How to Navigate Los Angeles International Airport Inside & Out
LAX Airport Guide
The famed Los Angeles International Airport is a hub for business and leisure travelers. LAX is huge and busy 365 days a year—but you don’t have to let that intimidate you.
We’ll teach you how to navigate the LAX airport with all the essential details. You’ll also learn about fun things to do while waiting for your flight.
Los Angeles International Airport Quick Facts
Official name: Los Angeles International Airport—but it frequently goes by its airport code: LAX
Official website: https://www.flylax.com
Airport code: LAX. LA refers to Los Angeles, but the “X” has no special meaning.
Airport history: This airport was established in 1926 as Mines Field, which opened to the public in 1928. It wouldn’t receive major expansions until the 1980s as airline technology improved and demand increased.
The airport recently received significant funding to renovate multiple areas, such as passenger loading zones and crosswalks.
Number of terminals: The LAX airport has nine passenger terminals. The first eight are numbered (Terminal 1, Terminal 2, etc.) but the ninth is the Tom Bradley International Terminal (Terminal B for short).
Tricks to Navigating LAX
- The elevators are often cramped and at capacity, so be mindful of how much luggage you need to carry. You may find it quicker to use the stairs or escalators, if possible.
- LAX has a lot of activity at the best of times, so follow the airport’s official social media account for real-time updates on traffic, parking issues, and service delays.
- If you’re heading straight into town, be mindful of Los Angeles’s legendarily congested traffic. Always add 20–30 minutes to your estimated arrival time to be on the safe side.
Outside the Terminals
This airport is right near the Pacific Coast Highway (or Highway 1). It’s also close to the 405. There isn’t an on-site gas station, but there are several nearby, so it should be easy to fill up before returning your rental car, if you need to.
LAX car rentals aren’t on-site. Rental car companies pick up renters outside the baggage claim with a courtesy shuttle. Look for purple rental car signs.
Arriving passenger pickups take place on the lower level, and departure drop-offs are designated to the upper level.
Inside the Terminals
The LAX airport layout is shaped like a horseshoe, with a central hub in the middle and the terminals branching out
You’ll need about 10–15 minutes to walk between adjacent terminals, but farther ones can take 20–30 minutes.
TSA screening checkpoints are available in all the terminals. Baggage claim is located on the first level of each terminal.
How to Change Terminals at LAX
Yes, you can walk between all the terminals at the Los Angeles International Airport after you’ve passed through security. Keep in mind that some terminals will have above-ground walkways and underground walkways, while others have one or the other.
Yes, Los Angeles International Airport provides courtesy shuttles to help passengers move between terminals. These shuttles operate 24 hours per day, but they are only accessible landside, meaning before you’ve gone through security. A landside train known as the Automated People Mover (APM) is expected to open by late 2026.
Things to Do at Los Angeles International Airport
- LAX Airport food courts are filled with major chains, smaller businesses, and unique boutiques. Check them out whether you’re a foodie or just need a snack to tide you over until you arrive at your destination.
- The airside walk between some terminals takes you past color-block mosaic art installations from the 1960s. These tile murals have been featured in movies and TV, from Mad Men to Airplane!
- Got a longer layover? While there’s plenty of art to gaze at in the terminals, the LAX campus also has a museum onsite. Leave the terminal and make your way to the Flight Path Museum and Learning Center.
Beyond the Los Angeles International Airport
Now that you know how to navigate LAX Airport, it’s time to head out. The airport may feel overwhelming at first, but you’ll soon get swept up in the excitement this beautiful area has to offer.
The airport’s bustling traffic and sunny weather are just a taste of what Los Angeles County has to offer. Check out our business travel and leisure travel guides to learn more before your trip.
Need a set of wheels? If you’re not renting at the airport, find an Avis location in the LA area that works for you.
Rent a Car at LAX from Avis
Los Angeles is known for its gorgeous weather and exciting activities—the best way to see it all is with your own rental car. Choose Avis for quick online booking and a diverse fleet of vehicles to match every journey.
Book an LAX Car Rental