LAX Essentials: Your Comprehensive Guide to Los Angeles Airport

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) consistently ranks among the busiest airports in the United States and worldwide. Passengers from across the globe travel through it on their journeys to distant destinations.

LAX anticipates traffic will surge to 100 million passengers annually by 2040, so it’s likely that you’ll find yourself passing through soon. The airport is a key hub for Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines, and serves as a focus city for Air New Zealand, Allegiant Air, Qantas, and Southwest Airlines.

Navigating this major airport can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Many of LAX's terminals are now connected airside, allowing you to clear security at one terminal and then walk or shuttle to another. The Tom Bradley International Terminal (TBIT) connects with Terminals 2 and 3 by shuttle, while Terminals 4-8 are linked by walkways. To exit the airport, you have various options: bus, light rail, taxi, ride-hailing or ride-sharing services, shuttle van, or even helicopter.

Once known for its challenges, LAX is undergoing a $14 billion improvement initiative expected to continue through 2023. The airport now boasts a wealth of amenities, including over a dozen lounges, upscale shops, and a diverse selection of restaurants and bars. Travelers also enjoy a wide array of options for layover hotels.

Explore our all-inclusive guide to what this airport offers, from dining selections to lounges, hotels, transportation options, and beyond.

Arriving at the Airport

LAX is situated approximately 5 miles from Manhattan Beach, 9 miles from Santa Monica, 13 miles from Beverly Hills, 14 miles from Hollywood, and 17 miles from downtown LA. There are various ways to reach the airport, but some transportation methods are more convenient than others.

For budget travelers, public transportation or scheduled bus services are the most economical options, though they may lack convenience. If you prefer curbside pickup, you'll need to arrange for a black car service. Additionally, travelers can utilize Uber, Lyft, or other ride-hailing services after taking a shuttle to the designated pick-up area.

Using Public Transportation

Although LA's public transportation system still has room for improvement (it's getting better), you can take a shuttle to Lot South/LAX City Bus Center and switch to a public bus. There's also a shuttle service linking LAX to the Metro Green Line, which connects to both the Metro Silver Line bus and the Metro Blue Line light rail, allowing access to downtown's 7th Street/Metro Center station.

You can also catch a FlyAway bus from LAX to Union Station (downtown LA) or Van Nuys for a fare ranging from $8 to $9.75 one-way. Buses pick up and drop off right in front of the terminals, and tickets can be purchased online or in person.

Travel Duration: Long

Fare: $

Ride-Hailing Services

All ride-hailing pick-ups occur at the "LAX-it" lot, a designated area next to Terminal 1. No matter which terminal you arrive at, you’ll need to take a shuttle or walk to this lot to use services like Uber or Lyft. Drop-offs still happen directly in front of the respective terminals.

Despite this slight inconvenience, using Uber, Lyft, or other ride-hailing services from the airport is fairly straightforward and reasonably priced. Manhattan Beach is about 15 minutes away for approximately $23 via Uber; Santa Monica takes about 30 minutes at around $30; Beverly Hills is 35 minutes away for about $35; Hollywood is roughly 40 minutes away for $40; and downtown LA takes about 35 minutes for $35. Keep in mind that LA traffic can significantly extend these travel times. Surge pricing is also a factor: opting for a shared vehicle can lower your fare but may add extra time to your journey.

What’s great about the pick-up lot? It offers food trucks, charging stations, and restrooms for travelers waiting for their rides.

Travel Duration: Medium

Fare: $$

Taxis

Similar to Uber and Lyft, taxis can pick up passengers at the LAX-it lot and drop them off curbside. There are also two additional taxi pick-up areas: one located on the ground floor of Parking Structure 3 (near TBIT and Terminal 3) and another at the far end of Terminal 7.

Taxis provide flat rates to different areas in the city. For example, a flat rate to West Hollywood is approximately $40, while a trip to downtown LA will cost around $46.50, which includes a $4 airport pickup fee.

Travel Duration: Medium

Fare: $$$

Private Car Service

For a convenient pick-up directly from the terminal curb, you can arrange for a black car service like Uber Black or Blacklane. While this option is pricier, it offers added convenience. Prearranged services are particularly beneficial for families, as they allow for booking car seats or accommodating pets.

If you opt for a meet and greet service, your driver will park and wait for you with a sign in the arrivals area, assisting with your luggage. Otherwise, you’ll find your driver waiting outside on the arrivals level. A ride in a Blacklane Mercedes-Benz E-Class, BMW 5 Series, or Cadillac XTS to downtown LA costs around $140 one way.

