Minneapolis Saint Paul International Airport Travel Guide

Key Highlights

• Minneapolis Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) is one of the best airports in North America. It helps people travel in and out of the Twin Cities.

• The airport has two terminals, Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. You can get between them by using the free light rail.

• MSP Airport is an important hub for Delta Air Lines. The airport has many domestic and international flights.

• It is easy to get around. The 24-hour light rail transit system connects both terminals and lets you go to Minneapolis and Saint Paul.

• You can enjoy over 100 shops, great local dining, and free Wi-Fi while at the airport. These are some of the top amenities you will find at msp airport.

Introduction

Welcome to Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP)! This is your main entry point when you come to Minneapolis, Saint Paul, and the nearby areas. MSP is often seen as one of the best airports in North America. It has an important job in the community and sees millions of people each year. No matter if you visit for work or for fun, MSP works hard to make sure your trip goes smoothly. The goal is for everyone to start off their time in the Twin Cities with a good feeling.

Navigating Minneapolis Saint Paul International Airport

Finding your way around MSP Airport is simple. The airport is set up to help you get from the ticketing level to your departure gate easily. MSP is a busy hub with many people passing through. Still, you will see clear signs and a smart layout that help you move between each MSP Airport terminal and concourse without trouble.

Whether you come to the airport for the first time or travel often, knowing the airport’s layout will help you. The next parts will show you an overview of the terminals, tell you where maps are, and show you how to go from one to another.

Overview of MSP Terminals

Minneapolis Saint Paul International Airport has two main terminals. These are Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. The first thing you need to do is find out which terminal you should go to. Your airline will tell you where you need to be. So, check your flight details before you leave for the airport.

Terminal 1 is bigger than Terminal 2. It is a major hub for Delta Air Lines. You will also find Air Canada, American Airlines, and United Airlines in this terminal. The area is split into different concourse sections. Once you get past security, you can find your gate by looking for the right letter.

Terminal 2 is different from Terminal 1. Airlines like Sun Country Airlines, Southwest, and Frontier use this part of the airport. There is just one single concourse here, so it is simple to get to your gate. Make sure you confirm your airline to be sure you go to the correct terminal at Saint Paul International Airport.

MSP Terminal Maps and Guides

If you want help getting around, finding MSP Airport maps and guides is simple. The Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC), which runs MSP, puts detailed maps on its official website. These guides help you find your gate, restaurants, shops, and other places in each terminal.

Before you go, you can look at these maps online or download them to your phone. This helps you know what to expect when you get to the airport. Once you get there, you will see interactive screens and information kiosks spread out through the terminals. These spots give you up-to-date details to help you reach your destination.

If you use these official guides, you get the most correct and current information for MSP Airport. Whether it’s finding your concourse, the closest restroom, or a spot to eat, the maps from the MAC make moving through MSP easy.

Inter-Terminal Transportation Options

Getting from one terminal to another at MSP is easy and free. The light rail transit service helps you do this. The train runs all day and all night. So, you don’t have to worry about what time it is when you want to get to your next flight. You can’t walk between terminals. That’s why the light rail is your main way to change terminals.

The light rail system also links you to the twin cities, like Minneapolis and Saint Paul. The METRO Blue Line stops at Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. This provides a direct trip to downtown Minneapolis. If you need to get to Saint Paul, you ride the Blue Line and get off at the U.S. Bank Stadium Station. There, you switch to the Green Line to reach Saint Paul.

Available transportation options include:

• Light Rail Transit: Connects Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 for free.

• METRO Blue Line: Provides direct service from both terminals to downtown Minneapolis.

• METRO Green Line: Transfer from the Blue Line to reach downtown Saint Paul.

• Quick Ride Ramp Shuttle Service: A free shuttle runs from this value parking ramp to both terminals.

Airlines and Flight Information at MSP

MSP Airport has many airlines you can fly with. You can find both domestic and international flights there. It helps to know what airlines are at each terminal. This can save you time and stop any confusion when you get there. Before you go, make sure you check what airline you will be flying with, and which terminal you need to be at.

When you get to the airport, it is important to keep up with your flight details. Look at the flight status screens in the airport. The screens will show the most up-to-date information about your flight, your departure gate, and when you need to board. In the next parts, you will see what airlines are in each terminal at MSP. You will also find out how to check live flight information.

Airlines Serving Terminal 1

Terminal 1 is the main terminal at MSP. It is a big hub for Delta Air Lines. Many Delta flights, both inside the country and to other countries, leave from here. This terminal is not just for Delta, though. Other large airlines, like American Airlines, United Airlines, Spirit Airlines, and Alaska Airlines, operate here, too.

There are also international airlines at Terminal 1, such as Air France and KLM Royal Dutch Airlines. So, this place is busy with people coming in and going out from all over the world.

After you go through security, you need to check your boarding pass for your gate. Flights leave from several concourses in this terminal. These include Concourse C, Concourse D, Concourse E, Concourse F, and Concourse G. Make sure you’re looking at your gate number before you walk to your plane.

