What to Do During a Layover at Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport (PHX)

A layover at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) can be an opportunity to relax, explore airport amenities, or even venture into the city if time permits. Planning your layover depends on its length, as well as the distance and travel time to nearby attractions.

Tip: Always plan to return to the airport at least 1–2 hours before your next flight to allow time for security and unforeseen delays.

 

Inside Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport: Dining, Lounges, and Entertainment

If your layover is short, staying within the airport is a convenient option. PHX offers a variety of amenities to make your wait more enjoyable.

Dining Options at PHX

• Ajo Al’s – Fresh, flavorful Mexican cuisine
• Barrio Cafe – Traditional and modern Mexican dishes
• Humble Pie – Comfort food favorites
• Wildflower Bread Company – Bakery and café for breakfast or light meals

Tip: Check terminals 3 and 4 for additional food and beverage options.

 

Relaxation & Lounges

• Escape Lounges (Terminals 3 & 4) – Available for $40 per person, no membership required
• Airline-specific lounges: American Airlines, Delta, United Club
• XpresSpa – Massages, facials, and relaxation treatments

 

Entertainment & Amenities

• Phoenix Airport Museum – Exhibits located in Terminals 3 and 4
• Children’s Play Area – Keep little travelers entertained
• Free Wi-Fi and charging stations throughout the airport

 

 

Leaving the Airport: Exploring Phoenix During a Layover

For layovers of 6 hours or longer, you can explore Phoenix or nearby areas. Transportation options include:

• Valley Metro Light Rail – Runs every 15–20 minutes
• Bus Routes 13 & 44 – Convenient public transit from the airport
• Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) – Direct, flexible, and quick access to attractions

 

Natural Attractions Near PHX

• Tempe Beach Park – Scenic waterfront park
• Desert Botanical Garden – Stunning desert flora
• Papago Park & Echo Canyon Trail – Hiking and outdoor adventure
• Pima Canyon Trailhead & Camelback Canyon – Great for longer hikes
• Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix – Peaceful strolls and cultural insight

 

Museums & Cultural Experiences

• Heard Museum – Native American art and culture
• Phoenix Art Museum – Modern and classic art collections
• Arizona Capitol Museum – Learn about Arizona’s history
• Children’s Museum of Phoenix – Family-friendly interactive exhibits
• Pueblo Grande Museum – Archaeology and ancient history

 

Local Entertainment & Attractions

• Footprint Center – Sports and live events
• Diablo Stadium & Chase Field – Baseball and concerts
• Phoenix Zoo – Wildlife experiences for families
• K1 Speed Indoor Go-Karts – Fun activity for thrill-seekers

 

Local Dining Outside the Airport

• Doughbird: 4385 E Indian School Road
• Avanti Restaurants: 2728 E Thomas Rd
• The Duce: 525 S Central Ave
• The Stockyards Steakhouse: 5009 E Washington St UNIT 115

 

 

Layover Planning Tips

Luggage Management

• Checked bags usually transfer automatically if booked on the same airline.
• For different airlines, retrieve and recheck luggage before leaving the airport.
• Offsite luggage storage services like Bounce or Stasher are available for convenience.
• Pack essentials in your carry-on: chargers, snacks, and entertainment.

 

Timing Your Trip

• Short layovers (1–3 hours): Stay inside the airport and enjoy lounges, dining, or the museum
• Long layovers (6+ hours): Explore Phoenix attractions, museums, parks, or local dining

 

Family-Friendly Layover Ideas

Children’s play areas in Terminals 3 & 4

Visit Phoenix Zoo or Children’s Museum of Phoenix for educational fun

Explore Tempe Beach Park or Papago Park for outdoor activities

 

 

Bonus: Phoenix Layover by Duration

Layover Length	Recommended Activities
1-3 hours	Airport lounges, dining, museum exhibits, children’s play areas
4-6 hours	Quick rideshare or public transit to nearby parks, short museum visits
6+ hours	Full excursions: Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix Zoo, hiking, or downtown Phoenix dining

 

 

Whether you stay inside Sky Harbor Airport or explore Phoenix, careful planning ensures a stress-free and enjoyable layover. Take advantage of airport amenities, nearby attractions, and convenient transportation options.