Travel Duration: Short

Fare: $$$$

Alternative Options

If you're renting a car, catch your rental agency's shuttle outside the terminal on the arrivals level. If family or friends are picking you up, LAX has a cellphone lot where they can wait free for up to two hours, or they can park for free for 15 minutes in one of the central terminal parking structures.

If you're looking to travel between LAX and downtown LA without the hassle of traffic, consider booking a Blade helicopter. This "Uber for aviation" service offers private airport transfers for around $3,600, or you can secure a seat on a scheduled flight for approximately $345. However, keep in mind that the scheduled service is less frequent than in New York City.

Facilities and Services

Like many airports, LAX provides free Wi-Fi and water-bottle filling stations in every terminal. For travelers with pets or emotional support animals, there are three animal relief areas before security, plus one located airside in every terminal except Terminal 8, according to this map.

For those missing their furry friends, therapy dogs visit various LAX terminals and the ground level of the Theme Building for a few hours each week as part of the airport's Pets Unstressing Passengers (PUPs) program. Additionally, you can find several permanent and rotating art installations throughout the airport, along with live performances featured in the "LAX Presents" series.

As a shopping paradise, it's no surprise that LA's airport boasts excellent retail options. The Great Hall in TBIT features the most extensive shopping variety of any terminal, including a Rodeo Drive-inspired boutique and a duty-free area. Stores you can find here include Burberry, Bulgari, Coach, Fred Segal, Gucci, Hermes, Tumi, Victoria's Secret, Hugo Boss, and more.

While shopping options in other terminals are more limited, you can still discover several MAC Cosmetics stores, multiple DFS Duty Free outlets, See's Candies shops, a Kiehl's store, and numerous newsstand-style shops.

Although the airport's famed Theme Building no longer serves meals at the Encounter restaurant, its observation deck is open on the second weekend of each month (Saturdays and Sundays) from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Aviation enthusiasts should also visit the Flight Path Museum at LAX, which opens on Saturdays from noon to 4 p.m. General admission is $5, and reservations are recommended. The museum features a wealth of flying memorabilia, including a Douglas DC-3 parked on the tarmac, offering fantastic views of aircraft takeoffs and landings on the south runway.

If you're facing a long layover and prefer not to lug your bags around, you can store your luggage at LAX Luggage Storage for $12-$18 per day. You can drop off and pick up your bags at the facility, or for added convenience, use the curbside pick-up and drop-off option for $5 per item each way.

Airport Lounges

Los Angeles International Airport offers a variety of lounge options, including some of the finest in the country. Whether you're traveling in business or first class, or simply wish to use your Priority Pass membership, you’ll easily find a spot to unwind and enjoy a meal before your flight. (Enrollment is necessary for select benefits.)

If you value privacy and are willing to spend a bit more, consider PS (formerly known as The Private Suite) as an option.

Terminal 1

Unfortunately, Terminal 1 lacks any lounges, and walking to another terminal requires exiting security. This terminal is exclusively served by Southwest Airlines.

Terminal 2

Delta Sky Club

Location: On the mezzanine level, upstairs.

Hours: 4:15 a.m. to 12:30 a.m.

Access: Delta Gold Medallions and above traveling internationally, SkyTeam Elite Plus members, premium-cabin passengers connecting to or from same-day SkyTeam international long-haul or premium transcontinental flights, Delta Sky Club members, and cardholders of The Platinum Card® from American Express, the Business Platinum Card® from American Express, the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card, or the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card when flying on any same-day Delta flight.

Beginning February 1, 2025: Eligible Platinum Card Members will gain 10 visits per eligible card each year to the Delta Sky Club or Grab and Go when flying on a same-day Delta-operated flight.

Starting February 1, 2025, Delta Reserve Card Members will enjoy 15 visits annually to the Delta Sky Club; to qualify for unlimited visits each year from 2/1/25, total eligible purchases on the card must reach $75,000 or more between 1/1/24 and 12/31/24, and each calendar year thereafter.

Amenities: A brand new 30,000-square-foot lounge opened in April 2022, featuring a bar that flows from indoors to a year-round outdoor Sky Deck offering stunning views of downtown Los Angeles and the iconic Hollywood sign. Guests can enjoy seasonally inspired menus, shower facilities, and varied seating options, complete with Wi-Fi and power outlets.

Delta One Check-In, Terminal 2

Location: Terminal 2, with curbside access.

Access: Delta One passengers flying nonstop from LAX, as well as those connecting with at least one Delta One flight leg. This includes Delta One travelers on LAX-origin transcontinental routes to Boston Logan International Airport (BOS), John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), along with similar connecting itineraries. Additionally, travelers with Delta 360 status, an exclusive program for top Diamond Medallion Members flying in any cabin, class, or market, are also eligible.

