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BRD destination photo
MSP destination photo

BRDMSP

Our Recommendation
7.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides the most iconic views of Minnesota's 'Land of 10,000 Lakes' landscape, specifically the massive Mille Lacs Lake, and offers a better angle of the St. Paul skyline during the final descent.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
🌊

Mille Lacs Lake

Visible shortly after departure, this is one of the largest lakes in Minnesota and a major focal point of the flight.

🛶

Rum River

Follow the winding path of the Rum River as it flows south from Mille Lacs through scenic wetlands.

🏙️

St. Paul Skyline

On clear days, the skyscrapers of downtown St. Paul and the State Capitol are visible as you enter the metro area.

🚢

Mississippi River Crossing

A great view of the river as the aircraft aligns for its final approach into the MSP airport complex.

✈️

MSP Terminal 1

Excellent views of the main Lindbergh Terminal and the hub of Delta Air Lines operations during touchdown.

For the best photography, choose a morning flight when the sun is in the east, illuminating the lake surfaces. Mille Lacs is the primary landmark to watch for roughly 10-15 minutes into the flight. During the winter, look for ice fishing 'villages' on the frozen lake surfaces.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
🌲

Brainerd Lakes Region

Dense forest and smaller resort lakes like Gull Lake are visible immediately after takeoff from BRD.

🏙️

Downtown Minneapolis

A stunning perspective of the IDS Center and the Minneapolis skyline as you descend into the Twin Cities.

🏟️

US Bank Stadium

The massive, dark geometric shape of the Vikings' stadium stands out clearly from the urban grid.

🌊

Lake Minnetonka

To the southwest of the approach path, the complex bays and islands of Minnetonka are often visible.

🚣

Chain of Lakes

See the urban park system including Bde Maka Ska and Lake Harriet just before landing.

The right side is best for late afternoon flights as the setting sun highlights the Minneapolis skyline. This side offers the best views of the iconic downtown architecture. Keep your camera ready as soon as you cross the I-694 loop, as the descent into MSP is very quick from that point.

Top Activities in Minneapolis
Route Information

Distance: 183 km (114 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 18 min

Departure: BRD (46.39830017, -94.13809967)

Arrival: MSP (44.882, -93.221802)

Route Type: Domestic

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