MSP Airport Guide:
America's Favorite Airport
MSP is the international airport serving Minnesota's twin cities. If you haven't been here before, you'll be glad to know it is a place most travelers enjoy visiting. This article will explain some of the reasons why.
MSP's Best Features
MSP is known as a clean, and accommodating airport. It's also known as a popular mid-west hub for many airlines, and the airport strives to offer a little something for everyone. Some even describe it as the successful hybridization of a mall and an airport. Either way, you won't regret having a layover here because the ambiance is modern and appealing, and there are plenty of things to do. You also won't have to worry about charging your phone because the outlets are plentiful. It's also not uncommon to see iPads throughout the airport, some which are available for casual use.
For the Wi-Fi hungry, MSP offers two rather generous options. First, there is a free Wi-Fi connection, albeit with slower connection speeds. For those that need faster speeds for downloading or streaming, MSP has a paid service that gives you 24 hours of access for a measly $2.95. Due to having a free and reasonably priced paid option, MSP might be the most Wi-Fi friendly airport in the U.S.
Great Ways to Spend a Layover
Anyone who travels with children knows that keeping them entertained during a layover is quite a challenge. MSP has a solution. There are two play areas for children containing slides, rides, and other things kids can climb in and out of, like a mini space capsule. There is even a vending machine for kids, which sells crayons, coloring books, sippy-cups, and snacks. The first playground is found in Terminal 1 at Concourse C, and the second in Terminal 2 on level 2.
If you need some R&R during your stay at MSP, you can head to one of the many massage chairs available in the terminal areas. Terminal C has the most massage chairs, as 5 are available between gates 1 and 21. As far as the other terminals go, Terminal E has one at Gate 1, and Terminal F's chair is at Gate 3. The chairs are not overly expensive, costing a buck for 3 minutes or $5 for 15 minutes.
Playing video games is also a great way to deal with travel stress. MSP has a few mini arcades located right in the terminals for a little video game escape. There you'll find some classic favorites as well as pinball machines. The locations are as follows: Concourse C at Gate 1, Concourse F at Gate 7, and in Concourse G at Gate 7. Late night gamers will be happy to know that the arcades are open 24 hours!
If you're a fan of airport lounges, you'll love the Delta Sky Club at MSP. This particular location has a self-service bar, so you don't have to worry about watered down drinks!
Standout Restaurants at MSP
MSP has so many food options that everyone is likely to find something they like. The following restaurants are few of the standout options.
French Meadow Bakery Café is an airport extension of the well-known, uptown Minneapolis dining establishment. MSP's version has a lot of options for vegans such as to-go sandwiches and treats like cupcakes and cookies. If you choose to dine there, you can take advantage of the self-seating to move things along quicker. Those who want a traditional restaurant atmosphere can go to the service section, where a waiter can assist in recommending suitable dishes.
Mimosa offers a menu that is definitely distinct from other airport restaurants. It combines raw foods and great cocktails. Everything is organic inspired, so if you are health conscious, this is the right choice for you. You'll be able enjoy favorites such as the Ahi Tuna Salad, or the grilled cheese sandwich smeared with apples and pesto sauce. They also have a variety of coffee drinks and an interesting dessert menu.
Taste of Shoyu provides travelers with high quality Japanese fare right in the middle of the airport. Located in Terminal 1 in Concourse G, this restaurant has a full Japanese menu including sushi, soba noodle dishes, and seasonal dumplings. It's a good place to go when it's winter in Minneapolis and you need a warm bowl of soup to beat the cold.
If you don't feel like sitting down and waiting for service, you can drop by Surdyk's (derived from a longstanding Minneapolis convenience store) and grab some food to go. You can get a salad, sandwich, or choose from a selection of cheese slice plates. If you decide to stick around Surdyk's, treat yourself to one of their recommended wines and grab a plate of cheese and cured meat to hit the spot.
Another Thing to Remember
For a peaceful rest, head to the quiet seating area found up the stairs near the entry to Concourse E. It's the perfect spot to sleep or take a nap.
MSP Parking Reservations
Searching for great rates and deals on MSP Airport parking? We provide multiple parking options, low prices and exclusive discounts so you can compare and save on the cost of parking. Our off-airport parking lot operators offer you a low-cost alternative to leaving your car at the on-airport Minneapolis Airport parking lots. For your convenience, all offer a shuttle service to and from the airport as part of the service.
Self drive, valet and indoor options are available whether you require short stay or MSP long term parking. Our easy to use online reservation service enables you to find and secure a guaranteed reservation within just a couple of minutes. With all the best parking lots, detailed lot information and 1000's of genuine reviews to help you figure out where to park at MSP you can be assured AirportParkingReservations.com is the place to book your parking space.
You will also find selected hotel and parking packages, which offer travelers the benefit of a stay at an airport hotel with free parking included. For even more Minneapolis Airport hotels and parking visit ParkSleepFly.com.