Frequently Asked Questions About Bus Rentals in Bloomington

Bloomington Minibus Company is a leading charter bus company serving Bloomington and all of Hennepin County. Since 2011, we’ve provided thousands of groups with reliable and comfortable transportation across Minnesota and the Midwest. Our experience includes everything from shuttling fans to Vikings games at U.S. Bank Stadium to helping corporate teams commute between Minneapolis offices and the airport. We have a large fleet of vehicles with modern amenities like WiFi, power outlets, reclining seats, and onboard restrooms—so you can always find the right bus for your trip. When you book with us, you’ll get fast quotes, easy online reservations, and 24/7 customer support.

We serve all types of groups in Bloomington and the surrounding Twin Cities region. Whether you’re organizing a school field trip to the Science Museum of Minnesota, planning a wedding at Nicollet Island Pavilion, or coordinating a business event at the Mall of America, we can help. Our team regularly works with sports teams, religious organizations, government agencies, tour operators, and more. We also provide long-term contracts for employee shuttles and recurring services for colleges like the University of Minnesota. No matter where your group needs to go, we have the experience and resources to get you there safely and on time.

A charter bus is a large motorcoach designed to transport groups of people over short or long distances. These buses typically seat 40 to 56 passengers and come equipped with a variety of amenities such as cushioned seats, climate control, overhead storage, and undercarriage luggage bays. Many modern charter buses also feature WiFi, power outlets, TV monitors, DVD players, and restrooms. Charter buses are ideal for moving large groups efficiently and comfortably—whether it’s a corporate outing to downtown Minneapolis or a multi-day tour across the Midwest.

A minibus is a smaller, more compact vehicle that usually seats between 18 and 35 passengers. These buses are perfect for shorter trips around Bloomington, shuttle services between hotels and event venues, or transporting small groups to the airport. While minibuses don’t have as much storage space as full-size coaches, they still offer comfortable seating, climate control, and sometimes additional features like WiFi or power outlets. They’re easy to maneuver through city streets and can be a cost-effective option for groups that don’t need a large bus.

Most charter buses in our fleet seat between 40 and 56 passengers. The exact number depends on the make and model of the bus. For example, a standard MCI or Prevost coach will typically have 54 or 56 seats, while some Van Hool and Setra models might have slightly fewer due to different interior layouts. If you need a specific seating capacity for your trip—such as transporting an entire high school football team and their equipment—just let us know when you request a quote. We’ll make sure you get a bus that fits your group size and luggage requirements.

Minibuses generally seat anywhere from 18 to 35 passengers. Common configurations include 20, 24, 28, and 33-seat models. These smaller buses are great for moving groups around Bloomington without the extra cost or size of a full-size coach. They’re often used for wedding shuttles, corporate commuter routes, or quick trips to MSP Airport. If you’re not sure what size minibus you need, our team can help you choose based on your headcount and itinerary.

Our Bloomington fleet includes several types of vehicles to accommodate any group size or budget. We offer full-size charter buses that seat 40 to 56 passengers, mid-size minibuses with 28 to 35 seats, and smaller shuttles that hold 18 to 27 people. All of our buses are equipped with comfortable seating, climate control, and storage space for luggage. Depending on the model, you can also get features like WiFi, power outlets, TV monitors, DVD players, and restrooms. If you have specific needs—like extra luggage space for band equipment or ADA accessibility—we can match you with the right bus.

Our buses come with a wide range of amenities to keep your group comfortable and entertained during the ride. Standard features include cushioned seats, air conditioning, overhead storage racks, and underfloor luggage compartments. Many of our charter buses also have free WiFi, USB and power outlets at every seat, flat-screen TVs, DVD players, and PA systems for announcements. For longer trips, you can request a bus with an onboard restroom, reclining seats, footrests, and even tables for playing cards or working on laptops. If you need something specific—like a cooler for drinks or extra monitors for presentations—just ask when you book.

Yes, most of our buses are equipped with audio systems that allow you to play your own music through AUX or Bluetooth connections. This is a great way to set the mood for your trip—whether you want to pump up the energy with a custom playlist or keep things relaxed with background tunes. Some buses have advanced entertainment systems that can sync with multiple devices, while others use a simple AUX cable. If having music on board is important to your group, let us know when you book so we can make sure your bus has the right setup.

Charter buses have plenty of space for luggage, making them ideal for airport transfers, sports teams, or any group traveling with lots of gear. Full-size coaches have large undercarriage bays that can hold multiple suitcases, duffel bags, or even oversized items like skis and musical instruments. There are also overhead racks inside the bus for smaller bags and personal items. Minibuses have less storage but can still accommodate carry-on sized luggage and a few larger pieces in the back or under seats. If your group has special storage needs—like transporting bicycles or AV equipment—let us know and we’ll get you a solution.

