Layovers get a bad rep. Most people think of them as transitional time – nuisances you have to endure on your way to somewhere you actually want to be.
But a layover doesn’t have to be wasted time. Think of them like mini-trips, small adventures that you build into your vacation or work trip.
In this post, let’s explore four of the best layover cities. Each of the destinations listed below routinely ranks among the country’s busiest airports for connecting flights. And each features an embarrassment of riches, from scenic sights to delicious food.
1. Miami
Miami International Airport is America’s gateway to the Caribbean, Atlantic Mexico and several other easterly destinations. It also happens to be one of America’s most fun cities.
If you have a layover over five hours, head to South Beach (just 13 miles from the airport) to soak up some sun, or Downtown Miami (only a fifteen-minute drive via the Dolphin Expressway) to take in the swaying palm trees and modernist architecture.
Even quick layovers can make the most of Miami. Sample the city’s array of culinary offerings – from Bao to Cuban Sandwiches – through a Miami food delivery service that offers 30-minute-or-less delivery. You’ll be tasting the best of Miami’s food scene with time to spare.
2. Chicago
O’Hare Airport perennially ranks as America’s busiest airport for connecting flights. Several Europe- and Asia-bound hops make their way through the Windy City.
If you’re in Chicago for over five hours, take the L Train from O’Hare to Downtown (about 45 minutes) to catch the city’s eclectic mix of modern, art deco and cathedral architecture. If you’re enjoying a whole night layover, you might even tack on a trip to Wrigley Field for a Cub’s game.
The same speedy food delivery service operating out of Miami – called getREEF – also has several delivery kitchens in Chicago. So, if you’re in a rush and need a quick Italian sandwich or Chicago-style hot dog, you can order your food in record time.
3. San Francisco
The San Francisco International Airport might not be quite as popular as its cousin to the South, LAX, but the city’s stunning scenery makes this a must-see layover destination.
If you have a particularly long layover, you can make it to the Golden Gate Bridge (a 45-minute drive from SFO) to do the touristy thing. But there are several San Fran spots closer to the airport: Mission District, Bayview and Oracle Park, to name a few.
4. Dallas
Last but not least, Dallas/Fort Worth Airport is a scant 20-minute drive from the excitement-packed Dallas city center, making it an ideal layover airport for travellers who want to tack on some Southern hospitality.
Center your trek around the Historic Downtown District and Main Street to see as much as possible. Sample the delicious, beef-forward Texas BBQ and check out one of the city’s several craft breweries before heading back for your next flight. If you have time, tack on a trek through the Deep Ellum district, Dallas’ entertainment and arts hub.
Next time you book a flight abroad, make sure to plan a layover through one of these fantastic stops and treat it like a vacation-within-a-vacation.
Keep being AllDayChic!
