Figuring out how to spend a layover can feel overwhelming, especially at a large, spread-out airport. If you’re looking for practical, low-stress things to do at Philadelphia Airport, the good news is that once you’re through security at Philadelphia International Airport, it’s relatively easy to move between terminals, and there are enough food, seating, and distraction options to help pass the time. Whether you’re wide awake, worn out, or just counting down the hours until your next flight, here are a few realistic ways to get through a layover without overselling what the airport can offer.
1. Check out the food scene
Philadelphia Airport has a wide mix of quick bites and sit-down restaurants, with a noticeable emphasis on local favourites alongside standard airport chains. If you want something that feels distinctly Philly, Chickie’s & Pete’s is known for its crab fries, while Geno’s Steaks offers a recognizable version of the city’s famous cheesesteak. Noobar serves made-to-order sushi and Asian-inspired dishes, and Aldo Lamberti Trattoria is a reliable option for pasta, pizza, and Italian comfort food. Across the terminals, you’ll also find coffee shops, bakeries, grab-and-go kiosks, and casual bars, making it easy to eat without committing to a long sit-down if your energy is low.
2. Relax in a lounge
Several airline lounges operate at Philadelphia Airport, including American Airlines Admirals Club locations. Access policies vary by airline, ticket class, and membership, and pay-at-the-door access is not always available, even when space allows. Amenities typically include quieter seating, WiFi, drinks, and light food, but availability depends on the specific lounge and time of day. For current access rules and locations, travellers should check our Philadelphia Airport Guide or the airline directly before counting on entry. [ read more ]
3. Go shopping
Shopping at Philadelphia Airport is typical of a large U.S. airport. The airport groups its retail and dining under the “Philadelphia Marketplace” name, but most stores will feel familiar rather than uniquely local. Expect duty-free shops on international routes, convenience stores for snacks and travel basics, bookstores, and tech or accessory shops. Well-known brands such as Gap, Victoria’s Secret, Brookstone, and skincare retailers like Kiehl’s and L’Occitane are scattered across terminals, which can be useful if you need last-minute essentials or a small comfort purchase during a long layover.
4. Visit the library
Philadelphia Airport offers a small virtual library concept rather than a full traditional library. In designated seating areas, travellers can access digital reading materials and, in some cases, sign up for a free library card to download eBooks. This is a quiet, low-key option if you want to sit down and read without needing to buy anything.
5. Pamper yourself
If you’re looking to relax without leaving the terminal, XpresSpa locations offer services such as massages, facials, manicures, and pedicures. Availability and treatments vary by terminal and time of day, and prices are typical for airport spa services, so this works best for travellers who want a short, contained break rather than a full spa experience.
6. Browse the art
Art installations and rotating exhibitions are displayed throughout the terminals, featuring work from regional and national artists. Exhibits change periodically, so what you see will depend on timing and location. The airport maintains a current list of exhibitions on its official website if you want to seek them out intentionally.
7. Sightseeing
If your layover is long enough—generally seven hours or more—and you’re comfortable leaving the airport, it’s possible to squeeze in a short visit to the city. The most straightforward option is the SEPTA Airport Line, which runs directly between the airport and Center City. Trains are frequent and avoid traffic, while taxis and rideshares are also available but can be slower during peak periods.
Once downtown, several major sights are clustered close together, which helps if time is limited. You can see the Liberty Bell and nearby historic sites, or visit museums such as the Museum of the American Revolution. If you’re looking for something more iconic, the Philadelphia Museum of Art is a popular stop, even if just for the view from the steps. Food-focused travellers often gravitate toward the Reading Terminal Market, which offers a wide range of quick local eats under one roof.
Be conservative with your timing when heading back to the airport. Security lines at Philadelphia can be unpredictable, and travellers frequently report longer waits than expected. Sightseeing during a layover works best if you’re flexible, travelling light, and prepared to turn back early if things start to feel rushed.
Leave plenty of time to return to the airport – travellers report that clearing Security sometimes takes much longer than it should. Visit Tripadvisor for more things to do in Philadelphia.
8. WiFi
Free WiFi is available throughout the airport.
9. Sleep
Sleeping at Philadelphia Airport is possible, but comfort is limited. Travellers report that airside areas in Terminal C tend to have more seating options, while landside walkways and the International Arrivals area may offer quieter corners before security. Expect noise, bright lighting, and cooler temperatures overnight.
For proper rest, Minute Suites operates between Terminals A and B and rents private rooms by the hour. There is also an on-site Marriott Philadelphia Airport Hotel located across a sky bridge from Terminal B. Full details are available in our Philadelphia Airport Guide. [ read more ]
Updated 30 December 2025
These are just a few things to do on a layover at Philadelphia Airport. Visit our Philadelphia Airport Guide for more information about the services and facilities available, such as food, WiFi, mobile charging, luggage storage, nearby airport hotels, and much more.