Layover at Los Angeles International Airport sounds boring. So, LAX has introduced plenty of things to do at the airport for travelers to enjoy while waiting for their flight.
The airport offers a wide range of activities and amenities both within its terminals and in the nearby vicinity. This guide will walk you through the top 7 activities to make the most of your layover at LAX, from exploring nearby attractions to enjoying airport facilities.
Eat & Dine
Before looking to explore the things to do at LAX, you might feel hungry. The airport has diverse culinary offerings with various dining choices from top-class restaurants to quick-service fast-food outlets. There are also plenty of options for healthy juices and salads.
During your layover, you can have some delectable Californian cuisine at Terminal 1 i.e. JetBlue Airways LAX Terminal 1, or relax with a beverage at one of the airport bars.
Moreover, LAX is a foodie’s paradise and spot with flavors from around the world ready to increase your taste buds. Some of these famous dining spots in Los Angeles Airport include:
- The Border Grill
- Lemonade
- Shake Shack
- Cole’s
- Cole’s for Mexican cuisine
Shopping
Whether searching for designer threads or unique souvenirs, LAX terminals are full of shops offering everything from luxury goods to local LA finds especially the modern TBIT i.e. Emirates Airlines LAX Terminal which provides different shopping stores within its Great Hall.
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) offers extensive duty-free shopping options, from designer clothing to luxury items, beauty products, electronics, and travel essentials.
Moreover, there are numerous souvenir shops with a Hollywood theme, both a few surf and sports stores. If you want to purchase branded watches, consider options like Longines, Omega, Montblanc, Zenith, Chopard, and Hublot.
Explore Art and Culture
As you go through the terminals at LAX Airport, look at captivating art installations and cultural exhibits that add a touch of creativity and inspiration to your journey. The dedicated Contour Airlines LAX Terminal 1 has several art pieces of art by Lia Halloran, Bia Gayotto, Jamie Scholnick, Erin Miller Wray, and many more.
In addition, the airport offers live music and performances to keep travelers entertained during their layovers at LAX. There are multiple sculptures and aesthetic paintings within every terminal of this airport. The FlightPath Museum is a must-visit for aviation enthusiasts, it has a rich collection of aeronautical artifacts and historical items.
Relax at Lounges
Take a break from the hustle and bustle in exclusive lounges. Various lounges at LAX give access to travelers of all classes for a fee. You can either pay at the door, buy a pass online, or utilize a lounge membership program.
Enjoy plush seating, complimentary refreshments, and a shower to freshen up before your next flight. While you are on a layover at LAX Airport, consider spending your time in a calm environment like at the dedicated Frontier Airlines LAX Terminal 5. You can also take advantage of the available food, drinks, and amenities at this terminal.
Spa at LAX
XpresSpa provides massages, facials, and even private showers if you need to refresh and relax after spending a long flight. This is one of the best things to do at LAX Airport and utilize your time while on an extended layover.
Additionally, Be Relax Spa also offers facials and manicures at LAX. Hence, after a long travel and waits between flights, you will feel relaxed and continue your journey peacefully.
Sleep and Rest
If you are feeling tired and want to relax in a quiet place, you might be looking for if there are sleep pods at LAX Airport. As of now LAX does not have dedicated sleep pods within its terminals but has various other options like, seating areas, lounges, and nearby hotels to relax during layovers.
Fun Activities
LAX’s Family Fun Zone offers dedicated play areas like Terminal B where children can safely enjoy themselves while parents relax. This terminal is also known as Copa Airlines LAX Terminal.
Also, free WiFi ensures everyone stays connected and entertained, making it easy to manage layover time while kids burn off energy in a secure and enjoyable environment.
Things To Do Near LAX on a Layover
Near Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), an array of attractions awaits, from picturesque beaches to vibrant neighborhoods offering dining, shopping, and cultural experiences. You can enjoy and explore these nearby attractions especially if you have a long layover.
To get to these nearby places, various public bus routes are available to connect the airport with various city locations. Grabbing a taxi or car-sharing service will help you to spend less time at the airport.
Short Layover
Near LAX, options like Manhattan Beach and Dockweiler State Beach offer quick relaxation with sandy shores and beachside dining. If the weather permits, consider either enjoying the waves or renting a surfboard.
El Segundo, located just across from LAX, boasts a charming main street with excellent dining options and shopping. It is a perfect mini-adventure between flights on a short layover.
Long Layover
For longer layovers, explore Santa Monica and Venice Beach. Rent a bike along the South Bay Bicycle Trail or delve into Los Angeles, discovering landmarks in Hollywood and Beverly Hills.
In addition to this, Downtown LA (DTLA) is emerging as a trendy destination, with newly established entertainment venues, shops, and restaurants near the Staples Center. You must explore this beautiful place near LAX Airport when you have sufficient time between your connecting flights.
Final Words
While thinking about the things to do at LAX Airport for all layover durations, this airport has unique choices such as dining options of diverse cuisines and quick bites. Another facility includes shopping venues like Alaska Airlines Terminal 6 that provide essentials and luxury goods.
Spa services offer relaxation with massages and treatments, and there are comfortable rest areas and lounges for unwinding between flights. Whether travelers are looking for a meal, shopping, spa services, or a place to rest, LAX ensures a pleasant and accommodating experience throughout their time at the airport.
Frequently Asked Questions
What to do in Los Angeles Airport?
On a layover at LAX Airport, you can enjoy dining options, duty-free shopping, spas like XpresSpa and Be Relax, art installations, free WiFi, and relaxation spots.
Can I go out of LAX airport during a layover?
Yes, you can leave the airport during a layover at LAX, especially if you have enough time. There are many nearby attractions and beaches like Manhattan Beach and Santa Monica Pier that are a short taxi or shuttle ride away.
What are some good places to eat at LAX?
LAX Airport has several dining options from restaurants to quick meals. Some popular choices include Lemonade and Border Grill.
Is there free WiFi at Los Angeles Airport?
Yes, LAX offers free WiFi throughout all terminals. You can connect to the network and stay connected during your layover.
Are there lounges at LAX where I can relax during my layover?
Yes, LAX has several lounges operated by airlines where you can relax, enjoy complimentary snacks and beverages, use WiFi, and sometimes even take a shower.
Are there any activities for kids at LAX?
LAX has kid-friendly play areas in some terminals where children can play and expend energy before their next flight. These areas are equipped with activities suitable for younger travelers.
Can I shop duty-free at Los Angeles Airport?
Yes, LAX has duty-free shopping available in some terminals. You can find a variety of shops offering luxury goods, electronics, souvenirs, and more.
Can you leave LAX during a 4-hour layover?
Yes, you can check out the airport and explore nearby beaches but it is recommended not to go far away from the airport if you have only got a 4-hour layover at LAX.
Is 45 minutes enough time for a layover at LAX?
45 minutes is not enough time for a layover at LAX, especially in the case of international flights and terminal changes. Typically, the suggested layover duration must be 1 hour.
What can you do with a 7-hour layover in LAX?
During a 7-hour layover at LAX, you can explore nearby attractions like Venice Beach or Hollywood, relax in an airport lounge, or take a local tour.