How to Kill Time at Los Angeles International Airport

Los Angeles International Airport is the fourth busiest airport in the world, in terms of passengers served. When delays occur, make time pass quickly using the suggestions below.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Travel Clocks
• Comfortable Shoes
• Travel Clothes
• Travel Kits
• Travel Pillows
• Paperback Books
• Travel Magazines
• E-mail Accounts
• Travel Services
• Athletic Gear
• Travel Games
• Telephone Calling Cards

1. Figure out how much free time you have. Check to see if your flight is late and at which of the eight terminals it will arrive or depart.

2. Utilize the free shuttle bus to travel between terminals.

3. Consider working out at the 24-Hour Fitness center at the Hilton Los Angles Airport (310-410-9909), 1/4 mile away from the airport. A Hilton van will provide round-trip transportation to the airport - and you don't even have to be a guest.

4. Visit the Encounter Restaurant, the futuristic-design focal point of the airport, which hovers 70 feet above the ground with its own observation deck.

5. Browse through gift shops in any of the terminals for items ranging from "I Love L.A." souvenirs to leather goods.

6. Choose from a variety of restaurant chains, ethnic restaurants, cocktail lounges and snack bars.

Tips & Warnings

• Go to the Travelers Aid information booths on the arrivals level of each terminal for information about airport services, and dining and shopping opportunities.
• Periodically check the arrival and departure monitors located throughout the airport for any changes pertaining to your flight.
• Always have a good paperback in your carry-on bag to help keep time moving during unavoidable delays.
• You must check in at your gate at least an hour before the flight, or longer on international flights. Check with your airline.
• Keep in mind that many airlines have carry-on restrictions and that you may have to check-in larger purchases or have them shipped.

on 2/13/2007 The observation deck on the encounter restaurant was closed indefinitely since 9/11/01. The restaurant has great views and fantastic burgers thought, so check it out, especially at night.