Airports have a reputation as dull and dreary places which are a chore rather than a pleasure to pass through before your exciting vacation or business trip.
However, some hubs stand a cut above the rest when it comes to their aesthetic qualities, and are well worth taking the time to admire and enjoy.
With that in mind, here are six airports with stunning interiors in the US and beyond.
National:
- Chicago
Chicago O’Hare airport is full of vibrant and colourful art pieces. One of the most impressive is ‘The Sky’s the Limit’, located in one of the Terminal 1 tunnels. This 745ft long kinetic light sculpture is made from neon tubes and brings a much needed brightness and character to the area. There’s also a gorgeous aeroponic garden located in the Rotunda Building – it’s a horticultural haven.
- Los Angeles
LAX airport has collaborated with the city of Los Angeles’ Department of Cultural Affairs to create a diverse range of exciting exhibitions which enhance the airport experience for visitors. Current works include the inspiring ‘Intentions’ mural in terminal 7, which perfectly captures the city’s iconic sunset, and ‘Forest, For the Trees’, which explores beautiful but at-risk woodlands.
- San Francisco
Most US airports are home to wonderful arty exhibits. But inside SFO Airport you’ll find an entire museum dedicated to art. The SFO museum is a marvel, with everything from sculptures to video art and photography. For a closer look, head to the official SFO museum website.
International
- Baku
Baku International Airport interior is like no other. It features a series of 16 wooden carefully crafted cocoons, with each one housing an airport service such as ticket kiosks, food outlets and play areas. As well as this, the terminals are decorated with tall trees which perfectly enhance this arboreal aesthetic.
- Singapore Changi
Singapore Changi airport has a refreshing retro-futuristic look. In fact, the food court in the departure’s lounge looks as if a flying saucer has landed on it. And if that isn’t cool enough, Terminal 3 is home to the world’s first airport butterfly garden, decorated with lush greenery and a dazzling waterfall. To find out more about this outstanding attraction, check out the Changi airport website.
- Munich
There’s a slight disco feel to Munich Airport, with its bold lights in the passageways which bathe the travellators in kaleidoscopic colors. Munich also houses a charming little micro-brewery with grand golden ale dispensers and quaint wooden chairs and benches – it’s a calm and quaint space.
If our selection of exquisite airport interiors has got you itching for a holiday, why not head online to and book yourself a flight from your favorite hub? Remember to book your airport parking too – you’ll find fantastic deals on US airport parking site Looking4.com.
What are your favourite airport interiors? Share them in the comments section.