Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport / Wold–Chamberlain Field
Minneapolis, US · 16 km (10 mi) southwest of downtown Minneapolis
Getting to the city
| Mode | Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Charter Buses Group transport | 30–45 min MSP–downtown for a charter coach in normal traffic | — |
| Greyhound Intercity coach nearby station | 20–25 min MSP–downtown by Blue Line before bus connection | — |
| Hotel Courtesy Shuttles Shuttle · Every 15-30 min depending on hotel | 10-25 min to nearby hotels | Free for hotel guests |
| Hotel Shuttles Courtesy vans · Often every 15–30 min · some (like InterContinental MSP) 24/7 | 5–15 min for most nearby airport/MOA hotels | $0 (typically included with hotel stay) |
Insider notes
Spend time at the MSP Mall in Terminal 1, praised for its authentic local cuisine and unique shops like Hammer Made and the Prince store.
Angel Food Bakery in Terminal 1, Concourse E, has doughnuts and pastries that draw travelers from afar.
Use the METRO Blue Line for quick transit between terminals, avoiding the hassle of shuttles.
Welcome
Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) might just be the ultimate Midwestern aviation gem, blending a superb local food scene and a carefully curated retail experience with ease of navigation. Situated 16 km southwest of downtown Minneapolis, MSP steps beyond the typical airport mold, showcasing Minneapolis–Saint Paul standouts like Red Cow, Angel Food Bakery, and even a boutique dedicated to the late superstar Prince. Frequent flyers rave about this compact hub where arriving early is seen less as a chore and more as an opportunity.
At a glance
With 31.2 million passengers passing through annually, MSP serves as a hub for Delta Air Lines and Sun Country Airlines. It operates two terminals: Terminal 1-Lindbergh and Terminal 2-Humphrey, supported by four runways. MSP is well-integrated into local transportation networks and is just a $2.00–$2.50 METRO Blue Line ride away from downtown Minneapolis. Recognized for its art program and ease of use, it's frequently voted America's best airport by travelers who appreciate its polished amenities without the chaos of larger airports.
Terminals & layout
MSP Airport is divided into two terminals. Terminal 1 is home to Delta, Air Canada, and Alaska Airlines, along with an extensive array of dining and shopping venues in the MSP Mall. Terminal 2 caters to Sun Country and Southwest Airlines, though it's noted for having fewer amenities. Nonetheless, it serves well for a streamlined travel experience. Keep in mind that security at Terminal 1 can be congested during Delta's peak periods, particularly in the morning.
Getting to and from the city
The METRO Blue Line is a major convenience, providing 24/7 service between both terminals and downtown Minneapolis in just 20–25 minutes for $2.00–$2.50. Alternatively, Route 54 and Route 5 buses connect to the city and other suburbs, with fares also set at $2.00–$2.50. Typical taxi rides to downtown are a 15–25 minutes drive, though options include rideshares like Uber or Lyft, averaging 20–30 minutes. For those driving, parking spans various priced options with red, blue, and green ramps at $26 per day.
Traveller essentials
Customary amenities like Wi-Fi are freely available throughout. The airport is recognized for its family-friendly atmosphere, although travelers should brace for Terminal 1’s security delays during peak times. Several lounges, including the Delta Sky Club, offer tranquility amidst travel, with the G‑concourse lounge often cited as roomier.
Dining & shopping highlights
MSP’s culinary landscape is distinctly local, with dining spots such as Angel Food Bakery for doughnuts and pastries, and Red Cow delivering hearty burgers and a noteworthy beer list. For those craving a taste of Minnesota, Holy Land Deli and Stone Arch present samples of Middle Eastern fares and local brews, respectively. Terminal 1’s MSP Mall grants a rich shopping experience, hosting Adventure North and a singular Prince store among its offerings. Meanwhile, Terminal 2, although quieter, features the Minnesota Wild Bar exuding authentic Twin Cities energy.
Lounges
The lounge selection caters to various airline passengers, with facilities like Delta Sky Clubs in Terminal 1, United Club, and American Airlines Admirals Club providing quiet respites. For international travelers, the Air France Lounge and Aspire Lounge extend European touches, while the Escape Lounge MSP can be accessed for a daily entry fee, offering premium food and services.
Insider tips
- Insider: Spend time at the MSP Mall in Terminal 1, praised for its authentic local cuisine and unique shops like Hammer Made and the Prince store.
- Insider: Angel Food Bakery in Terminal 1, Concourse E, has doughnuts and pastries that draw travelers from afar.
- Time: Use the METRO Blue Line for quick transit between terminals, avoiding the hassle of shuttles.
- Local: Holy Land Deli in Terminal 1, Concourse E, delights with flavorful Middle Eastern offerings.
- Money: Both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 house unusual mid-continent duty-free shops in their respective concourses.
- Avoid: Security lines at Terminal 1 swell during Delta’s morning bank; plan an earlier arrival.
- Quiet: Acme Club in Terminal 1’s G-concourse offers a more relaxed atmosphere compared to other US hubs.