Loading map...
MSP → DTW
Which side of the plane to sit from Minneapolis-St Paul International/Wold-Chamberlain Airport (Minneapolis) to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (Detroit)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior view of the St. Paul skyline upon departure, a broader vista of Lake Michigan, and the iconic University of Michigan campus in Ann Arbor during the descent.
St. Paul Skyline
Clear views of the Minnesota State Capitol and downtown St. Paul shortly after takeoff from MSP.
Wisconsin Dells
Visual of the jagged sandstone formations and the winding Wisconsin River as you cross the state.
Lake Michigan Expanse
A vast view of the deep blue waters and the northern Michigan shoreline during the mid-flight crossing.
Lansing & MSU
The capital city of Michigan and the sprawling campus of Michigan State University are visible as you head east.
Michigan Stadium
Known as 'The Big House,' this massive football stadium in Ann Arbor is a key landmark during the final approach.
Sit on the left to avoid the direct sun glare on morning flights. On a clear day, look for the 'Big House' stadium in Ann Arbor about 10-15 minutes before landing. The left side also provides the best views of the St. Paul city center immediately after rotating off the runway.
Mississippi River
Excellent views of the river valley and the limestone bluffs south of the Twin Cities during departure.
Madison Skyline
A distant view of Wisconsin's capital city and its unique isthmus located between two lakes.
Southern Lake Michigan
Views looking toward the southern tip of the lake; on very clear days, Chicago's skyline may be visible on the horizon.
Kalamazoo River Valley
The lush, forested landscapes of Southwest Michigan are prominent during the mid-to-late stage of the flight.
Lake Erie Shoreline
As the plane turns for its final approach into DTW, views of the Detroit River and the Lake Erie coast appear.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to enjoy the sunset over the Midwest. Keep an eye out for the Mississippi River's intricate channels right after takeoff. If the plane approaches DTW from the south, you will get a great view of the industrial shipping lanes of the Detroit River.
Distance: 848 km (527 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 25 min
Departure: MSP (44.882, -93.221802)
Arrival: DTW (42.212398529052734, -83.35340118408203)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.