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MDW destination photo
MSP destination photo

MDWMSP

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers an exceptional perspective of the Chicago lakefront upon departure and the winding Mississippi River valley during the descent into Minneapolis.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🏙️

Chicago South Side

Aerial views of the historic South Side neighborhoods and the sprawling urban grid of Chicago immediately after takeoff.

🌊

Mississippi River Valley

The plane typically crosses the winding Mississippi River as it marks the border between Wisconsin and Minnesota.

🛶

Lake Pepin

A stunning natural lake on the Mississippi River, famous for its bluffs and water activities, visible during the descent.

🏢

Downtown St. Paul

On the standard arrival into MSP, you can often see the Minnesota State Capitol and the cathedral overlooking the city.

🚜

Driftless Area

The unique, unglaciated terrain of southwestern Wisconsin with its deep valleys and steep ridges.

For sunset flights, this side will experience direct sunlight; choose this side for morning flights to get the best lighting on the Mississippi River. When landing from the southeast, sit here to see the St. Paul skyline.

Right Side Highlights
7.4
🌃

Chicago Loop View

A distant but impressive view of the Willis Tower and the dense skyline if the flight path tracks slightly east over Lake Michigan.

💧

Madison Lakes

The twin lakes of Mendota and Monona with the Wisconsin State Capitol situated on the isthmus between them.

🎢

Wisconsin Dells

Visible patterns of the Wisconsin River and the heavily forested amusement park areas of the Dells.

🛍️

Mall of America

As the plane aligns for final approach, the massive footprint of the largest mall in the US is clearly visible.

🌾

Central Wisconsin Plains

The geometric patchwork of dairy farms and cranberry bogs that define the heart of America's Dairyland.

The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to avoid the glare of the setting sun. Watch for the 'Isthmus' of Madison about 25-30 minutes into the flight, which is one of the most distinct geographic features on this route.

Top Activities in Minneapolis
Route Information

Distance: 560 km (348 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 56 min

Departure: MDW (41.785999, -87.752403)

Arrival: MSP (44.882, -93.221802)

Route Type: Domestic

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