Loading map...
MDW → STL
Which side of the plane to sit from Chicago Midway International Airport (Chicago) to St Louis Lambert International Airport (St. Louis)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side of the aircraft is generally superior for this route because it provides the best opportunity to see the iconic St. Louis skyline and the Gateway Arch during the approach into STL.
Search flights from MDW to STL
Chicago South Side
Aerial views of the dense residential grids and parks of Chicago's southern neighborhoods immediately after takeoff from Midway.
Illinois Prairie
A sprawling tapestry of agricultural patterns and small rural towns across central Illinois.
Springfield Skyline
On clear days, the Illinois State Capitol dome is visible in the distance as you pass the state capital.
Mississippi River
A dramatic crossing of the Great River marking the border between Illinois and Missouri.
The Gateway Arch
The most famous landmark in the region, often visible during the final descent into St. Louis Lambert.
For the best views of the Gateway Arch and Downtown St. Louis, choose a window seat on the left side. Flight paths from MDW usually approach STL from the northeast, placing the city center to the south of the aircraft. Afternoon flights are ideal as the sun will be behind you or overhead, illuminating the Arch's stainless steel surface.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United States
Joliet Industrial Hub
Major logistics centers, refineries, and the intersection of historic rail lines south of Chicago.
Historic Route 66
The flight corridor roughly follows the path of the 'Mother Road' through the Illinois heartland.
Illinois River
Vast wetlands and winding river bends visible as the flight path skirts the Illinois River valley.
Missouri-Mississippi Confluence
The massive meeting point of the two largest rivers in North America located just north of St. Louis.
St. Louis North County
Detailed views of the northern St. Louis suburbs and the airport grounds during the landing sequence.
The right side is excellent for morning flights to avoid the glare of the southern sun. Keep an eye out for the confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi rivers shortly before landing; it is one of the most significant geographic features in the United States and is clearly visible from this side.
Book Hotels in St. LouisDistance: 404 km (251 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 40 min
Departure: MDW (41.785999, -87.752403)
Arrival: STL (38.748697, -90.370003)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.