Let’s talk about Minneapolis International Airport, or MSP as locals call it. This bustling Midwest hub connects Minnesota to the world and welcomes over 38 million travelers each year.
Whether you’re visiting the Land of 10,000 Lakes for business, pleasure, or just passing through, we’ve got you covered with everything you need to know about navigating MSP Airport. From finding your gate to scoring the best MSP Airport parking deals, consider this your go-to resource for a smooth journey.
Minneapolis International Airport Layout and Terminals
MSP isn’t your average single-terminal airport – it’s split into two distinct terminals that aren’t connected inside security, so knowing which one you need is super important before heading out.
Terminal 1 (the Lindbergh Terminal) is where most of the action happens. It’s the larger of the two and handles about 80% of all flights. Delta calls this terminal home, along with American Airlines, United, and Air Canada. The terminal spreads across seven concourses labeled A through G, all connected by moving walkways that save your feet from the trek. After recent renovations, the dining and shopping scenes have seriously upped their game, giving you plenty to explore during layovers.
Over at Terminal 2 (the Humphrey Terminal), things are a bit more laid-back. This is where you’ll find budget-friendly carriers like Sun Country (Minnesota’s hometown airline), Southwest, and international carriers like Condor and Icelandair. It’s smaller and typically less crowded than Terminal 1, which can be a nice change of pace from busier airports.
Remember, if you somehow end up at the wrong terminal, don’t panic! The free Light Rail Transit system connects both terminals with trains running every 10 minutes or so. Just hop on and you’ll be at the right place in no time.
- Terminal 1 (Lindbergh): Home to Delta and major carriers
- Terminal 2 (Humphrey): Houses budget airlines like Sun Country and Southwest
- Free light rail connects both terminals if you end up at the wrong one
Airport Facilities and Amenities
MSP isn’t just a place to catch flights – it’s practically a small city with everything you might need while traveling. The food scene here goes way beyond typical airport fare.
Terminal 1 houses over 50 places to grab a bite, from quick coffee stops to restaurants where you can sit down for a proper meal. Local favorites include Black Sheep Coal Fired Pizza, where you can taste some of Minnesota’s best pizza, and Angel Food Bakery for those with a sweet tooth. If you’re looking for a true Minnesota experience, check out Minnibar for craft beers from around the state.
When it comes to shopping, you won’t be disappointed. Forgot something essential? No worries. Need a last-minute souvenir? They’ve got you covered. The North Loop Market and Minnesota Marketplace offer locally-made goodies that make perfect gifts. And if you’re flying internationally, the duty-free shops will let you snag some deals before leaving the country.
What really sets MSP apart are the thoughtful extras. Free Wi-Fi blankets the entire airport, so you can stay connected without burning through your data. Need to charge your phone? You’ll find outlets and charging stations scattered throughout both terminals. Traveling with kids? There are play areas where they can burn off energy before boarding. For nursing moms, there are dedicated, private nursing rooms. And yes, even your four-legged friends get some love with pet relief areas in both terminals.
One cool thing about MSP is its commitment to art and culture. As you walk through the terminals, you’ll notice impressive art installations that showcase Minnesota talent. It’s like wandering through a free art gallery while waiting for your flight.
- Diverse dining options featuring local Minnesota flavors
- Shopping ranging from essentials to local souvenirs
- Free Wi-Fi and abundant charging stations
- Family-friendly amenities including play areas and nursing rooms
- Art installations throughout both terminals
Getting To and From MSP Airport
Getting to and from MSP is pretty straightforward thanks to multiple transportation options that cater to different needs and budgets.
If you’re looking to save money, public transportation is your best bet. The METRO Blue Line light rail connects both airport terminals to downtown Minneapolis, the Mall of America, and other key spots around the Twin Cities. It’s affordable, runs frequently, and helps you avoid traffic headaches. Metro Transit buses also serve the airport if you’re headed somewhere the light rail doesn’t reach.
For door-to-door service without the hassle of driving yourself, shared ride services like SuperShuttle can pick you up from your home or hotel and drop you right at your terminal. It costs more than public transit but less than a taxi or Uber, making it a happy medium for many travelers.
Speaking of ride-hailing services, both Uber and Lyft operate at MSP. At Terminal 1, you’ll find them waiting at Level 2 of the Green and Gold parking ramps, while at Terminal 2, head to the Ground Transport Center. Taxis are also readily available outside both terminals if you prefer the traditional route.
If you’re planning to explore Minnesota on your own schedule, rental cars might be your best option. All the major companies have a presence at MSP. While they’re not directly in the terminals, free shuttle buses run constantly between the terminals and the rental facility, making the process pretty painless.
Many travelers don’t realize that MSP actually has an on-site hotel connected to Terminal 1. The InterContinental Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport lets you walk directly from your gate to your room without ever going outside – perfect for those unexpected overnight layovers or early morning flights.
Hotels Near MSP Airport
After a long flight, sometimes the last thing you want is a lengthy journey to your hotel. Fortunately, there are plenty of great hotels near MSP Airport that cater specifically to air travelers.
The crown jewel has to be the InterContinental Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport, which is literally connected to Terminal 1 via skyway. This upscale option lets you roll your suitcase straight from baggage claim to your room without facing Minnesota’s sometimes harsh weather. It’s not the cheapest option, but the convenience factor is off the charts.
Just a short shuttle ride away, you’ll find plenty of comfortable options like Embassy Suites by Hilton Minneapolis Airport and the DoubleTree by Hilton Bloomington. These mid-range hotels understand what travelers need: reliable shuttles, comfortable beds, and solid amenities.
