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MDW destination photo
PVD destination photo

MDWPVD

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers the most dramatic views of the Chicago skyline immediately after departure from Midway, followed by expansive views across Lake Michigan and the northern Great Lakes region.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🏙️

Chicago Skyline

Unrivaled views of the Willis Tower and downtown skyscrapers if the plane departs to the east.

🌊

Lake Michigan Shoreline

Clear views of the blue water and the transition from urban sprawl to the Michigan wilderness.

🚤

Lake Erie Border

Glimpses of the Canadian border and the maritime traffic near the Detroit River.

🍇

Upstate New York

Aerial perspective of the northern Finger Lakes and the rolling hills of the Mohawk Valley.

⛰️

Green Mountains

The northern horizon often reveals the distant peaks of the Vermont mountain ranges.

🏛️

Providence Capitol

On final approach, look for the white marble dome of the Rhode Island State House.

Choose the left side for morning flights to keep the sun behind you for better photography. Watch closely within the first 5 minutes of takeoff; MDW departures often bank over the lake, providing a full-frame view of the Loop. During winter, look for the distinct ice patterns forming along the edges of the Great Lakes.

Right Side Highlights
7.6
🏖️

Indiana Dunes

The unique sandy ridges and national lakeshore at the southern tip of Lake Michigan.

🏭

Industrial Heartland

The massive steel mills and industrial infrastructure of Gary and northern Ohio.

⛰️

Allegheny Plateau

Dense forest canopies and deep river valleys as you cross into Pennsylvania.

🍷

Southern Finger Lakes

Beautiful views of the elongated glacial lakes and surrounding vineyards.

🌊

Long Island Sound

In the distance, the Atlantic coastline and the Connecticut shore come into view.

⚓

Narragansett Bay

Excellent views of the Rhode Island coastline and various islands during the descent.

The right side is superior during late afternoon flights to witness the sunset over the Appalachian Mountains. As you descend into PVD, this side often provides a clearer view of the bridges and coastal inlets of Narragansett Bay. Keep an eye out for the Cuyahoga River winding through Cleveland during the mid-flight cruise.

Top Activities in Providence
Route Information

Distance: 1,353 km (841 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 48 min

Departure: MDW (41.785999, -87.752403)

Arrival: PVD (41.732601, -71.42040300000001)

Route Type: Domestic

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