Best Airports for Long Layovers

Many airports have ramped up their offerings to bring unique elements of their home cities into the terminals. If you can choose where to catch your connecting flight, pick one of these airports and enjoy the wait during a long layover.

San Francisco International Airport

San Francisco International Airport (SFO) consistently ranks among the top airports in the nation, especially for layovers. Get cultured in the airport’s art museum, which is an extension of the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art. If you want to gaze at sea creatures the Steinhart Aquarium has an installation on site. Other perks include private shower facilities for rent, and a yoga room—not to mention plenty of renowned California wines and craft beers available at lounges and restaurants throughout the terminals.

Austin-Bergstrom International Airport

Austin, Texas, bills itself as the "Live Music Capital of the World." So it's only natural that things to do during a layover at Austin-Bergstrom International (AUS) revolve around music. Step off the plane and into a concert as musicians and bands perform live shows on a regular basis. The ongoing performance series, "Music in the Air," is one of the reasons that Travel+Leisure magazine rated this airport among its favorites in the domestic category. This being Texas, you'll also find plenty of local eateries that feature staples of the Lone Star State, like barbecue brisket and Tex-Mex specialties. Don’t worry, there are plenty of napkins.

Seattle-Tacoma International Airport

While free WiFi is standard at most major airports these days, Seattle-Tacoma International (SEA), or Sea-Tac as it’s commonly called, takes it up a notch by offering its own web radio station. That's no surprise to those who know the area well. Seattle has a rich and diverse music culture, which is spotlighted throughout Sea-Tac with free performances by local bands, video monitors showcasing the area's music history and notable acts, as well as music-themed art exhibits. This being the Pacific Northwest, fresh seafood finds its way to many eateries, so you can get your fill of Alaska king salmon and oysters straight from Puget Sound.

Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport

The Hartsfield-Jackson International (ATL) in Atlanta is the world's busiest airport. Frequent business travelers like to joke, "You can't get to heaven without first connecting at Hartsfield." It's an enormous airport, but if you use the automated train that connects its six concourses to the main terminal, there's a lot to explore while on layover. Plentiful shopping and dining options are found in gate areas and terminal buildings, including many local options. And if you need to get some exercise, skip the train and moving sidewalks for a brisk walk through the long, art-adorned underground tunnel that runs beneath the concourses during your airport layover.

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