Getting to tonight's Vikings' game

The Vikings look to take another step closer to the playoffs with a 7:20 p.m. Thursday game against Tampa Bay at the Metrodome.

That means extra traffic during rush hour as 50,000-plus fans make their way to cheer on the Purple as others are leaving downtown to go home.

If you're of those going to the game, here are a few tips on getting to and from the game:

For those who drive, the City of Minneapolis will block off the following streets in the vicinity of the Metrodome beginning at 5 p.m. and keep them free from traffic until 2 hours after the game ends:

5th Street between Park Avenue and 11th Avenue.

Chicago Avenue/Kirby Puckett Place from 3rd Street to 6th Street.

4th Street between Park Avenue and I-35W

Metro Transit

The Northstar Commuter Line will carry passengers to Sunday's game, departing the Big Lake station at 5:06 p.m.. The train arrives at Target Field at 5:55 p.m. From there, transfer to the Hiawatha Light Rail line and get off at the Downtown East/Metrodome station.

The return trip departs Target Field 1 hour after the game ends.

The cost is $6 each way from Big Lake, $4.50 from Elk River, and $3 from Anoka, Coon Rapids-Riverdale, and Fridley. A round-trip family pass that will provide transportation for two adults and three kids ages 6 to 17 will provide some significant savings.

Free parking is available at all Northstar stations. Keep in mind that light rail trains heading back to Target Field will be crowded, especially after the game, so plan accordingly. Information is available at http://www.metrotransit.org/vikings-schedule-b.aspx

The Hiawatha Light Rail has been a popular way for fans to get to the game. But as game time approaches, cars are packed, so the best advice is to catch an early train.

Free parking is available at the 28th Avenue, Fort Snelling and Lake Street/Midtown stations. Northbound trains run about every 13 to 18 minutes until 10 a.m., then the frequency of service increases to about every 10 minutes.

Metro Transit will agument train service with Route 55 buses, that will shuttle passengers to the Metrodome and back to their vehicles after the game. The buses go directly to Fort Snelling and 28th Avenue Park & Ride lots.

Regular rail fare of $1.75 applies, or buy a 6-hour rail pass and avoid having to buy a second ticket to get back home.

Bus

From the north or south, Routes 5, 7, 14, 19 and 22

From the west, Routes 7 and 9

From the east, Routes 3, 16 and 94.

Driving

It's always congested around the Metrodome, so the best advice is to park away from the stadium and walk or catch a Metro Transit bus or light rail for 50 cents from your favorite ramp or lot.

Here is a link to downtown Minneapolis parking meters and rates, http://www.mplsparking.com/CurrentMeterMap.pdf

Handicap parking

Parking for people with a handicap is available at the Hennepin County offices between 5th and 6th Streets on Park Avenue. Handicap street parking is also available between 3rd and 4th Streets on Chicago Avenue.

Biking