Vote for your favorite large airport!
USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards
Spending time at the airport is an inevitable part of most travel experiences, and the quality of the airport itself can make a big difference. These 20 large airports across the country have been nominated as the best in the U.S. by an expert panel for offering fantastic amenities, top-notch concessions, and the wealth of destinations they serve.
Which large airport do you think is the best? Vote once per day for your favorite until polls close on Monday, September 23 at noon ET. The 10 winning airports will be announced on Wednesday, October 2.
Read the official Readers' Choice rules.
Spending time at the airport is an inevitable part of most travel experiences, and the quality of the airport itself can make a big difference. These 20 large airports across the country have been nominated as the best in the U.S. by an expert panel for offering fantastic amenities, top-notch concessions, and the wealth of destinations they serve.
Which large airport do you think is the best? Vote once per day for your favorite until polls close on Monday, September 23 at noon ET. The 10 winning airports will be announced on Wednesday, October 2.
Read the official Readers' Choice rules.
Spending time at the airport is an inevitable part of most travel experiences, and the quality of the airport itself can make a big difference. These 20 large airports across the country have been nominated as the best... Read More
Best Large Airport Nominees
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS)
Austin, Texas
As millions of passengers pass through AUS each year, they can enjoy the myriad of ways Austin's culture is on display at this airport. From its local food offerings like Noble Sandwich Co., Salt Lick BBQ, and Amy’s Ice Creams, to abundant art installations and stages playing live music throughout the airport, travelers can get a real sense of what makes the city special.
Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT)
Charlotte, North Carolina
By far the busiest aviation center in the Tar Heel State, Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) operates regular flights to a wealth of destinations both domestic and international. As a major American Airlines hub, the complex's destinations range from Las Vegas to Cancun, while on-property amenities include shoeshine stations, a dedicated video game lounge, and cozy cafés for travelers to enjoy.
Photo courtesy of aoldman // Getty Images
Chicago O' Hare International Airport (ORD)
Chicago, Illinois
One of the busiest airports on the planet in the Jet Age of the '60s to '90s, O'Hare International Airport (ORD) continues to serve as one of the most crucial air transit hubs in the Midwest. Routes reach all corners of the globe, with destinations ranging from Ethiopia to Japan. Domestic travelers have a litany of choices as well, with over 170 nonstop destinations between Fairbanks, Alaska and San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas
Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), the area’s biggest airfield and the second-largest airport in the country, is bright, open, and full of amenities for all kinds of travelers. Passengers traveling through can enjoy more than 70 food choices and plenty of shopping, plus luxuries like spas and top-notch lounges.
Photo courtesy of Denver International Airport
Denver International Airport (DEN)
Denver, Colorado
Denver International Airport (DEN) — the largest airport in the country, at over 50 square miles — ranks among the most visually striking airports in North America. DEN also wins points for its stellar art collection and abundant dining options. Unlike some of the more congested large airports further east, Denver has a light and airy feel; most everything's in easy walking distance or easily accessible via the airport's train.
Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW)
Detroit, Michigan
Officially established in 1930, the Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) currently serves as the busiest airport in all of Michigan, with more than 30 million annual passengers. Since opening, the airport has expanded to cover over 4 square miles filled with plenty of shopping, dining, and lounge options.
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
Atlanta, Georgia
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), the busiest airport in the world, consistently ranks among the country's best airports for shopping and dining. Despite its size, the airport is easy to navigate. And free Wi-Fi and charging stations are available throughout.
Photo courtesy of littleny // Getty Images
John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
Queens, New York
John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) offers a few key amenities that are perfectly designed to ease the overall travel process. For anyone setting off to explore the five boroughs, JFK is equipped with immediate access to the local AirTrain. For any guests with an early-morning connection, the TWA Hotel is a lifesaver — it's located inside the airport, within easy walking distance of security.
