Traveling to LA this summer? Survive LAX with these top dining, shopping, and entertainment secrets

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) facilitates over 80 million travelers annually as one of the world's busiest airports. Connecting people domestically and globally, LAX is a critical transportation nexus. However, the vast airport's sprawling terminals prove notoriously challenging to navigate, especially given the tremendous passenger volumes seen all year long.

Although LAX's sheer scale coupled with swirling crowds can overwhelm visitors initially, the airport actually contains an impressive array of quality restaurants, bars, shops and recreational facilities tucked away inside its terminals. Weary travelers can comfortably pass the time enjoying LAX’s food, drinks and amusements before flights. This insider's guide shares the airport's finest offerings and things to do at LAX near each terminal to smooth the journey for Angelenos and visitors alike. 

In Terminal 1, Ireland meets California at Reilly's Irish Pub by gate 15. Their menu features items like Grilled Chicken Sliders alongside breakfast sandwiches to satisfy all cravings. Of course, what would an Irish pub be without proper beer? Patrons can choose among 16 drafts showcasing SoCal’s renowned craft breweries or sample several in a flight. Reilly's also boasts an extensive whiskey menu with over 50 varieties to imbibe before your flight. 

Freshen up for your travels at Kiehl's skincare shop near gate 16. Indulge in aromatic body lotions and facial products like the Rare Earth Pore Cleansing Masque, specifically formulated for men's skin. Bring the spa relaxation home by grabbing travel-size sets of top Kiehl's products.

In Terminal 2, seafood restaurant Slapfish spices up airport dining by gate 23A. Taste West Coast inventions like Smoked Salmon Tacos alongside New England classics such as Lobster Rolls. Slapfish stays dedicated to providing sustainable seafood by consciously supporting responsible fishing practices with their suppliers. 

Grab some last-minute gifts at the terminal's Duty-Free Store close to gate 21A. Shop tax-free deals on luxury cosmetics, fine fragrances, premium alcohol, and tobacco. Find special Duty-free exclusives like the vibrant, tropical Matu Coconut Rum that conjures carefree beach vibes.

Inside Terminal 3, the Gameway Arcade, situated by gate 30B, offers both modern and retro gaming. Challenge fellow travelers to multiplayer battles on the newest consoles, or relive childhood with Ms. Pac-Man and pinball machines. Complimentary Wi-Fi means you can charge phones and gaming devices while enjoying friendly competitions. 

Just down the hall near gate 33, Native restaurant encapsulates the fresh SoCal perspective of acclaimed Los Angeles chef Nyesha Arrington. Her globally inspired dishes include the Korean Fried Chicken Sandwich, Curried Cauliflower and Watermelon & Feta Salad. Menu options cater to vegetarian and vegan diners as well, with items such as the plant-based Impossible Burger.

Within Terminal 4, uncover your next page-turner at Hudson Booksellers inside the Gate 43 area. Stock up on thrilling beach reads, thought-provoking memoirs, self-improvement guides and more to engage your mind in flight. Consider gripping thrillers or fantasy tomes perfect for adventurous plane journeys. The shop also has fun gifts like custom bookmarks they can engrave personally on-site while you wait.  

In the terminal's Gate 41 sector lies Homeboy Bakery, born out of the renowned Homeboy Industries gang-rehabilitation nonprofit based in Boyle Heights. Beyond baking phenomenal bread and sweets, they provide supportive employment, extensive job training, tattoo removal services and counseling to formerly incarcerated and gang-involved Angelenos working to transform their lives. Enjoy specialty sandwiches layered with fixings between freshly baked loaves. Their chips come from their own homegrown food manufacturing trainee program too.

In Terminal 5 near gate 55A, Ford's Filling Station stems from famed LA culinary icon Chef Ben Ford. Sink teeth into gastropub classics like the stacked Pub Burger or Crispy Chicken Sandwich on brioche. Balance indulgence with lighter fare such as Deviled Eggs and drool-worthy Bread Pudding.

Just steps away beside gate 51B lies Magic Johnson Sports, a treasure trove packed with athletic apparel and memorabilia endorsed by the legendary LA Lakers point guard. Take home some team spirit for yourself or loved ones back home via licensed jerseys, caps, pennants, and more supporting beloved local squads like the Lakers, Dodgers, Rams and Galaxy.  

Inside Terminal 6, Blu2o restaurant by gate 68A focuses on sustainable seafood preparations pioneered by Chef David Myers. Highlights include the lush Poached Shrimp Salad with cucumbers and peppery arugula over mixed greens. Dine looking up at iconic lightbulb chandeliers dangling from Blu2o’s signature turquoise ceiling. The bar also slakes pre-flight thirsts with specialty cocktail creations like the Japanese Ikori Whisky Sour sparked by yuzu, ginger and lemon. Capture the moments with friends at Blu2o’s old-school photo booth before jetting off on your next adventure. 

No early morning in Terminal 7 feels complete without two quintessential LA favorites paired together at Randy's Donuts and Hilltop Coffee near gate 74. Grab piping hot coffee, espresso drinks and some of Randy’s famous oversized rounds glazed to sweet, sticky perfection. 

Just down the way at gate 72B, Loteria Grill dishes up authentic Mexican specialties. Their signature tacos engulf patrons with tender meats braised in traditional sauces, while colorful vegetarian options highlight grilled squash blossoms, huitlacoche corn mushrooms and more nested in fresh tortillas. Balance the splendidly spiced bites with thirst-quenching aguas frescas in thirst-quenching flavors spanning from tamarind to strawberry.

In Terminal 8 by gate 38, discover farm-fresh flavors at Ashland Hill restaurant. Artfully plated salads and sandwiches brim with responsibly sourced proteins, peak-season produce and artisanal bread. Their antioxidant-rich Superfood Salad combines kale and quinoa with dried berries, pepitas and lemon dressing. Extended layovers call for slow-braised Lamb Sandwiches with melty goat cheese, peppery arugula and sweet caramelized onions layered between toasty ciabatta slices. 

The dazzling centerpiece of Bradley International Terminal is the new 15,000-square-foot dining and retail mecca called The Great Hall by gate 148. LA favorites like Chef Susan Feniger’s Border Grill dole out Tacos Al Pastor alongside other Mexican specialties, while Top Chef Michael Voltaggio’s ink.sack eatery plates up gourmet sandwiches on house-baked breads.

For fine wines, visit the sleek Vino Volo with an extensive list available by the glass. Their selections integrate smoothly with small bites like Bruschetta, Pizzettas and regional Cheese & Charcuterie Boards. Or discover new favorite varietals by sampling recommended flights.  

Luxury boutiques like Gucci, Bulgari and Hermès tempt Globetrotters with designer apparel, handbags, travel accessories and gifts during international layovers. As an added incentive, their Duty-Free prices exclude cumbersome sales tax.  

Should time allow escaping the terminals completely, consider nearby diversions. El Segundo and Playa Del Rey flanking LAX proffer delightful beachside activities. Or grab an iconic In-N-Out Burger just off Sepulveda Boulevard to sample a classic California experience.  

If traveling with children in tow, the Flightpath Museum ignites young imaginations with interactive aviation history exhibits. Budding pilots can practice landing a Cessna simulator and marvel at the museum’s comprehensive uniform collections. For fresh air and exercise, neighboring Westchester Park provides community green space with ball fields, basketball courts and a handy public library branch. 

Arm yourself with insider tips on LAX’s outstanding cuisine and recreational gems. Then, it’s smooth flying through the terminals toward whatever exciting adventures await at your final destination. Wherever your travels take you, bon voyage from the City of Angels!

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