Don’t Call It A Flyover State: Local Loves Inside the MSP Airport
BY EMMA GEARY - FEBRUARY 26TH, 2024
Photo courtesy of Entro
I love to travel, and one of the first things I notice about a new city is their airport. Whether it’s upon arrival or on an extra-long layover, a city’s airport is a great way to get a first taste of what they’re all about. Do they have a cute local coffee spot where I can grab something other than Starbucks? What about a gift shop with something more unique than a “Someone in this city loves me!” tshirt? Any fun art installations I can read about when I stretch my legs?
Photo courtesy of Entro
Every time I arrive at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, I’m reminded of why I love my home state so much. It's the sweetest send-off before I leave on a trip, like a big local hug. The dozens of restaurant choices! The clean and spacious bathrooms! The lounge areas are well-equipped with charging ports! It’s these little things that make all the difference on a long travel day.
Year after year, Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport has been voted one of the best in North America, and for good reason. With smart design, short TSA lines, and a host of quality amenities, MSP is a wonderful reminder before you depart (or when arriving home) that Minnesota is far more than a flyover state.
Take a peek at some of our favorite local features at MSP to make sure you visit on your next travel day.
Photo of Nathan Barclay courtesy of Airport Foundation
Music for All
The hum of a busy travel day with a moment of magic is truly something special. There’s something about a stranger playing a gorgeous song on the public piano that always moves me, even as I wait for my suitcase and an Uber ride home. MSP has many public pianos and musical moments throughout the airport, as well as weekly local performers, inviting you to take a pause during a day that often feels like it’s full of “hurry up and wait” energy.
Walk It Out
One of the reasons MSP is ranked one of the best is for its walkability and navigation ease, making it easy to wander, explore, and pass the time. Did you know that MSP has an official 1.4 mile walking path in Terminal 1, sponsored by the American Heart Association? As someone who often feels antsy on a travel day, this dedicated space is perfect for a dose of movement before a long flight.
Photo courtesy of MSP Airport
Dine with the Best
From Red Cow to Smack Shack, MSP has a local fix for every foodie. Try lunch from Holy Land Deli in the food truck park, or grab a flight of your favorite local brews just steps from security at Stone Arch (rumor has it our designer, Erica, and her husband are regulars here!).
Shop Like The Locals
My heart always swells when I see the Uptown Minnesota storefront, or seeing local authors displayed in the Open Book bookstore. From handcrafted jewelry to Prince-approved souvenirs, there are dozens of shops in every gate area of MSP that feature thoughtful, local goods to bring home for your loved ones, or yourself! Next time you visit, make sure to check out Urban Undercover - a former Collective member and team favorite for pieces designed specifically to make travel days a breeze, like the versatile Travel Wrap.
Art Lover’s Delight
I’ve gotten lost in everything from mosaic butterflies by Josie Lewis to the stunning Aurora installation by Jen Lewin at MSP, discovering local artists that I’ve since followed as they create across the Twin Cities. Thanks to the MSP Arts and Culture Program, the airport showcases the Upper Midwest’s diverse artistic community, natural environment, and cultural heritage with artwork that transforms spaces and enhances our travel experience.
Photo courtesy of Airport Foundation
No matter where I'm headed, I’m always proud to call MSP my home base. With a host of local businesses and artists, the travel experience becomes more than just a commute, but a celebration of our local identity and the incredible talents that call the Twin Cities home.
Bon Voyage!
Emma Geary
Emma is the one writing it all down. She's been with LAB since 2021 and is finishing her MFA in Creative Writing in her spare time. Her favorite color right now is cobalt blue.