LaGuardia Airport (LGA)
Queens, New York
Fresh off the heels of a major renovation, New York's LaGuardia Airport (LGA) has transformed into a polished hub that's rife with innovative new infrastructure. From brand-new terminals and sprawling rows of solar panels to large-scale pedestrian sky-bridges, LGA doesn't just offer a streamlined travel process — it's a glimpse into the future of air travel in the United States.
Photo courtesy of Steven Brooke
Miami International Airport (MIA)
Miami, Florida
Perched at the southeastern tip of the continental United States, Miami International Airport (MIA) serves as a crucial gateway to the Caribbean and Central and South America. This sprawling space measures in at 3,230 acres, offering plenty of room to explore Sunshine State-themed art installations, luxury lounges, and vibrant watering holes equipped with refreshing drinks.
Photo courtesy of Metropolitan Airports Commission
Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP)
St. Paul, Minnesota
While Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MIA) offers direct flights to far-flung destinations like Honolulu, Hawaii, and Anchorage, Alaska, the airport also has its fair share of perks for newly arrived tourists. MSP is equipped with its own light rail that provides direct access to both the Mall of America and downtown Minneapolis. Plus, plenty of dining and shopping options are available to travelers.
Nashville International Airport (BNA)
Nashville, Tennessee
Nashville has been a dominant force in the national music industry for decades, and the rich culture and history of the city can be discovered firsthand even within the airport limits. During a layover at Nashville International Airport (BNA), travelers can snag a wealth of music-themed souvenirs from storefronts like Nashville Jam Session and The Opry Shop, or swing by Tootsie's Orchid Lounge for a taste of Music City. Plus, BNA features art exhibits made by a creative and culturally-diverse batch of local artists, as well as live music performed on four separate stages.
Photo courtesy of Orlando International Airport
Orlando International Airport (MCO)
Orlando, Florida
Orlando International Airport (MCO), the gateway to the theme park capital of the world, scores points for customer satisfaction and its robust concessions program. Plus, the array of art installations adds impressive visual intrigue to the airport's terminals.
Photo courtesy of David Rosenblum / PHL Airport
Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
While a lengthy layover can wear on the nerves of even the most seasoned travelers, Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) is packed with thoughtful concessions and amenities to keep visitors occupied as they wait for their flights. Travelers can shop, enjoy delicious bites, relax at a spa, and stroll through the airport's many rotating art exhibitions.
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX)
Phoenix, Arizona
One of the busiest airports in the United States is Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX). In addition to offering flights to far-flung locations like Paris and Frankfurt, the airport also acts as a hub for American Airlines.
Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC)
Salt Lake City, Utah
For anyone wishing to explore the spectacular beauty of the Beehive State, Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) is the perfect jumping-off point. In addition to polished restaurants, brewpubs, and souvenir shops, the complex is currently undergoing an extensive renovation, ushering in a wealth of dazzling art installations and innovative infrastructure to make travel smoother and more enjoyable than ever.
Photo courtesy of San Francisco International Airport
San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
San Francisco, California
Adorned with colorful artwork, cozy lounges, and its own dedicated yoga room, San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is a particularly relaxing final stop after exploring the Bay Area. In addition to offering connections to a massive array of U.S. cities, the airport also provides direct access to a wealth of international destinations, with options ranging from Auckland to Zurich to Osaka. Plus, thanks to the Quiet Airport program which limits unnecessary background noise, traveling through SFO is a smooth, serene experience.
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)
Seattle, Washington
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) frequently ranks among the world’s best airports, earning high scores for its design and comfort. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, impressive art installations, live music, abundant power outlets, and plenty of dining choices, including some that stay open 24 hours a day.
Photo courtesy of Tampa International Airport
Tampa International Airport (TPA)
Tampa, Florida
Tampa International Airport (TPA) provides quick access to some of the finest vacation destinations across Florida's Gulf Coast. Visitors can take advantage of the many bars, restaurants, and souvenir shops scattered across its terminals. And, for travelers with early morning flights, the complex comes equipped with its own on-site hotel — the Tampa Airport Marriott — located just a few steps away from security.
