Millions of people travel through LAX every year. Depending on when you fly, the experience can be a rabbit hole of stress, traffic and lost luggage. For Angelenos, it's the airport we love to hate. For out-of-towners — well, we apologize. How on earth (or in the sky) did we get here? And what's the best way to experience it? Let’s dig in.

First — what's that quirky UFO building in the center of the airport?

That strange building at LAX is not, in fact, a spaceship.

(

Alborz Kamalizad

/

LAist

)

The Theme Building — that futuristic structure in the middle of LAX — is kind of like Area 51. It exists, but rumors tend to cloud public understanding. So… is it a command center? A restaurant? A giant spider covered in concrete?

One of those is (sort of) right.

The Theme Building was constructed in 1961 by the Pereira and Luckman architectural firm. Some people thought it had a rotating floor, but L.A. Times reporting debunked that legend.

What is true is that the building once housed an eatery called Encounter Restaurant, which was open for 16 years before shutting down in December 2013. The dine-in spot was known for its wacky restroom mirrors, lava lamps and spacious views over the airport.

The building follows Googie architecture, a mid-century modern style that’s heavily influenced by the space age and geometrical shapes. (Note: Paul Revere Williams, a Black architect known for his influence on design in L.A. worked on this building.) Basically, it’s the Jetsons IRL and L.A. has a lot of buildings inspired by it.

The landmark’s observation deck and glass upper floor are still unused, but the Theme Building does host the Bob Hope USO and LAX Guest Services Division.

The airport's design is still a big deal

The Tom Bradley International Terminal on April 13, 2021.

(

Joshua Sudock /Getty Images

/

Courtesy of LAWA

)

The iconic welcome to the city has changed, with the dismantling of the sign and pillars

(

David McNew / Getty Images

/

Getty Images

)

All it takes is one drive to see how design is still a big part of LAX. (The Theme Building isn’t the only lavish display.)

When Tom Bradley International Terminal was upgraded, designers gave it a flowing roofline to echo LAX's neighbor: the Pacific Ocean. Look closely from above and you'll notice a curved aluminum roof that seems like a wave.

One big piece of art is missing for now: The large LAX sign and the giant color-changing pylons. These have been an iconic fixture of LAX since artist Paul Tzanetopoulos created the installation in 2000, but they were removed in 2025 and 2026 to make way for major roadway improvements.

Tzanetopoulos aimed for it to be a “welcoming gesture to guests.” The pylons — a group of 26 large-scale glass pillars — stretched from Century Boulevard into the airport, with a focal point at the 32-feet-high illuminated LAX sign. But don't worry — these pieces will return at some point.

These hefty structures are just a few of the many ways LAX brings art into the airport.

Why is LAX almost always under construction?

Construction projects at LAX seem never-ending. At the very least they will be with us until 2027.

(

Alborz Kamalizad

/

LAist

)

And, an even better question: Will it ever be over? Development at the airport behemoth is (seemingly) never-ending.

The airport is in the midst of a $30 billion capital improvement program that’s aimed at modernization (no doubt with the Olympics in mind in 2028). They may not be overly exciting, but over the past several years a police facility and an economy parking structure have been built and multiple terminals have been redesigned.

Here’s construction to look out for in the near future (which may also impact your travel time):

• SkyLink (formerly known as the Automated People Mover): LAWA planned to open the SkyLink in 2024 — but it's been delayed more times than we can count. The 2.25-mile elevated train track is designed to connect passengers to different terminals. It will also connect with LAX's Rental Car Center, the Metro Crenshaw/LAX line and economy parking. You can see much of it there already, threading between buildings and the freeway. Nine trains, in four-car sets, will carry up to 200 passengers each, running for free at two-minute intervals.
• Roads: LAX’s Airfield & Terminal Modernization Project includes 4.4 miles of replaced and reconfigured roadways. The aim is to reduce congestion on Sepulveda Boulevard and have create dedicated airport roadways. This is expected to be done by mid-2030.
• Terminals 4, 5: The terminals are being redesigned to make a central location for things like ticketing, screening and baggage claim, and to improve gate areas.

There's more construction in the works as federal money fuels additional projects.

Airport officials say all these updates will “dramatically change” how you experience the airport — but let’s be real. If there’s always some project in the works, will we ever get to enjoy the final product?

How to hack LAX travel like a pro

Yes, this is, in fact, misery. Traffic lined up outside the international terminal at LAX during Christmas week 2021.

(

Mario Tama

/

Getty Images

)

If you’re looking for a practical guide to traveling at LAX, this is the section for you. We asked LAist readers to let us know their hacks for getting around. Here’s what you recommended.

[If you skipped ahead, don't miss: Why is LAX almost always under construction]

Ditch the ride. Go to LAX via train

With the LAX Metro Transit Center finally open, it's possible to get to the airport almost entirely via train, using the C or K Metro lines. The final connection into the airport will come when the Skylink opens. Until then, follow the signs to Bus Bays 1 and 2 for the free LAX shuttle.

