9 Budget-Friendly Destinations to Fly from MSP (Minneapolis St. Paul International Airport)

Jon Miksis Jon Miksis clock Updated May 24, 2025 tourism Dream Destinations
by Jon Miksis
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Let me tell you something about flying from MSP: those deals are out there if you know where to look. After spending way too many hours hunting down flights (and actually taking these trips myself), I’ve found some seriously amazing prices for 2025. Last month I grabbed a $220 roundtrip to Denver, where I spent mornings hiking at Garden of the Gods and afternoons eating my way through the Denver Central Market.

These are honestly the best places from Minneapolis to visit without destroying your savings. From wandering through Chicago’s Riverwalk (found tickets under $150!) to catching the sunset at San Diego’s Coronado Beach, I’ve discovered some incredible deals. Here are 9 destinations you can actually afford to fly to this year because life’s too short to let expensive flights keep you stuck in Minnesota winters.

#1 tip for finding the cheapest flights from MSP

Hoping to save money on cheap airline tickets from Minneapolis? There are plenty of affordable destinations that won’t break the bank, including some of the most popular tourist spots in the world. Before we get into the cheapest places to fly from MSP, I’d like to share a quick tip on how to save money on plane tickets.

Before you book anything, don’t miss these deals 👇

For the past 5 years, I’ve been using Going to score cheap last-minute flights from MSP and other locations. It’s quick and easy to use. All you have to do is type in the name of your departure city, then choose the place you want to travel to. That’s all there is to it. Going will then send mistake fares and other extra cheap flight deals directly to your inbox for FREE!

In 2024, Going’s email alerts helped me save thousands of dollars on flights. With Going, I save on average between $300 and $500 roundtrip on selected flight routes. What’s more, premium memberships can be purchased for just $49 annually, giving you access to even more features and better discounts. 

Use my discount code Jon20 to save 20% when you join!

Best Destinations with Cheap Flights from MSP in 2025

Looking for destinations with cheap flights from MSP? Experience the vibrant music scene of Nashville, known for its live entertainment and Southern charm. Explore San Juan, Puerto Rico, where historic forts, stunning beaches, and rich culture await. Visit Boston to walk the Freedom Trail, admire historic architecture, and enjoy world-class seafood. Relax in Montego Bay, Jamaica, with its crystal-clear waters, tropical resorts, and lively atmosphere. Whether you’re after music, history, or beachside relaxation, these destinations offer budget-friendly escapes from MSP.

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Boats floating in a river near Boston, one of the cheapest places to fly from MSP
Boston is one of my favorite places to fly from MSP, but as a lifelong resident, I may be a little biased.

1. MSP to Nashville, TN ($188–$240 roundtrip)

  • ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
  • 🛫 Airlines: Delta, Sun Country, American, Southwest (6+ daily flights)
  • 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June 🌸 and September to October 🍂 for ideal weather
  • 🏆 Perfect for: Music lovers 🎸, food enthusiasts 🍗, history buffs 🏛️

Nashville is where Southern charm meets nonstop rhythm. This Tennessee capital serves up legendary music, iconic eats, and a downtown that’s packed with more live shows than you’ll find anywhere else in the country.

The Nashville skyline illuminated by pink and purple sunset
In addition to being one of the cheapest places to fly from MSP, Nashville is a beautiful city.

Broadway is the epicenter, with honky-tonks and rooftop bars offering live music all day and night. Step away from the strip into East Nashville or The Gulch, where locals gather for craft cocktails, vintage shops, and creative cuisine. For a dose of history, visit the Ryman Auditorium or catch a songwriter round at The Bluebird Cafe, where big names often start out playing small sets.

When flying from MSP to Nashville, Sun Country typically offers the best deals, with seasonal direct flights at competitive prices if you book 4-6 weeks ahead. Delta provides more frequent service but usually at slightly higher fares. May brings perfect spring temperatures for exploring the city’s outdoor patios and parks, while October offers gorgeous fall weather and smaller crowds than the busy summer months.

