Nature views, therapy llamas and 'impeccable' bathrooms give boost to 'best' airports
A recent survey of over 2,300 people identified one airport in the Pacific Northwest as the best in the country — thanks in part to its decor plus its food and drink offerings. Therapy llamas are even available on occasion to help ease pre-flight jitters for those in need.
The analysis, done by The Washington Post, solicited responses from readers and looked at more than 450,000 Yelp reviews. Researchers collected data on gate capacity, parking and more for over 450 public airports and narrowed the list down to the top 50.
"The best airport is the one that fills your needs and gets you to your final destination with minimal interruptions," Sheldon Jacobson, an engineering professor at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, told Fox News Digital — noting that the country's most trafficked airports did not make the list. (He was not affiliated with the new survey.)
Counting down from 10 to 1, here are the airports that stood apart from the rest, according to the survey.
Michigan's DTW landed at No. 10 on the best U.S. airports list, with flyers marveling over its underground LED tunnel that shuttles them through concourses.
Another attraction is a 39-foot-wide fountain in DTW's McNamara Terminal, which shoots water in a pattern inspired by a flight map.
Utah's SLC came in at No. 9. The facility was recently rebuilt – a factor many people appreciated.
Participants noted the airport's spacious design, natural light and mountain views.
Others gave it high-flying reviews because of its abundance of restrooms and cozy greeting room.
One reader praised the "non-extortion prices" in SLC's shops and restaurants.
Indiana's IND took 8th place.
A simple layout, towering ceilings and sleek decor made it a fan favorite.
One reader said it had "easy everything." The airport contains more than a mile of walking paths and the popular steakhouse Harry & Izzy's.
New Mexico's ABQ, named in homage to the city known for abundant sunshine, is known for its southwestern architecture, which gives "local pueblo" vibes with murals by Native American artists.
Flyers can grab a cup of piñon coffee flavored with a nut grown in the deserts of New Mexico.
The bathrooms at PVD also got an honorable mention among survey participants, one of whom said they were "impeccable and beautifully designed."
The Rhode Island hub also offers a free library, local food and live music. It boasts easy parking and navigation.
Seattle's PAE feels more like a "posh hotel" than an airport, readers said, with bellhops for luggage, plus limestone-accented walls and leather couches and lounge chairs.
The snow-capped Olympic Mountains can be seen in the distance.
PAE includes a wine bar and a Beecher's Handmade Cheese outpost.
The snow-capped Olympic Mountains can be seen in the distance.
Travelers reported that MSP is a breeze to get through. Flyers can decompress in its designated quiet space and massage chairs — and even watch short films by local filmmakers.
Music pays homage to Minneapolis-native Prince, and a store is inspired by the "Purple Rain" musician. Shops also offer T-shirts emblazoned with cans of Spam, which was invented in the state.
DCA, in Arlington, Virginia, boasts first-class convenience thanks to its proximity to Washington, D.C., survey respondents said.
The walk to DCA's gates is short, and it offers some of the best airport views in the country, including of landmarks like the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial — placing it at No. 3 on the list.
Long Beach Airport in Los Angeles, California placed second on the list of the country's best airports.
The Art Deco building is about 5 miles from the city's beaches and has a courtyard, al fresco dining and summer concerts that make it an "oasis," one reader said.
Passengers also said the airport, which is the oldest in the Golden State, is easy to navigate.
Travelers at Oregon's PDX — coming in at No. 1 in the survey — enjoy its live trees, sky-lit ceilings and natural landscapes played on video walls.
Among PDX's defining features are a giant pink mailbox, occasional therapy llamas, and '80's-inspired carpeting.
Vacation starts early with live music, a speakeasy and a "microcinema."
"People don't mind spending time at the airport – when it's [PDX]," the Port of Portland said in a recent Instagram post.
"Huge thanks to the nearly 10,000 people who keep PDX running with care – from the construction crews and custodians to the musicians in the concourse and the folks serving up donuts, beer and cheese curds with a smile."
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
an hour ago
- Yahoo
I've been on a lot of cruises. I swear by spending at least one port day on the ship.
