The Ultimate Guide to Los Angeles (LAX) Airport: Tips, Tricks

Welcome to the ultimate guide for navigating Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), the second-busiest airport in the United States! Whether you’re a stressed traveller looking for relaxation, a shopaholic in search of deals, or a foodie excited to explore LAX’s dining scene, we’ve put together this comprehensive guide covering everything from parking at LAX and LAX terminals to restaurants and things to do near LAX , Discover the beautiful city of Los Angeles!

With approximately 90 airlines offering flights to over 100 domestic and international destinations, Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) can be intensely crowded and overwhelming. Luckily, we’re unveiling insider tips, tricks, and information to optimize your airport experience. You’ll discover the LAX terminals servicing your airline, grab a bite at celebrated eateries run by acclaimed chefs, browse luxury boutiques, unwind in lounges, or even sightsee iconic LA hotspots using our transportation guides—all during your layover or before your flight.

This Los Angeles airport manual also shares top tips on essentials like ground transportation, parking at LAX, airport amenities, and navigating those busy LAX terminals smoothly. So sit back, relax, and let us guide you through LA’s premier airport like a local!

Los Angeles Airport Airlines

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) has nine passenger terminals, designated 1 through 8 and the Tom Bradley International Terminal (TBIT) or Terminal B. Let’s explore which airlines operate from each terminal.

Terminal 1

LAX Terminal 1 is a hub of activity with various airlines and dining options. Known for its LAX Terminal 1 food offerings, travelers can enjoy quick bites like Ace Tacos and Einstein Bros Bagels. LAX Terminal 1 parking is conveniently located for those concerned about their vehicles, offering easy access to the terminal. Terminal 1 airlines include:

• Alaska Airlines
• American Airlines
• Delta Airlines
• JetBlue
• Southwest Airlines
• Spirit Airlines

Terminal 2

Travellers at Terminal 2 LAX can experience international travel with ease. The terminal, LAX Terminal 2, is less crowded but well-equipped. It offers a variety of dining options, with LAX Terminal 2 arrivals area providing a welcoming atmosphere for incoming passengers. LAX Terminal 2 parking is also available for those driving to the airport.The Terminal 2 airlines are:

• Virgin Atlantic
• WestJet

Terminal 3

Home to Aeromexico and Delta Airlines check-in and gates, Terminal 3, though small, offers unique dining like Homeboy Cafe’s Mexican fare and the health-conscious Alfred coffee house, catering to lax terminal 3 food enthusiasts. You’ll also find newsstand shops for any last-minute travel purchases, making it convenient for those arriving at lax terminal 3 arrivals.

Terminal 4

Terminal 4 houses gates and check-in for American Airlines' domestic routes. Grab coffee from Dunkin Donuts or Starbucks and enjoy casual fare from Campanile Italian Kitchen, highlighting the diverse terminal 4 lax food options. For healthy choices, visit Natural Break. Terminal 4 is exclusively for American Airlines.

Terminal 5

In Terminal 5, you’ll find gates for domestic routes on Alaska Airlines, JetBlue Airways, and Spirit Airlines. Refuel with Mexican food at Loteria Grill or upscale market dining at Monsieur Marcel, representing the variety of lax food terminal 5. The lax terminal 5 map can help you navigate this busy area.
Terminal 5 airlines include:

• Alaska Airlines
• JetBlue Airways
• Spirit Airlines

Terminal 6

Check-in at Terminal 6 to access Alaska, Air Canada, and United Airlines. Food offerings range from healthy California cuisine at Earth Bar to classic burgers and fries at The Habit Burger Grill, part of the diverse lax terminal 6 food and lax terminal 6 restaurants. Stock up on coffee and snacks at Peet’s Coffee before your next flight.
Terminal 6 airlines:

• Air Canada
• Alaska Airlines
• Horizon Air
• Southern Airways Express
• United Airlines

Terminal 7

Only United Airlines operates out of Terminal 7. Grab breakfast, lunch, or coffee at Klatch Coffee and Ashland Hill, part of the lax terminal 7 food offerings. Sit down for a relaxing meal at LA Life eatery or the luxury steakhouse B Grill by BOA Steakhouse. The lax terminal 7 map helps in finding these dining spots and lax terminal 7 lounges for relaxation.

Terminal 8

There are currently no passenger flights from Terminal 8, but it offers quick bites from chains like Carl’s Jr., Panda Express, and The Coffee Bean, fitting the lax terminal 8 food category. The lax terminal 8 map might be useful for future expansions which may add more airlines and dining options.

