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BWI destination photo
MSP destination photo

BWIMSP

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers superior views of the Great Lakes, particularly Lake Michigan, and provides the most iconic views of the Minneapolis skyline on the final approach into MSP.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏙️

Baltimore Suburbs

Aerial perspectives of the Patapsco River and the sprawling Baltimore-Washington metro area during climb.

⛰️

Ridge-and-Valley Appalachians

Stunning geological formations showing the distinct parallel folds of the mountains in central Pennsylvania.

🌊

Lake Michigan Crossing

Expansive views of the deep blue water and the sandy eastern shoreline of Michigan's lower peninsula.

🧀

Wisconsin Dairyland

The quintessential American landscape featuring rolling hills, red barns, and patchwork fields across central Wisconsin.

🌆

Minneapolis Skyline

The premier view of downtown Minneapolis skyscrapers and U.S. Bank Stadium during the final descent into MSP.

The right side is the 'money' seat for this route. Request a window seat ahead of the wing to avoid engine heat distortion of the Lake Michigan horizon. For the best skyline views of Minneapolis, hope for a western landing (Runway 30L/R), which usually occurs during prevailing winds.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
⛰️

Allegheny Mountains

View the rolling ridges and dense forests of the Appalachian range in Pennsylvania shortly after takeoff.

🛶

Ohio River Valley

Spot the winding industrial and natural curves of the Ohio River as you cross into the Midwest.

🏙️

Chicago Distance View

On many flight paths, you can spot the Sears Tower and the Chicago skyline to the north-northwest.

🌊

Mississippi River

A dramatic crossing of the 'Mighty Mississippi' marking the border between Wisconsin and Minnesota.

🌳

Minnesota River Valley

Scenic views of the lush wetlands and winding river channels just south of the airport during landing.

Sit on the left for better lighting during morning flights, as the sun will be on the opposite side. This side is also excellent for viewing the intricate 'grid' patterns of Indiana and Illinois farmland during the mid-flight cruise.

Top Activities in Minneapolis
Route Information

Distance: 1,504 km (935 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs

Departure: BWI (39.1754, -76.668297)

Arrival: MSP (44.882, -93.221802)

Route Type: Domestic

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