One of the best ways to enjoy a cruise is to stay on the ship while it's docked at least once. Ships are often pretty empty on port days, so spas offer deals, and lounge chairs are easy to snag. On port days, I love enjoying the ship's amenities at a slow, laid-back pace without crowds. One of the most exciting parts of a cruise is when the ship docks at its next destination. As passengers rush off the boat to explore the stop, though, I sometimes prefer to stay put. This may sound odd, but many experienced cruisers like myself know one of the best ways to make the most of this type of vacation is to stay back on the ship during at least one port day. Skipping a stop may not be for everyone, but it's an especially great option if you're visiting a place you've already seen or one you're not very eager to explore. In most cases, the shops and casinos will be closed while in port, but there are several benefits to staying on the ship while it's docked. Itineraries with several ports often require travelers to wake up early if they want to make a timed excursion or have enough hours to enjoy the port before the ship leaves. However, when I skip the port, I don't need to set an alarm or rush to the buffet to grab an early breakfast. Instead, I like to enjoy a slow morning with my husband, ordering room service to our cabin or visiting a sit-down breakfast venue instead of the buffet. Snagging reservations to sit-down spots is much easier, and even if we stop at the buffet, we rarely have to wait in line since most cruisers are already on land by then. In addition to having a slow start to the day, I've also found that port days are the best time to relax by the pool in peace. On our last cruise, did my husband and I take turns running to the pool deck at 7 a.m. to reserve lounge chairs (even though you're not supposed to)? Did we often plan to relax in an onboard hot tub only to change our minds when we realized it was too crowded? And have I attempted to read my book poolside only to be bothered by crowds of loud children? Yes, yes, and yes. These things don't happen on port days. Now, we know that staying on the ship while thousands of people disembark can be the surefire way to reach these sundeck goals, on our own schedule. If you're not getting off the ship, head to the spa. It can be tricky to snag appointments on sea days because everyone has the same idea to book a massage or a facial while the ship is sailing and there's nowhere to go. On port days, you have a better shot at getting your desire time slot and, even better, you might get a discount. Many cruise lines offer port-day spa specials. I've had great experiences enjoying discounted massages, pedicures, and facials on port days at a discount on both Celebrity and Norwegian ships Be sure to check your ship's daily program or call the spa directly — the staff is usually happy to answer questions. My husband and I use port days as a chance to enjoy the ship's amenities and the upgrades we paid for even more. For example, many ships have great gyms that can be very popular on sea days. They're often less crowded on port days, which are the perfect time to exercise on your own schedule and not have to wait to use your preferred equipment. On a recent sailing, I paid extra to access the Norwegian Cruise Line Vibe Beach Club — a private pool deck with hot tubs, a dedicated bar, upgraded loungers, and comfy sunbeds. I went almost every day of my cruise, but it was especially exclusive-feeling on a port day because there were fewer people. I took a nap, read my book, and sipped frozen cocktails in total peace. After all, there's nothing like avoiding crowds. Read the original article on Business Insider
%3Amax_bytes(150000)%3Astrip_icc()%2Ftal-calpak-makes-my-holy-grail-duffel-backpack-tout-72d956b74e2949e79a2d0c4a68533d70.jpg&w=3840&q=100)
Travel + Leisure
2 hours ago
- Travel + Leisure
Calpak's Fourth of July Sale Has Deals Up to 60% Off—From Editor-approved Suitcases to Oprah-loved Duffels
Whoever coined the phrase 'a Jack of all trades, a master of none' clearly wasn't referencing California-based travel brand Calpak. Originally launched in 1989 as a handbag and wallet supplier, the company has grown to successfully launch everything from diaper bags to long-haul trunk suitcases—all with quality, durability, and functionality at the forefront. It's no wonder that the Oprah-loved brand is a favorite of ours to test here at Travel + Leisure ; whether you need a work-friendly travel tote, a set of packing cubes, or an all-in-one luggage set, Calpak does it all (and quite well , we might add). That's why we're especially stoked about the Calpak 4th of July Sale happening this weekend. This event includes deals up to 60 percent off colorful luggage sets, roomy laptop backpacks, compact carry-ons, and rolling duffel bags. Curious to know which deals we're most excited about? Keep scrolling for the 11 Calpak pieces we recommend shopping for Fourth of July, starting at $32. $175 $77 at Take it from someone who tests and reviews travel products for a living: The Calpak Terra collection is fantastic from top to bottom. This collection