If you have dog lovers or plane lovers in your family, the Airport Dog Park will delight you!

We discovered this park some time ago, and it's really become a unique favorite in our family. We all like airplanes, and think it's pretty awesome to see planes taking off and landing, close-up.

When we visit this park, we typically pack either several snacks, or a picnic lunch, and we always wear layers. Most of this park is a wide-open grassy area, so there's little shade and the wind can get really strong here. While this park area goes right up to the fence line of the MSP International Airport, there are signs and video cameras telling you to keep several feet back from the fence, so we do stay a few lengths back from the fence. This doesn't affect the sightline, and the airplane spotting here is unbelievable. Depending on which way the wind is coming from, at any given time, you will typically either see very, very close-up take-offs or landings from the park. You'll also be able to see many jetliners taxiing the runways. You're close enough to smell the jet fuel and to see the details on the planes, which is so cool for kids of all ages.

This park is a great catalyst for all sorts of fun family activities, and we like to do a few different games involving the airplanes. The girls like to point out whether each plane has tipped wings or not. And, a really fun thing to do is to log onto the website that tells you where each plane is coming or going from. Sometimes we'll first guess where each plane is heading, and then check the website to see. You can also log onto a website to hear the actual air traffic controllers communicate, which is great fun.

Be aware, this park isn't an official city park, so it's totally lacking in just about any amenities whatsoever, so keep that in mind if you head here. There are no restrooms, garbages, water sources, etc. For our family, this means that when we come here, we do limit our time somewhat, knowing that eventually, someone will need to use the restroom, etc. It also means that this park may be less convenient, the more people you have in your family.

Also be aware, while not a traditional park, this is a dog off-leash area, and there is no fence separating you from any dogs who may be there. So, if you're not comfortable having your kids or anyone else in your group around strange, unleashed dogs, this may not be the park for you. While there is a large area in which to roam, meaning you're not likely to be stuck close to several dogs, it's always possible someone's dog will approach you while off-leash.

After enjoying the airplanes at the Airport Dog Park, head over to Patrick's Bakery and Cafe for a delicious bite.