Amenities: Dedicated check-in, personal assistance for check-in and luggage, expedited security screening through a private access corridor, and the same perks available at LAX's Delta Sky Clubs.

Terminal 3

Delta Sky Club, Terminal 3 Sky Way

Location: Departures level situated between Terminal 2 and Terminal 3.

Hours: 6 a.m.-10 p.m.

Access: Delta Gold Medallions and above traveling internationally, SkyTeam Elite Plus members, premium-cabin passengers on same-day international long-haul or premium transcontinental SkyTeam flights, Delta Sky Club members, and cardholders of the Platinum Card® from American Express, the Business Platinum Card® from American Express, the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card, or the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card for any same-day Delta flight. Starting 2/1/25, Delta Reserve Card Members will be entitled to 15 Visits per year to the Delta Sky Club; to qualify for unlimited Visits annually from 2/1/25, total eligible purchases on the Card must reach $75,000 or more from 1/1/24 to 12/31/24, and each year thereafter.

Amenities: Complimentary hot and cold dishes, wine, beer, spirits, a coffee corner, shower suites, access to the Sky Deck, Wi-Fi, and power outlets.

Tom Bradley International Terminal

Emirates Lounge

Location: Level 6, adjacent to the Los Angeles International Lounge.

Hours: 11:35 a.m.-3:35 p.m. (winter), 12:40 p.m.-4:40 p.m. (summer)

Access: Available for Emirates first and business class passengers, as well as Emirates Skywards Platinum and Gold members. Day passes can be purchased by other Emirates travelers for $130 (or $100 for Emirates Skywards members).

Amenities: A selection of hot and cold dishes, a full bar, shower facilities, a prayer room, Wi-Fi, and power outlets. Explore TPG's detailed review of the lounge.

Korean Air KAL Lounge (First)

Location: After clearing security, use the elevator on the left side of the Duty-Free Cosmetic Store to reach the 5th floor.

Hours: Open Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Access: Available to first-class passengers on Korean Air flights; Million Miler Club and Morning Calm Premium Club members in prestige class, along with one companion on Korean Air flights.

Amenities: Enjoy light snacks, a selection of wine, beer, and spirits, Wi-Fi, shower suites, and power outlets available near many seats. Read TPG's comprehensive review of the lounge.

KAL Lounge (Prestige)

Access: Dragon Pass members (limited hours), along with first and business class passengers, and SkyTeam Elite Plus members flying on an international flight with a SkyTeam airline. Enrollment is needed for specific benefits.

Los Angeles International Lounge

Location: Level 6, adjacent to the Emirates Lounge.

Hours: 6 a.m. until the last departure.

Access: First and business class passengers of Air Tahiti Nui, El Al, Fiji Airways, Japan Airlines, and Philippine Airlines, along with Japan Airlines premium economy travelers.

Amenities: Offers premium food options, light snacks, a selection of wine, beer, spirits, Starbucks coffee, Wi-Fi, and power outlets.

Oneworld Los Angeles Lounge

Location: After security, on the fifth floor.

Hours: 6:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.

Access: Available to business and first-class passengers, as well as Oneworld Sapphire and Emerald members flying on qualifying itineraries with any Oneworld airline.

Amenities: A selection of hot and cold dishes, a full bar, showers, a kids' play area, views of the runway, televisions, Wi-Fi, and power outlets.

Star Alliance Lounge

Location: On Level 6, close to the central atrium.

Hours: 7 a.m. to 1 a.m.

Access: Available to first and business class travelers, as well as Star Alliance Gold members on qualifying itineraries with any Star Alliance carrier. Members of United Club and Air Canada Maple Leaf Club also gain entry.

Amenities: A variety of hot and cold dishes, a full bar, a sought-after outdoor terrace, showers, a library, Wi-Fi, and power outlets. First-class guests enjoy access to a separate lounge that features a la carte dining and enhanced privacy.

Qantas International First Lounge

Location: Located on Level 5, close to the Korean Air KAL Lounge.

Hours: The lounge is currently not open.

Access: Available to first-class travelers and Oneworld Emerald members on qualifying itineraries with any Oneworld airline. However, American Airlines elites flying exclusively on North American routes, excluding Mexico City, do not have access.

Amenities: Features a la carte dining, a full bar, showers, Wi-Fi, and power outlets.

American Express Centurion Lounge

Location: Situated on Level 4, with an entrance past security and another just below the escalator connecting Terminal 4 and TBIT.