of wallets, sling bags, carry-ons, and travel accessories is made with recycled materials and water-resistant ripstop polyester that is, dare I say, practically impossible to scuff up or get dirty. I recently took the Terra 26L Laptop Duffel Backpack on a carry-on-only trek to Puerto Rico and have been using the Terra 35L Tote Bag for beach trips. Both have been absolute lifesavers for staying organized. Now, I'm eyeing this Terra Laptop Backpack to add to my collection. Not only does it come with a myriad of zippered internal and external pockets and a luggage trolley sleeve, but it also has a padded laptop compartment that can be used for a hydration reservoir, transforming it from a commuter bag to a hiking pack. And just like the other bags in Calpak's Terra collection, this two-in-one duffel backpack is made from recycled plastic bottles and has a slick exterior that wipes clean. $165 $66 at What's hot pink, has wheels, and is 60 percent off? This one-of-a-kind Stevyn Rolling Duffel, of course! Previously $165, this $66 carry-on duffel has a large zippered bottom compartment to keep your shoes or bulky items separate from the rest of your clothes, a pass-through trolley sleeve, interior and exterior pockets, two spinning wheels, and reinforced grab handles. When you're tired of carrying it by hand, you can stand it upright and use the telescopic handle to pull it behind you in the airport. $48 $32 at Some adventures call for a smaller bag, and this Luka Mini Belt Bag, 35 percent off, is large enough to hold your most important items without weighing you down. On top of a spacious main compartment, this belt bag comes with a hidden back pocket for stashing your keys, ID, or cash, and has an adjustable nylon strap that can be worn on your waist or across your chest. Hundreds of Calpak shoppers have given a perfect five-star rating, with one reviewer noting that its mini size is perfect for 'everyday use.' $48 $39 at This might just be the cutest way to carry a water bottle. Made easy-to-clean, wipeable materials, this cinch-top water bottle holder is insulated to help keep your beverage cool, and is outfitted with three exterior pockets that can hold your sunglasses, sunscreen, wallet, or keys. The bungee cord opening allows for easy access to your drink, and the adjustable carrying strap can be worn as a crossbody or closer to your chest as a sling bag. $80 $56 at Upgrade your toiletry game with this Fit Hanging Dopp Kit that's flush with storage options. On sale for $24 off, this dopp kit comes with multiple interior mesh pockets, elastic loops, a hanging loop, and a large clear PVC zippered pouch that can be removed and used on its own for shorter trips. It's also made with an antimicrobial lining to keep bacteria and odors at bay. One five-star reviewer called it a 'must-have' for travel. 'I've been on the hunt for a TSA-compliant storage kit that also includes non-liquid storage for literal years, and I'm happy to say that my search is over,' they wrote. 'This product is both sleek and roomy, and can easily accommodate everything I need for trips up to 2 weeks.' $545 $273 at Starting your luggage collection from square one? Scoop up all the bags you'll ever need in one fell swoop thanks to Calpak's Evry Starter Bundle. This complete set comes with a carry-on, a large checked suitcase, three packing cubes, a laundry bag, a shoe bag, and a luggage tag. The suitcases are stacked with features, including 360-degree spinning wheels, interior divider pockets, TSA-approved locks, and two inches of expansion. $265 $212 at Don't let the fun color options fool you: This front pocket carry-on means business. Great for those who travel for work, it comes with a drop-down front lid pocket that has a padded laptop sleeve, a separate pocket for stashing notebooks or important documents, and a zippered mesh pocket for housing the essentials you need quick access to. TSA-approved combination locks, dual spinner wheels, and a side grab handle make moving through the airport a breeze. $98 $59 at Road trippers, soccer parents, and commuters, rejoice: This is the solution you've been looking for to maintain a tidy, organized car. This fully collapsible car organization system expands to create three spacious compartments to keep your essentials separate and easy to grab. Each compartment comes with a mesh separator pocket for documents and small items, and both ends have built-in carry handles for easy transportation. Whether you need a place to stash snacks or a change of clothes, there's no shortage of uses for this organizer. One five-star reviewer even shared that it was an 'unexpected lifesaver' while evacuating a wildfire and became a 'huge help' for housing items they almost left behind. $265 $159 at This Ambeur carry-on boasts a combination of functionality—and style—that is nothing short of impressive. This sleek metallic suitcase comes with four smooth-gliding 360-degree wheels, side handles for easy lifting, interior zippered dividers and pockets, and a TSA-approved combination lock for safekeeping. The coolest feature, though, is the drop-down exterior compartment: It contains two