A row of live music venues with neon signs in downtown Nashville, one of the cheapest places to fly from MSP
Nashville’s Honky Tonk Highway is heaven on Earth for country music fans.

2. MSP to San Juan, Puerto Rico ($425–$550 roundtrip)

  • ✈️ Flight Time: 4 hours 45 minutes
  • 🛫 Airlines: Delta, Sun Country, JetBlue, Spirit (with connections) (3+ daily flights)
  • 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June 🌞 and September to November 🍂 for fewer crowds
  • 🏆 Perfect for: Beach lovers 🏖️, history buffs 🏛️, food enthusiasts 🍽️

San Juan is where Spanish colonial charm meets Caribbean beach vibes. This Puerto Rican capital gives you cobblestone streets, tropical rainforests, and incredible food without needing a passport or currency exchange.

The coastline of San Juan, Puerto Rico, one the cheapest places to fly from MSP
Flying to San Juana from MSP is like entering a whole new world of vibrant culture and fascinating history.

Old San Juan packs 500 years of history into a walkable district with colorful buildings, massive forts, and blue streets that make every photo look amazing. Condado offers a Miami-like beach scene with modern hotels lining perfect sand, while La Placita transforms from daytime market to nighttime party spot. The food scene here is killer – from traditional mofongo to innovative spots blending Puerto Rican ingredients with global techniques.

Flight-wise, Sun Country occasionally offers seasonal direct flights from MSP, though most carriers connect through Atlanta, Miami, or New York. May is perfect timing after winter crowds leave but before hurricane season. Since it’s a US territory, your phone works normally, you can use USD, and no passport is needed.

✈️ Pro Travel Tip:

I use Going.com to find crazy flight deals — think $300 roundtrip to Europe kind of crazy.

  It’s free, and I honestly check it more than Google Flights. If you're booking travel, this is the first site I'd check. (Save 25% on Premium and Elite with my special code: JON25)

👉 Get Free Flight Alerts 🔔

Castillo San Cristóbal, a 300-year-old fort in San Juan
While San Juan is one of the cheapest places to fly from MSP, the view from Castillo San Cristóbal is priceless.

3. MSP to Boston, MA ($213–$280 roundtrip)

  • ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
  • 🛫 Airlines: Delta, JetBlue, Sun Country, American (8+ daily flights)
  • 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to October 🍁 and April to May 🌸 for pleasant weather
  • 🏆 Perfect for: History enthusiasts 🏛️, seafood lovers 🦞, college town explorers 🎓

Boston is where American history meets university-town energy. This New England hub delivers incredible historical sites, world-class museums, and authentic neighborhoods without requiring international travel.

A view of the city from a dock in Boston's harbor
More than just one of the cheapest places to fly from MSP, Boston is a city brimming with beauty.

Freedom Trail takes you through 16 historical sites on a 2.5-mile path marked by a literal red line in the pavement, making it impossible to get lost while exploring landmarks from the American Revolution. North End packs Italian bakeries, restaurants, and markets into narrow streets that feel more European than American. The food scene revolves around fresh seafood, with spots like Quincy Market and Legal Sea Foods serving classic New England clam chowder and lobster rolls that actually live up to the hype.

Delta offers the most direct flights from MSP, though JetBlue and Sun Country sometimes provide better value with seasonal service. September brings perfect fall weather with fewer tourists than summer, while October delivers stunning foliage in parks like Boston Common and Public Garden

Close-up of a Freedrom Trail marker in Boston, one of the best places to fly from MSP
Following the markers of the Freedom Trail will lead you to some of Boston’s most historic locations.

4. MSP to Montego Bay, Jamaica ($536–$650 roundtrip)

  • ✈️ Flight Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
  • 🛫 Airlines: Delta, Sun Country (seasonal), American, United (via connections) (3+ daily flights)
  • 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to April 🌴 and October to November 🌞 for fewer crowds
  • 🏆 Perfect for: Beach enthusiasts 🏖️, reggae lovers 🎵, adventure seekers 🏞️

Montego Bay is where Caribbean paradise meets lively Jamaican culture. This island hotspot gives you crystal clear waters, lush mountains, and vibrant local scenes without the pretentiousness of other tropical destinations.