Terminal B

The Tom Bradley International Terminal (or Terminal B) is solely for international flights across over 50 airlines. From quirky Chicken Guy to upscale Border Grill Mexican, it caters to all types of cravings, showcasing the variety of lax terminal b food. The lax terminal b map is handy for navigating this large area. Pick up last-minute gifts at the expansive duty-free stores as well.
Over 50 airlines operate many international flights out of Terminal B, including:

• Aeromexico
• Air France
• Air New Zealand
• Air China
• American Airlines
• British Airways
• Cathay Pacific
• China Airlines
• Copa Airlines
• Delta Air Lines
• Emirates
• EVA Air
• Finnair
• Japan Airlines
• KLM Royal Dutch Airlines

Los Angeles Airport Lounges

Looking to relax before your flight from LAX? Many of the terminals offer airport lounges where you can wait in luxury. Here is a breakdown of the main lounges available across LAX terminals, highlighting options like los angeles airport lounges, lax airport lounges, and more.

Terminal 1 Lounges: No major airline lounges are located in Terminal 1. Your options here include visiting restaurants or shops. Alternatively, Economy Plus passengers and higher can access the newly opened T1.5 concourse. This offers modern seating areas with chargers, along with quick dining options, although it doesn't fall under the typical lax airport lounges price category.

Terminal 2 Lounges: Terminal 2 features the small but comfortable Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse LAX, a notable los angeles airport lounge. Enjoy complimentary food and drinks here before your Virgin flight.

Terminal 3 Lounges: The Aeromexico Salon Premier Lounge in Terminal 3 welcomes international business class passengers and members with free WiFi, snacks, and a full premium bar. This is an ideal place for those looking for lax lounges in this terminal.

Terminal 4 Lounges: As Terminal 4 only serves American Airlines, the Admirals Club is your lounge here. It delivers updated seating, free premium drinks, and snacks for qualifying passengers, representing the standard of lax airport lounges.

Terminal 5 Lounges: There are no airline lounges in Terminal 5. Before flights, you can relax at eateries like Ford’s Filling Station and Rock & Brews. While not designated as lax international terminal lounges, these dining areas offer a comfortable waiting experience.

Terminal 6 Lounges: T6 houses two United Clubs available for members or business/first-class travelers:

• United Club T6 - Concourse 6 landside
• United Club T6 - Concourse 8 airside

Enjoy comfortable lounges serving complimentary snacks, premium alcoholic drinks and WiFi.

Terminal 7 Lounges: Terminal 7 features multiple United Club lounges landside and airside for members and premium cabin travellers:

• United Club T7 - Concourse 7A, 7B, 7C landside
• United Polaris Lounge T7 - airside

With custom-curated meals, premium spirits, showers and daybeds, the Polaris Lounge pampers visitors.

Terminal B Lounges : The Tom Bradley Terminal houses Star Alliance, OneWorld and other airline-branded lounges. Most only welcome loyalty members or premium ticket holders. Popular options:

• Qantas First Lounge LAX
• Korean Air Prestige Lounge
• Air New Zealand Koru Lounge
• Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse LAX
• American Airlines Admirals Club

Many offer comfortable seating, high-end bars, and hot food buffets for a refined pre-flight experience.

Los Angeles Airport Hotels

With over 100 million annual passengers, staying close to LAX is key. Luckily, hotels ranging from budget chains to luxury brands sit minutes outside its terminals. Here are the top lodging options in the LAX area:

1. Holiday Inn Los Angeles - LAX Airport

The Holiday Inn LAX Airport offers a complimentary 24-hour airport shuttle service to take you to and from terminals easily. Guests can enjoy dining options, a fitness centre, and an outdoor pool. Rooms are priced at approximately $125  per night.

2. Hyatt Regency Los Angeles International Airport

The Hyatt Regency LAX located next to the Theme Building has free shuttles to the airport terminals whenever needed. The hotel features a restaurant, bar, and a 24-hour exercise room. Rooms cost around $180  per night.

3. Hilton Los Angeles Airport

The Hilton LAX provides a free shuttle to the airport every 15-20 minutes. It has two swimming pools, tennis courts, a business centre, and a fitness room. Guest rooms offer luxury bedding, mini-fridges, and seating areas. Rates are around $160 per night.

