Whether you have a layover, overnight sleepover or are just quickly passing through, our Charlotte Airport Guide is a great place to start planning your visit. Here, you’ll find information on services and facilities available inside the airport – including details about airport lounges, WiFi, mobile charging points, lockers, 24-hour food options, nearby hotels, and everything in between.
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Charlotte’s only saving grace is the garden area by the fountain outside of security -a traveller
CLT Airport Overview
To help you plan your layover or overnight sleepover, here is a quick run-down about what to expect during your time at Charlotte Airport.
What to Expect
Charlotte Douglas Airport (Code: CLT) consists of one terminal with five concourses (A, B, C, D and E) and perhaps unsurprisingly, there can be some very long walks between gates if you have a connecting flight. Some reviewers describe the airport as worn out and inefficient, with some particularly congested areas around the gates. Regarding amenities, CLT has a decent range of shopping and dining options on the airside. All concessions – except the landside Starbucks – close overnight. Free WiFi and charging stations are available throughout the terminal. For added comfort, economy-class passengers can access first-class lounges with a day pass or an Admirals Club membership.
Sleeping in Charlotte Airport
If you’ve arrived late with a connection in the morning, you are now permitted to stay airside (according to a February 2020 review). Be prepared to be asked for ID and proof of an outbound flight.
The chairs throughout the terminal are by no means sleeper-friendly. Most have armrests, and few other options exist beyond sleeping on the cold, hard floor.
Landside, the sleeping conditions are considered uncomfortable, with many travellers opting for the floor. Those who have spent the night cite hard, cold, dirty floors, bright lights, and loud announcements as major sleep inhibitors. Some couches and padded chairs are in the Terminal E pre-security area, and a few quiet nooks are under the escalators in Zones B and C in baggage claim. A sleeping pad is recommended.
If you’re on the airside, there are more modern chairs at Gates C12-14. These chairs are padded and have wireless charging, but all have armrests, so they will not be too comfortable for lying down. Most sleepers should be prepared to sleep on the floor. It may not be the most appropriate option, but some travellers have reported sleeping in the Chapel, with long benches and better choices. Although still not the most comfortable, they said it was the best option they could find airside. Fortunately, there are a couple of designated rest zones.
If none of this sounds like an experience you wish to have and you prefer privacy and a bed, there are sleep cabins inside the airport and nearby hotels with airport shuttles. See the Airport Hotels section below.
Read some traveller reviews for more tips. For more airport information, continue scrolling down to explore more in our Charlotte Douglas Airport Guide.
To help us keep this guide up-to-date, you can add or update information or write a review to submit airport tips and photos.
In this guide we may refer to locations as “landside” and “airside”. Landside is the public area of the terminal located in the non-secure zone, before security. Airside is the secure area of the terminal that you must reach by going through security.
Airport Hours
Charlotte Douglas International Airport is open 24 hours.
Security checkpoint hours vary by location and can change based on flight schedules and operational needs. If you remain in the public area overnight, access to the secure area is limited until checkpoints reopen in the morning. Reported checkpoint hours:
- Checkpoint A: 4:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Checkpoint B: 4:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Checkpoint C: 4:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Checkpoint D: 4:00 AM – 10:45 PM
- Checkpoint E: 4:00 AM – 10:15 PM
Live security wait times are published on the CLT website and official app.
Hours are subject to change without notice.
Rest & Relaxation Zones
Rocking chairs are available in the Atrium (public area) and in Concourses D and E past security. These are often used by travellers resting between flights.
As with sleeping anywhere in public, take basic precautions with your belongings. Keep valuables secured and bags within reach at all times.
Cots
The airport does not provide cots to stranded travellers. If this has changed, click here to update the guide.
Airport Hotels & Sleep Pods
If sleeping in Charlotte Airport sounds like a nightmare, there are sleep cabins inside the airport and nearby hotels that provide free airport shuttles:
Hotels inside the Terminal
For short naps or overnight sleepovers, you don’t have to leave the terminal to use the Minute Suites:
- Minute Suites – Locations: Airside, Atrium • Airside, D/E Connector (near Gate D1). Minute Suites provides private suites for travellers needing to relax, work, or sleep during a layover or flight delay. Each suite has a daybed that sleeps two, fresh pillows and blankets, smart TV, free Wi-Fi, and an Amazon Alexa to provide a sound-masking system. Here are the rates as of February 2025: US$ 65 per hour. US$ 215 (overnight – eight hours, after 9:00PM til midnight). Showers are $20 for 30 mins (added on to a minimum 1 hour stay) or $30 for 30 mins without a suite rental. Showers are available at both locations. Discounted rates for military/1st responder, crew, and more. Use Promo Code SIASUITES to save 15% off a Suite Rental or Overnight Stay when you book online.
