To keep you moving through MSP with finesse and efficiency during the busy Thanksgiving holiday period, we have a turkey-sized platter of travel tips to keep you on pace, well-fed and smiling.
As you plan your trip to MSP, remember that you can prebook your parking in airport ramps and monitor security checkpoint wait times prior to your arrival.
- MSP has an Overflow Pick-up and Drop-off lane to provide drivers with another option when the Terminal 1 curbside gets congested. At Terminal 2, try the Express Lane to improve the pick-up and drop-off experience. Follow the signs as you approach the terminals. Remember the cellphone waiting lot on Post Road, where you can stage before swooping in for your well-timed pick-up at either terminal. Construction on Post Road recently wrapped up and access is back to normal.
- MSP Reserve: Did you know you can reserve a spot in the TSA security line, free of charge?
- The TSA offers handy guidance on all aspects of the security checkpoints.
- Need some guidance on where to find the best snack, meal or retail shopping? Visit our Eat, Shop, Relax page for the best options on the way to your gate. If you’re at Terminal 2, there are two new options to consider. You’ll find illycaffé on the baggage claim level, pre-security, with great coffee and breakfast options. You can also visit the recently opened B.A.R. Flights, located near Gate H8. In addition to a full bar, there’s a menu of shareable bites and breakfast options.
- In addition to that full directory of restaurants, you can visit our Offers & Events page to discover daily perks and events at MSP. Many of MSP’s shops and restaurants give you a reason to look twice at what they have to offer.
- If you’ve ever looked longingly at an airport lounge, you may have a card in your wallet or purse that will provide you access. Visit our MSP Airport lounge page to get a rundown on the offerings and see what your options are for getting in the door. The page also suggests locations where you can find a bit of solitude before a flight or during a layover.
- Sports fans are coached to consider a visit to Terminal 1’s FanZone, located inside the Airport Mall food court. A 136-inch TV gives you a commanding view of all the NFL and NBA action that coincides with your trip. And in addition to live sports, there’s other programming streaming when the games aren’t on, so you’ll always have something to watch.
Use the tips above to do some pre-trip planning and get ahead of the holiday rush.
Passenger traffic at MSP Airport is expected to pick up starting Thursday, Nov. 19, a week ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday.
After the weekend of Nov. 21-22, the few days leading up to Thanksgiving are busy as well, and the Wednesday before the holiday is typically a peak travel day of the year.
Enjoy your voyage across the miles and have a great visit at your destination!