A high-angle view looking down on Montego Bay, one of the cheapest places to fly from MSP
Looking for a tropical getaway? As one of the cheapest places to fly from MSP, Montego Bay, Jamaica is the perfect choice.

Doctor’s Cave Beach offers perfectly white sand and calm turquoise waters that are exactly what you picture when dreaming of the Caribbean. Hip Strip packs restaurants, bars, and shops into a walkable area where you can grab authentic jerk chicken from local spots or dance to reggae late into the night. Beyond the beaches, adventures like bamboo rafting down the Martha Brae River and climbing the stunning Dunn’s River Falls showcase Jamaica’s incredible natural beauty.

Sun Country offers seasonal direct flights from MSP that can save you serious cash during winter months, though Delta provides more reliable year-round service with connections. January and February deliver perfect beach weather, though hotel prices peak during these winter escape months. October and November offer the sweet spot of lower crowds and prices with still-great weather before high season kicks in. 

Doctor's Cave Beach, a popular tourist attraction in Montego Bay, Jamaica
With its breathtaking turquoise waters, Doctor’s Cave Beach is one of the most popular beaches in the Caribbean.

5. MSP to San Diego, CA ($213–$290 roundtrip)

  • ✈️ Flight Time: 3 hours 45 minutes
  • 🛫 Airlines: Sun Country, Delta, Alaska, Southwest (6+ daily flights)
  • 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May 🌸 and September to November 🍂 for ideal weather
  • 🏆 Perfect for: Beach lovers 🏖️, food enthusiasts 🌮, outdoor adventurers 🏞️

San Diego is where perfect weather meets laid-back California vibes. This coastal gem delivers stunning beaches, incredible Mexican food, and outdoor activities year-round without the crowds or prices of LA.

A sign welcoming visitors to downtown San Diego, one of the cheapest places to fly from MSP
Located just a short drive from LA, San Diego is one of the best and cheapest places to fly from MSP.

Balboa Park packs 17 museums, gorgeous gardens, and the famous San Diego Zoo into 1,200 acres of urban greenspace that locals and visitors alike love. La Jolla Cove offers picture-perfect beaches where you can snorkel with leopard sharks and sea lions just yards from shore. The food scene here is next level, especially for Mexican cuisine. From fancy restaurants in the Gaslamp Quarter to food trucks serving the best fish tacos you’ve ever had, the border influence makes this some of the most authentic Mexican food in the US.

When it comes to flights, Sun Country typically offers the best seasonal direct flights from MSP, with deals sometimes below $220 roundtrip if you can book a few weeks ahead. April brings perfect spring conditions with wildflowers blooming throughout the region, while October offers equally amazing weather with fewer tourists and lower hotel rates.

A replica of Da Vinci's flying machine on display at the San Diego Air and Space Museum
The San Diego Air and Space Museum houses many interesting exhibits, like this replica of Da Vinci’s flying machine.

6. MSP to Mazatlán, Mexico ($414–$520 roundtrip)

  • ✈️ Flight Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (direct) or 6+ hours (with connections)
  • 🛫 Airlines: Sun Country (seasonal), American, United, Aeromexico (via connections) (2+ daily flights)
  • 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to April 🌞 and October to November 🦐 for shrimp festival
  • 🏆 Perfect for: Beach lovers 🏖️, seafood enthusiasts 🦐, budget travelers 💰

Mazatlán is where authentic Mexican culture meets Pacific beach beauty. This coastal gem gives you colonial architecture, fresh seafood, and stunning beaches without the tourist markup of Cancún or Puerto Vallarta.

A statue of a happy family in Mazatlan, one of the cheapest places to fly from MSP
Mazatlan, Mexico isn’t just one of the cheapest places to fly from MSP. It’s a fun vacation for the whole family.