Off-site, there are many nearby options and some have airport shuttles:
- Courtyard by Marriott Charlotte Airport North » Check Rates
- DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Charlotte Airport » Check Rates
- Hampton Inn & Suites Charlotte Airport » Check Rates
- Hilton Garden Inn Charlotte Airport » Check Rates
- Holiday Inn Charlotte Airport » Check Rates
- Holiday Inn Charlotte-Airport Conference Center » Check Rates
- Home2 Suites by Hilton Charlotte Airport » Check Rates
For more options, visit Tripadvisor to see a list of hotels near Charlotte Airport that can be sorted by price, distance, traveller rating and popularity.
Airport Lounges
Pay-per-use, Single Visit Passes & Lounge Memberships
Regardless of what class of service you are flying, there are lounges that you can enter by paying at the door or through a lounge membership program.
- American Airlines Admirals Club – Location: Airside, Concourse B, between Gates 3 and 5. Hours: 4:15 AM – 10:45 PM. Showers: No. Dedicated Rest Zone: No. Sleep Facilities: No. Lounge Access: Lounge Membership programs (Admirals Club) • Prepaid lounge passes • Credit card rewards programs • American / oneworld premium cabin or elite passengers.
- American Airlines Admirals Club – Location: Airside, at the intersection of Concourses C and D (after security). Hours: 5:15 AM – 10:45 PM. Showers: No. Dedicated Rest Zone: No. Sleep Facilities: No. Lounge Access: Lounge Membership programs (Admirals Club) • Prepaid lounge passes • Credit card rewards programs • American / oneworld premium cabin or elite passengers.
- American Express Centurion Lounge – American Express Centurion Lounge – Location: Airside, mezzanine level at the intersection of Concourses D and E. Hours: 5:30 AM – 10:30 PM. Showers: Yes (two private shower suites are available, by reservation). Dedicated Rest Zone: No. Sleep Facilities: No. Lounge Access: Complimentary for Amex Platinum, Centurion, and selected Amex cardholders.
- Delta Sky Club – Location: Airside, Concourse A, new lounge near gates A38–A39. Hours: Based on Delta flight schedules. Showers: No. Dedicated Rest Zone: No. Sleep Facilities: No. Lounge Access: Lounge Membership programs (Delta Sky Club) • Prepaid lounge passes • Access for Delta premium / DM status / eligible flights.
- Provisions by Admirals Club – Location: Airside, Concourse A, next to Gate A1. Hours: 6:15 AM – 9:15 PM. Showers: No. Dedicated Rest Zone: No. Sleep Facilities: No. Lounge Access: Same access rules as traditional Admirals Club locations (Admirals Club membership, eligible credit cards, oneworld status).
- The Club CLT – Location: Airside, Concourse A, turn right at Starbucks toward Gates A21–A29, located just before Gates A22/A21. Hours: 5:00 AM – 9:30 PM. Showers: Yes. Dedicated Rest Zone: No. Sleep Facilities: No. Lounge Access: Pay at the door • Prepaid lounge passes • Lounge membership programs.
Military Lounge
USO Lounge – The USO offers a free lounge to active members of the US military and their families. Location: Landside / Airside transition, Central Atrium (Main Terminal). Hours: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM. Showers: No. Dedicated Rest Zone: Yes. Sleep Facilities: No. Lounge Access: Free for active duty, reserve, National Guard, retired military and their families.
Drinking Water
Water bottle refill stations are available throughout the terminal, both before and after security.
Food & Drinks
The airport offers over 54 restaurants and cafes, both Landside and Airside. The Farmers Market (Concourse B or E Rotunda) and the Fresh Attractions may be good options for healthy snacks and beverages. At the time of this update, we cannot confirm the availability of any 24-hour dining options.
Luggage Storage & Lockers
Luggage storage services and lockers are not available. If this is incorrect, click here to update this guide.
Mobile Charging
Charging options are widely available throughout the terminal. Seating with built-in power and USB ports can be found in select gate areas, including Gates A21–A29 and throughout Concourse B. Additional outlets are scattered across the Atrium and all concourses.
Portable power packs are sold by select retailers, and FuelRod vending machines are also available.
Showers
Showers are available at Minute Suites. Rates are $20.00 for a 30-minute shower with a suite rental or $30.00 without. Location: Airside, Atrium, which is accessible from all Terminals.
WiFi / Internet
Free WiFi is available at Charlotte Airport. Connect to the “CLT Free WiFi” network.
Security & Safety
While there have been reports of rude staff, no safety issues have been reported.
Sleeping in any airport can include a certain level of risk, especially when travelling alone. It’s important to take certain precautions to ensure your safety and the security of your valuables. Here are a few tips:
- Safety First. It’s a good idea to know where the security office is located and look for video cameras where you plan to sleep. You can also ask the security personnel for advice on the safest places to spend the night.
- Don’t Seclude Yourself. If you’re travelling alone, we recommend you stay near other travellers or close to security. This will help you feel more secure and deter potential thieves.
- Hide Your Valuables. It’s also important to hide your valuables. Don’t leave them out in plain view, as this could make you a target for theft. Additionally, if you are a deep sleeper, you may want to padlock your bag to something or sleep with your bag up against a wall to make it harder for someone to access zippers and pockets. We have received reports of sleepers who woke up without their phones and laptop bags. The travellers were left with just their headphones and laptop bag strap.