Hours: Currently closed for renovations. Pre-packaged grab-and-go food and beverage options are available on the 6th floor from 6 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Access: Open to Centurion Card holders, The Platinum Card from American Express, and The Business Platinum Card from American Express. Delta SkyMiles Reserve and Delta SkyMiles Reserve Business cardholders can also enter when flying on any same-day Delta flight. Effective 2/1/25, Delta Reserve Card Members will receive 15 Visits per year to the Delta Sky Club; to qualify for unlimited Visits each year starting on 2/1/25, total eligible purchases on the Card must reach $75,000 or more between 1/1/24 and 12/31/24, and in each subsequent year.

Amenities: Offers a diverse array of locally inspired hot and cold dishes, a carefully curated full bar, showers, a family room, a spa, Wi-Fi, and power outlets. Check out TPG's first look at the lounge.

Terminal 4

American Airlines Admirals Club

Location: Located on the concourse level, directly across from gate 40.

Hours: 4 a.m.-12:45 a.m.

Access: AAdvantage Platinum elites and above flying internationally, Oneworld Sapphire and Emerald members, premium-cabin travelers on qualifying international or premium transcontinental flights operated by American or Oneworld, as well as Admirals Club members and day pass holders. Holders of the Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard® can receive a complimentary Admirals Club membership (see rates and fees).

Amenities: Free snacks and beverages, Wi-Fi, power outlets, a children's play area, showers, and a conference room.

American Airlines Flagship Lounge

Location: Directly across from gate 40, sharing the same entrance as the Admirals Club.

Hours: 4 a.m.-12:45 a.m.

Access: AAdvantage Platinum elites and higher flying internationally, Oneworld Sapphire and Emerald members, and business and first-class passengers on eligible international or premium transcontinental flights operated by American or Oneworld.

Amenities: A variety of hot and cold food options, a spacious self-serve bar, showers, Wi-Fi, and numerous power outlets. First-class travelers on three-cabin aircraft can enjoy the exclusive Flagship First Dining area.

Terminal 5

American Airlines Admirals Club

Location: One level above the gates, adjacent to the duty-free store.

Hours: 4:45 a.m.-12 a.m.

Access: AAdvantage Platinum elites and higher flying internationally, Oneworld Sapphire and Emerald members, as well as premium-cabin passengers connecting to or from qualifying international or premium transcontinental flights operated by American or Oneworld, along with Admirals Club and day pass holders. A complimentary Admirals Club membership is available through the Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®.

Amenities: Free snacks and beverages, shower facilities, Wi-Fi, and numerous power outlets.

American Eagle Regional Terminal (Terminal 5)

American Airlines Admirals Club

Location: Situated across from gates 52D and 52E, accessible by bus to the remote terminal.

Hours: 5:15 a.m.-10:30 p.m.

Access: Travelers holding AAdvantage Platinum status or higher flying internationally, as well as Oneworld Sapphire and Emerald members, premium-cabin passengers on qualifying international or premium transcontinental American- or Oneworld-operated flights, Admirals Club members, and day pass holders. A complimentary Admirals Club membership is available with the Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®.

Amenities: Free snacks and beverages, Wi-Fi, and power outlets.

Terminal 6

Alaska Lounge

Location: Mezzanine level close to gate 64.

Hours: 5 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Access: First-class travelers on Alaska Airlines (excluding upgrades), Alaska Lounge members, Admirals Club members, and individuals buying a day pass ($50, or $25 with the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card).

Amenities: Free snacks, barista-prepared Starbucks coffee, non-premium alcoholic beverages, Wi-Fi, and numerous power outlets.

Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge

Location: Mezzanine level, situated between gates 65A and 65B.

Hours: 4:30 a.m. to 9:45 p.m.

Access: Available to Air Canada business class travelers, Premium Rouge passengers on domestic flights, U.S. routes, and sun destinations, Altitude Elite 35K members and above, first- and business-class travelers, and Star Alliance Gold members on qualifying itineraries with any Star Alliance airline. Members of Air Canada Maple Leaf Club and United Club can also enter. Aeroplan Black Cardholders and Aeroplan business and corporate credit card users with a one-time guest pass are also allowed access.

Amenities: Free snacks and beverages, a cell-free quiet zone, Wi-Fi, and numerous power outlets.

USO Lounge

Location: Landside (before security) in the Theme Building, facing Terminal 6.

Hours: Monday to Wednesday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Thursday and Friday, 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Access: Valid ID cards for active duty, Guard, Reserve members, or their dependents. Military retiree ID cards may also be accepted if space allows. VA-issued IDs or driver's licenses indicating "Veteran" do not qualify under these categories.