Centro Histórico (Old Town) has undergone an amazing revival with colorful restored buildings housing boutique hotels, art galleries, and restaurants around the stunning Basilica of the Immaculate Conception. The Malecón stretches for miles along the Pacific with perfect sunset views, cliff divers, and monument-lined walkways filled with local families. The food scene here centers around incredibly fresh seafood, with the city famous for its giant shrimp served in every style imaginable from ceviche to bacon-wrapped.

Sun Country offers seasonal direct flights from MSP during winter months that can save you serious travel time compared to connecting options on other carriers. January and February give you perfect beach weather with sunny days and comfortable evenings. 

A hill near Maztatlan, Mexico, with a lighthouse perched atop it
The hilltop Parque Natural Faro Mazatlan lighthouse offers stunning views of the surrounding beaches.

7. MSP to New York, NY ($187–$250 roundtrip)

  • ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
  • 🛫 Airlines: Delta, JetBlue, Sun Country, United (10+ daily flights)
  • 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June 🌸 and September to November 🍂 for pleasant weather
  • 🏆 Perfect for: Urban explorers 🏙️, culture enthusiasts 🎭, food lovers 🍕

New York City is where iconic landmarks meet neighborhoods with serious personality. This American metropolis delivers world-class museums, incredible food diversity, and non-stop energy without requiring international travel.

A nighttime view of New York City, one of the cheapest places to fly from MSP
Being one of the cheapest places to fly from MSP, there’s no reason to not take a bite out of the Big Apple.

Central Park gives you this massive green oasis right in the middle of Manhattan with locals doing everything from sunbathing to softball games depending on the season. Each neighborhood has its own totally distinct vibe, from the artsy warehouses of Williamsburg to the historic brownstones of Greenwich Village to the authentic ethnic enclaves of Queens. The food scene is absolutely unmatched. From $1 pizza slices to Michelin-starred tasting menus, you can literally eat your way around the world without leaving the city limits.

Delta dominates this route from their MSP hub, though JetBlue and Sun Country often offer better value if you can be flexible with your travel dates. May brings perfect spring weather with flowering trees throughout the parks, while October offers gorgeous fall colors and ideal temperatures for walking the city’s distinct neighborhoods.

A bridge over water in Central Park, with the NYC skyline in the distance
On top of being one of the cheapest places to fly from MSP, Central Park is one of the most filmed locations in the US.

8. MSP to Guatemala City, Guatemala ($527–$640 roundtrip)

  • ✈️ Flight Time: 4 hours 30 minutes (direct) or 6+ hours (with connections)
  • 🛫 Airlines: Delta (seasonal), American, United, Avianca (via connections) (3+ daily flights)
  • 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to April 🌞 and March to April 🌸 for Semana Santa
  • 🏆 Perfect for: Cultural explorers 🏛️, volcano hikers 🌋, colonial architecture fans 🏰

Guatemala City is where urban energy meets incredible day trip options. This Central American capital gives you access to some of the most stunning landscapes and cultural sites in the region without the tourist markup of more visited countries.

Close-up of a fountain outside a centuries-old building in Guatemala City
With its beautifully preserved architecture and unique culture, Guatemala City is one of the best places to fly from Minneapolis.

The city itself has way more to offer than most travelers realize. Zona 1 features colonial architecture and impressive museums, while Zona 10 buzzes with upscale restaurants and nightlife. The real magic happens when you use Guatemala City as your base. Antigua is just an hour away with its cobblestone streets and volcano views, while Lake Atitlan offers one of the most stunning natural settings on the planet surrounded by traditional Mayan villages.

Delta offers seasonal direct flights from MSP, though most travelers connect through hubs like Dallas, Miami, or Houston. December through February brings perfect dry season weather with sunny days and cool nights ideal for exploring. 

Pacaya, an active volcano near Guatemala City, one of the cheapest places to fly from MSP
The sight of the nearby Pacaya volcano at dusk is something truly magical to behold.

9. MSP to Miami, FL ($207–$260 roundtrip)

  • ✈️ Flight Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
  • 🛫 Airlines: Sun Country, Delta, American, Spirit (8+ daily flights)
  • 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to April 🌴 and May 🌞 for fewer crowds
  • 🏆 Perfect for: Beach lovers 🏖️, nightlife seekers 🎉, art enthusiasts 🎨

Miami is where tropical beach vibes meet vibrant cultural scenes. This Florida hotspot gives you stunning beaches, incredible cuisine, and non-stop energy without requiring a passport or currency exchange.