- Stay Alert. It’s best to stay alert and awake if you feel unsafe or uncomfortable. Drink coffee or other caffeinated beverages to help you stay awake, and remember that you can always catch up on sleep during your flight. These simple precautions can help you enjoy a safe night at the airport.
More Airport Information
Accessibility – Charlotte Douglas International Airport participates in the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program, which helps staff discreetly recognize travellers who may need extra time, patience, or assistance. Sunflower lanyards and items are available at select information points, including the Information Desk, Baggage Claim Info Center, USO Lounge, and The Club CLT.
ATMs / Cash Machines – ATMs are available throughout the terminal, both before and after security. Fees may apply, so check your bank’s policies and withdrawal limits if travelling internationally.
CLT Canine Crew – Certified therapy dogs from the CLT Canine Crew regularly walk through the terminal to help reduce traveller stress. They are easy to spot by their blue “Pet Me” vests.
Chapel – An interfaith chapel is open 24 hours a day for quiet reflection or prayer. It is located on the upper level of the Atrium in the public area.
Currency Exchange – Currency Exchange International (CXI) offers foreign currency exchange and related services in select airside locations. Hours are limited and may vary by day.
Duty-Free & Shopping – Duty-free stores and a wide range of retail shops are available. Convenience and news shops are plentiful, and a small number operate 24 hours, making it easier to grab drinks, snacks, or travel essentials overnight.
Entertainment – Gameway offers a premium video-gaming lounge experience in Concourse E, with paid access during daytime and evening hours.
Family Services
- Nursing Areas – Dedicated nursing rooms are available and designed to be quiet and private, with seating and power outlets. For additional privacy, nursing or pumping is also permitted in Minute Suites at no charge when reserved specifically for that purpose.
- Diaper Changing Facilities – Diaper-changing tables are available in all restrooms.
Information Desk – Airport information desks are located in the ticketing area. Look for the “Yellow Shirts” volunteer ambassadors, who can help with directions and general questions.
Pet Relief Areas – Indoor pet relief areas are available both before and after security, including locations near Baggage Claim and within select concourse connectors.
Shoe Shine – Executive Shoe Shine provides service in several airside locations.
SIM Cards – It is possible to purchase a SIM card at InMotion Entertainment. Multiple locations: Concourse C, D/E Connector, A Connector.
Smoking Areas – Smoking is not permitted inside the terminal. There are no designated indoor smoking areas.
Spa & Salon Services – XpresSpa offers massages, manicures, pedicures, facials, and other wellness services in select airside locations, with reduced hours compared to daytime retail.
Bus
Three bus routes serve the airport:
- Route 5 Airport Sprinter – Runs between Center City and the airport in less than 30 minutes.
- Route 590 Airport Connector – Runs express between the Northlake Mall Park & Ride and the airport.
- Route 591 Airport Connector – Runs between the airport and three LYNX Blue Line light rail stations (Archdale, Tyvola and Woodlawn).
All buses depart every 20 – 30 minutes; most operate from roughly 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM, and fares range from $2-$3 per ride (exact change or CATS transit pass). For more information, visit the CATS website.
Car Rentals
The airport has recently opened its Rental Car Facility in the Level 2 Lobby of the Hourly Parking Deck in front of the terminal. The following car rental agencies can be found at the Rental Car Facility: Alamo • Avis • Budget • Dollar • Enterprise • Hertz • National • Sixt.
Hotel Shuttles
Several area hotels provide free airport shuttle service: Best Western Plus Sterling Hotel & Suites • Clarion Hotel Airport & Conference Center • Comfort Suites Airport • Country Inn & Suites by Radisson I-85 • Courtyard Charlotte Airport North • Days Inn by Wyndham • DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel • Hampton Inn & Suites • Hilton Hotel • Hilton Garden Inn • Holiday Inn Hotel • Holiday Inn Express & Suites • Home2 Suites by Hilton • Homewood Suites by Hilton • Hyatt Place Charlotte Airport/Tyvola Road • La Quinta Inn & Suites • Sheraton Hotel • Sleep Inn Billy Graham Parkway • SpringHill Suites • Tru By Hilton Lake Pointe • Wingate by Wyndham I-85/I-485.
These hotels can be contacted from the airport at one of the Traveler Information Centers located on the Baggage Claim Level.
See also Airport Hotels above.
Taxi
Taxis that operate from the airport taxi rank adhere to airport guidelines and are guaranteed to accept credit cards and have GPS. Most taxis charge according to a metered rate, but some are authorized to charge a flat rate to destinations in the immediate area and city center.
Last updated: 2026-01-22
This guide is for informational purposes only to assist with your planning. All information, including rates and hours, is subject to change at any time without notice. The information in this airport guide is based on information collected and/or received from the airports, lounges, hotels, transportation providers, and their websites. We are not representatives of any of the above-mentioned service providers. To report errors or to add/update any items mentioned in the guide: update the airport guide or write a review.
