Not Just Passing Through: How to Enjoy Every Airport Moment
Holiday layovers (or layovers in general) in the U.S. don’t have to be a travel nightmare. With the right mindset—and the right airport—you can turn that in-between time into a moment of joy, discovery, or at least a decent meal. Whether you’re stuck for two hours or six, here’s how to make the most of your layover without losing your holiday cheer.
🛫 1. Pick a Layover-Friendly Airport (If You Have a Choice)
Some U.S. airports are practically destinations in themselves. If you’re booking flights with a layover, aim for one of these traveler-approved gems:
- San Diego International (SAN): Wine bar, 36 restaurants, and easy access to downtown beaches
- Denver International (DEN): Art installations, outdoor terraces, and 500+ shops & restaurants
- Minneapolis-St. Paul (MSP): High passenger satisfaction, comfy seating, and local eats
- Seattle-Tacoma (SEA): Pacific Northwest charm, live music, and great dining
- Austin-Bergstrom (AUS): Local BBQ, live music, and a laid-back vibe
- Nashville International (BNA): Close to downtown, hotel access, and Southern hospitality
Myth to bust: All layovers are stressful. Not true—some airports are so well-designed, you’ll wish your flight was delayed.
🎒 2. Pack Smart for the Pause
- Your carry-on is your layover lifeline. Include:
- Portable charger (outlets are competitive real estate)
- Cozy layers (terminal temps are unpredictable)
- Reusable water bottle (hydration stations are everywhere now)
- Snacks (bonus points for festive treats)
- Entertainment (downloaded shows, podcasts, or a holiday read)
🧘♀️ 3. Recharge Your Body and Brain
Seek out quiet zones, lounges, or even nap pods. Many airports offer:
- Meditation rooms (SEA, DEN)
- Spa services (MSP, SFO)
- Family play areas (DEN has five!)
Sharon’s tip: Use apps like LoungeReview to find hidden gems for rest and relaxation.
🍷 4. Taste the Region
Skip the generic food court. Try local flavors:
- BBQ in Austin (AUS)
- Seafood chowder in Boston (BOS)
- Craft beer in Portland (PDX)
- Gumbo in New Orleans (MSY)
Snap pics, rate dishes, and share your finds—your readers will love the foodie angle.
🏙️ 5. Got Time? Explore Nearby
If your layover is 6+ hours and the airport is near the city, consider a quick excursion:
- San Diego (SAN): Beaches and harbor views are minutes away
- Washington D.C. (DCA): Monuments and museums via Metro
- Nashville (BNA): Honky-tonks and hot chicken just 7 miles out
Pro move: Set alarms and leave buffer time for security and boarding.
🎁 6. Be the Holiday Hero
Use the downtime to:
- Wrap gifts (some airports offer gift-wrapping stations)
- Write postcards
- Pick up local souvenirs
- Organize travel photos for your blog or socials
✨ Final Boarding Thought
Holiday layovers in the U.S. don’t have to be a drag. With a little prep and a playful mindset, they can become part of the adventure. So next time you’re stuck between flights, channel your inner travel elf and make the most of the moment.