Beach-goers are in luck, as Miami is one of the cheapest places to fly to from MSP.

South Beach delivers that classic Miami experience with art deco architecture, turquoise waters, and beautiful people everywhere you look. Wynwood Walls transforms an entire neighborhood into an outdoor gallery with massive murals covering warehouse buildings. The food scene reflects the city’s incredible diversity. From authentic Cuban sandwiches in Little Havana to fresh ceviche at waterfront spots, Miami’s flavors go way beyond basic beach fare.

For flights, Sun Country typically offers the best seasonal deals from MSP, with fares sometimes below $210 roundtrip if you can travel midweek and book a few weeks ahead. January and February deliver perfect beach weather, though hotel prices peak during these winter escape months. May offers the sweet spot of warm temperatures and smaller crowds before the humid summer arrives.

Alligators at Everglades National Park in Miami, Florida, one of the cheapest to fly from MSP
Alligators are just some of the many unique animals that make their home in Everglades National Park.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about the cheapest places to fly from MSP

When looking for cheap flights from MSP, there are a few very important things to keep in mind. Here are some common questions and answers about getting cheap tickets from Minneapolis: 

A sandy beach lined with palm trees in San Juan, one of the cheapest places to fly from MSP
San Juan, Puerto Rico, is home to some of the sunniest beaches in the world.

What airlines fly out of MSP?

At the time of this writing, a total of 16 airlines currently offer Minneapolis flight deals. They are:

  • Air Canada
  • Air France
  • Allegiant
  • Alaska Airlines
  • American Airlines
  • Condor
  • Delta Air Lines
  • Denver Air
  • Frontier
  • Icelandair
  • JetBlue
  • KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
  • Southwest
  • Spirit Airlines
  • Sun Country
  • United Airlines

Where is the cheapest place to fly right now from Minneapolis?

Looking for a frugal adventure? Your wallet will love jetting off to Las Vegas or Denver, the two cheapest destinations to fly to from the Twin Cities right now. Buckle up and enjoy the savings!

Are domestic flights from MSP always cheaper than international ones?

No! Although international flights are often more expensive than domestic ones, this isn’t always the case. As with many things in life, timing is key. Some of the cheapest international flights from MSP coincide with a destination’s “slow season.”

As an example, let’s look at the Caribbean Islands. Their peak season is the summer, which means that more people will be flying there at that time. The principle of supply and demand thus drives ticket prices up. If you don’t mind traveling during the off-season, though, you could save hundreds of dollars on cheap plane tickets from MSP.

The Cathedral of Guatemala City
The stunning Cathedral of Guatemala City is one of several sights you can see without breaking the bank.

Where does Sun Country fly to from MPLS?

Sun Country Airlines, based in Minneapolis, can take you to over 50 sunny destinations across the United States, Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean! From sandy beaches in Cancun to mountain trails in Bozeman, Sun Country has got you covered. So pack your bags and get ready to fly to your next sunny getaway with Sun Country!

How many airports are there in the state of Minnesota?

Including MSP, there are a total of nine commercial airports currently operating in Minnesota. These are:

  • Bemidji Regional Airport (BJI)
  • Brainerd Lakes Regional Airport (BRD)
  • Duluth International Airport (DLH)
  • Range Regional Airport (HIB)
  • Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP)
  • Rochester International Airport (RST)
  • St. Cloud Regional Airport (STC)
  • Falls International Airport (INL)
  • Thief River Falls Regional Airport (TVF)

That said, it’s worth noting that only four of these are international airports: DLH, MSP, RST, and INL). Of those four, MSP is the biggest, often the most convenient, and tends to offer the cheapest flights from Minneapolis to anywhere.

For more travel tips (and inspiration), follow my adventures on Instagram: @Global.Viewpoint. Happy Travels! -Jon

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