Amenities: Snack bar, dining area, spacious nap room, restrooms, showers, a family zone with a play area, three private family rooms with a restroom, three private connection rooms for calls, a big-screen TV lounge, movie theater, gaming lounge, charging stations, secure luggage storage, and an outdoor pavilion.

Terminal 7

United Club

Location: Adjacent to Gate 71A.

Hours: 4:30 a.m.-12:15 a.m.

Access: United Premier Gold elites and above on international flights, Star Alliance Gold members, premium-cabin travelers connecting to or from eligible international or premium transcontinental flights operated by United or Star Alliance, United Club members, and day pass-holders. Complimentary United Club membership is available with the United Club℠ Infinite Card. Additionally, two annual one-time United Club passes can be obtained with the United Explorer Card or United Business Card.

Amenities: Free snacks and beverages, outdoor terrace, Wi-Fi, and numerous power outlets.

United Polaris Lounge

Location: On the upper level, situated between gates 73 and 75A.

Hours: 6:30 a.m.-10:30 p.m.

Access: United Polaris business-class travelers and business or first-class passengers on Star Alliance partners.

Amenities: Full-service dining, buffet options, a complete bar, showers, nap room, wellness area, Wi-Fi, and multiple power outlets.

Terminal 8

While Terminal 8 lacks lounges, Terminal 7 is just a quick stroll away, and no security check is needed to access it.

Bonus: Alternative Priority Pass options

Travelers can unwind at the Be Relax Spa in Terminal 1, choosing between a 10-minute hand or foot massage or a more luxurious 30-minute lounger massage. Additionally, Priority Pass members can enjoy one hour at the game stations at Gameway in Terminal 6.

Dining

LAX boasts fantastic lounges, including those with a la carte dining and outdoor bars, but access is limited to premium cabin travelers or those with elite status. For everyone else, dining options are available at the airport's restaurants and bars before your flight.

Fortunately, passengers can experience some of LA's finest culinary offerings without leaving the airport. Highlights include delicious coffee at Urth Caffé & Bar in Terminal 1, seafood at Slapfish in Terminal 2, pastries at La Provence Patisserie and Cafe in Terminal 4, Donburi Bistro in Terminal 5, Earthbar and Wahoo Fish Taco in Terminal 6, Loteria Grill in Terminal 7, Engine Co. No. 28 in Terminal 8, along with artisanal burgers from Umami Burger and Neapolitan-style pizza from 800 Degrees in TBIT.

LAX caters to even the pickiest diners, featuring numerous local eateries with familiar names like Ashland Hill (T7), Lamill Coffee (TBIT), and Ford's Filling Station (T5), all using the same ingredients as their locations in the city. Even the rideshare pickup area offers a diverse selection from rotating food trucks, a true reflection of the city's culinary scene.

However, the most beloved dining choice at LAX might be the In-N-Out burger, located on Sepulveda Boulevard just outside the airport grounds. This California classic stands out not only for its iconic burgers but also for its perfect views of incoming flights, making it a hotspot for aviation enthusiasts. Some AvGeeks even plan trips to California solely to photograph planes at this location.

If you find yourself with a few hours between flights, indulge in some plane-spotting while enjoying a burger, truly embracing the LA vibe. It's a manageable walk from Terminal 1, but be sure to exit from the arrivals level, as the departures level sidewalk is quite narrow. Previously, savvy travelers could use the complimentary shuttle from the nearby Parking Spot lot, but now the lot has specified that their shuttle is for "paying customers only," requiring either your car's entry ticket or a glimpse of the free Spot Club card.

Airport hotels

While there are no hotels directly connected to the airport, all nearby hotels provide free shuttle services. If your layover isn't overnight and you're just looking for a quiet space to freshen up before your next flight, consider calling a hotel to ask about day-rate room availability.

The Sheraton Gateway Los Angeles Hotel is generally a reliable option. The shuttle service is frequent, the rooms are nicely furnished, and the hotel offers lovely views of the airport. Nightly rates begin at $149 or 16,000 Marriott Bonvoy points, depending on your chosen date.

If you hold Hyatt elite status, you might prefer the Hyatt Regency Los Angeles International Airport for its impressive club lounge. For aviation enthusiasts, the H Hotel Los Angeles, Curio Collection by Hilton boasts a fantastic 12th-floor terrace with stunning airport views. Other great options include the Westin Los Angeles Airport and the Sonesta Los Angeles Airport LAX Hotel (previously the Crowne Plaza).

Updated as of 4/18/2024.