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MSN destination photo
MSP destination photo

MSNMSP

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides a premier view of the Madison isthmus and the State Capitol upon takeoff, followed by the rugged Driftless Area and the iconic Mall of America during the final approach into Minneapolis.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🏛️

Madison Isthmus

Breathtaking view of the State Capitol building nestled between Lake Mendota and Lake Monona immediately after takeoff.

⛰️

Driftless Area

Observation of the unique unglaciated terrain in western Wisconsin featuring deep valleys and high ridges.

🌊

Mississippi River Crossing

A wide-angle view of the massive river valley forming the natural border between Wisconsin and Minnesota.

🛍️

Mall of America

A perfectly framed view of the massive shopping complex located just south of the MSP airport runways.

🏟️

Target Field

Occasional views of the baseball stadium and North Loop area if the flight path curves through the western suburbs.

For the best experience, sit forward of the wing to avoid engine heat distortion. Morning flights provide the best lighting for the Madison lakes. During winter, look for the 'ice roads' and frozen patterns on the Mississippi River. The Mall of America is most visible when landing on runways 30L or 30R.

Right Side Highlights
7.5
🌿

Cherokee Marsh

The largest wetland in Dane County, visible north of the airport during the initial climb.

🎢

Wisconsin Dells

Distant views of the sandstone cliffs and waterpark skyline to the north of the flight path.

🛶

St. Croix River

Clear views of the scenic riverway and the town of Stillwater during the descent from the east.

🏙️

St. Paul Skyline

A direct view of the Minnesota State Capitol and the downtown St. Paul office towers.

🚢

Mississippi River Bends

Detailed views of the river's industrial locks and dams as the plane enters the Twin Cities metro area.

The right side is ideal for spotting the St. Paul skyline and the confluence of the Mississippi and Minnesota Rivers. Choose this side if your flight arrives during the late afternoon to avoid the glare of the setting sun, which will be on the left side of the aircraft.

Top Activities in Minneapolis
Route Information

Distance: 366 km (227 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 37 min

Departure: MSN (43.13990020751953, -89.3375015258789)

Arrival: MSP (44.882, -93.221802)

Route Type: Domestic

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