Airport Amenities Soar: From Therapy Llamas to Bourbon Tastings, How Airports Are Elevating the Travel Experience
As holiday travel surges, airports across the U.S. are increasingly focused on transforming layovers from stressful waits into enjoyable experiences. A growing number of facilities are offering unique amenities – from bourbon tasting rooms and animal encounters to immersive art installations and even gambling opportunities – designed to entertain and relax travelers.
Holiday Travel Reaches New Heights
According to data from AAA, air travel reached a new record during Thanksgiving 2023, with approximately 6 million people flying domestically. This represents a 2% increase compared to the previous year, though recent flight cancellations may slightly lower the final tally. Historically, Thanksgiving air travel has averaged between 5 and 6 million passengers in recent years. Given these numbers, preparing for potential disruptions and having a plan to occupy your time during layovers is more important than ever.
A Tour of Unexpected Airport Delights
Airports are responding to traveler needs with increasingly creative offerings. Here’s a look at some of the most interesting ways to spend extra time while waiting for your flight:
Louisville, Kentucky: A Bourbon and Baseball Haven
At Louisville’s Muhammad Ali International Airport, travelers can immerse themselves in Kentucky culture. Before security, the Churchill Downs Store offers Louisville Slugger merchandise and other local gifts. Post-security, the Distillery District Marketplace and Hip & Humble provide unique Kentucky-made items. For a final taste of the Bluegrass State, the Bourbon Academy Tasting Room boasts a menu, over 80 Kentucky bourbons, and views of the tarmac.
Portland, Oregon: Llamas, Movies, and Natural Light
Portland International Airport offers a particularly unique experience. Travelers can encounter therapy llamas and alpacas roaming the concourse, designed to calm anxious passengers. For movie buffs, a 22-seat microcinema showcases 10-minute shorts by regional filmmakers. The airport also features live trees and ceilings constructed from locally sourced Douglas Fir, creating a calming and natural atmosphere.
Chicago, Illinois: Bees, Art, and Relaxation at O’Hare
Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport is buzzing with activity – literally. In 2011, O’Hare became the first U.S. airport to host beehives, managed by BeeLove, a company that trains and employs individuals returning from incarceration. Travelers can purchase honey and honey-based skincare products made on-site. Beyond the bees, O’Hare features numerous art installations, children’s play spaces, a 75-foot Brachiosaurus skeleton replica, a yoga studio, and a full-service spa.
Denver, Colorado: Immersive Art and Outdoor Retreats
Denver International Airport offers a portal to another world with the Meow Wolf gift shop on Concourse C. Meow Wolf, known for its immersive art experiences, allows travelers to purchase unique merchandise like Cosmic Plushies and Cozy Noodle blankets. For those seeking fresh air, the airport boasts three outdoor decks with firepits and modern seating, open year-round, weather permitting.
Las Vegas, Nevada: A Chance to Strike It Rich
Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas offers a final opportunity to test your luck. In November, one passenger won a $1.57 million jackpot on a “Wheel of Fortune” slot machine while waiting for their flight. Dozens of slot machines are available for travelers hoping to strike it rich before or after their journey.
Minneapolis, Minnesota: Celebrating Prince and Promoting Wellness
The Minneapolis-Saint Paul Airport pays tribute to local legend Prince with a dedicated store selling apparel, CDs, and vinyl records. Travelers can also stay active on the airport’s 1.4-mile walking path or explore the See18 film screening room, which features short films about Minnesota arts and culture.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania: Robots and Sensory Relief
Pittsburgh International Airport features the whimsical Fraley’s Robot Repair, an art installation that emulates an antiquated robot repair shop. The airport also prioritizes accessibility, offering Presley’s Place, a Sensory Room designed to provide a calming space for travelers with autism and other neurodevelopmental challenges.
These examples demonstrate a broader trend: airports are no longer simply transit hubs, but destinations in their own right. By investing in unique amenities, airports are aiming to improve the overall travel experience and create a more positive impression for passengers.
