The words “fun” and “airport” are rarely featured in the same sentence, especially since 9/11, and even more so since that dimwit allegedly tried to take down Northwest Airlines flight 253 on Christmas Day by stashing liquid explosives in his underwear.
However, savvy travelers know that certain airports feature noteworthy boredom busters. If you are planning on flying through any of the following airports this holiday weekend, consider what they have to offer:
Las Vegas: Who says you have to bid Lady Luck adieu when you leave your hotel on the Strip? You can continue pressing your luck at the nearly 1,300 slot machines at McCarran Airport.
Austin, Texas: At the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport you don’t have to wait until you’re downtown to start partying. The airport features 11 live music performances each week for ticketed passengers. The jam sessions take place on a stage next to Ray Benson’s roadhouse in the center of the terminal building on the concourse level.
Charlotte, North Carolina: Passengers off all ages looking to escape the chaos of check-in and security will appreciate the comfortable oasis area at Charlotte Douglas International Airport. The airport features a peaceful atrium lined with trees and white wooden rocking chairs, similar to those found on Southern front porches. The rockers were part of a 1997 exhibit called “Porchsitting,” but they were so popular that they became a permanent fixture.
Baltimore, Maryland: What better way to take the edge off being trapped in an airport than devouring traditional Maryland blue crab? At Baltimore-Washington International Airport, not only can you dine on the popular crustacean, you can also get your picture taken by a colorful stained-glass sculpture of a crab. It measures 10 feet long and 5 1/2 feet high, and it’s a hit with flyers of all ages.
Taipei, Taiwan: The Taoyuan Airport is on my daughter’s list of must-visit places. Why? Two words: Hello Kitty! The airport has an entire gate area designed with a Hello Kitty motif, from the chairs and wall decorations to a children’s play area and several stores.
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