Words at MSP Airport: Books, Magazines & More

Shop Overview

Words is MSP’s dedicated bookstore-style stop for travelers who want something better than a last-minute newspaper grab. Expect a solid, fast-browsing mix of current best-sellers, new releases, and a deep magazine rack—ideal for flights, layovers, and gifting when you forgot a souvenir.

The selection typically leans toward what airport readers actually buy: page-turning fiction, popular non-fiction, business titles, kids’ books, and travel-friendly formats. You’ll also find puzzles, journals, and small impulse items near checkout. The experience is quick and practical—easy to scan, easy to pay, and you’re back to your gate with something that makes the next few hours go faster.

What to Buy

• Best-selling paperbacks and new releases: Great for long-haul flights; paperbacks are lighter and usually priced more reasonably than hardcovers.
• Magazines you won’t find at every kiosk: Look for specialty interest titles (travel, design, food, and current affairs) that are perfect for short trips.
• Kids’ books, activity pads, and puzzles: A smart save for families—grab these before boarding to reduce screen-time battles.
• Journals and notebooks: Ideal for business travelers or anyone planning a trip diary.
• Local reading picks: When available, check endcaps for Minnesota-focused authors or regional interest titles—these make more meaningful gifts than generic souvenirs.

Price note: Books and magazines at airports can run slightly higher than off-airport retailers due to convenience pricing. Unlike liquor, beauty, or tobacco, there’s no duty-free advantage here—Words is about speed and selection when you’re already airside.

Location & Hours

Location: Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP), Terminal 1, Concourse C. Once you’ve cleared security in Terminal 1, follow signs toward Concourse C gates; Words is positioned as a walk-by shop that’s easy to pop into en route to boarding.

Security: Typically post-security (airside), so plan to shop after TSA screening.

Best times to shop: Quieter windows are usually mid-morning and mid-afternoon between banked departures. The busiest periods tend to be early mornings (first departure wave) and late afternoons/early evenings when business and connecting traffic peaks—browse then only if you’ve built in extra minutes.

Shopping Tips

• Pack smart: If you’re tight on carry-on space, choose paperbacks, magazines, or a single puzzle book rather than a hardcover.
• Pair it with a local-gift run: For Minnesota-made souvenirs, shops like Uptown Minnesota and other local retailers in Terminal 1 can complement a book purchase nicely.
• Returns: Airport retail return policies vary by operator and product condition. Keep your receipt and ask at checkout about the return window—especially for gift items.
• Payment: Major credit/debit cards and mobile pay are commonly accepted at MSP retailers; carry a card for the fastest checkout.
• Duty-free reminder: If you’re also shopping duty-free at MSP, remember that books are not duty-free; plan duty-free purchases (liquor/beauty) separately so you’re not juggling extra bags while browsing.