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AZO destination photo
MSP destination photo

AZOMSP

Our Recommendation
7.8

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers superior views of the Lake Michigan coastline, the scenic Door Peninsula region, and a clear look at the St. Paul skyline during the final descent into MSP.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🏖️

Silver Lake Sand Dunes

The striking white sand dunes along the Michigan coast are frequently visible shortly after takeoff.

🍷

Door Peninsula

Looking north, you can often see the narrow strip of land separating Green Bay from Lake Michigan.

🧀

Lake Winnebago

A massive freshwater lake in eastern Wisconsin that serves as a major landmark mid-flight.

🌲

St. Croix River Valley

Beautiful forested river scenery as the flight nears the Minnesota border.

🏛️

St. Paul Skyline

Direct views of the Minnesota State Capitol and the downtown St. Paul skyscrapers on the descent.

The right side is ideal for late afternoon flights to enjoy the 'golden hour' light reflecting off Lake Michigan and the Wisconsin lakes. Keep your camera ready as you approach MSP; the aircraft often banks in a way that provides an excellent view of the St. Paul skyline and the Mississippi River confluence near Fort Snelling.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🌊

Lake Michigan Crossing

Exiting the Michigan shoreline over the blue expanse of the lake, often passing south of the Manitou Islands.

🏙️

Milwaukee Skyline

On clear days, the city of Milwaukee and its prominent lakefront buildings are visible to the south.

🚜

Wisconsin Heartland

Geometric patterns of vast agricultural fields and dairy farms across central Wisconsin.

🏞️

Mississippi River Bluffs

Dramatic views of the river's winding path and the high bluffs marking the border between WI and MN.

🛍️

Mall of America

The massive shopping complex is often visible just south of the flight path during the final approach.

Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. This side is better for spotting the suburban sprawl of the Twin Cities and the Mall of America just before landing. Look for the distinct 'Driftless Area' topography in western Wisconsin, which remains unglaciated and more rugged than surrounding plains.

Top Activities in Minneapolis
Route Information

Distance: 684 km (425 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 8 min

Departure: AZO (42.234901428222656, -85.5521011352539)

Arrival: MSP (44.882, -93.221802)

Route Type: Domestic

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