Loading map...
RST → MSP
Which side of the plane to sit from Rochester International Airport (Rochester) to Minneapolis-St Paul International/Wold-Chamberlain Airport (Minneapolis)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides the most iconic views of the Twin Cities approach, including the Mall of America, the Mississippi River confluence, and the St. Paul skyline.
Search flights from RST to MSP
Cannon River
A scenic waterway popular with paddlers, visible near the town of Cannon Falls during mid-flight.
Mall of America
The massive roof and footprint of the United States' largest shopping mall during final approach.
St. Paul Skyline
Clear views of the Minnesota State Capitol and the downtown St. Paul skyline to the northeast.
Mississippi Confluence
The dramatic meeting point of the Minnesota and Mississippi Rivers at Pike Island.
Historic Fort Snelling
The limestone fortifications of this 1820s military post located on the bluffs above the rivers.
The right side is ideal for morning flights to avoid direct sun glare. It is the superior choice for photography during the final three minutes of flight, as the plane usually passes directly south of the Mall of America. Look for the vibrant colors of the river bluffs during the autumn season.
Book Hotels in Minneapolis
Downtown Rochester
Bird's-eye view of the Mayo Clinic campus and the Gonda Building immediately after departure.
Southern MN Farmland
A vast geometric patchwork of corn and soybean fields typical of the Upper Midwest landscape.
Zumbro River Valley
The winding Zumbro River carving through the rolling terrain of Olmsted and Goodhue counties.
Buck Hill
The distinct slopes of the suburban ski area visible as the aircraft descends into the metro area.
Keep your window shade up from the moment of takeoff, as the flight time is often under 25 minutes. In the evening, the left side offers views of the sunset over the Minnesota prairie. Watch for the 'Big Blue' IKEA building near the airport as a landmark for the final descent.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 123 km (76 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 12 min
Departure: RST (43.90829849243164, -92.5)
Arrival: MSP (44.882, -93.221802)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.