Photo courtesy of MWAA
Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)
Dulles, Virginia
Though it's one of the younger airports in the D.C. area, Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) has garnered an impressive flight roster since its debut in 1962. While domestic destinations include iconic cities like Boston, Los Angeles, and Miami, those hoping to reach far-flung corners of the globe have a wealth of direct flight options to choose from, including destinations like Delhi and Cape Town.
About 10Best Readers' Choice Awards
Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best.
The Experts
Allison Tibaldi
Allison Tibaldi is a travel and food writer based... Read More
Allison Tibaldi is a travel and food writer based in New York City. She has lived in Rome, Tuscany, Melbourne Australia, Toronto and Los Angeles. She studied early childhood development in graduate school and firmly believes that travel is the best education. She writes for numerous publications including CNN, Travel Channel, HGTV, am New York, Emirates Open Skies, Family Traveller and Travel Weekly.
Allison Tibaldi
Allison Tibaldi is a travel and food writer based in New York City. She has lived in Rome, Tuscany, Melbourne Australia, Toronto and Los Angeles. She studied early childhood development in graduate school and firmly believes that travel is the best education. She writes for numerous publications including CNN, Travel Channel, HGTV, am New York, Emirates Open Skies, Family Traveller and Travel Weekly.
Christopher Parr
Christopher Parr is the Founder and... Read More
Christopher Parr is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Pursuitist, one of the world’s most influential luxury lifestyle and travel guides. Named a "Top 10 Luxury Travel Blogger” by USA Today 10Best, Parr has also been selected as the official winner in Luxury Lifestyle Awards’ 2023 list of the “Top 50 Best Luxury Influencers and Bloggers in the World.” In addition to Pursuitist, Christopher is a contributor to numerous travel and luxury publications and TV shows, including being the host of Travel Tuesday on CBS. Follow along on Twitter.
Christopher Parr
Christopher Parr is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Pursuitist, one of the world’s most influential luxury lifestyle and travel guides. Named a "Top 10 Luxury Travel Blogger” by USA Today 10Best, Parr has also been selected as the official winner in Luxury Lifestyle Awards’ 2023 list of the “Top 50 Best Luxury Influencers and Bloggers in the World.” In addition to Pursuitist, Christopher is a contributor to numerous travel and luxury publications and TV shows, including being the host of Travel Tuesday on CBS. Follow along on Twitter.
Marla Cimini
Marla is an award-winning writer with a passion... Read More
Marla is an award-winning writer with a passion for travel, music, surfing and culinary adventures! An avid globetrotter and guidebook writer, she has covered topics such as the Hawaiian islands (including food trends and luxury beachfront resorts), as well as European getaways and global destinations. Her articles have appeared in many publications worldwide, including USA Today. Marla lives in New Jersey (Philadelphia area) and is a frequent visitor to Hawaii and Southern California, and often covers those destinations. Her travel website is: www.marlacimini.com
Marla Cimini
Marla is an award-winning writer with a passion for travel, music, surfing and culinary adventures! An avid globetrotter and guidebook writer, she has covered topics such as the Hawaiian islands (including food trends and luxury beachfront resorts), as well as European getaways and global destinations. Her articles have appeared in many publications worldwide, including USA Today. Marla lives in New Jersey (Philadelphia area) and is a frequent visitor to Hawaii and Southern California, and often covers those destinations. Her travel website is: www.marlacimini.com
Molly O'Brien
Molly O'Brien is a Los Angeles-based freelance... Read More