4. Sonesta Los Angeles Airport LAX

The Sonesta LAX has contemporary decor and an outdoor pool with a bar. Enjoy food from the Humblemaker coffee shop or AKAMI sushi restaurant. Shuttles quickly take you to the terminals. Expect pricing of $130 per night.

5. Sheraton Gateway Los Angeles

With a Mediterranean design and palm-tree pool, the Sheraton Gateway radiates luxury. Guests can use the poolside cabanas, salon, and fitness centre. It offers free shuttles every 20 minutes to LAX terminals. Rates start from $170 per night.

Shopping at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)

Shopping at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is a delightful experience for travelers. LAX offers impressive shopping across terminals, making it a significant destination for airport shopping, including lax airport shops and a unique airport shopping centre experience.

DFS Los Angeles International Airport Store

Located in Terminal B, DFS offers a luxury duty free shopping experience. Renowned for its duty free lax offerings, it features brands like Gucci, Cartier, and Dior available tax-free. It's a gem among lax international airport dfs stores, offering a salon and personal shopper service, a key part of the lax airport duty free experience.

Los Angeles International Airport Store

These airport stores, found throughout the terminals, are perfect for those looking for los angeles airport stores and los angeles international airport shops. They cater to travelers needing last-minute gifts, flight essentials, and LAX-themed souvenirs.

Newsstands

Scattered across the concourses, newsstands are ideal for those seeking the new stand los angeles experience. They offer magazines, newspapers, novels, candy, and various impulse purchases.

Brookstone

Located in Terminal 5, Brookstone is a go-to for brookstone los angeles airport shoppers. It's known for electronics like headphones and chargers, alongside luggage scales and sleep masks - key for anyone looking for brookstone lax airport gadgets.

ALLSAINTS

In Terminal 6, the British fashion brand ALLSAINTS offers stylish clothing and leather jackets, perfect for those seeking los angeles allsaints or all saints locations los angeles.

Victoria’s Secret

For a refreshing shopping experience, Victoria’s Secret in Terminal 5 offers loungewear, tees, sweatpants, and lingerie essentials, catering to victoria secret los angeles airport and victoria secret lax airport shoppers.

With this diverse mix of duty-free boutiques, newsstands, gadget stores, and fashion favorites, LAX shopping keeps globetrotting guests looking sharp and stress-free before flights, embodying the essence of shops at lax international terminal.

Los Angeles Airport Restaurants

LAX delivers mouthwatering dining across nine terminals. From grab-and-go to fine dining, satisfy all cravings between flights with a wide range of lax food options. Whether you're looking for lax airport restaurants, lax restaurants, restaurants at lax, or simply exploring the lax dining scene, there's something for everyone at each terminal.

Terminal 1 Restaurants

Start journeys satisfied with Terminal 1’s diverse eateries like Ace Tacos for Mexican or Einstein Bros bagels. Other options range from gourmet Betcha Burger to classic Chick-fil-A fare and California Pizza Kitchen’s well-loved pies.

Terminal 2 Restaurants

This terminal keeps globetrotters fueled with casual bites from Barney’s Beanery pub, BUILT’s customizable burgers, Jersey Mike’s subs, and Asian bowls at Pick Up Stix. Also sip coffee from the Breeze café before boarding.

Terminal 3 Restaurants

T3 provides fast grabs like cult favorite chicken at Chicken + Beer and nutrient-packed Jamba smoothies. For heartier sit-down fare, LA’s iconic Homeboy Cafe dishes up Mexican flavors while Native spotlights local indigenous ingredients.

Terminal 4 Restaurants

Flying from T4? Fill up at Campanile’s chef-driven Italian or grab coffee from Starbucks or Dunkin’ Donuts. For lighter bites, visit Homeboy Cafe or health-focused Natural Break café.

Terminal 5 Restaurants

Quench pre-flight thirsts with Lemonade’s signature citrus drinks then experience chef Wolfgang Puck’s acclaimed cuisine at Ford’s Filling Station. Authentic Mexican tempts visitors at Loteria! Grill while gourmets browse Monsieur Marcel market.

Terminal 6 Restaurants

For ocean views with dining, Blu2o’s seafood dishes hit the spot before flights from T6. Or pick up nutrient-rich grab-and-go salads and such at Earthbar. Classic coffee cravings find homes at Peet’s Coffee while burger-lovers hit The Habit Grill.

Terminal 7 Restaurants

Start big days on full stomachs after breakfast at Klatch Coffee or all-American staples from Ashland Hill in T7. For heartier casual fare, sinks teeth into juicy burgers from BLD or fine dining steaks at B Grill by BOA Steakhouse.