Airlines Serving Terminal 2

Terminal 2, which used to be called Humphrey Terminal, gives you an easy way to get around. This terminal is where you find airlines that are more budget-friendly, great for people who just want to relax and travel. Sun Country Airlines, a well-known brand from Minnesota, does most of its work here.

Along with Sun Country Airlines, there are Southwest Airlines and Frontier Airlines at this terminal. You can also fly with carriers like Icelandair, Condor, and JetBlue at Terminal 2. These airlines give you some different choices for trips in the U.S. and other countries.

Terminal 2 has a single concourse, so it’s simple to get to your gate. You will see all check-in counters, security checkpoints, and gates in the same place. This makes Terminal 2 a good pick for people flying with these airlines.

Checking Live Flight Status and Arrivals

Keeping track of your flight is essential for a stress-free travel day. You can check the live flight status for all arrivals and departures at MSP Airport directly through the official airport website. The site, managed by the MAC, is easily accessible from any browser on your phone or computer.

This tool provides real-time updates on flight times, delays, cancellations, and gate assignments. Simply enter the flight number or search by airline and destination to get the information you need. This is the best way to stay informed before you even leave for the airport or while you wait for an arriving passenger.

The flight information available typically includes key details to help you plan.

Information Type	Details Provided
Flight Status	On-Time, Delayed, Canceled, or Landed
Gate Number	Departure or Arrival Gate Assignment
Times	Scheduled and Estimated Departure/Arrival Times
Baggage Claim	Carousel Number for Arriving Flights

Security and Customs at MSP Airport

Getting through security at MSP Airport is clear and organized. This is done to keep you safe. You will go through a TSA security checkpoint before you get to the departure gates. If you are coming in from another country, you must also pass through U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

MSP provides some trusted traveler programs to help make your visit faster. The TSA PreCheck and Global Entry programs give you a quicker way to get through these lines. Knowing about these steps and programs will help you plan your time at the airport well. The details below will explain what you need to look for and what you will find at the airport.

TSA Security Screening Process

Every passenger needs to go through a TSA security checkpoint before getting on their flight. At this time, you and your carry-on bags will be scanned for things that are not allowed. To keep the line moving, be ready to take out laptops and large electronics from your bag. Listen and follow what TSA officers say.

If you are an eligible passenger, you can use the TSA PreCheck lane. With TSA PreCheck, you do not have to take off your shoes, belts, light jackets, or laptops when you go through security. If you have PreCheck, make sure your known traveler number is on your boarding pass.

It’s a good idea to get to the airport at least two hours before your flight if you are flying inside the country, and three hours before an international flight. This gives you enough time to check bags, go through the security checkpoint, and get to your gate without needing to rush.

Customs and Immigration Services

When you get to MSP on international flights, you need to go through customs and immigration. This part is run by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). It is needed for every person coming into the united states. You should have your passport ready, and show any travel papers you may need to the CBP officer.

After you talk with an officer, you will go pick up your checked luggage. Next, you go through customs. You must say what items you are bringing with you into the country. It’s important that you fill out your customs form all the way and are honest. This helps make the process smoother.

If you want to get through faster, think about signing up for Global Entry. This program lets low-risk travelers use kiosks and get through faster. It really cuts down on wait times. It’s also good to come to MSP at least three hours early if you have an international flight. This gives you more time for these steps when you get back with your luggage.

CLEAR and Trusted Traveler Programs

MSP Airport has a few trusted traveler programs that help make your trip quicker and easier. One of these is CLEAR, which uses the data from your eyes and fingerprints to check who you are. With CLEAR, you don’t need to do the usual ID check. You can go right to the physical screening at the security checkpoint.

Besides CLEAR, there are other great programs like TSA PreCheck and Global Entry. TSA PreCheck gives eligible passengers faster security checks for flights inside the United States and for flights going out to other countries. With TSA PreCheck at MSP, you can keep your shoes, belt, and a light jacket on. This saves a lot of time.

Global Entry gives you all the same benefits as TSA PreCheck, and it helps you get into the United States faster when you come from places outside the country. If you fly often, joining one of these programs can really make your time at MSP better. Still, it’s smart to get to the airport early.

Parking Options and Rates at MSP

It is easy to find a place to park at MSP Airport. You have a lot of choices, so you can pick what fits your needs and budget. There are parking ramps at the airport, and these ramps connect right to the terminals. This makes it simple to get in and out.

If you want to spend less, you can use the Quick Ride Ramp. It gives you a free shuttle ride.

Each of the parking facilities at MSP has their own features and prices. This way, you get to pick the ramp or spot that is good for your trip and what you like. You can look at the sections below to find out about the parking ramps on-site, some off-site parking, and even special parking options at MSP.

