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DCA destination photo
MSP destination photo

DCAMSP

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers an unparalleled view of the National Mall immediately after takeoff from DCA and provides superior views of the Great Lakes and the Twin Cities skyline during arrival.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏛️

The National Mall

Iconic views of the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, and the U.S. Capitol immediately after a north-facing takeoff.

🏖️

Lake Erie Shoreline

Aerial perspective of the Great Lakes coastline near Cleveland and the industrial ports of the Rust Belt.

🌊

Lake Michigan

The deep blue expanse of Lake Michigan is visible as the flight path passes south of the lake's tip.

🌲

Wisconsin Northwoods

The transition from agricultural land to the dense forests and numerous glacial lakes of central Wisconsin.

🌆

Downtown Minneapolis

Spectacular views of the Minneapolis skyline and U.S. Bank Stadium when approaching MSP from the east.

The right side is essential for the 'River Visual' departure from DCA; request a window seat on this side to see the White House and Pentagon. Morning flights are ideal for this side as the sun will be behind you, illuminating the landscape. During landing at MSP, the right side often looks directly into the heart of downtown Minneapolis.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
🚣‍♂️

Potomac River Bend

Aerial view of the winding Potomac River and the historic George Washington Memorial Parkway.

⛰️

Appalachian Mountains

The distinctive ridge-and-valley formations of the Appalachians stretching across Maryland and West Virginia.

🏙️

Indianapolis Horizon

On a clear day, the skyline of Indiana's capital is visible to the south as you cross the Midwest.

🚜

Midwestern Heartland

The vast geometric patchwork of corn and soybean fields across Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois.

💧

Mississippi River

Dramatic views of the mighty Mississippi River valley and the bluffs near the Minnesota-Wisconsin border.

Sit on the left for a sunset view on evening flights. When arriving from the south, this side provides an excellent view of the Mississippi River bluffs. For the best photography, avoid seats directly over the wing which can be quite large on the Boeing 737 or Airbus A320 often used for this route.

Top Activities in Minneapolis
Route Information

Distance: 1,495 km (929 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs

Departure: DCA (38.8521, -77.037697)

Arrival: MSP (44.882, -93.221802)

Route Type: Domestic

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