If you find yourself with time to spare, there are a few practical things to do at Washington Reagan Airport to help pass a layover. While it’s a compact, mostly domestic airport, its food options, public art, and excellent access to Washington, DC make it more manageable than many similar-sized airports. Whether you want to eat, browse, or step out briefly for sightseeing, expectations are generally reasonable for a short or medium layover.
1. Eat
For its size, the airport offers a surprisingly decent mix of food options, with a blend of familiar chains and local favourites that give a small taste of the region. Alongside staples like Starbucks, Dunkin’, Chick-fil-A, and casual pizza or burger spots, you’ll find several well-known Washington-area names. Ben’s Chili Bowl is a popular stop for its half-smokes and chili, while Lebanese Taverna offers lighter Mediterranean dishes that are easy to eat between flights. Taylor Gourmet is a good option for sandwiches inspired by classic deli flavours. Selection varies by terminal and time of day, and late-night dining can be limited, so it’s best to eat earlier if you have the chance.
2. Shop
Shopping here is modest and geared toward convenience, but there are a few worthwhile stops if you want to browse. In addition to bookstores and newsstands, you’ll find small outposts of recognizable brands like Brooks Brothers, Vineyard Vines, and Brighton, which are useful for last-minute clothing or gifts. The Smithsonian Store stands out for travellers looking for something uniquely local, offering museum-inspired books, toys, and DC-themed souvenirs. Overall, shopping is easy to cover quickly and works best as a low-effort way to fill time rather than a destination experience.
3. Spa
If you want to freshen up between flights, XpresSpa offers massages and basic beauty services. Locations and services can vary, and availability may be limited depending on the time of day, so this is best treated as a bonus rather than a guarantee.
4. Browse the art
The airport features a rotating public art program with exhibits displayed throughout the terminals. Installations typically highlight regional artists, photography, and cultural themes connected to the Washington area. Displays are spread out rather than concentrated in one gallery space, making them easy to explore while walking to your gate. From time to time, live music performances take place in the terminal, though these are occasional rather than guaranteed and depend on the day and time.
5. Go sightseeing
One of the airport’s biggest advantages is its location. Situated just across the river from Washington, DC, it offers some of the easiest airport-to-city access in the region. With at least five hours between flights, it’s realistic to leave the airport for a short sightseeing break.
The most reliable option is the Metrorail. The airport station is served by the Blue and Yellow Lines, providing a direct ride into the city. From there, you can reach the National Mall area, where landmarks like the Smithsonian museums, the Washington Monument, and views toward the Capitol are clustered close together. Many museums are free, making it easy to step inside without committing to a long visit.
For a calmer alternative, riding the same Metro lines a few stops south takes you to Old Town Alexandria. This historic area is compact and walkable, with brick streets, waterfront paths, cafés, and small shops that are well suited to a shorter, lower-stress layover excursion. Visit Tripadvisor for more things to do in Washington.
6. WiFi
Free WiFi is available throughout the airport. To connect, you’ll be prompted to enter an email address and a postal or ZIP code. International travellers who don’t have a ZIP code can usually enter a placeholder value to complete the login.
7. Sleep
Short naps are possible here, but comfort is limited. Seating generally includes armrests, making it difficult to stretch out, and floor space is often the only option for lying down. Overnight stays can be challenging. Security typically closes late at night, and travellers not already airside may need to remain landside until morning. Some travellers report frequent automated announcements overnight, so earplugs are strongly recommended. Temperatures can run cool, so extra layers help.
If you prefer a proper bed, several hotels are located near the airport, many offering shuttle service. Details are covered in the main Washington Reagan Airport Guide.
Updated 07 January 2026
These are just a few things to do on a layover at Washington Reagan Airport. Visit our Washington Reagan 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.