Terminal 8 Restaurants

In T8, fast food staples like Carl’s Jr, cheesy Engine Co. Pizza and Panda Express Chinese provide quick bites. Or belly up to Stella Bar pub for craft brews and grub like sausage sandwiches.

Terminal B Restaurants

Tom Bradley delivers almost endless options from fast food like Burger King to fine Chaya Sushi. Try singers Salt N Pepa’s Chicken Guy fried chicken or grab gourmet sandwiches from celebrity chef Earl of Sandwich.

With this global cuisine showcase, LAX gives flyers delicious dining choices from quick bites to unforgettable pre-flight meals.

Things to Do Near Los Angeles Airport

With spare hours before flights, LAX’s proximity to iconic LA offers memorable excursions, perfect for those searching for things to do near lax or things to do near los angeles airport. From beaches to hotspot sightseeing, fuel your wanderlust without going far.

Griffith Observatory

Experience this iconic Hollywood hills landmark's stunning architecture and sweeping city-to-ocean views. It's an ideal spot for visitors looking for things to do at lax during more extended layovers. Inside, you can explore space-themed exhibits and participate in complimentary public telescope viewings at night.

Santa Monica Pier

Embrace the laidback California vibes at this famous oceanside pier. For those wondering about things to do in lax airport vicinity, a stroll along the Santa Monica Pier offers pacific park rides, street performers, souvenir shops, and lively bars and eateries.

Manhattan Beach Pier

Soak up spectacular sunsets, watch surfers carve waves, and enjoy delicious seafood restaurants at this popular South Bay pier. It's a great addition to any traveller's list of things to do near lax, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling airport environment.

Universal Studios Hollywood

Experience the magic of movies with thrill rides, special-effect shows, backlot tours, themed walks and interactive exhibits on these legendary studio grounds.

LAX Theme Building

Catch panoramic views stretching to the Hollywood Hills and the Pacific Ocean from the circular observation level and cocktail lounge atop LAX’s iconic retro-futuristic tower.

Westchester Golf Course

Designed by renowned course architect William Bell, this historic 18-hole public course delivers a prime golfing experience minutes from LAX runways.

Automobile Driving Museum

This specialty museum houses classic cars dating back over a century, curated into engaging themed exhibits that fascinate auto enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

The Getty Center

Nestled in the Santa Monica mountains, this free museum displays European art inside gleaming modern architecture against breathtaking natural vistas.

Runyon Canyon Park

Stretch your legs on this popular 160-acre hillside park’s hiking trails and snap Instagram worthy shots of the Hollywood sign and dazzling LA city views along scenic routes suitable for all skill levels.

Dockweiler Beach

Sink toes into velvety sand as you soak up the sun and surf alongside LAX flight paths on this long and lovely public beach with free parking.

With iconic attractions minutes outside terminals, LAX gives flyers incredible convenient daytime diversions to maximize layovers. Visit world-famous beaches, golf courses, museums, studios, sights and more!

Los Angeles Airport (LAX) Transportation

Navigating America’s second busiest airport demands proper planning and transportation know-how. Luckily, LAX offers comprehensive public transit and private shuttle options for seamless airport transfers. Whether via light rail, shared van, or taxi, passengers discover stress-free rides to terminals, aligning with needs for shuttle to lax airport, best shuttle service to lax, and ground transportation lax.

Public transit, rideshares, and taxis give thrifty travelers access from across the LA metro area, with routes and drop-offs right on airport grounds. These airport transportation lax services also connect visitors to nearby LA hotspots for sightseeing between flights, catering to those seeking convenient transportation to lax.

Public Ground Transportation at Los Angeles Airport (LAX)

LA Metro Buses and Rail

Reach any LAX terminal affordably via LA Metro’s comprehensive bus and light rail transit networks with multiple airport stops. The convenient LAX Shuttle specifically ferries passengers between all terminals, offering an efficient option for those looking for airport ground transportation.

• FlyAway Buses: These buses directly connect Downtown LA (Union Station), Van Nuys, Westwood, Hollywood, and Orange County to LAX terminals with in-airport stops. They're a great choice for travellers seeking a ride to lax airport, featuring luggage storage and operating 22 hours daily.
• Metro Rail Lines: The Metro Rail Green & Crenshaw/LAX Lines offer airport rail access from neighbourhoods like Hawthorne, Redondo Beach, and Norwalk, with easy terminal transfers. This is an excellent option for those considering public transit as their lax airport taxi service.
• Local & Rapid Metro Buses: These buses connect communities from Palms to South LA, with the LAX City Bus Center hub having stops across bus lines. They are a practical alternative for lax airport taxi services, especially for local travellers.