Planning your car commute for pickup and drop-off

Give yourself plenty of time before your flight when you’re going to LAX. For international flights, get there at least three hours early. Two hours is recommended for domestic travel. The airport is typically busy during the week between 6 a.m. and 10 a.m. in the morning and 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the evening. Weekends can be busy too.

Consider using the LAX FlyAway, says Kyle Becerra, who lives in the San Fernando Valley. “[It’s] definitely the move. It’s just so much easier and you even get to view the pretty L.A./California scenery on the way!”

The bus line makes round-trips to the airport from Van Nuys and Union Station every day of the week. It will save you money: One-way FlyAway tickets cost $12.75, and TAP cards can be used for a lower cost. Metrolink monthly pass holders ride for free from Union Station. (See FlyLAX for more information about shuttles and taxis. Check out the live FlyAway tracker, too.)

If you’re driving, get your parking in advance. Donna Schwartz Mills, who’s also from the San Fernando Valley, has learned from experience to use an offsite parking space. She reserves weeks or months ahead of time. Construction can knock out common parking locations, so never assume. (Pro-tip: LAX lets you pre-book online for cheaper (!) rates.)

“We actually missed a flight a few years ago because we did not realize the construction had taken so many economy lot spaces out. We drove around the airport for over an hour before we found a lot that wasn't full,” Schwartz Mills said.

Traveling with a disability? Access Paratransit can get you to LAX. For anyone eligible to use this service, Access can take you to the airport for 21 days out of a 12-month period. If you’re outside of L.A. County, you can get complimentary service. (See FlyLAX for more ADA services.)

The entrance to Los Angeles International Airport on April 16, 2020, in Los Angeles.

(

Valerie Macon

/

AFP via Getty Images

)

If traffic is unbearable, consider using another floor. LAX has two levels: The top for departures and the bottom for arrivals. Rideshare drivers have to drop off on the top level, so it can get congested very fast. If you go below, you’ll have to go upstairs using the escalators.

Stay flexible about dropping off at less crowded terminals. In most cases, where you need to go is also where hundreds of Angelenos are headed. If you have to stay topside, remember you can always be dropped off at a less congested terminal and walk the rest of the way. (LAX posts live traffic times.)

Try alternate routes. Saeed Jaffer of Pasadena said if you’re “approaching via 105, sometimes using alternate off-ramps is necessary. If the Sepulveda tunnel is backed up: [Try] Nash Street or sometimes even La Cienega Boulevard. [The] 96th Street/Vicksburg Street entrance to the horseshoe can often be a better entrance.”

When in doubt, go biking. If your load is light, you can bike into LAX and lock it up in one of the central terminal area’s parking garages for free. That’s a real insider’s tip — it comes from Ian Dutton, an airline pilot from Santa Monica, who uses this mode of transport himself. He recommends parking it “out of the way” of traffic. In his experience, bike theft isn’t common because it’s in a security-monitored garage.

If you’re taking rideshare, know how the process works. The process evolves often, so do your driver a favor and get familiar with the pickup and drop-off rules — LAX police won’t hesitate to issue a ticket!

How to park at LAX for really cheap

The airport has a lower cost parking lot where you can leave your ride fairly close to the terminals with a running shuttle — is this a dream?

LAX Budget Parking lot took over Economy Lot E at 5455 West 111th Street, which is off-site between Aviation and La Cienega boulevards. It has contactless entry and exit, 2,600 spaces and a shuttle that scoops up passengers every 20 to 30 minutes. Prices range from $13 to $20 per day, depending on when you book.

Off-site private parking has long drawn people because it’s been cheaper than official LAX parking, but this addition makes the airport more competitive. Some things you may want to consider when choosing are how long you’ll be gone, cleanliness of structures and proximity to what you need. Most parking companies offer a free shuttle to terminals, too.

Go through security only once (and quickly)

You can now check out other terminals without the recurring TSA headache. After you get through security, consider that your ticket to roaming freedom. There's a roughly 2-mile-long route that's part of ongoing work to improve the airport, including the upcoming SkyLink train. Before the route, you’d have to leave your terminal and enter another as if you were a brand new passenger going through TSA.

Diagram mapping the approximately 2-mile, end-to-end journey between LAX’s Terminal 1 and Terminal 8.

(

Courtesy Los Angeles World Airports

)

The change lets you more quickly access food and beverage vendors, pet relief stations, and other things that are only available in specific terminals. So if you want The Habit over Umami Burger, just take your things and waltz on over. Here's a video of where to go:

Another tip: TSA PreCheck will save you time. The screening lines for travelers with TSA PreCheck are considerably shorter, so it can help you avoid stress. Application costs can vary, but it's generally around $85 for five years.

