Make the most of your time at Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) with these suggestions.
Restaurants & Cafés
Brookwood Farms BBQ: Located in the central terminal zone, great for Southern-style comfort food like BBQ ribs or pulled pork sandwiches after a long flight.
California Pizza Kitchen: A common sit-down choice for travellers wanting a quick but filling meal before a flight.
Yovana Café: Ideal for lighter meals, quick snacks, or coffee when you don’t want a full meal.
Phillips Famous Seafood: Perfect for seafood lovers or those wanting a taste of local cuisine with extra time before takeoff.
Grab & Go Kiosks: Scattered across concourses, convenient for quick coffee, sandwiches, or snacks — especially during late-night or busy hours.
Suggested Layover Itineraries
~3-Hour Layover (Stay Inside Airport): Visit The Club CLT (Concourse A), enjoy snacks/coffee, explore terminal shops, grab BBQ at Brookwood Farms BBQ. Walking time between concourses is usually under 15 minutes.
5–6 Hour Layover (Airport + Quick Outdoor Break): Rest in a lounge, visit the CLT Plane Spotting Area for fresh air. If time/weather permits, take a short taxi/ride-share to nearby spots but return with enough buffer.
8+ Hours / Half-Day City Tour: Take a taxi or shuttle to Uptown Charlotte (15–20 mins). Sightsee, enjoy a café, visit museums/art spots, then return at least 2 hours before your flight. Consider dining or resting at Minute Suites or lounges afterward.
Shops & Lifestyle Stores
The airport has several retail stores for travel gear, electronics, reading materials, and comfort snacks — convenient during tight layovers.
The Club CLT: Located in Concourse A near gates A21–A22, accessible with Priority Pass or day-pass. Quiet seating, snacks, beverages, and charging stations.
Lounges & Relax Spots
The Club CLT: Concourse A near gates A21–A22. Priority Pass/day pass accepted.
Centurion Lounge: Located at the D/E connector. A premium option for Amex cardholders or eligible passengers.
Delta Sky Club: Newly built in Concourse A for Delta and partner airline flyers.
Minute Suites & Rest Areas: Perfect for a nap, privacy, or a quiet break during long layovers.
Other Activities & Unique Features
Airport Overlook / Plane Spotting Area: Public viewing area with runway views, aircraft displays, and a small playground.
Live Music & Local Flavor: Occasional performances showcasing Charlotte’s regional charm.
