pedestrians and bicyclists. Decorative lighting and landscaping will enhance the bridge’s aesthetic appeal. Learn more about the new bridge project.