Consider using CLEAR. This technology, which expanded to LAX in 2021, uses your eyes or fingerprints to confirm who you are. The cost starts at $209 annually. Once confirmed, an employee escorts you to the front for a physical screening.

Parents, TSA-prep your children’s food. Stefanie Ritoper, a former engagement producer at LAist, said “If you have tiny kids, bring many, many snacks for the line and the plane. It is the only way. Pack all baby food in a clear bag ... you're allowed to bring it through TSA, but they usually have to screen it separately.”

Screening prep! Make sure you can remove items quickly. Keep things like electronics accessible and be ready to slide those shoes and belts off. The TSA has a detailed list of what you can pack in a carry-on or checked luggage.

Where to eat near the airport

There’s nothing worse than going to the airport on an empty stomach.

LAX has dozens of places to buy meals and snacks, but at the same time, it can be very expensive.

Instead of dropping the equivalent amount of another plane ticket on an overpriced meal, here are some delicious suggestions from LAist’s food and culture writer Gab Chabrán. Try these spots before entering LAX — all within a 5 mile radius.

Aliki’s Greek Taverna: Aliki’s imports many of its ingredients from Greece. There’s a full lineup of foods like spanakopita (spinach pie), gyro plates and galaktoboureko (a custard dessert).

• Address: 5862 Arbor Vitae Street, Los Angeles, CA 90045
• Hours: Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Dulan’s Soul Food Kitchen: This spot is a cafeteria-style eatery from the self-proclaimed “King of Soul Food,” Adolf Dulan.

• Address: 202 East Manchester Boulevard, Inglewood, CA 90301
• Hours: Every day from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Carnitas El Artista: This family-owned restaurant specializes in Michoacan-style carnitas.

• Address: 510 North La Brea Avenue, Inglewood, CA 90302
• Hours: Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Country Style Jamaican Restaurant: This spot offers a slice of Caribbean flavors with meals like oxtail, jerk chicken and curry goat.

• Address: 630 North La Brea Avenue, Inglewood, CA 90302
• Hours: Open every day (except Wednesday) from 10:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.

In-N-Out: This slice of California royalty is a big draw for travelers. Beware of long drive-thru lines. Stay long enough and you’ll get to see a plane fly overhead!

• Address: 9149 South Sepulveda Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90045
• Hours: Sunday through Thursday, 10:30 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. Friday through Saturday, 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Pann’s Restaurant: If you’re into more Googie design and a “dreamburger,” Pann’s is the spot. The diner opened in 1958 and was recently in “Euphoria.”

• Address: 6710 La Tijera Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90045
• Hours: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The Proud Bird: This aviation-themed food hall is right outside LAX. It offers six cuisines and is home to Bludso’s BBQ ribs, brisket and pulled pork.

• Address: 11022 Aviation Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90045
• Hours: Monday to Tuesday, 11 p.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday to Saturday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Some aircraft fly pretty close to traffic. How is that legal?

Since LAX is right in the middle of a busy city, nearby residents (or car drivers) usually get a real close look at incoming and departing planes.

(

Alborz Kamalizad

/

LAist

)

When you’re driving near the airport, you may sometimes have the instinct to duck down in your car to avoid a close encounter with a jet taking off.

It’s great if you’re a thrill seeker, but not if you’re of a nervous disposition. But what gives? Well, it depends on where you are and what type of aircraft you’re seeing.

In general, the Federal Aviation Administration only allows aircraft to fly below minimum altitudes in congested areas when it’s necessary for takeoff or landing. Since LAX is right in the middle of a busy city, nearby residents (or car drivers) usually get a real close look at incoming and departing planes.

(Fun fact: from midnight to 6:30 a.m., all pilots usually land and take off by flying west over the ocean regardless of destination to reduce city noise. Sorry, Playa del Rey.)

But there’s another close call you might notice. When pilots follow visual flight rules — which are used when there’s minimum visibility to physically see where an aircraft is going — LAX has a special, federally-regulated area that allows them to fly above the airport at lower elevations.

When a pilot is going northwest over LAX, they’re allowed to fly at 4,500 feet above sea level. If they’re flying southeast, they can cross at 3,500 feet. One caveat? Jets — meaning most commercial airliners — aren’t allowed to do this.

About LAX's plastic water bottle ban

In June 2023, LAX announced a ban on the sale of single-use plastic water bottles to cut down waste. Travelers now have to purchase water in alternative packaging, such as boxes or cans, or use one of LAX's 20+ fill-up hydration stations (which are akin to the water dispensing machines at the gym). Plastic is still allowed as packaging for other beverages.

The decision created some concern. Travelers shared online that those machines aren't kept up. We asked LAX officials about how the machines are maintained and if there are plans to increase service.

