As the second busiest airport in California, San Francisco International Airport (SFO) serves as a hub to United Airlines, Virgin America and Alaska Airlines, among others. You might find yourself with a layover here if traveling on a trip of a lifetime to Hawaii or further across the Pacific to Asia.
From Freshen Up! Showers and hydration stations to free Wi-Fi, there is certainly no shortage of amenities for travelers throughout the airport’s four terminals. Read on for our tips on how to make the most out of your next layover at SFO!
Eat
If you have more time to spend in the Golden Gate city, you’ll quickly find that San Franciscans place great emphasis on local, organic food, and that notion is no different inside the airport. Enjoy fresh Mexican at Andalé or opt for tapas and a glass of wine at Vino Volo in Terminal 2. If you find yourself in Terminal 1, you must try the locally-made organic ice cream from Three Twins or some famous sourdough from Boudin Bakery and Café.
Shop
Terminal 3 is the place to be if shopping is your cardio. Along with the usual airport suspects, you’ll find the famous Ghiradelli and See’s Candies to satisfy your sweet tooth, 100% for all of your organic cosmetic needs, original art from local artists at Collector and Boucle, on-trend threads from Mango, and locally-sourced oils, soaps and lotions from McEvoy Ranch. For a variety of international fashion, visit the International Terminal and browse the biggest names in fashion from Gucci to Hermes.
See
If your layover happens to be during the day between Sunday and Friday, save some time to visit the San Francisco Airport Commission Aviation Library and Louis A. Turpen Aviation Museum. Located in the International Terminal, admission to the museum is complimentary. Visitors will enjoy unique opportunities to learn about the development of commercial aviation, with an emphasis on the West Coast and Pacific region. The museum itself is an architectural adaptation of the airport’s original passenger lobby from the 1930’s.
Do
If you’re traveling with kids, be sure to stop by the Kid’s Spot play areas in Terminals 2 and 3. Self-guided tours are available online or at information booths to pass some time, plus children who complete the tour receive a fun prize!
 |
 |