20 Things To Do At DFW Airport During Layovers

1. Relax In Airport Lounges

Among the best things to do at Dallas Fort Worth Airport, relaxing in airport lounges stands out as a premier option. DFW boasts several lounges, including the American Airlines Admirals Club, where travelers can unwind in a serene environment away from the bustling terminals.

These lounges offer a variety of amenities such as comfortable seating, complimentary food and beverages, high-speed Wi-Fi, and private shower facilities. Additionally, some lounges provide business centers equipped with workstations and printers, making it convenient for business travelers to stay productive.

2. Enjoy Diverse Dining Options

Another top things to do at Dallas Airport is to enjoy the diverse dining options available. DFW Airport is renowned for its wide array of restaurants and eateries, catering to various tastes and dietary preferences. From fast food to fine dining, the airport offers everything a traveler might crave.

You can indulge in local Texas barbecue at spots like Cousin's Bar-B-Q or enjoy a gourmet meal at high-end establishments like Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen. For those looking for healthier options, several cafes and smoothie bars provide fresh, nutritious meals.

Additionally, international cuisine is well represented, with options ranging from Italian and Mexican to Asian delicacies.

3. Explore A Range of Shops

The third things to do at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) is to go shopping. DFW Airport offers a plethora of shopping opportunities that cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences.

Travelers can explore a variety of stores, from luxury brands like Gucci and Tiffany & Co. to local Texan boutiques offering unique souvenirs and gifts. Whether you're looking for fashion items, electronics, books, or snacks for the journey, DFW's shopping options are diverse and extensive.

Additionally, the airport's layout ensures that shops are conveniently located throughout the terminals, making it easy for passengers to browse and shop before their flights.

4. Refresh Yourself At Shower

At Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), one of the recommended activities is to take advantage of the shower facilities available. These facilities are particularly beneficial for travelers who have long layovers or those coming off extended flights.

The showers provide a refreshing break, allowing travelers to rejuvenate before their next journey. To access the showers, you typically need to be a member of certain airport lounges or pay a fee if they are available to all passengers.

This amenity is popular among passengers seeking comfort and cleanliness during their travels. It's advisable to inquire about availability and any associated costs at the lounge or information desk when considering what to do at Dallas Airport.

5. Indulge In A Massage Or Other Spa Services

One of the relaxing activities you can enjoy at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) is unwinding at the spa. Located within the airport, the spa offers a range of rejuvenating services, such as massages, facials, and other wellness treatments.

It provides a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling airport environment, allowing travelers to destress and refresh before their next flight. Whether you opt for a quick massage to release tension or a comprehensive spa package, the facilities are designed to provide comfort and relaxation.

This makes unwinding at the spa one of the top DFW Airport things to do for travelers seeking a moment of tranquility amidst their journey.

6. Visit The Minute Suites

If you are wondering what to do in DFW airport, the Minute Suites would be a great option. It offers travelers a convenient and comfortable space to relax or work during their layovers. These suites are private rooms equipped with a daybed sofa, a workstation with a desk, and a television with access to DirecTV and Netflix.

Travelers can use these suites to catch up on sleep, get some work done in a quiet environment, or simply unwind before their next flight. Each suite also includes complimentary Wi-Fi, noise-canceling headphones, and access to flight information.

Located in Terminal D, Minute Suites are ideal for travelers seeking a peaceful retreat within the bustling airport environment. They provide a flexible option for passengers looking to maximize their time at DFW Airport by offering a private oasis to recharge or stay productive.

7. Use The Walking Paths Throughout The Terminals

The airport offers designated walking paths throughout its terminals, providing travelers with opportunities to stretch their legs and stay active during layovers. The paths are well-marked and accessible, making it convenient for travelers to navigate the airport and find points of interest along the way.

These paths are strategically designed to guide passengers through various sections of the airport, allowing them to explore different shops, dining options, and amenities while getting some exercise.

Whether you have a short layover or more time to spare, these walking paths offer a comfortable way to move around the expansive airport, making your layover Dallas Fort Worth both productive and enjoyable.

8. View Art Exhibits

The airport features an impressive array of art exhibits throughout its terminals, enriching the traveler's experience with cultural and aesthetic offerings. These exhibits showcase a diverse range of artworks, from sculptures to paintings, often reflecting the local Texan culture and themes of travel and exploration.

One notable example is the Skylink train stations, where travelers can encounter various sculptures and installations that celebrate aviation and regional heritage.

Terminal D, known for its international flights, hosts rotating exhibits that highlight global perspectives through contemporary and traditional artworks. These displays not only provide visual interest but also create a soothing and inspiring atmosphere amidst the hustle of travel.

9. Find A Good Spot To Watch Planes Take Off And Land

DFW, being one of the busiest airports in the world, offers several excellent spots for plane spotting. At DFW Airport, prime plane-watching locations include:

• Founder’s Plaza: Located near the north entrance of the airport, Founder’s Plaza provides a dedicated observation area with picnic tables, telescopes, and informative displays about aviation and DFW’s history.
• Terminal windows: Many terminals have expansive windows offering clear views of the runways and taxiways, ideal for watching planes land and take off.
• Skylink: DFW’s efficient Skylink people mover system not only helps passengers move between terminals but also provides excellent aerial views of the airfield during the transit.
• Gate areas: Some gate areas have views of the tarmac, allowing you to see planes up close as they prepare for departure or arrive at the gate.
• Rental car center: The rental car center at DFW Airport offers elevated views of the airfield, providing a different perspective for plane spotting enthusiasts.

10. Use Free Wi-Fi

This service allows passengers to stay connected to the internet without incurring additional charges. The free Wi-Fi network is accessible by selecting the "DFW Airport Free WiFi" network from your device's Wi-Fi settings and agreeing to the terms of use.

