I have a 5 hour midday layover this weekend at MSP. I'll be flying AA and I have precheck and clear, if that makes a difference. This will be my first time passing through MSP.

The weather looks to be nice, so we're thinking of taking the metro to Minnehaha regional park for a hike. It looks to be quick and easy access to the airport.

We're also interested in having lunch outside of the airport and would prefer a local place vs. a chain. I noticed there were several highly rated Ethiopian restaurants in the vicinity. Sea Salt was also mentioned as a place to get lunch in or near the park.

Any thoughts on our plans or suggestions for places to eat?

Thank you.

Sea Salt is a very good restaurant right in the park. The light rail station is right across the street from the park, the station is literally in the parking lot of a restaurant called The Tipsy Steer that I have heard good things about. I haven't personally been there but the restaurant that was there before was very good with I believe the same owners. If you truly want a local experience for lunch, Matt's Bar on 35th and Cedar for a Jucy Lucy. It would take a bus after exiting the 38th St station. The Cardinal Bar is at the 38th St station and Northbound Smokehouse is a couple short blocks west on 38th, depending on what you're looking for. Another option would be to take the bus from the airport that goes down 7th St into downtown St. Paul. Lots of good food options along that route. My personal favorite that will be open during the day is probably Cossetta's.

FWIW, we tried to check out the NW museum in the Crowne Plaza but despite the posted hours indicating it would be open, it was closed. I would call to confirm before visiting again.

We ubered to Minnehaha park and did a loop hike along the river by the falls. A nice urban park.

No eats, as we got a late start due to a delayed inbound flight.