On-Site Airport Parking

For maximum convenience, MSP offers several on-site parking facilities directly connected to the terminals. At Terminal 1, you can choose from multiple covered parking ramps, with hourly parking available in the Gold Ramp for short stays and daily parking in others. These ramps provide easy access to the ticketing lobby.

Terminal 2 also has its own covered parking ramps, the Orange and Purple Ramps, for both hourly and daily parking. For those seeking extra convenience, valet parking is an option at Terminal 1, located on the upper roadway.

These parking ramps are ideal for travelers who want quick and easy access to their terminal without waiting for a shuttle. Rates vary based on the duration of your stay and the specific ramp you choose.

Terminal	Parking Option	Best For
Terminal 1	Hourly Parking (Gold Ramp)	Stays under 4 hours, pickups/drop-offs
Terminal 1	Daily Parking (Multiple Ramps)	Long-term stays, direct terminal access
Terminal 1	Valet Parking	Ultimate convenience
Terminal 2	Hourly & Daily Parking	Stays of any length at T2

Off-Site and Hotel Parking Near MSP

If you want to save money on parking at MSP Airport, you can look at off-site parking lots near the airport. These places are not owned by MSP. They usually have lower prices than parking at the airport ramps. Most of them will give you a free shuttle ride. The shuttle drops you off and picks you up at your terminal.

You can also park at hotels in the Minneapolis, St. Paul area. Many hotels offer “park, sleep, and fly” deals. With these deals, you stay at a hotel before you fly. You leave your car in the hotel lot while you are gone. The hotel will have a shuttle that takes you to the airport.

This can be easy and a good way to spend less, especially if you fly out early. If you want to use off-site parking or hotel parking in Minnesota, book it early. Parking spots fill up fast when many people travel.

Accessible Parking and Cell Phone Waiting Lot

MSP Airport gives travelers with disabilities easy-to-use parking spaces. These parking spots are in every airport-owned parking ramp, close to the elevators. It is simple to get to the terminals from here. The rates for parking are the same for everyone. You must have a valid disability permit on display to use these spaces.

If you neet to pick someone up at MSP Airport, you can use the free cell phone lot. There is no need to drive around the airport. Just wait in your car in one of two special lots on Post Road, between the terminals. Stay in your vehicle until the person you are picking up gets their luggage from baggage claim and calls you. Once they are ready for pickup, you can drive up to the curb.

This service at msp helps keep traffic down by the terminals and makes it easier for everyone to pick up their friends or family. The Quick Ride Ramp is another option for parking at msp airport. It is easy to use, costs less, and offers a free shuttle service to both terminals. This way, you, your party, and your luggage can get to and from the ramps without trouble.

Amenities and Services at MSP Airport

You can use your time at MSP Airport to relax or get things done. There are many different amenities and services here. You can rest in a cozy place like the Delta Sky Club or try the Escape Lounge. If you want something to eat, the airport has many spots for food.

The airport also gives you practical things like free Wi-Fi. You can find many shops and places to eat. MSP wants you to have a good and easy trip. Here are some top amenities you will find when you are at MSP.

Free Wi-Fi and Charging Stations

It’s easy to use Wi-Fi at MSP because the airport gives free Wi-Fi in both terminals. You can use your laptop, tablet, or smartphone to join the airport network. This lets you check emails, go online, or watch something while you wait for a flight.

To get online, pick the “MSP Free WiFi” network on your device. Open your browser. You’ll need to agree to the terms and conditions. After that, you can use the msp internet during your stay. This is a good thing for people traveling for work or just for fun.

There are also a lot of places to charge your devices all over the terminals. Seats have both outlets and USB ports for you to plug in your phone, tablet, or laptop. This helps you keep your gadgets working before you get ready to go.

Dining, Shopping, and Late-Night Options

MSP Airport has over 100 places to eat and shop, so there is something for everyone. You can check out many restaurants and shops that bring local Minnesota flavors, so you can try foods and items from the region even if you do not leave MSP. There are quick spots for food, and some full-service restaurants where you can see the airfield as you eat. The choices at this Minnesota airport are many.

Many of these concessions stay open late for travelers who need to catch evening flights, but not every spot has the same hours. If your flight is late in the day or at night, it is smart to look at MSP Airport’s online directory. That will show you the most current hours for each concession.

Some of the things you can try here include:

• Local restaurants serving regional food.

• Classic bars and pubs with runway views.

• Newsstands and bookstores for a good travel read.

• Boutiques selling clothes, accessories, and gifts from Minnesota.

MSP Airport Directory

Conclusion

To sum up, getting around the Minneapolis Saint Paul International Airport, or MSP, can be easy if you have the right info. When you know about the layout of the terminals, and your choices for parking and transport, you will be more ready. This will help you have a good time at the airport. Don’t forget, the airport has some nice amenities. You can use the free Wi-Fi and try many dining spots. All these things can make your time at the airport better. With this guide, you can handle all that MSP and Saint Paul International Airport give you. If you want help just for you, you can book a free consultation to plan your next trip!