Airports are more than just transportation hubs—they can also leave a lasting impression of the region a tourist is traveling to. Over the years, U.S. airports have undergone significant renovations and upgrades to streamline the traveller experience. From modern amenities to cutting-edge technologies, these airports offer innovative design while providing travellers with a relaxed and efficient experience. 

 Ranked below are the top five airports in the United States: 

 5. Palm Springs International Airport

Located in Southern California’s Sonoran Desert, Palm Springs International Airport was initially established in 1939. When it became a commercial airport in 1965, the facility served only a limited number of travellers. By 2004, the airport had added eight new gates with airliner bridges, enabling it to accommodate larger aircraft such as Airbus and Boeing. While these expansions made travel more convenient, what truly sets Palm Springs apart is its open-air design—multiple roofless connect the terminals. The airport’s architecture also resembles the surrounding desert landscape, with earthy tones, naturalistic buildings, and low-profile designs. By blending its modern design with the natural landscape, Palm Springs International Airport offers a one-of-a-kind experience that embodies the essence of Southern California. 

 4. Tampa International Airport

Tampa International Airport, located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, has consistently ranked among the top airports in the nation. A feature that makes Tampa International unique is its landside/airside design—a central terminal connected to smaller satellite terminals by train. This layout highlights innovative design while delivering a seamless customer experience. Beyond its design, the airport offers a variety of shops and eateries local to Tampa, giving tourists a feel for the city. It also features multiple art pieces, including a 21-foot flamingo statue installed in 2022. With its combination of innovation, customer experience, and local flair, Tampa International Airport is a top contender in the nation. 

 3. LaGuardia Airport

LaGuardia Airport is one of the three main gateways to New York City. Initially opened in 1939, LaGuardia has undergone extensive renovations in recent years to modernize the traveller experience. The improvements include two new terminals, enhanced dining and shopping options, and sleek, modern architecture. One of the airport’s standout features is the interactive water fountain in Terminal B, which displays visuals and graphics. Accessibility has also been improved with increased bus and shuttle services and upgraded roads to streamline travel. With its modern design and improved traveller experience, LaGuardia Airport ranks among the top airports in the nation. 

 2. Indianapolis International Airport

Located southwest of downtown Indianapolis, Indianapolis International Airport serves as a hub for the region. Recognized for its customer service, Airports Council International has ranked it as one of the best airports in North America for 12 consecutive years. The airport is also recognized for its utilization of renewable energy, featuring an on-site solar farm that generates electricity while reducing its carbon footprint. Its modern Colonel H. Weir Cook Terminal features an arched roof, a spacious 40-gate configuration, and five-story windows that allow natural light to enter. From its focus on sustainability to its modern facilities, Indianapolis International Airport offers an unparalleled experience. 

 1. Portland International Airport

Located in Oregon, Portland International Airport is widely regarded as the best airport in the country. Surrounded by the Cascade Mountain Range, the airport draws inspiration for its design from the region’s natural beauty. The terminal’s nine-acre timber roof is locally sourced from Oregon’s forests and serves as its centerpiece. The airport also features a forest walk with over 70 live trees and 5,000 plants, creating a tranquil, nature-inspired environment. Additionally, Portland International focuses on sustainability, incorporating natural lighting, radiant floor heating, and locally sourced materials. By combining its landscape-inspired design with a commitment to sustainability, Portland International Airport offers a memorable gateway to the Pacific Northwest. 

 In the end, airports have become destinations themselves. Whether it’s the open-air design of Palm Springs or the nature-inspired feel of Portland, each airport resembles the city it serves while redefining the traveller experience. But ultimately, the best airports aren’t just connecting hubs but are a lasting memory of the place itself.