How to Navigate Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport Inside & Out
Fort Lauderdale Airport Guide
FLL is frequently ranked among the top 20 busiest airports in the United States, so learning how to navigate the Fort Lauderdale airport before arrival can improve your experience. Thankfully, this guide is here to help you navigate its terminals, discover what to do during a layover, and get to know FLL before you ever arrive in Fort Lauderdale.
Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport Quick Facts
Official name: Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport. The “Hollywood” refers to the nearby city of Hollywood, Florida, not the one in California.
Official website: https://www.broward.org/Airport/Pages/default.aspx
Airport code: FLL, taken from Fort Lauderdale
Airport history: FLL began in 1929 as Merle Fogg Field. It transitioned to commercial service after World War II and has expanded steadily since, with ongoing terminal updates and runway improvements supporting its growth as a major South Florida airport. Its most recent developments include work on the upcoming Terminal 5, which is expected to be completed in 2030.
Number of terminals: Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport has four terminals: 1, 2, 3, and 4. The Fort Lauderdale airport layout does not have a central hub. Instead, the airport’s main roadway, Terminal Drive, provides access to each terminal. Terminals 1 and 2 are on the north side, with Terminal 3 on the west and Terminal 4 to the south.
Tricks to Navigating FLL
Want to learn how to navigate the Fort Lauderdale Airport? Start here:
- Most terminals don’t connect after security: Terminals 3 and 4 have a pathway that connects them after security, but they are the exception. Generally, you’ll need to exit and go back through security if you’re switching terminals.
- Each terminal has its own drop-off area: If you’re getting dropped off, make sure you’re at the correct terminal—otherwise, you may need to circle around again.
- Expect crowds during peak cruise travel times: Fort Lauderdale is also a busy cruise port. If your ship docks in the morning but your departing flight is later in the day, make plans to explore the city. FLL can get overcrowded with cruise passengers who try to check in too early for flights.
Outside the Terminals
At FLL, everything runs along one main stretch of roadway, so you’ll pass all four terminals in order as you drive through. The airport is bordered by three major highways: I-595, FL A1A, and I-95.
Each terminal has its own curbside lanes right out front, and signage is clear, but spacing matters here—if you miss your terminal, you’re committing to another full pass around the loop. Rental cars are centralized at the Rental Car Center near Terminal 1 and the Cypress Garage. A pedestrian bridge connects the Rental Car Center to Terminal 1, and a free shuttle provides transport to other terminals.
FLL also has a cell phone lot if you’re waiting to pick up a passenger. While you cannot leave your vehicle unattended, it saves you from having to continuously follow the airport loop until your party arrives.
Inside the Terminals
Each terminal at FLL has its own check-in area, security checkpoint, and gate sections, so you’ll move straight through your terminal instead of branching off from a central hub.
If you need to transfer between terminals, you’ll usually need to exit security (unless moving from Terminal 3 to 4), use pedestrian walkways, enter your new terminal, and pass through security again before heading to your gate. Courtesy shuttles are located in the garages if you’d rather not walk between terminals.
If you need to pick up an Avis rental car at the Fort Lauderdale airport, the shuttle operates 24/7 on the lower level. You can also use the walkway from Terminal 1.
How to Change Terminals at FLL
Yes—terminals at FLL are connected by outdoor sidewalks, so you can walk between them before security. None of the terminals connect to each other via indoor hallways before security. Only Terminals 3 and 4 connect after security.
Yes, FLL has a parking garage tram that circles between Terminals 1, 2, 4, and the Hibiscus and Palm garages. Airport visitors can use this tram to travel between terminals before or after flights. Rental car customers also have access to free shuttles that loop between the terminals and the Rental Car Center.
Hidden Gems at Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport
Facing a layover or arrived a bit early? Here are some things to do at Fort Lauderdale Airport:
- Art installations throughout the terminals: FLL features more than 65 public artworks. Many of these exhibits feature local artists, including art from airport employees.
- Terminal tunes: You may get the chance to enjoy live music from local artists during your time at FLL. Performers, showtimes, and locations vary.
- Baggage storage: Waiting on your flight check-in window? You can pay a small fee to store your bags at the airport so you can explore without your luggage in tow.
Beyond the Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport
Longer layovers are the perfect opportunity to explore Fort Lauderdale, a city of canals that has earned the nickname “the Venice of America.” If you’ve got a 4+ hour layover, we recommend stepping outside the airport and exploring nearby popular destinations. Within minutes, you can enjoy a walk on the Riverwalk or grab a meal along Las Olas Boulevard.
Want more ideas to add to your itinerary? Check out our Leisure Travel in Fort Lauderdale Guide or our Business Travel in Fort Lauderdale Guide. If you’re looking to pick up or drop off a vehicle nearby, find your preferred Avis Fort Lauderdale location.
Rent a Car at FLL from Avis
Knowing how to navigate the Fort Lauderdale airport helps you know what to expect, what to do, and where to go once you arrive. If you’re visiting Fort Lauderdale, count on Avis at FLL for a wide vehicle selection, fantastic rates, and a convenient location. Reserve your favorite ride today.
Book an FLL Car Rental