These U.S. Airports Are All Vibes (and Fun Destinations) for Your Next Layover

I've been traveling 1:1 with my kids for awhile now and each trip, I learn something new. And something that's surprised me about travel is how airports really are a gateway to the city they represent. Airports are not merely hubs for travel; they are a welcome center to your destination, creating a sense of place that's all part of the travel experience.

In many ways, an airport is a first impression to a city and, as an unabashed "vibes" person, an airport really does set the mood for my next trip. I've been to many an airport in my travels and while some have not made a good first impression (or layover location), I've found the following 10 U.S. airports to be unexpectedly delightful and full of positive vibes.

1. LaGuardia Airport (LGA)

We won't bury the lead on this one... LGA infamously went through a major, $8 billion renovation and it was worth dealing with the construction and delays. The 25-foot water feature with programmed "shows" is a welcome boredom-buster if you're stuck waiting for a flight in Terminal B. Plus, there are local food outposts and public art installations to help kill time. It's new modern looks is a far cry from the old, run-down airport, making it the go-to airport of choice for layovers now in the tri-state area.

2. Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC)

When flying from Portland, Oregon, back to Cincinnati, Ohio, I had a layover in Salt Lake City and oh my word: the views. This airport is literally surrounded by the mountains; during my layover I had one of the best airport coffees of my life and simply sat and stared out the window at the mountains.

3. Portland International Airport (PDX)

I chose Portland, Oregon, as the destination for my very first solo trip because I knew this city would bring the vibes. What I was not expecting, however, was for PDX's airport to bring the vibes. After deplaning I walked through the airport and discovered murals, friendly folks clad in flannel and boots, an the most breathtaking mountain views my Midwest eyes had ever seen. If your travel day gets to you, find the airport's therapy llamas for an instant mood boost.

4. Indianapolis International Airport (IND)

Indianapolis is a city known for sports (hello Indiana Pacers and, you know, Indy 500), and the Indianapolis International Airport leans into this legacy in all the right ways. From vintage race cars, sports sculptures and shops that sell Indiana themed merch, IND is a gem in the midwest. As a bonus, the airport is accessible and manageable, especially with kids.

5. Denver International Airport (DEN)

Between the Rocky Mountain views, unique architecture, and conspiracy theories, Denver is an albeit interesting airport to spend a layover. While you risk getting stuck in inclement weather—there is an on-site Westin if you need it—there are plenty of activities (and therapy animals) to keep you busy.

Get a few practice swings in at the golf simulator (located in Terminal A), lounge in the zero gravity chairs in the free lounge space, take in the views (and cozy up by a fire pit) and one of the three outdoor decks, and walk around to find pieces of the extensive public art collection (including Colorado-inspired rotating exhibitions). Best part is you can walk throughout the whole airport on your layover, no hidden gates or trams required—there is a people mover if you prefer though.

6. Seattle–Tacoma International Airport (SEA)

Flying into Seattle for the first time was a magical experience for this Midwest girl. The scenery was breathtaking and if you think the view from The Seattle Great Wheel are something, the views from above as the plane landed in Seattle were everything.

This airport is rather large and you'll want to reserve lots of time for the trams between terminals. But if you give yourself that time, what you'll find is a lovely airport surrounded by natural beauty that makes a great first impression of the Pacific Northwest. P.S. Make sure you say hi to the SEA Pups in the Central Terminal and N Concourse.

7. Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS)

Austin is nothing is not a vibe and the airport reflects the city's commitment to keepin' it weird. When I visited Austin, Texas, with my artistic teenager we were both intrigued by the 30+ artworks; our absolute favorite was, hands down, "Meander Wings" by Marc Fornes. The Austin airport also pays homage to the city's music culture with live music and local restaurants serving BBQ, Tex-Mex, and more.

8. Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT)

On a trip to Houston I had a layover in Charlotte and honestly, I was positively delighted by this airport. I loved all of the nods to the state's aviation history and also the variety of indoor plants and art pieces—plus, those rocking chairs! Since then, I have intentionally chosen CLT when it's a layover option for flights.

The airport just completed a major renovation (some areas are still being finalized) with expanded food options in the terminals and brand new departure and arrival areas. It's an American hub, so while there can be a backlog of delays when whether hits, if you do miss your connection, there are plenty of other flight options and customer service agents to help—plus Canine Crew therapy dogs.

9. Portland International Jetport (PWM)

Portland International Jetport is a quintessential "Maine" vibe that's a warm welcome to this proud seaport town. It's located surprisingly close to the city center and all of the people at PWM with whom I interacted have been delightful. Pro tip: Note the Portland airport codes—on my first trip to Portland, Maine, I booked my rental car for Portland, Oregon, but the associate there was more than happy to help sort things and told me my mistake happens frequently.

10. Cincinnati/Covington Airport (CVG)

CVG is the closest airport to my house and it feels like home. It's thoughtfully laid out and easy to navigate (no trams necessary for rental cars or getting between terminals) and something I love so much about CVG is that there are giant fossils dispersed throughout the terminals c/o the Cincinnati Museum Center. One of the best things about this airport is getting to see the iconic "cut in the hill" view of the Cincinnati skyline whenever I come home from a trip.

Delays and cancellations can (and do) happen at any airport, including the above! This is an inevitability with travel (but so worth it, in my opinion—check out our tips for flying article as well as our ultimate guide to finding cheap flights!).

The next time you find yourself with a layover or simply waiting in the checked bag queue, take a moment to appreciate the scenery, the art, the vibes, of your airport. Then map out your adventure using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.