Shared Van Shuttles: 

Pre-arranged shared van shuttles from Prime Time and SuperShuttle provide affordable, reliable rides to LAX for under $20 from across greater LA, including popular tourist areas like Hollywood. They offer door-to-door van transport with reasonable shared ride fees compared to taxis, necessitating reservations for downtown hotels, convention centers, and residences. Travellers can track vans arriving in real time with convenient mobile apps.

Taxis: 

Standard-metered taxis offer 24/7 private curbside pick-up across every terminal for trips into LA and surrounding areas, with expected starting rates of $50+ from the airport into the city before applicable fees. These taxis, from authorised franchise providers, are ideal for direct airport transfers, especially if public transit with luggage is difficult. Drivers are knowledgeable about optimum LA routes and traffic conditions, making them a reliable choice for lax airport taxi service.

Private Ground Transportation at Los Angeles Airport (LAX)

While public transit serves LAX well, LAX airport car services deliver luxury, convenience, and reliability through high-end vehicles and attentive drivers. For the ultimate airport experience, discover Lavish Ride's airport shuttle LAX and LAX limo service.

Lavish Ride - Premier Transportation Redefined

Lavish Ride places client satisfaction first, providing refined limo service LAX, private car service, and Los Angeles airport transportation tailored specifically to your needs. Our Los Angeles black car service and executive car service LAX cater to discerning travelers and hire a personal driver ready to transform good rides into great journeys.

Fleet

As your Los Angeles airport car service, our immaculately maintained fleet with LAX airport shuttles and town car service to LAX guarantees comfortable, seamless airport transfers. Select your ride from our LAX town car service or opt for the black car service LAX for an upscale experience:

• Business Class Sedans - Mercedes, BMWs, Lexus sedans
• Business Class SUVs – Chevrolet, GMC privacy-focused SUVs
• First Class SUVs – Cadillac, Lincoln luxury SUVs
• Sprinter Vans – Spacious transports for groups

Services

Lavish Ride provides private chauffeur service beyond the airport as your:

• Personal driver for everyday errands
• Wedding party transportation
• Corporate event shuttle services
• Long distance trip escorts

Satisfaction Guaranteed

Our sole focus is crafting extraordinary ride experiences exceeding your highest expectations. Contact Lavish Ride to schedule your VIP airport transfer or private car service in Los Angeles.

Additional Useful Information About Los Angeles Airport (LAX)

Navigating one of America’s busiest airports demands insider tips beyond flights and terminals. Discover key LAX details for smooth travels through weather forecasts, parking pointers, airport services, wifi access and more.

Weather and Delays

With over 100,000 daily fliers, LAX weather significantly impacts schedules. Check current conditions and average temperatures at 80°F to pack accordingly. Heavy morning coastal fog between May and July occasionally hinders visibility but typically burns off by midday.

Significant flight delays also plague airport operations during Santa Ana winds each fall which restrict runway use. To stay informed of the latest airport and flight updates, subscribe to LAX social media and travel alerts.

Parking at LAX

LAX operates massive parking facilities across Central Terminal Area garages and economical off-site lots with frequent shuttles. Reserve discounted rates online in advance for the closest parking at Lot C beside the terminals. Valet service for added luxury comes bundled with car interior cleaning and fueling services.

Lost & Found at LAX

If belongings go astray from luggage to phones, immediately contact airline representatives to file lost item reports before leaving airport grounds when possible. Alternatively, submit inquiries with the LAX Lost and Found office online up to 90 days later for assistance recovering possessions left behind.

Airport Amenities & Services

Unwind pre-flight at one of 13 lounges across terminals offering premium amenities to eligible travelers. Nursing rooms, service animal relief areas and baggage storage afford added airport conveniences. Wheelchairs, scooters or sight assistance are available on request through LAX disability services.

LAX Airport WiFi

Complimentary LAX wireless access connects business and leisure travelers via “LAX Wireless” connections airport-wide. Premium paid options like Boingo also provide upgraded high-speed wifi access for uninterrupted video streaming or large downloads as needed.

Visiting LAX soon or have a long layover? Use these tips to breeze through LA’s premier airport smoothly.