padded laptop sleeves, plus a deep, open pocket that's large enough to hold all of the essentials you need to quickly access while traveling. Each shiny colorway of this carry-on is on sale for over $100 off—while supplies last, that is. $115 $81 at Calpak's Luka collection has a large, dedicated internet fanbase, and this Fourth of July weekend, you can pick up this widely-beloved Luka Expandable Laptop Tote for 30 percent off, marking its original price down to $81. Made with a trendy, puffy exterior, this spacious tote comes with a padded laptop sleeve, a discreet zippered side pocket (perfect for stashing your passport), and an expandable zippered bottom that can add 3.5 additional inches of storage space. $265 $212 at Overpack to your heart's content thanks to the Hue Medium Trunk. It expands up to two additional inches and is 27.75 inches tall, allowing you to pack longer, larger items like trekking poles, knee-high boots, poster tubes, or wrapped gifts with ease. This travel trunk comes with all of Calpak's best luggage features, including 360-degree wheels, a TSA-approved lock, and cushioned grab handles for easy transportation. $180 $99 at If you're in the market for a reliable yet stylish work bag, look no further than the gorgeous Haven laptop tote, 45 percent off. You can customize this tote to suit your needs, too, thanks to the adjustable, removable shoulder strap, removable laptop sleeve, and removable multi-pocket organizational insert. Complete with a trolley sleeve and protective metal rivets at the bottom, this tote is perfect for commuting and business trips alike. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
%3Amax_bytes(150000)%3Astrip_icc()%2Ftal-10-things-to-never-pack-in-a-checked-bag-for-international-trips-and-what-to-bring-instead-tout-b601c00e77e94754bf1dffbcd9b0f7f3.jpg&w=3840&q=100)
Travel + Leisure
4 hours ago
- Travel + Leisure
10 Things a Travel Writer Will Never Pack in a Checked Bag on an International Trip, and What to Pack Instead
In 2017, I sold a tell-all to a magazine titled 'Tales from Tindering in 25 Countries.' I visited all 25 countries, spread out over five continents, in less than 12 months. Nearly a decade later, I'm no longer dating like the Tasmanian devil. But I'm still Katie Talks Travel, a full-time travel writer living out of my luggage. That said, I've learned that there are just some things you simply don't put in checked luggage, especially if you're flying internationally. For starters, there's a decent chance that your bags won't make it to your destination when you do. Then, you have international airline regulations to abide by (in China, for example, a TSA agent once flagged my luggage after I packed a carbon dioxide cartridge in my checked bag for a cycling holiday—the good news is my bike never got a flat tire; the bad news was it took weeks to get my bag back). Finally, there are items that just aren't worth the space they take up, so whether your next international trip is to Australia or Argentina, see below for 10 common mistakes travelers make when it comes to packing a checked bag for a trip abroad, and more importantly, what you should bring instead. I shudder to think that I used to pack my GoPro Hero in my checked luggage. I figured I wasn't going to use it during my flight, so why did I need it in my carry-on? Turns out, there are two very valid reasons why you should never pack your electronics in your checked bag, especially on international flights where more handlers will rifle through it: theft, being the first. And the second? Damage. The best thing to do is invest in a personal item that's big enough to fit your electronics and features padded pockets for them. This Vancropak Carry-on Backpack, for example, is an Amazon's Choice pick with a built-in USB charging port and cable for my beloved Anker power bank, and it comes with packing cubes. I love my old college sweats, and my fiancé loves his New York Yankees gear, but when we travel internationally, we make sure to pack outfits that are also nice enough to wear out to lunch at a white tablecloth restaurant. This is especially true in European countries where locals like to dress to impress, even if they're just taking their dogs out for a walk. It's also worth noting that the locals don't embrace the athleisure trend, so you might want to leave your leggings at home. This Wiholl 2-piece Matching Set is great because it's super soft but also stylish thanks to the well-draped, wide-legged pants and flattering contoured cap-sleeve top. Dress it up with wedges and jewelry for a wine tasting, or pair it with hotel slippers for room service. I've only ever had jewelry (a pair of beautiful handmade earrings I bought for my mom in Africa) stolen out of my checked luggage once. But once is enough to learn my lesson. Now, I always pack jewelry in my personal item after taking it out of its box, and stashing it in something that doesn't scream 'steal me.' For example, check out this super secure Lion Latch Travel Jewelry Box Case that looks like a lip gloss container and attaches to your key ring. 'This was perfect for our vacation,' wrote one satisfied Amazon shopper. 