Complete Guide to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
Whether you’re passing through for a quick connection or have a long layover, knowing the best spots at Los Angeles International Airport can transform your airport experience. Here’s your insider guide to the best restaurants, lounges, shopping, and tips for navigating LAX.
🍴 Best Restaurants at LAX
Terminal 4: Ink.Sack (gourmet sandwiches), Blue Ribbon Sushi
Tom Bradley International: Umami Burger, 800 Degrees Pizza, Trejo’s Tacos
Terminal 5: The Habit Burger Grill, Lemonade (California fresh cuisine)
Quick Bites & Coffee
For travelers in a hurry, LAX offers numerous grab-and-go options including national chains and local favorites. Look for coffee shops near security checkpoints for the shortest lines during morning rush hours.
✈️ Top Airport Lounges at LAX
Star Alliance Lounge: Tom Bradley Terminal – Stunning rooftop views
Alaska Lounge: Terminal 6 – West Coast vibes with local food
Admirals Club & Flagship: Multiple terminals for American flyers
Lounge Access Tips
- Credit Card Access: Premium cards like Amex Platinum, Chase Sapphire Reserve offer free Priority Pass
- Day Passes: Most lounges sell same-day access ($50-75)
- Airline Status: Elite status with any airline usually grants access
🛍️ Best Shopping at LAX
The Great LA Marketplace in Tom Bradley features curated California brands, tech accessories, and duty-free shopping. Each terminal has newsstand shops with LA-themed souvenirs.
Pro Tip: Duty-free shopping is only available on international flights. Compare prices online before buying – not everything is a deal!
💤 Sleep & Rest Options
Long layover? LAX offers several options:
- Minute Suites: Private nap rooms available by the hour (check terminal locations)
- Airport Hotels: On-site hotels for overnight stays
- Quiet Zones: Designated quiet areas with comfortable seating
📱 Essential Services
- Free WiFi: Available throughout the airport (no password required)
- Charging Stations: Look for power outlets and USB ports at gate seating areas
- Business Centers: Available in most terminals for printing and workstations
🚶 Navigation Tips
LAX has 9 terminals arranged in a horseshoe shape. Terminal transfers require exiting security and re-screening (except Tom Bradley to TBIT gates). The LAXit rideshare pickup area is a 5-10 minute walk from terminals – follow the purple signs.
Security Wait Times
TSA PreCheck and CLEAR are game-changers at busy airports. Typical wait times:
- Peak Hours (5-8am, 4-7pm): 30-45 minutes standard, 5-10 minutes with PreCheck
- Off-Peak: 15-20 minutes standard, walk-through with PreCheck
Essential Travel Gear for Airport Comfort
Make your time at LAX more comfortable with these highly-rated travel essentials:
Travel pillow and eye mask set – Perfect for layovers and long flights
Portable charger with multiple USB ports – Never run out of battery
Noise-canceling headphones – Block out airport noise
🎯 Insider Tips for LAX
- Download the LAX mobile app for real-time gate updates and terminal maps
- Allow extra time during holidays – LAX can get extremely busy
- Terminal transfers can take 20-30 minutes – plan accordingly for connections
- Mobile food ordering is available at many restaurants – order ahead and skip lines
Ground Transportation
Getting to/from LAX:
- Rideshare: Uber/Lyft pickup zones clearly marked (follow signs)
- Rental Cars: Shuttle buses run to rental car center every 5-10 minutes
- Public Transit: Check local options for budget-friendly airport access
- Hotel Shuttles: Free shuttles from airport-area hotels (call ahead)
Last Updated: Information current as of 2025. Always check LAX official website for latest updates on services and terminal changes.