Molly O'Brien is a Los Angeles-based freelance travel journalist, who writes and edits for a variety of international travel and lifestyle outlets including Fodor’s Travel, Travel + Leisure, and Business Insider among others. She's lived on both coasts from Massachusetts to California and has so far made Greater Boston, the San Francisco Bay Area, San Luis Obispo, Barcelona, and Los Angeles her home. Molly earned her journalism degree at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo on the Central Coast of California and since then has worked professionally in the fields of hospitality and travel PR and most recently, as a freelance travel writer and editor. Molly especially enjoys covering feature profiles about interesting people doing interesting things such as chocolate making, beekeeping, wing-walking, and interesting destinations like under-the-radar wine spots, the best brewery towns, and lesser-known ski destinations. She also loves to write about a boutique hotel with a good story. When she's not writing, Molly enjoys spending time outdoors, exploring new coffee shops and breweries, and of course, traveling. Her favorite city in the world (so far) is Barcelona, Spain, but she loves traveling anywhere that offers sunny weather and ample hiking opportunities. She loves spending time in the mountains, enjoys connecting with nature through camping and glamping adventures, and is always up for learning about the world through fun, immersive experiences (and then sharing those stories!). You can connect with Molly here: Instagram: @metropolitanmolly Twitter: @Molly_A_OBrien Facebook: @MetropolitanMolly LinkedIn: @mollyannobrien www.metropolitanmolly.com
Molly O'Brien
Molly O'Brien is a Los Angeles-based freelance travel journalist, who writes and edits for a variety of international travel and lifestyle outlets including Fodor’s Travel, Travel + Leisure, and Business Insider among others. She's lived on both coasts from Massachusetts to California and has so far made Greater Boston, the San Francisco Bay Area, San Luis Obispo, Barcelona, and Los Angeles her home. Molly earned her journalism degree at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo on the Central Coast of California and since then has worked professionally in the fields of hospitality and travel PR and most recently, as a freelance travel writer and editor. Molly especially enjoys covering feature profiles about interesting people doing interesting things such as chocolate making, beekeeping, wing-walking, and interesting destinations like under-the-radar wine spots, the best brewery towns, and lesser-known ski destinations. She also loves to write about a boutique hotel with a good story. When she's not writing, Molly enjoys spending time outdoors, exploring new coffee shops and breweries, and of course, traveling. Her favorite city in the world (so far) is Barcelona, Spain, but she loves traveling anywhere that offers sunny weather and ample hiking opportunities. She loves spending time in the mountains, enjoys connecting with nature through camping and glamping adventures, and is always up for learning about the world through fun, immersive experiences (and then sharing those stories!). You can connect with Molly here: Instagram: @metropolitanmolly Twitter: @Molly_A_OBrien Facebook: @MetropolitanMolly LinkedIn: @mollyannobrien www.metropolitanmolly.com
Nicky Omohundro
Nicky Omohundro is the founder and editor of Read More
Nicky Omohundro is the founder and editor of LittleFamilyAdventure.com, the popular family travel & lifestyle website that inspires families to leave no child left inside. Since 2013 LFA has been providing inspiration to get families outdoors, eat well, and travel everywhere from their own backyard to around the world. Always up for a family adventure, she has traveled to 37 states and 6 countries to zip-line through a Costa Rican rainforest, see Finland’s Northern Lights, and go camping throughout the US. Nicky is the co-founder of Tourism WorX a travel consultancy group. Connect with her Twitter and Instagram.
Nicky Omohundro
Nicky Omohundro is the founder and editor of LittleFamilyAdventure.com, the popular family travel & lifestyle website that inspires families to leave no child left inside. Since 2013 LFA has been providing inspiration to get families outdoors, eat well, and travel everywhere from their own backyard to around the world. Always up for a family adventure, she has traveled to 37 states and 6 countries to zip-line through a Costa Rican rainforest, see Finland’s Northern Lights, and go camping throughout the US. Nicky is the co-founder of Tourism WorX a travel consultancy group. Connect with her Twitter and Instagram.
10Best Editors
USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original,... Read More
USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original, unbiased and experiential travel coverage of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.
10Best Editors
USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original, unbiased and experiential travel coverage of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.