Grayson West
Some airports test your patience the moment you arrive. Maybe it’s the endless security lines or terminals that feel like obstacle courses. In this roundup, a pattern emerges: 10 airports travelers consistently say they’d rather avoid. Here’s a closer look at what’s behind their reputation and the quirky things that make each one stand out.
Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW)
Let’s say you’re halfway into a pretzel when the gate changes suddenly. That’s the MDW surprise effect. Midway scores poorly for food, which is fine if loud announcements and grungy restrooms are your kind of ambiance. Noise levels could qualify as a sleep-deprivation experiment, and the tired infrastructure doesn’t help, either.
LaGuardia Airport (LGA)
Before its billion-dollar facelift, LaGuardia had a reputation that earned a side-eye from a former VP. Security lines moved like molasses, and once inside, the reward was overpriced coffee and not enough seating. Even now, the makeover hasn’t fully erased the ghosts of delay-ridden travel days.
Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)
Customer service at PHL can feel like a dare. Rude interactions are practically a feature. Cleanliness isn’t winning awards either. And if you’re finding something decent to eat during delays, good luck. Baggage claim also has a habit of making travelers wait longer than their actual flight.
Denver International Airport (DEN)
Conspiracy theories swirl here, but real-life frustrations are even weirder. The TSA line moves at the speed of geological time, and when the train between terminals breaks down (as it tends to), passengers are left scrambling through a cavernous space built like an echo chamber.
Miami International Airport (MIA)
Navigating MIA can feel like playing a chaotic round of airport bingo. If it’s not the spotty Wi-Fi dropping mid-email, it’s trying to understand boarding announcements in three overlapping languages. Immigration lines stretch into eternity, and terminals often feel more crowded than a concert pit.
Orlando International Airport (MCO)
Between children mid-meltdown and airport carpeting that looks like it lost a bet, peace is not part of the package. The average security wait here is the longest in the U.S. When all you want is a charging port, chances are you’ll be stuck negotiating floor space with three other tired travelers.
Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)
Landing in Boston doesn’t mean the hassles are over. Getting in or out by car feels like an urban obstacle course, and parking prices bite. Terminal B demands not one but two security checkpoints, because why not? Inside, cold drafts sweep through in winter, and fog regularly joins the party.
Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD)
With one of the highest cancellation rates in the country, this airport tests every traveler’s stamina. Its complex layout and maze-like underground tunnels leave many rushing or completely lost. Missed connections at the United hub are routine, and somehow, every single Starbucks seems to come with a bonus hour-long line.
John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
JFK is that friend who looks great on Instagram but is a mess in real life. On the surface, some terminals flaunt luxury, while others give 1980s bus depot energy. Staff interactions are… let’s say inconsistent, and if baggage actually makes it, it’s a minor miracle.
Las Vegas Harry Reid International Airport (LAS)
LAS rolls out the neon carpet with relentless energy, even at 3 a.m. Slot machines blare from every corner. Food prices feel like high-stakes gambling. And if you were hoping for a quick nap between flights, good luck; those blinding lights won’t let anyone rest easy.