Yes, we offer ADA-accessible buses in Bloomington and throughout the Twin Cities area. These vehicles are equipped with wheelchair lifts or ramps, priority seating, and securement areas to ensure everyone can travel comfortably and safely. If your group includes passengers with mobility challenges, please let us know when you request a quote so we can provide a bus that meets all ADA requirements. We believe everyone should have access to reliable transportation, and we’re committed to accommodating any special needs your group may have.

You can wrap your charter bus with custom graphics, logos, or advertising for an additional fee. Bus wraps are a popular option for sports teams, political campaigns, corporate branding, and special events where you want to make a big impression. The cost and lead time for wrapping a bus will depend on the size of the vehicle and complexity of the design. If you’re interested in wrapping your bus, contact us well in advance of your trip so we can discuss options and pricing. Please note that all artwork must comply with local regulations and our company policies.

We will do our best to accommodate requests for specific bus models or colors, but availability may vary depending on your travel dates and fleet inventory. If you have a strong preference—for example, needing a white bus for a wedding or a particular brand like MCI or Van Hool—please mention this when you book. We have a diverse fleet of late-model coaches and minibuses, so there’s a good chance we can match your request. However, we recommend booking as early as possible to increase the likelihood of getting exactly what you want.

The cost of renting a charter bus in Bloomington depends on several factors including the size of the bus, length of the trip, and time of year. For example, a one-day rental for a 56-passenger coach traveling locally might start around $1,200-$1,800, while a multi-day tour to Chicago or Milwaukee could run $4,000-$8,000 or more. Additional costs such as driver lodging, tolls, and parking fees may apply. The best way to get an accurate price is to request a custom quote based on your specific itinerary and needs.

Minibus rentals are generally more affordable than full-size charter buses, making them a great option for smaller groups or shorter trips. In Bloomington, you can expect to pay anywhere from $600 to $1,200 per day for a minibus depending on the number of seats and distance traveled. For example, a 20-passenger minibus doing a round-trip airport shuttle will cost less than a 35-passenger bus going to Duluth for the weekend. Rates are subject to change based on demand and availability, so contact us for a personalized quote.

Several factors influence the price of a bus rental in Bloomington: the type and size of the vehicle, total mileage, duration of the trip, and time of year. Large charter buses cost more than minibuses due to higher capacity and amenities. Long-distance and overnight trips require more hours and may incur extra charges for driver accommodations. Peak seasons such as summer and major event weekends can drive up prices due to increased demand. Other considerations include tolls, parking fees, and optional features like WiFi or custom wraps. To get the best rate, book early and provide as much detail as possible about your trip.

Our quotes are all-inclusive and cover the cost of the bus, fuel, driver, and basic amenities such as climate control, seating, and storage. Additional features like WiFi, power outlets, and onboard restrooms are also included if requested. The quote does not include optional expenses such as driver gratuity (typically 10-20% of the total), tolls, parking fees, or special permits. If your trip requires overnight stays, you’ll need to provide hotel accommodations for the driver. We strive to make our pricing transparent with no hidden fees—what you see on the quote is what you pay.

We recommend booking your bus rental as early as possible—ideally 3 to 6 months before your trip—to ensure the best selection and rates. This is especially important during peak travel times such as spring break, summer vacation, and major sporting events like Vikings or Twins games. Last-minute bookings are possible but may be subject to limited availability and higher prices. If you’re planning a large-scale event or need multiple buses, securing your reservation well in advance gives us more time to coordinate logistics and accommodate any special requests.

Yes, we offer flexible rental packages to suit any itinerary. You can book a bus for a simple one-way transfer, a same-day round trip, or an extended multi-day journey. Common examples include shuttling wedding guests between venues, taking a school group to the Science Museum of Minnesota for the day, or transporting a sports team to an out-of-town tournament with overnight stays. We can customize the schedule to fit your needs, whether it’s a single pickup or recurring service over several weeks. Just let us know your plans and we’ll build a package that works for you.

Absolutely! We provide long-distance charter bus rentals from Bloomington to destinations across Minnesota and beyond. Popular routes include trips to Chicago, Milwaukee, Madison, Des Moines, and even further afield. Long-distance travel is made comfortable with amenities like reclining seats, WiFi, power outlets, and onboard restrooms. Whether you’re organizing a multi-day tour, attending an out-of-state conference, or supporting your college team at an away game, we have the expertise to handle all the logistics. Sit back and relax while we take care of the driving.

