For 3 years, I’ve been going back and forth between Minneapolis and St. Louis, if not weekly, on a regular basis. I am a sucker for travelling and I have seen the inside of most of the airports in the major airport in US, but I have to say Minneapolis has got to be my favorite. You almost don’t feel like you’re in an airport, more like a shopping mall with airplanes and electric carts.
I’ve spent so much time in the MSP airport that I know every inch of Lindberg and Humphry terminals like the back of my hand. I’m serious. Every restaurant. Every bathroom. Every shoe shine place.
For those who aren’t as versed on MSP-Ology, I give you 10 things about the Minneapolis Airport.
The observation deck. Yes, we have one. And may I say it is the perfect place to just sit and enjoy the panoramic view of the airport. It’s also a little known sanctuary for weary flight crews and gate agents seeking an escape from the bustle of the airport, the endless drones of boarding announcements and the inevitable person who will stop and ask them what flight to intercourse, PA is departing from.
Looking for a bookstore? Red Balloons is right next to the escalators after C8, it’s no Barnes and Noble and you can’t get a latte while you browse, but they are pretty well stocked.
Now that the books have been bought, searching for a mellow place to read and rest between flights? On the other end of Northstar Crossing, take the escalator up to the quiet seating areas. Leather chairs and outlets for charging electronics and a break from the endless stream of passenger but you can still hear the boarding announcements.
The MSP airport has two children play areas. One in the main C concourse of the main terminal and the other one in the Humphry terminal.
MSP now has a full service spa and salon for those of you with more money than sense and just CAN’T WAIT until you get to your destination to get a pedicure or manicure. Seems like a nice service but $55 for a haircut that DOESN’T include shampoo? $65 for a half an hour chair massage? I think I can wait until I get home.
Did you know MSP has a lottery office? Feeling lucky? Stop in for a Powerball ticket or scratchers. You can even get a few pull tabs to occupy your time. Did you win? You can go back to the office to redeem your winnings! (Funny, you can gamble freely but heaven help if you want to have a drink)
Of all the shops in the shopping mall area, ZOZO and Talie are my favorites. Lots of great gifts for every price point. An added bonus, almost all the shops offer shipping if you don’t have room to carry something home.
My favorite pastime? Hanging out by the Steinway concert grand piano and listening to the guest musicians play. There is also a public piano on the baggage claim level for anyone who wants to work out some creative energy. Who knows… you might just get discovered!
What I love about MSP the most? It doesn’t feel like an airport. Wanna see a movie? You’re an 8 minute ride from the Mall of America. Need to talk to someone? Pop into any of the restaurant and chat with the bartender. Forgot a gift for your mom? Pop into any of the many shops for an endless supply of jewelry, clothing and gifts.
I have a fondness for MSP. Won’t you stay for a bit on your way through?
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