About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Chicago Midway International (MDW) to Minneapolis St Paul International (MSP)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Chicago to Minneapolis. Right side wins for the takeoff views of Chicago's iconic lakefront and skyline, which are more visually distinctive than the landing approach. The landing views favor the left, but the departure experience from Midway is superior for window-seat photography and geography observation.
What can I see during takeoff from Chicago Midway International in Chicago?
During takeoff from Chicago Midway International (MDW), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side seats capture the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan as you climb out westbound. Midway typically departs runways 31L/31R (westbound), so the right side offers the best angle on downtown Chicago and the lakefront before the aircraft turns north toward Minneapolis. Notable sights include: Chicago downtown skyline (Willis Tower, Trump Tower visible in good conditions), Lake Michigan shoreline, Stevenson Expressway corridor, residential neighborhoods of Southwest Chicago.
What can I see when landing at Minneapolis St Paul International in Minneapolis?
When landing at Minneapolis St Paul International (MSP), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side provides views of the Minnesota River valley, Mississippi River, and the Twin Cities sprawl during descent into MSP. Typical landing runways are 30L/30R (westbound approach), so the left side faces south and southeast, offering views of the river systems and urban development that define the Minneapolis-St. Paul geography. Notable sights include: Mississippi River and Minnesota River confluence, Minneapolis-St. Paul urban sprawl, Minnesota River valley, suburban development corridors extending south toward Bloomington.
How long is the flight from Chicago to Minneapolis?
The flight from Chicago Midway International (MDW) to Minneapolis St Paul International (MSP) takes Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes.
What does the Chicago to Minneapolis flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses central Wisconsin, passing over the Wisconsin Dells region and scattered lakes. Notable features include the Wisconsin River valley, numerous glacial lakes in central Wisconsin, and the transition from urban Illinois to rural Midwest terrain. The landscape gradually becomes more forested and less densely populated as you move north. No major mountain ranges are visible, but the subtle topographic relief of the Driftless Area becomes apparent in southern Wisconsin.