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MSP destination photo
DAY destination photo

MSPDAY

Our Recommendation
7.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides a superior vantage point for the Madison isthmus, distant views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline, and better lighting for morning flights.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
🏙️

St. Paul Skyline

Clear views of the Minnesota State Capitol and the downtown St. Paul riverfront immediately after departure.

🌊

Mississippi River Bluffs

The winding river valley and the dramatic limestone bluffs of the Driftless Area during the initial climb.

🏛️

Madison Isthmus

A stunning view of the Wisconsin State Capitol building situated on the narrow strip of land between Lake Mendota and Lake Monona.

🏙️

Chicago Skyline

On clear days, the Sears (Willis) Tower and the southern curve of Lake Michigan are visible to the south.

🌬️

Benton County Wind Farms

Massive arrays of wind turbines stretching across the flat agricultural plains of northern Indiana.

Book a window on the left for morning flights to catch the sunrise over the Midwest. About 30 minutes into the flight, look for the 'Isthmus' of Madison. During the descent into Dayton, the left side often sees the dense suburban sprawl and the Great Miami River.

Right Side Highlights
6.8
🛍️

Mall of America

Located directly southwest of MSP, the massive complex is visible shortly after takeoff if departing to the south.

🏞️

Upper Mississippi Refuge

Expansive views of the wetlands and wildlife refuges along the border of Minnesota and Wisconsin.

✈️

O'Hare Corridor

Opportunity to spot high-altitude traffic and the outskirts of the Greater Chicago area from the west.

🚜

Agricultural Grid

Perfectly geometric patterns of the American Heartland, displaying vibrant greens and golds depending on the season.

🎖️

National Museum of the USAF

The massive hangars of the world's oldest and largest military aviation museum are often visible on the final approach to DAY.

The right side is best for evening flights to avoid the harsh glare of the setting sun. If the plane lands towards the west at Dayton, you will get an excellent bird's-eye view of Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. Keep your camera ready for the geometric 'patchwork quilt' of the Indiana and Ohio farmlands.

Top Activities in Dayton
Route Information

Distance: 923 km (574 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 32 min

Departure: MSP (44.882, -93.221802)

Arrival: DAY (39.90240097045898, -84.21939849853516)

Route Type: Domestic

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