5 Ways to Pass the Time at MSP International Airport

This blog post was updated on October 3, 2018.

I’ve flown out of Minneapolis – St. Paul (MSP) more times than I can count and, although I might be biased, it is by far my favorite US airport in which to spend a few hours. Here are my suggestions for five ways to pass the time while waiting for a flight at MSP International Airport.

Grab a bite to eat at French Meadow
The next best thing to the Minneapolis favorite on Lyndale avenue, French Meadow at the airport is the only place I’ll go for freshly baked breakfast treats (and quiche!), a savory lunchtime sandwich, a lemon bar to get me through the afternoon or a satisfying dinner entrée. Freshly brewed coffee, specialty cocktails, and a decent beer and wine list don’t hurt either. You’ll find it in Concourse F.

Shop goods by Minnesota artists at Uptown Minnesota
One of the newest retail spots to go into MSP is Uptown. This unique concept store gives travelers the opportunity to shop art fair goods (made by local artists) year-round in a cheerful, ever-evolving space. I highly recommend heading to Concourse G to do a bit of souvenir shopping before you board your flight.

Grab a glass of wine at Surdyk’s Flights
A spin-off of the famous (OK, at least to Minnesotans) Surdyk’s Liquor and Cheese Shop in Northeast Minneapolis, Surdyk’s Flights is a wine market and bar that serves the finest wine, spirits and artisanal fare. The airport location is a great place to enjoy a drink or meal before or after you fly, or grab a snack to take with you on the plane. Surdyk’s is located in Concourse G.

Enjoy a massage at Xpress Spa
Located in Concourse C/D, Xpress Spa offers a range of massage services and products (neck pillows, massagers, etc.) that will ease your sore traveling muscles. I’ll admit to having indulged in a manicure or pedicure there once or twice, too.

Find the perfect in-flight read at Authors
Authors Bookstore carries an array of books (best-sellers, classics, popular literature) and magazines. You can also sip Starbuck’s coffee while you shop. Authors is located in Concourse G.