Minneapolis – Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) Guide

The Metro Blue Line LRT connects the airport to downtown Minneapolis in around 25 minutes, with trains departing every 10–15 minutes from approximately 04:00 to 01:00. The fare is around $2.50, making it one of the most affordable ways to reach the city centre. The Blue Line also runs to the Mall of America in the opposite direction. 

Taxis are available around the clock from the Ground Transport Centres at both terminals. Ride-share pick-ups take place on Level 2 of the Green parking ramp at Terminal 1 and at Terminal 2’s Ground Transport area. A taxi to downtown Minneapolis costs approximately $40. 

Metro Transit bus Route 54 provides service to downtown Saint Paul, and scheduled coach services from Jefferson Lines and Groome Transportation link MSP to regional cities across Minnesota and Wisconsin. 

MSP offers a range of on-site parking including short-term ramps, long-term lots and a Quick Ride value lot with shuttle service. Pre-booking online is recommended for the best rates. 

All major car rental companies operate on-site. At Terminal 1, rental counters are in the Silver Ramp, and at Terminal 2, they’re on Level 1 of the Purple Ramp. Talk to your Travel Expert about organising car hire for your trip or book it yourself online before you leave. 

Terminals 1 and 2 are not connected by walkways, but the Blue Line LRT provides a free ride between the two in about two minutes. It’s quick, easy and runs around the clock. 

A number of airlines fly into and out of Minneapolis Saint Paul Airport, including Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, United, Southwest, JetBlue, Air France, KLM, Air Canada, Alaska Airlines and more. As a major Delta hub, MSP offers direct flights to over 165 destinations across 25 countries. 

As a general rule, you should aim to arrive at Minneapolis Saint Paul Airport at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international flights. Security wait times can peak at 45–50 minutes during busy mornings and holiday periods, so building in extra time is advisable. Check with the airport, airline or your Travel Expert directly for more information on recommended arrival times. 

There are plenty of transport options available from Minneapolis Saint Paul Airport, including the Blue Line LRT light rail to downtown Minneapolis, taxis, ride-share services, car rental, Metro Transit buses and regional coach services. The Blue Line is the quickest and most affordable option, reaching downtown in around 25 minutes. 

Yes, MSP has several lounges in Terminal 1, including two Delta Sky Clubs, an American Airlines Admirals Club, the Escape Lounge and Minute Suites for private napping. Access may be possible depending on your ticket class, frequent flyer membership, credit card benefits or by purchasing a day pass. Check with the airline directly or talk to your Travel Expert for more information. 

MSP offers quiet seating areas on the mezzanine levels of Terminal 1 for rest and meditation. Minute Suites near Concourse C provide private nap rooms bookable by the hour, complete with a daybed, desk and Wi-Fi. There are also numerous hotels located close to the airport, many with free shuttle services. 

You may be able to earn loyalty points or rewards on eligible flights to or from Acapulco Airport booked with us. When booking online, you’ll see a place to add your loyalty program or frequent flyer membership details if this is available, or you can ask your Travel Expert for help when booking in-store. If the booking meets your program’s requirements, you’ll earn points! For more information, check with your specific loyalty program and see our Booking Terms and Conditions. Keen for even more travel perks? Subscribe to our email list for birthday surprises, competition entries, exclusive deals and VIP pre-sale access to the hottest holiday savings around.  

Check-in times and baggage rules for flights departing from Minneapolis Saint Paul Airport will vary depending on your ticket, so make sure you confirm with your airline in advance. Remember, it’s often possible to check in online or via your airline’s app, which can help save time at the airport. For more information or help finding your check-in times and baggage limits, talk to your Travel Expert. 

Minneapolis Saint Paul Airport has two terminals. Terminal 1 handles the majority of airlines including Delta, American, United, JetBlue, Air France and KLM. Terminal 2 is home to Southwest, Sun Country and Frontier. The two terminals are connected by the free Blue Line LRT, which takes just two minutes. Always check your airline’s designated terminal before heading to the airport. 

Yes, MSP offers a range of on-site parking including short-term ramps, long-term lots and a Quick Ride value lot with shuttle service. Rates vary by location, and you can often save by pre-booking online through the airport’s website. 

Minneapolis Saint Paul Airport offers excellent family facilities including private nursing and lactation rooms in both terminals, a children’s play area near Concourse C, family assist restrooms and indoor pet relief areas. The 1.4-mile indoor walking path in Terminal 1 is also a great way for kids to burn off some energy before a flight. 

Keen to do a little retail therapy at Minneapolis Saint Paul Airport? You’ll find a wide range of shops, restaurants and bars spread across both terminals. Terminal 1 has the larger selection, with everything from local Minnesota brands to well-known names. Check the airport’s website for an up-to-date directory of stores and dining options. 

While last-minute sale fares to and from Minneapolis Saint Paul Airport may become available, you’ll generally find it pays to plan ahead, especially if you’re booking international flights. As a rough guide, we recommend booking domestic flights three to six months in advance and international flights six to nine months before you plan to fly. When it comes to balancing flexible travel dates with the biggest savings, this should give you the best of both worlds!