The Hilton Minneapolis/St. Paul Airport Mall of America deserves special mention because it’s not only close to the airport but also walking distance from the famous Mall of America. If shopping is on your Minnesota agenda, this location gives you easy access to both your flights and over 500 stores.
Almost all hotels near MSP Airport offer complimentary shuttle service, but schedules vary. Some run 24/7, while others operate on limited hours, so it’s worth checking before booking. Most shuttles run every 30 minutes or so, and some require you to call for pickup when you land.
What’s nice about staying near MSP is that you’re not just close to the airport – you’re also well-positioned to explore the Twin Cities. Many airport-area hotels are near the light rail line, giving you easy access to downtown Minneapolis, St. Paul, and major attractions without needing a rental car.
MSP Airport Parking Options
Figuring out where to leave your car can be one of the most stressful parts of flying, but MSP offers various parking options to fit different needs and budgets.
If convenience is your priority, the on-site parking at Terminal 1 puts you steps away from check-in. The Blue, Green, Gold, and Red ramps connect directly to the terminal building, saving you from shuttle buses or long walks in Minnesota’s sometimes challenging weather. The downside? It’ll cost you – daily rates range from $26 to $48 depending on which ramp you choose.
Terminal 2 offers similar convenience with its Purple Ramps connected directly to the terminal. If you’re flying Sun Country or Southwest, these spots let you park and walk straight to check-in without any shuttle hassle.
For longer trips, the Value Parking area serves Terminal 2 with slightly lower rates and a quick shuttle ride. It’s a good middle-ground option that balances cost and convenience.
But here’s where we can save you some serious cash – off-site parking options near MSP Airport often cost less than half the price of official airport parking. One standout option is the Hyatt Regency Bloomington, located just 1.6 miles from MSP. Through OneStopParking, you can secure a spot here for just $9.58 per day (plus earn 10% cash back!). That’s potentially hundreds of dollars in savings for a two-week vacation compared to on-site parking.
The Hyatt Regency offers frequent shuttle service running every 30 minutes from 3:30 AM to 1:30 AM, starting at the top of each hour. Between 1:30 AM and 3:30 AM, there’s no shuttle service, but this won’t affect most travelers with typical flight times. They also offer on-demand pickups during service hours, so you won’t be left waiting long when returning from your trip. The self-park facility includes security cameras for peace of mind and accessible parking spaces.
MSP Airport Tips and Tricks
Now for some insider info that can make your MSP experience even smoother. Let’s start with security – Terminal 1 has multiple checkpoints, and they’re not all created equal. The North checkpoint typically has shorter lines, even during peak travel times. It’s a bit of a walk from some airline counters, but the time saved in line often makes up for it.
Timing matters when flying through MSP. While the standard advice to arrive two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international flights holds true, MSP can get particularly busy during morning business travel rushes (5:30-8:30 AM) and holiday periods. Add extra time during these windows.
When it comes to food, MSP has some hidden gems worth seeking out. Stone Arch in Terminal 1 serves locally-sourced ingredients in a full-service restaurant setting – a nice treat before or after a flight. If you want a taste of Minnesota’s famous food scene without leaving the airport, this is your spot.
Need a quiet place to work or relax? Terminal 1’s Concourse D tends to be less crowded than others, with several gate areas that offer relative peace. It’s worth the walk if you need to make calls or focus on work before boarding.
Art enthusiasts should know that MSP houses one of the best airport art collections in the country. The airport even offers a downloadable guide to help you locate the most significant pieces as you make your way through the terminals.
If you’re a frequent traveler, investing in TSA PreCheck or CLEAR can be a game-changer at MSP. Both services are available at the airport and can dramatically reduce your security wait time, especially during busy travel periods.
One final tip that most travelers don’t know: MSP has an observation area where you can watch planes take off and land. Located on the mezzanine level of Terminal 1, it’s a great way to kill time during a layover, especially if you’re traveling with kids who love aircraft.
Planning Your MSP Airport Experience
Whether you’re visiting the Twin Cities for the first time or you’re a seasoned Minnesota traveler, a little planning goes a long way toward making your airport experience stress-free. Start by double-checking your terminal assignment before leaving for the airport – ending up at the wrong terminal means extra time to transfer via light rail.
For parking, booking in advance through services like OneStopParking can lock in the best rates and guarantee you a spot, especially important during busy travel seasons. The Hyatt Regency Bloomington option at $9.58 per day represents incredible value compared to on-site options, with the shuttle service making it nearly as convenient.
If you’re connecting through MSP, remember that moving between terminals requires exiting and re-entering security. The minimum connection time recommended is 45 minutes for domestic-to-domestic flights, but we’d suggest giving yourself at least an hour to be safe.
Weather can impact travel plans in Minnesota, particularly during winter months. MSP is well-equipped to handle snow and ice, but delays can still happen. During winter travel, building extra buffer time into your plans is always smart. On the flip side, MSP is wonderfully air-conditioned during Minnesota’s occasionally humid summers, making it a comfortable place even when outdoor temperatures soar.
The Twin Cities are known for their friendly locals, and that extends to the airport staff. Don’t hesitate to ask for directions or recommendations – Minnesotans are typically happy to help visitors navigate their home airport.
With its efficient layout, modern amenities, and multiple transportation options, MSP consistently ranks among North America’s best airports for passenger satisfaction. By taking advantage of affordable parking options like the Hyatt Regency Bloomington through OneStopParking, you’re setting yourself up for a smooth start and finish to your Minnesota adventure.
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Safe travels as you explore the Land of 10,000 Lakes and beyond through Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport!