Sachin Walls
Passing time at the airport can be a tedious affair, but it doesn't have to be. There are plenty of ways to keep yourself entertained and even productive while waiting for your flight. From exploring the airport's unique amenities to grabbing a bite at one of the many restaurants, there's something for everyone. If you're feeling active, some airports offer yoga studios or small fitness centres, while others provide entertainment in the form of art galleries, aquariums, cinemas, or even a rooftop pool. For those who want to unwind, airport lounges offer a quiet space with comfortable seating, snacks, and free WiFi. So, whether you're looking to stay active, indulge in some retail therapy, or simply relax, there's no need to dread those extra hours at the airport.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Bring a book or magazine | Find a quiet spot and get lost in a story |
| Listen to music or a podcast | Create a travel playlist or catch up on your favourite podcasts |
| People-watch | Make up stories about the lives of the people passing by |
| Walk around and explore | Discover new shops and restaurants, or simply enjoy the airport architecture |
| Meditate or do yoga | Find a quiet gate or corner and take some time to relax and stretch |
| Plan your trip | Research your destination, make a list of places to visit, or learn some basic phrases in the local language |
| Do some airport shopping | Treat yourself to some duty-free shopping or pick up souvenirs for your loved ones |
| Work remotely | If you're travelling for work, take advantage of the airport's free Wi-Fi and get some work done |
| Freshen up | Some airports offer shower facilities, so you can freshen up before your flight |
| Enjoy the food | Try out the different restaurants and cafes, or simply indulge in some people-watching while snacking |
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What You'll Learn
Eat and drink at the airport's restaurants and bars
Eating and drinking at the airport is a great way to pass the time, and you'll be surprised at the variety of options available. Most airports have a wide range of restaurants and bars, from quick bites and fast food to full-service, sit-down meals. Many airports feature well-known chefs and popular local restaurants, allowing you to sample the local cuisine even if you don't have time to explore the city. For example, Sydney Airport has Kitchen by Mike, showcasing a seasonal menu by Sydney chef Mike McEnearney.
If you're looking for a more substantial meal, some airports, like Memphis, offer regional specialties. Memphis Airport has four in-terminal BBQ restaurants, perfect for meat lovers. Chicago's O'Hare International Airport (ORD) showcases the city's culinary scene with its JBF@ORD chef series, featuring celebrity chefs and tastings. Denver International Airport (DEN) also offers a variety of dining options, including the family-owned Vietnamese eatery Bun Mee and the dim sum hotspot Koi Palace.
For a quick bite, Denver International Airport also has Proper Food in Harvey Milk Terminal 1, which offers pre-packaged grab-and-go meals. Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport provides a wide range of choices, with over 50 restaurants and cafes on both sides of security. Toronto Pearson International Airport caters to various preferences, offering top chef restaurants, bars, budget-friendly options, and family-friendly dining, as well as vegetarian and gluten-free choices.
If you're in the mood for something unique, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport has a vending machine called Kawaii Treats, filled with Japanese treats like cakes in a can and boba tea—perfect for an Instagram-worthy shot. For a more relaxed atmosphere, some airport lounges offer snacks, drinks, and comfortable seating for a small fee. These lounges can be a great way to unwind and pass the time, and some even have additional amenities like showers and movie theatres.
Whether you're looking for a quick bite, a taste of local cuisine, or a relaxing dining experience, airports nowadays offer a diverse range of options to suit your preferences and time constraints. So, the next time you're facing a long layover, remember to explore the culinary offerings of the airport and treat yourself to a delightful dining experience!
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Explore the airport's art, entertainment and attractions
Art and travel go hand-in-hand. Both provide glimpses of other places, other perspectives, and other cultures. Airports are increasingly turning to art to make the travelling experience more enjoyable.
Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), for example, has been building its collection since 1977. The airport features a 400-foot-long by 22-foot-tall installation by artist Gordon Huether. Hung in the escalator well of The New SLC Terminal, the installation is inspired by the surrounding landscape, resembling the waterfalls and canyons of Utah. Passengers are also greeted by "The Peaks", a monumental gateway installation inspired by the Wasatch Mountains, honouring Utah's five major Native American tribes and the five elements of the natural world.
The Pittsburgh International Airport also has an Art & Culture program that showcases diverse art installations and performances by local, regional, national, and international artists. Their Sense of Place program aims to connect travellers to the unique art, culture, cuisine, and institutions of the Pittsburgh region.
The Reagan National Airport outside Washington, DC, features a variety of art pieces, including stained glass, marble and glass mosaics, cast bronze, hammered aluminium, and copper. The airport also hosts rotating exhibits, live performances, and public art displays that celebrate the stately beauty, spirit, and creativity of the National Capital Region.
In addition to visual arts, some airports feature musical performances. The Salt Lake City Department of Airports, for instance, occasionally schedules live music for passengers during holidays, special events, or announcements.
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Exercise, do yoga or go for a walk
Exercise, do yoga, or go for a walk to pass the time at the airport. Walking is an easy way to burn calories while you wait for your flight. The distance you walk at the airport can be quite long, so wearing comfortable shoes is important. Some airports, like Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, have longer walks than others, so be prepared to walk a lot before you even board your flight.
If you want to be more active, try some bodyweight exercises. You can do squats, or even use your suitcase as a piece of workout equipment and row it to work on your lat muscles and increase your upper-body pulling strength. You can also do incline push-ups on a chair or bench to strengthen your upper body.
Yoga is another great option to pass the time and stay active. You can do a simple 5-pose sequence designed for long layovers. For example, try a hands-free version of dolphin to stretch your upper back and release your hamstrings. Find a ledge for your elbows that is similar in height to your hips, such as the back of a chair. Walk your feet back until your hips are aligned over your heels, and use your inhalations and exhalations to move your chest and legs, helping to release tension in your upper back and lengthen your spine.
If you're comfortable sitting on the floor, you can separate your legs into a wide V-shape, keeping your spine long. On an exhalation, fold forward, reaching your arms out in front of you. You can hold your ankles or bend your elbows in front of you, staying in this position for 10 breaths or longer.
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Relax in an airport lounge or spa
If you're looking to unwind before your flight, airport lounges and spas can be a great option. While some airline lounges are exclusive to elite members and first-class passengers, many lounges offer day passes or memberships for a fee. These lounges provide a tranquil escape from the bustling terminal, offering amenities like comfortable seating, complimentary food and drinks, quick check-in, and enhanced Wi-Fi. Some even feature nap pods, massage rooms, and shower areas. Be sure to check the policies and amenities of the lounge you wish to visit, and consider purchasing access in advance to secure your spot during peak hours.
For an indulgent treat, you can also explore airport spas. For instance, the Syona Spa at Chennai Airport offers a range of massage services, providing a relaxing experience during long layovers. Ode Spa at Chennai Airport is another option, where you can unwind with a refreshing massage or aromatherapy. If you're looking for a more comprehensive wellness program, the Dreamfolks Dragonpass Airport Wellness Program includes spa access and is accepted at select locations. Keep in mind that availability and quality of services can vary across different airport spas.
To elevate your airport experience further, consider combining lounge access with spa treatments. Some airport lounges provide spa-like amenities, such as shower facilities and massage rooms, allowing you to relax and rejuvenate before your flight. This can be especially beneficial if you're travelling for an extended period or simply want to start your journey feeling refreshed and energised.
Remember, airport lounges and spas can vary in terms of amenities and services offered, so it's always a good idea to research and plan ahead to make the most of your time at the airport. Whether you're seeking a tranquil environment to relax or looking to indulge in some self-care, airport lounges and spas can be a great way to pass the time and enhance your overall travel experience.
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Read, play games or watch TV shows
If you're looking for ways to pass the time at an airport, reading, playing games, or watching TV shows are all great options.
Read
Most airports have bookstores or newsstands where you can purchase books or magazines to read while you wait. Alternatively, you can bring your own book, magazine, or e-reader to pass the time. If you're travelling with children, bringing child-friendly books is a great way to keep them entertained.
Play Games
Airports can be a great place to play games, whether it's on your own or with fellow travellers. Many airports have entertainment areas with free video games and music-listening pods, like Singapore's Changi Airport. You can also bring your own handheld games console or play board games, card games, or solo games like sudoku or crossword puzzles.
Watch TV Shows
Watching TV shows is a great way to pass the time at the airport. While many airports offer free WiFi, it's a good idea to pre-download your favourite shows or movies to your laptop or mobile device before you arrive, as connection speed and quality may vary. Some airport lounges also offer movies, and some high-end lounges even have putting greens and movie theatres.
In addition to these activities, many airports offer unique entertainment options, such as art galleries, aquariums, observation decks, and gardens. You can also pass the time by people-watching, socialising with fellow travellers, or exploring the airport's shops and restaurants.
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Frequently asked questions
There are many ways to pass time at the airport. You can grab a bite to eat, walk around the airport, or people-watch. If you're looking for something more relaxing, some airports offer massages and spa services.
Many airports have free WiFi, so you can binge a good TV show or play games on your phone or laptop. Some airports also have art galleries, aquariums, cinemas, and even guided airport tours.
If you're looking to be productive, you can always work remotely or get some exercise. Many airports have small fitness centres or yoga studios.
Some airports offer unique amenities like a rooftop pool, adult slides, ice skating, or squash courts. If you have a long layover, you can also consider playing tourist for a few hours if the airport is located near the city centre.
