Full Layover Guide at Dallas Fort-Worth Airport: Tips on What to Do
Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, also known as DFW, is among the largest and most populated airports in terms of traffic and size. Situated between Dallas and Fort Worth in Texas, DFW Airport occupies more than 26 sqm and specializes in operational effectiveness, facility provisions, and global links to more than 260 cities. When you are in transit, it is usually tiring when you have to move through such a big airport with limited time. This guide will assist you in maximizing your layover, whether you have 15 minutes or 15 hours.
Navigating Dallas Fort Worth Airport
The Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) is a large transportation center, but given the airport’s design and the number of facilities, it is quite easy to get around if you are familiar with some of the tips. Below is some knowledge to help you learn about the airport and how best to navigate when you are there.
DFW consists of five terminals: A, B, C, D, and E, and has a semicircular shape with terminals connected by an automated transport system. There are restaurants, shops, and services available at each terminal. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Terminal A: Mainly targeting American Airline's domestic connectivity.
- Terminal B: There are regional flights by American Eagle here.
- Terminal C: Only American Airlines.
- Terminal D: Houses both international and domestic flights and has luxury shopping arcades and restaurants.
- Terminal E: Serves multiple carriers, including Delta and Spirit Airlines.
Transportation Within DFW Airport
Getting between terminals is seamless, thanks to the SkyLink train and shuttle services:
SkyLink Train:
A quick, efficient, and with no charge transportation system that is effective in getting passengers to and from the five terminals. Trains move every two minutes and it takes less than five minutes to travel between two adjacent terminals. SkyLink stations are situated behind the security check so that passengers can switch without passing through security points.
Tip: There are signposts that will guide you to the nearest SkyLink station in your terminal if you need to get to your gate or if you want to transfer to another terminal.
Terminal Link Shuttles:
For those who have to move from one terminal to another but have not passed through the security checkpoint. These shuttles move in loops outside the terminals and any trip on the shuttles is free.
Things to Do on a Layover at Dallas-Fort Worth Airport
Short Layovers (1–3 Hours)
If your time at the DFW airport is limited, do not fret, as you have numerous opportunities to spend a few hours with no anxiety about missing the next flight. And here are suggested activities that you can do within one to three hours.
# Multiple Food Options
Visit one of DFW’s restaurants with high ratings serving food and beverages. There are many restaurants and cafes around the gates so you don’t have to go too far to find them.
After all, this is Texas, so you won't have any trouble finding a decent lunch at DFW! Every airport has a number of restaurants offering Tex-Mex, sandwiches, barbecue, Southern cuisine, fast food, frozen yogurt, American classics, and more. For further options for relaxed sit-down restaurants with an international flavor, head to Terminal D.
Knowledgeable foodies frequent Banh Shop, Love Shack, Stampede 66 Express, Cousins Bar-B-Q, and Whitetail Bistro by Kent Rathbun. Depending on their loyalty, American football fans may wish to look for the Dallas Cowboys Club or stay away from it completely. Cereality is a cereal bar that is available all day if you like to eat breakfast at any time of day. Airside 7-Elevens are open around the clock.
# Shopping at DFW
A short layover is still ample enough to do some shopping. Shop for interesting pieces or emergency items throughout the shops of DFW. Shop for luxury products, perfumes, or wines and spirits respectively at duty-free shops that can be found from Terminal D. For tech and travel essentials, shops such as InMotion are located in Terminal A, C, and D and sell headphones, chargers, and other gadgets.
Local Finds:
- Dallas Cowboys Pro Shop (multiple terminals): Perfect for NFL fans.
- Texas Marketplace: Souvenir, Snacks, and local products.
Browse the several stores to get your steps in between flights! Convenience stores travel and tech shops, and specialty shops selling candy, souvenirs, and skin care products are among the many airport mainstays that may be found in each terminal. Texas products, such as regional leather and cowboy hats and buckles, are available at Texas Marketplace, The Range, and retailers with similar names. Additionally, you can exercise your credit card at upscale stores like Michael Kors, Coach, and Longchamp at Terminal D.
# Relaxation Spots: Lounges
DFW is not short on spots that you can relax during your short stopover or layover.
You might be shocked to hear that anyone can enter some airport lounges, regardless of airline or class of trip. Food, WiFi, and other amenities are usually included in your entry ticket, so while you will have to pay a few dollars, it can be worth it to spend the money to pass your layover in more comfort. Check out our Dallas Fort Worth Airport Lounge Guide.
Often there are quiet areas resembling waiting rooms equipped with comfortable chairs and sockets for charging terminals’ equipment. Try to find gates with fewer passengers or any obscure area close to the SkyLink stations. In addition, Terminal D has minute suites for a nap or work session.
