Step off the escalator. Look up. What do you see?
A timber canopy that feels like the inside of a forest. A terminal lit like a museum. A tribute wall that tells a story of courage. These aren’t just buildings. They are spaces crafted to evoke emotion. In 2025, the U.S. airport scene has quietly evolved into one of the most design-forward landscapes in global travel.
Let’s walk through some of the most beautiful airport terminals in the US, where the routine of flying becomes something truly memorable.
PDX, Portland, Oregon
Forget concrete jungles. Portland’s $2.15 billion transformation brought the outdoors in. Literally.
- Design Vision: A forest walk, brought to life by ZGF Architects.
- What Stands Out: Sweeping timber roof, filtered daylight, green pockets, and regionally sourced textures.
- How It Feels: Soft. Quiet. Refreshingly human.
Source : Freepik
This isn’t just one of the best designed airports in America. It’s a terminal that proves sustainability can be serene, not sterile. When green design is more than a buzzword, it turns transit into an experience.
SFO, San Francisco, California
Harvey Milk Terminal 1 doesn’t whisper. It speaks boldly and proudly.
- Awarded: Earned a spot on the 2025 list of the world’s most beautiful airport terminals.
- Design Features: 59% less energy use, 79% smaller carbon footprint, gallery-quality artwork, and stories woven into every corner.
- Vibe: It carries a sense of dignity, inclusion, and emotional depth.
Airports often erase identity, reducing travel to a process. This one brings it back through thoughtful design, personal stories, and a powerful sense of place.
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JFK TWA Flight Center, New York
Time travel feels possible here.
Architectural Legacy: Designed under Eero Saarinen’s leadership and completed in 1962.
Signature Detail: Dramatic shapes and a seagull-inspired roof reflect classic Googie principles.
Current Use: Part of the TWA Hotel, preserved for travelers and design lovers.
It’s not about flights anymore. It’s about reverence for mid-century vision, for enduring craftsmanship, and for one of the most stunning airport terminals in the USA.
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Also Read : Best US Airports for Customer Service to have a Seamless Travel Experience
LaGuardia Airport, New York
Once the airport everyone dreaded. Now one of the sleekest in the U.S.
- Revamp: Unified terminals, completed mid-2020s.
- Design Direction: Clean lines, spacious interiors, elevated traveler flow.
- Buzz: Skytrax and Forbes noticed, and applauded.
The redesign has redefined expectations, placing it firmly among the best designed airports in America.
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Newark Liberty Terminal A, New Jersey
An underdog that outshined expectations.
- Honors: Prix Versailles special mention, Skytrax 5-star new terminal rating.
- Features: Solar roofs, embedded public art, smooth rideshare zones.
- Atmosphere: Combines clean design, bold presence, and an inviting atmosphere.
Proof that infrastructure can be inspiring. Newark now stands with the most beautiful airport terminals in the US.
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Conclusion
These terminals weren’t designed just to impress. They were created to foster a connection with the land, the people, and the stories travelers carry through them each day. So the next time you board a flight, pause a second longer. Some of the most beautiful moments happen before takeoff, right inside these stunning airport terminals in the USA.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which terminal is best for Instagram-worthy photos?
The JFK TWA Flight Center tops the list with its retro-chic interiors and iconic Googie-style curves. SFO’s Harvey Milk Terminal and PDX’s timber canopy also offer striking visuals perfect for social sharing.
Can I visit the JFK TWA Flight Center even if I’m not flying?
Yes. The TWA Flight Center is now part of the TWA Hotel and is open to non-travelers. It’s preserved as an architectural icon with restaurants, exhibits, and mid-century design elements for visitors to explore.
Can I spend extra time at terminals like PDX, SFO, JFK TWA, LaGuardia, or Newark Terminal A even for a short flight?
Yes. These beautifully designed terminals are worth arriving early for. With public art, curated exhibits, relaxing lounges, and striking architecture, they offer far more than the typical pre-flight routine.
What’s the best terminal for layovers or long waits?
SFO’s Harvey Milk Terminal 1 is ideal for long layovers with its artwork, dining options, and calming design. JFK TWA Hotel Terminal is perfect if you’re not catching a flight but want a unique layover experience.
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