If you’ve ever seen a flight itinerary with the code MSP, you’re heading to the heart of the Upper Midwest. MSP stands for Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport.

Known for its efficiency, world-class amenities, and famously friendly staff, MSP is the gateway to the “Twin Cities.” It isn’t just a place to catch a plane; it is consistently ranked as one of the best airports in North America. Here is everything you need to know about navigating this northern gem.

Where Exactly is MSP?

Like many large airports, MSP isn’t located directly in the center of one city. Instead, it is nestled in a “sweet spot” about 10 miles from both downtown Minneapolis and downtown St. Paul.

The airport is surrounded by suburban cities like Bloomington (home to the Mall of America), Eagan, and Richfield. This central location makes it incredibly easy to reach whichever “Twin” you are visiting.

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The Two-Terminal Puzzle: Lindbergh vs. Humphrey

One of the most important things to know about MSP is that it has two separate terminal buildings that are accessed by entirely different roads. If you go to the wrong one, you can’t just walk across a parking lot to the other!

Terminal 1 (The Lindbergh Terminal)

• The Vibe: This is the “big” terminal. It features seven concourses (A–G) and is the main hub for Delta Air Lines.
• Who Flies Here: Most major airlines, including American, United, Alaska, and international carriers like Air France and KLM.
• Fun Fact: It’s named after Charles Lindbergh, the famous aviator who grew up in Minnesota.

Terminal 2 (The Humphrey Terminal)

• The Vibe: Smaller, quieter, and very easy to navigate. It has just one concourse (H).
• Who Flies Here: This is the home of Minnesota’s own Sun Country Airlines, as well as Southwest, JetBlue, and Icelandair.
• Fun Fact: It’s named after Hubert H. Humphrey, a former U.S. Vice President from Minnesota.

Pro-Tip: Moving Between Terminals If you land at Terminal 1 but need to get to Terminal 2, don’t call an Uber. There is a free Light Rail Transit (LRT) that runs between the two buildings 24/7. The ride takes about 4 minutes!

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Why Travelers Love MSP

In 2024 and 2025, MSP was repeatedly named the #1 Mega Airport in North America for traveler satisfaction by J.D. Power. Here is why:

1. “Minnesota Nice” Staff: The airport employs thousands of people and hundreds of volunteers (often wearing lime-green vests) specifically to help you find your way.
2. Pet Ambassadors: Stressed out? Keep an eye out for the Animal Ambassadors—a team of therapy dogs (and one famous cat named Stitches) that roam the terminals just to be petted.
3. The Prince Store: Minnesota is the home of the legendary musician Prince. You can visit a dedicated Prince shop in Terminal 1 to buy purple gear and listen to his hits.
4. Excellent Food: Forget sad sandwiches. MSP features local favorites like Blue Door Pub (famous for “Blucy” stuffed burgers) and Smack Shack (incredible lobster rolls).

Layover Magic: The Mall of America

MSP has one of the best “layover hacks” in the world. The Mall of America—the largest shopping mall in the U.S.—is only about 12 minutes away by light rail.

If you have a layover of 4 hours or more, you can hop on the Blue Line train, spend a couple of hours at the mall (which has an indoor theme park and aquarium!), and be back through security in time for your flight. There is even a storage area for your luggage at the mall so you don’t have to haul it around.