# Unwind and Relax in Spa
If you want a massage following your most recent flight. XpresSpa offers massages, facials, hair styling, manicures, pedicures, and other relaxation treatments. The massage services as well as nail care, and other services that can be done in a short amount of time.
XpresSpa Location:
Terminal A
Near Gate A24, After Security
Level 2, Departures / Check-In
# Entertainment Options
DFW has installed over 30 pieces of art, including paintings, terrazzo flooring, and an outdoor sculpture garden, demonstrating its commitment to public art. Spread throughout the terminals, DFW has sculptures, murals and other interactive artworks that express the spirit of Texas. See how many you can spot while walking through the terminals or take an airport tour.
There is an observation deck at the Founders’ Plaza situated in Terminal D holding a good view of aircraft. Look for performances in some terminals particularly when it is rush hour.
# Sleeping at DFW Airport
Sleeping in DFW Airport is not a problem, but to find a comfortable place to sleep, you would need to walk for some time: the airport has numerous features that are suitable for overnighters. Some of the commonly used include the leather armless footrest chairs adjacent to Gates B10-11, and the Relax Lounge around Gate B28, which despite offering limited lighting provides a serene atmosphere.
Available in Concourse C, near Gate C27, there are two large couches and some comfortable chairs for several hours of rest. Terminal E even has a ‘yoga’ zone that can be used for either the day or night. Regardless of where you decide to call home, be sure to bring a sweater and earplies to help beat the cold air conditioning and noises. Due to a high number of cancellations, DFW usually accommodates every stranded passenger with blankets and pillows for those who have to spend the night.
But for those who are willing to pay for comfort, there are Minute Suites that provide small private rooms with daybeds by the hour or per night and even provide air mattresses if all the suites are rented. Or, the guests could choose more typical accommodation at the Grand Hyatt DFW or Hyatt Regency DFW, where rooms are also available for a day's use.
Long Layovers (7+ Hours)
Transit at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) is a great chance to stay in the area or dedicate all the time to the airport’s amenities. People believe that waiting is boring but if it is well organized then one can turn the entire waiting time into a fun process. Read on to discover how to maximize your stay at the airport during a long layover.
# Leaving the Airport
Depending on the waiting time, which should be not less than seven hours between the connecting flights, it is recommended to visit and explore Dallas. Try to avoid the airport entirely if you have a layover of at least six hours! Here’s how to do it:
Transportation Options:- DART Rail: Catch the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) Orange Line right from the airport into downtown Dallas in approximately 50 minutes.
- Rideshares/Taxi Services: Many taxi, Lyft, Private Transfer, and Uber services are easily accessible and you can get to nearby attractions in 20-30 minutes.
- Car Rentals: If your intention is to cover several destinations then it will be wise to hire a car.
- Airport Shuttles: Some of the nearby hotels and local attractions are provided with free shuttle services.
Cheap links to downtown Dallas are offered by the DART public transportation system. The DART Rail Orange Line, which stops at Terminal A, is the simplest choice. Although they have limited service, Trinity Railway Express and bus route 408 link to the city. Aim for roughly 75 minutes each way. There are also taxis available.
Fort Worth is another option, although Dallas is closer and easier to get to via public transportation. If you are departing the airport, be aware that DFW does not offer luggage storage; thus, pack sparingly or make plans in advance.
Depending on your travel schedule, choose one or more of these Dallas neighborhoods to explore as the DART links to them:
- For those interested in art and culture, the Pearl/Arts District is the place to be. Visit the Perot Museum of Nature and Science, the Nasher Sculpture Center, or the Dallas Museum of Art. An enjoyable and reasonably priced method to see this neighborhood is through architectural walking tours.
- There are many places to eat and shop in the West End District. It is primarily recognized, though, for its historical significance: the Sixth Floor Museum honors the assassination of former US President John F. Kennedy at Dealey Plaza.
- Downtown Dallas is centered around the Main Street District. Explore the art exhibitions and gardens at Thanks-Giving Square or seek out live musicians. If you're not in the mood to visit museums or historical sites, this is a great neighborhood to explore.
- The George W. Bush Presidential Library and the Dallas World Aquarium are additional places to explore Dallas, although they take much more time. Additionally, you will have to pay for cabs.
Re-entry Tips
Some airlines do not allow passengers to use their boarding pass to pass through the security checkpoint, and you will need your ID. It is advisable to plan on getting back to DFW at least, two hours before any domestic flight; 3 hours, for international flights. Return with plenty of time to get through security and get to your gate in time for the following flight!
So if you have a long time layover in DFW, there is a lot that you can do. Whether you decide to take a tour of the Dallas-Fort Worth area or sample the terminal’s luxurious facilities, you are sure to have a good time.