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DFW destination photo
GRR destination photo

DFWGRR

Our Recommendation
7.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side typically offers the most dramatic views, including potential sightings of the Chicago skyline across Lake Michigan and better lighting for evening sunsets over the Great Plains.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
🏙️

North Dallas Suburbs

Aerial views of the sprawling Frisco and Plano areas immediately after departure from DFW.

⛰️

Ozark Mountains

The rolling, forested hills of the Ozark Plateau as the flight traverses southern Missouri.

🌆

St. Louis Skyline

On more eastern flight paths, the cityscape and the Gateway Arch are visible in the distance.

🏙️

Chicago Skyline

Spectacular distant views of the Sears Tower and downtown Chicago as the plane turns over Lake Michigan.

🌊

Lake Michigan

A vast expanse of blue water as the flight makes its final approach toward the Michigan coastline.

Book a window seat on the left for late afternoon or evening flights to experience the sunset. During the descent, look out for the distinct curvature of the Lake Michigan shoreline and the Chicago skyline shimmering to the north if visibility is high.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
🛶

The Mississippi River

Crossing the massive, winding waterway that serves as the border between Missouri and Illinois.

🌽

Midwestern Farm Belts

Geometric patterns of vast corn and soybean fields throughout Illinois and Indiana.

🏗️

Gary Industrial Zone

The massive steel mills and industrial docks at the southernmost tip of Lake Michigan.

🏖️

Indiana Dunes

The unique sandy landscape of the Indiana Dunes National Park visible along the southern lake shore.

🌲

West Michigan Forests

Dense clusters of white pine and hardwood forests as the plane descends into the Grand Rapids area.

The right side is best for morning flights to avoid the glare of the sun. It provides a great perspective of the Mississippi River's width and the industrial heritage of the Great Lakes region near the southern tip of Lake Michigan. Keep your camera ready for the transition from industrial Gary to the natural dunes.

Top Activities in Grand Rapids
Route Information

Distance: 1,498 km (931 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs

Departure: DFW (32.896801, -97.038002)

Arrival: GRR (42.88079834, -85.52279663)

Route Type: Domestic

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