LAWA's public information officer Victoria Spilabotte said in statement that there is a regular maintenance program where "the stations are inspected and repaired to ensure they are in working order."

Travelers can report hydration station issues by emailing infoline@lawa.org. For those who just want a sip of water, more than 50 drinking fountains are spread across the airport.

Finally — a brief LAX history lesson

People examine a plane powered by a Wright J-5 engine at Mines Field in Westchester during the 1928 National Air Races.

(

Courtesy Los Angeles Public Library digital collection

)

LAX didn’t become an infuriating destination overnight. With millions of dollars, what’s now known as Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) slowly developed the land over decades.

Back in 1837, when California (known then as Alta California) was under Mexican rule, the governor gave a huge area of land to a ranchero named Antonio Ygnacio Avila. That swath became Rancho Sausal Redondo. It included today’s LAX, Playa del Rey — and yes, Redondo Beach. Those grounds have been almost everything you’d imagine in old L.A.: a ranch, grazing area, lima bean farmland — you name it.

[Jump to: How to hack LAX travel like a pro]

The area’s soaring potential became evident in the late 1800s. While the Wright brothers achieved the first powered human-led flight in 1903, there were some attempts at flying already happening around the world. In the years around 1889, the flat farmland attracted pilots to practice informally near today’s Imperial and Aviation Boulevard, according to Los Angeles World Airports documents.

A few decades later, it was on its way to becoming a fully-fledged airfield. It was named Mines Field at the time (a tribute to William W. Mines, a real estate agent). When Mines orchestrated the 1928 National Air Races, L.A. government officials saw the grounds as a perfect place to tap into the growing aviation industry.

Crowds of people attend the dedication of the Los Angeles municipal airport in 1930.

(

Courtesy Los Angeles Public Library digital collection

)

Enter the Los Angeles Municipal Airport at Mines Field. Back then, there wasn’t even an office building. Most employees traveled to City Hall to work, records show. (The few who worked on-site did so out of a shed.)

Those early flights were private and took off from dirt airstrips — but the city had big ambitions. L.A. purchased the airfield outright in 1937 and voters backed a $12.5 million bond (the equivalent of about $195.8 million in 2022) for expansion eight years later.

But the big dogs of commercial flying were still tied to Burbank’s airport, which opened in 1930. L.A. enviously stood by as its rival, Lockheed Air Terminal, raked in the cash — public air travel at that point was a luxurious money-maker. That changed when Burbank manufactured fighter planes during World War II, chipping away at airliners’ ability to expand their services. Most public carriers defected to L.A.’s growing airport in 1946.

With the jet age boom in the ‘60s, air travel nearly tripled. More money flowed into the airport to accommodate jet airliners. A control tower was built and runways were extended, but a key need was to build more room for passengers. Terminals 7 and 8 were the first “jet age” buildings at LAX in June 1961. Terminals 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 began service later that year.

Ahead of the Olympic games in 1984, development was in full swing. The double-decker roadway was built and more than 1 million square feet of terminal space was added. Terminal 1 and the Tom Bradley International Terminal (named after Mayor Tom Bradley) were completed just in time for the summer games.

Surfridge: LA’s lost neighborhood

If you’ve ever driven by Dockweiler Beach along Vista del Mar, you might have noticed an area of land that’s fenced off and desolate.

Surprise: It’s a government-made ghost town. When LAX expanded into jet travel, the seaside community of Surfridge had a front-row seat. The neighborhood was “an isolated playground of the wealthy” on the coastline, according to the L.A. Times.

Noise was always present in that neighborhood because of the airport, but the arrival of jets made the roaring sounds more of a problem. Residents complained and urged the city to reduce noise pollution.

Those calls were answered with the use of eminent domain. L.A. officials excised Surfridge from the map. They forcefully bought and tore down residents’ homes in the ‘60s and early ‘70s, rather than let the buildings become dilapidated.

It’s an eerily similar past to what happened in the neighborhoods at Bunker Hill and Chavez Ravine, but a striking difference is that the community wasn’t replaced with new, modern structures.

Instead, what remains of Surfridge are cracked-up roads, barren land and chain-link fences.

Wait, how did LAX get its name?

OK, we totally don’t call it “Los Angeles Airport” or “Mines Field” anymore. Why?

Well, the airport had a bit of an identity crisis.

When the Civil Aeronautics Administration gave the airport a shiny new “international” rating in 1949, the City Council capitalized on that by changing the airport’s name from “Los Angeles Airport” to “Los Angeles International Airport.”

The induction of “LAX” came when airport identifier codes had to expand. Two-letter codes were usually tied to a city, but as more airports sprung up, the codes went up to three letters. So in our case, “LA” became “LAX” in 1947. That “X” doesn’t have any special meaning, according to LAWA, but it's a letter commonly used in transportation. (Fun fact: The Amtrak stop at Union Station is also called LAX.)