If your trip involves overnight travel or extends beyond a single day, you are responsible for providing hotel accommodations for the driver. The hotel should be safe, clean, and located near the group’s lodging or main activities. Most drivers require a private room and access to basic amenities. For trips lasting more than 8 hours in a day, federal regulations mandate rest periods to ensure safety. We recommend budgeting for the driver’s hotel when planning your trip. If you need help finding suitable accommodations, our team can offer suggestions based on the route and schedule.

Getting a quote is quick and easy—just call us at 612-540-4760 or fill out the online form on our website. Provide details such as your travel dates, pickup and drop-off locations, number of passengers, and any special requests (like WiFi or ADA access). Our team will review your information and send you a customized quote within minutes. If you have questions or need to make changes, we’re available 24/7 to assist. Once you’re ready to book, simply confirm the reservation and we’ll take care of the rest.

When renting a charter bus in Bloomington, plan your itinerary carefully and communicate all details to our team. Include exact addresses, departure times, and any scheduled stops along the way. Consider traffic patterns around major venues like the Mall of America or MSP Airport, especially during rush hour. Make sure the pickup and drop-off locations can accommodate a large vehicle—tight spaces or low-clearance areas may require alternative arrangements. Pack snacks, water, and entertainment for the ride, and remind passengers to arrive on time. Lastly, factor in the driver’s hours and rest requirements when scheduling long trips.

We provide charter bus service to all major airports in the region, including Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP), St. Cloud Regional Airport (STC), and Rochester International Airport (RST). Whether you’re flying in a corporate delegation or sending off a student group for spring break, we’ll make sure everyone gets to the terminal on time. Our buses have plenty of room for luggage and can pick up passengers curbside at the designated ground transportation area. For private flights, we also serve smaller airfields and FBOs upon request.

We regularly transport fans and teams to stadiums across the Twin Cities, including U.S. Bank Stadium (home of the Minnesota Vikings), Target Field (Minnesota Twins), Allianz Field (Minnesota United FC), and Xcel Energy Center (Minnesota Wild). For college sports, we serve Huntington Bank Stadium and Williams Arena at the University of Minnesota. If your group is attending a game or concert at one of these venues, a charter bus is the easiest way to avoid parking hassles and enjoy the event together.

Our buses can take you to any concert venue in Bloomington and the greater Minneapolis area. Popular destinations include the Armory, First Avenue, Northrop Auditorium, and the State Theatre. For outdoor shows, we serve the Minnesota Zoo Amphitheater and Surly Brewing Festival Field. Arrive with your group, skip the parking headache, and get dropped off right at the entrance. After the show, your bus will be waiting to take everyone home safely.

We provide wedding transportation to venues throughout Bloomington and beyond, including the Minnesota Valley Country Club, Hyland Hills Chalet, and the Radisson Blu Mall of America. For couples hosting ceremonies in Minneapolis or St. Paul, we serve locations like Nicollet Island Pavilion, The Depot, and A’BULAE. Shuttle guests between the hotel, church, and reception hall with ease. We also offer late-night pickups to ensure everyone gets back safely after the celebration.

In addition to Bloomington, we serve neighboring cities such as Edina, Richfield, Burnsville, Eagan, Apple Valley, and Eden Prairie. Our service area covers the entire Twin Cities metro, including Minneapolis, St. Paul, Maple Grove, Woodbury, and Brooklyn Park. We also operate statewide, so if you need a bus to Duluth, Rochester, or Mankato, we’ve got you covered. No destination is too near or far for our team.

We provide transportation to major events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Minnesota State Fair, Twin Cities Pride Parade, and Holidazzle Winter Festival. For sports fans, we offer shuttles to marathon races, charity walks, and tailgate parties. During the holiday season, book a bus for light tours or corporate gatherings. Whatever the occasion, we’ll help your group get there comfortably and on time.

We regularly serve the Minneapolis Convention Center, Saint Paul RiverCentre, and Earle Brown Heritage Center. For large-scale trade shows and conferences, chartering a bus ensures attendees arrive together and on schedule. We can arrange continuous shuttle loops between hotels and the venue or provide dedicated transportation for VIPs and speakers. Let us handle the logistics while you focus on networking and business.

We work with educational institutions of all sizes, including Normandale Community College, Bloomington Public Schools, and private academies. For field trips, campus tours, and athletic events, a charter bus is the safest and most efficient way to move students and staff. We also serve the University of Minnesota, Augsburg University, and other colleges in the Twin Cities. Book a bus for Greek life functions, study abroad departures, or graduation ceremonies.