The Wi-Fi service at DFW Airport is reliable and designed to accommodate the high volume of travelers passing through the airport daily. It supports basic browsing, email checking, and other internet activities, making it convenient for both leisure and business travelers to stay connected while waiting for their flights.

For passengers needing more bandwidth or faster speeds, there are also premium Wi-Fi options available for purchase, offering enhanced connectivity for heavier internet usage requirements.

11. Visit One of The Airport’s Bookstores

Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) features several bookstores that cater to a variety of interests and preferences. These bookstores are strategically located throughout the terminals, offering passengers a chance to browse and purchase books, magazines, newspapers, and other reading materials.

The bookstores at DFW Airport typically stock a wide selection of genres, from bestsellers and fiction to travel guides and children’s books. They also often feature local Texas authors and books highlighting regional culture and history, providing travelers with a taste of the area's literary scene.

Some bookstores may offer convenience items like snacks, travel accessories, and electronics alongside their literary offerings.

12. Catch Up On Work

The airport features dedicated business centers equipped with workstations, printers, and high-speed internet access. These centers are conveniently located throughout the terminals, offering a quiet and professional environment conducive to productivity.

Additionally, many airport lounges, such as the American Airlines Admirals Club and the Centurion Lounge by American Express, provide complimentary Wi-Fi, comfortable seating, and often include business services like fax machines and conference rooms for meetings.

Travelers can efficiently use their layover time to respond to emails, complete tasks, or even conduct virtual meetings in these well-equipped spaces.

13. Enjoy Live Music

Throughout the terminals, passengers can often find live music performances featuring a variety of genres, including jazz, blues, and country. These performances are typically scheduled during peak travel times and aim to enhance the airport atmosphere with local Texas talent.

Whether you're waiting for a flight or simply passing through, stopping to listen to live music provides a relaxing break from the hustle of travel. It's a great way to immerse yourself in the cultural flavor of Texas while enjoying the talents of musicians who perform in designated areas across the airport.

This initiative not only entertains passengers but also promotes the region's musical heritage, making DFW Airport a unique and enjoyable layover experience.

14. Play In The Children’s Play Areas

These play areas are designed to cater to children of different ages, typically featuring interactive elements, soft play structures, and seating areas for parents to supervise comfortably.

The play areas are strategically located within the terminals, ensuring accessibility for travelers passing through. They are equipped with safety measures in place to ensure a secure environment for children to play freely.

These spaces not only serve as a place for children to burn off energy but also contribute to a more relaxed and enjoyable travel experience for families navigating through the airport.

15. Use The Designated Pet Relief Areas

These areas are strategically located both inside and outside the terminals to ensure convenience and accessibility for pet owners. Inside the terminals, you can find these areas, typically near the baggage claim or departure gates.

They are equipped with amenities like waste bags and disposal bins to maintain cleanliness. Outside the terminals, there are additional pet relief areas for those traveling with pets before going through security or after arrival.

These areas are fenced and often have artificial turf or other comfortable surfaces for pets.

16. Experience Virtual Reality

VR stations allow passengers to immerse themselves in virtual environments, providing a unique form of entertainment and relaxation. At these stations, users can typically choose from a variety of VR experiences, ranging from simulated travel adventures to interactive games and educational content.

The equipment is user-friendly, often including VR headsets and sometimes additional peripherals like hand controllers for enhanced interaction.

Participating in VR at DFW Airport is a novel way to pass the time, especially for tech enthusiasts or those looking for a break from traditional airport activities. It's a popular choice among passengers seeking an immersive and engaging experience without leaving the airport premises.

17. Charge Your Devices

You can find charging stations equipped with standard power outlets and USB ports, strategically located in waiting areas, near gates, and in lounges. These stations ensure that travelers can easily recharge their smartphones, laptops, tablets, and other electronic devices while waiting for their flights.

Additionally, many seating areas in the airport are equipped with built-in power outlets, allowing passengers to charge their devices without needing to move to designated charging stations.

DFW Airport understands the importance of staying connected and offers ample facilities to keep travelers powered up during their layovers or while waiting for their flights.

18. Attend A Yoga Session

These sessions are designed to provide relaxation and rejuvenation amidst the bustling airport environment. Typically held in designated areas or quiet spaces within the terminals, yoga sessions at DFW cater to all levels of experience, from beginners to seasoned practitioners.

Participants can expect guided sessions that focus on gentle stretches, breathing exercises, and mindfulness techniques, aimed at reducing stress and promoting well-being.

Yoga mats and other necessary equipment are often provided, making it convenient for travelers to join in without needing to carry their own gear.

19. Visit The Founder’s Plaza

Founder’s Plaza at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) is an outdoor observation area designed for aviation enthusiasts and travelers alike. Located near the north entrance of the airport, it offers a panoramic view of the runways, allowing visitors to watch aircraft take off and land up close.

The plaza features picnic tables and telescopes, enhancing the viewing experience. It's a popular spot for families and plane spotters looking to enjoy the airport's operational dynamics and the sight of various aircraft.

Founder’s Plaza also provides informational displays about the history of DFW Airport, adding an educational dimension to the visit.

20. Explore The Airport’s History

Established in 1973, DFW has evolved into one of the world's busiest airports. Its architecture reflects the era of its construction, characterized by modernist design principles. Displays throughout the airport chronicle key milestones, from its opening in 1974 to expansions and technological advancements.

Visitors can learn about the airport's role in aviation history, including its impact on regional and international travel. Artifacts, photographs, and interactive exhibits provide a glimpse into the past, highlighting innovations in airport management and passenger services.

This historical journey underscores DFW's ongoing commitment to efficiency, innovation, and passenger experience enhancement.