'I could put my jewelry in this and keep it safe, and even with me, even my small diamond studs." I recently got back from traveling around East Africa. Fortunately, I was traveling with Micato Safaris, which sent me a packing list before I left the U.S. that let me know that single-use plastic bags are illegal in Kenya. They're one of dozens of countries that have banned them, or are in the process of doing it. Normally, I always pack a few plastic bags for snacks, toiletries, wet clothes, etc. But now, more than ever, it's a good idea to switch to reusable sacks such as these JHX Travel Laundry Bags with built-in organization that pack down in their pocket. And instead of Ziploc bags, consider these best-selling leakproof clear silicone bags that are so popular on Amazon that more than 4,000 were purchased in the last month alone. Don't get me wrong, I love my Dyson Supersonic hair dryer. However, I'd rather go out in the cold with wet hair than plug it in abroad. Dyson specifically warns shoppers that all of their hair tools are 'precisely engineered' for use in the country where they're purchased (i.e., they're not dual-voltage, so there's a high chance something will go wrong, even if you attempt to use them with a converter). Fortunately, for a fraction of the price, you can score a dual-voltage hair dryer designed for international travel. 'Small but mighty' is how one shopper described the Supcaliy Portable Ionic Hair Dryer, which they used on a European vacation that included a cruise and stays on land. According to TSA, cordless curling irons are also a no-go in checked luggage. This is because they often contain a gas cartridge filled with butane. While I personally don't travel abroad with a curling iron—I just throw on this Sunday Afternoons Havana Hat—I've read great things about the Mini Travel Curling Iron from Furiden that checks all the travel-friendly boxes. It's dual voltage, dual-purpose (use it to curl or straighten), compact enough that it takes up about as much space as an electric toothbrush, and it comes with a cute carrying pouch. 'I am astonished at the gorgeous curls this little curling iron gave me,' wrote a traveler who used it on a trip to the French Riviera. If I had a dollar for every time I packed a pair of heels that seldom saw the light of day, I'd have a closet full of Louboutins. Besides not being comfortable enough to walk more than four city blocks in, they're not practical, especially in countries with cobblestone streets. Since 2023, I've sported a metallic gold pair of Birkenstocks in at least 20 countries. I've worn them with everything from a $350 Alicia Bell maxi dress in Santorini to a pair of cutoff denim shorts and a T-shirt at the Paris Olympics last summer. They're versatile, and I love that I've logged hundreds of miles in them without getting a single blister. I know denim is 'in,' but it doesn't need to be in your checked bag if you're traveling internationally; it's just too big and heavy to warrant packing if you're tight on space, especially if you're traveling in the summer or visiting a hot and humid destination. The savviest, and most stylish, globe-trotters I know all pack bottoms like these Duyan Cotton-Linen Palazzo Pants. They have the trendy wide-leg look and front hand pockets, but they're super lightweight and breathable. They also feature a drawstring waist, so you can leave the bulky belt at home. If you're worried about wrinkles—linen does have that downside—throw in a bottle of this TSA-approved secret wrinkle remover spray that has more than 5,900 five-star ratings on Amazon. In 2016, I went on a 32-day international cruise, and I've taken even longer trips abroad. Still, it's never made sense to pack full-size shampoos, conditioners, lotions, and sunscreens—most of which come in 12-ounce bottles or tubes. If you think you'll need more than the standard TSA-approved 3 ounces (which is what most travel toiletry sets include), stock up on a few of these 6.8-ounce refillable toiletry bottles. They have a 4.6-star average on Amazon, where more than 2,000 were purchased in the last month, and many shoppers who checked them in their luggage for trips longer than one week describe them as 'super easy to fill, they stay tightly closed, and easy to squeeze.' In April, I was personally delivering tampons with plastic applicators to a friend living in South Africa, where they're hard to find. In fact, it can be hard to find comfortable tampons in dozens of countries, so if I'm traveling during that time of the month, I usually dedicate a substantial amount of space in my checked luggage to feminine hygiene supplies that I'm familiar with. But now I'm going to give this collapsible and ultra-compact Saalt Soft Menstrual Cup a shot. It's made of medical-grade silicone, so it's safe to use, easy to clean, and can last up to 10 years—hence, why it's been called a 'real life game changer' by international travelers. Other shoppers prefer packing the Knix Light Period Underwear or Hanes' Boxer Brief Period Underwear (which comes in a value two-pack set). Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