🚂 Why Train Travel Might Be the Most Underrated Joyride in America Let’s bust a myth right out of the station: train travel isn’t just for European backpackers or vintage movie buffs. In fact, hopping aboard a train might just be the most relaxing, scenic, and soul-satisfying way to explore the U.S.—especially if you’re craving a slower pace, a window seat to wonder, and zero baggage fees (looking at you, airlines). Whether you're planning a girls’ getaway, a solo soul-search, or a cozy couple’s escape, here’s why train travel deserves a spot on your itinerary: 🌄 1. The Journey Is the Destination Unlike planes that whisk you above the clouds or cars that demand your full attention, trains let you see the country. Think rolling vineyards, misty mountains, sleepy towns, and golden fields—all from a wide window with a cup of coffee in hand. It’s like watching a living postcard unfold in real time. Bonus: no need to navigate, refuel, or reroute. Just sit back and let the rhythm of the rails do its thing. 🧘♀️ 2. Stress-Free Vibes, All Aboard No TSA lines. No middle seats. No “your gate has changed for the third time” announcements. Train stations are often centrally located, boarding is a breeze, and you can arrive minutes—not hours—before departure. Once on board? Stretch out. Walk around. Grab a snack from the café car. Or just curl up with a book and let the gentle sway lull you into a state of pure travel zen. 🧳 3. Pack What You Want (Within Reason) Most trains have generous baggage allowances—often two carry-ons and two checked bags for free. That means you can bring your favorite boots and that extra bottle of wine from Napa without playing suitcase Tetris. 🧑🤝🧑 4. Built-In Bonding Time Train travel is surprisingly social. Whether you're catching up with your besties over wine in the observation car or striking up a convo with a fellow traveler, there’s something about the shared rhythm of the ride that invites connection. Planning a girls’ trip? A train car becomes your mobile lounge. No one’s stuck driving, and everyone gets to enjoy the ride. 🌎 5. Eco-Friendly and Budget-Friendly Trains are one of the most sustainable ways to travel, with a lower carbon footprint than flying or driving. And with flexible fares, rail passes, and discounts for students, seniors, and groups, it can be surprisingly affordable—especially when you factor in the savings on gas, parking, and hotel nights (hello, overnight sleeper cars!). 🚫 6. No Sketchy Pit Stops Required Let’s be honest: road trips can be fun… until someone needs a bathroom break in the middle of nowhere. Train travel skips the whole “seedy gas station” and “greasy spoon with one Yelp star” experience. Onboard restrooms? Clean and accessible. Café car? Stocked with snacks, drinks, and actual tables. Better yet bring your own picnic! You can sip wine, nibble on cheese, and never once wonder if the bathroom key is attached to a hubcap. 💡 Train Travel Tip: Try Your Luck with Amtrak’s Bid Up Feeling fancy? Amtrak’s Bid Up program lets you name your price to upgrade to Business Class or a Roomette. After booking your ticket, you might get an email inviting you to bid for an upgrade. If your offer wins, you’ll enjoy extra space, priority boarding, and other perks—without paying full price. It’s like travel roulette, but with legroom and free coffee. ✨ Final Boarding Thoughts Train travel invites you to slow down, look out the window, and fall in love with the in-between. It’s not just about getting from A to B—it’s about rediscovering the joy of the journey itself. So next time you're planning a trip—whether it’s a weekend escape to a charming small town or a cross-country adventure—consider trading the fast lane for the rail line. Your future self (and your Instagram feed) will thank you.
Let’s be honest: sometimes travel feels like a competitive sport. You’re dodging selfie sticks in Rome, elbowing your way through Times Square, and wondering why your “relaxing getaway” requires a spreadsheet and a whistle. Enter townsizing—the travel trend that says, “Let’s chill.” It’s about swapping chaos for charm, crowds for cozy, and overpriced lattes for locally brewed magic. 🏡 What Is Townsizing? Townsizing means choosing small towns over big cities. It’s not a downgrade—it’s a glow-up for your sanity. These places are packed with personality, easy to explore, and often come with free parking (yes, really). ✨ Why Townsizing Works Less Stress: No traffic jams, no mile-long museum lines, no existential dread from trying to “do it all.” Friendly Vibes: Locals might actually talk to you—and not just to upsell a gondola ride. Unique Finds: Think antique shops, mom-and-pop diners, and the kind of general store that sells both fudge and fishing bait. Budget-Friendly: Your wallet will thank you. So will your therapist. Easy to Navigate: You won’t need a metro map, a backup battery, and a sherpa to get around. 🗺️ How to Townsize Your Next Trip Look Nearby: That cute town you always pass on the way to somewhere else? Go there. Pick One or Two: No need to cram five towns into one weekend. This isn’t a scavenger hunt. Skip the Chains: Eat where the locals eat. Bonus points if the menu includes pie. Ask Around: Locals know where the good stuff is. And they’re usually happy to share. Keep It Loose: Let the town surprise you. Your itinerary doesn’t need to be laminated. 🧳 Mini Townsizing Itineraries for Every Kind of Traveler Whether you're chasing pie, peace, or pet-friendly patios, these bite-sized itineraries are proof that small towns deliver big joy. 👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Fun Town : Glen Rose, Texas Trip Type : Weekend getaway Itinerary Highlights : Day 1: Visit Dinosaur Valley State Park (yes, actual dino tracks!) Day 2: Explore Fossil Rim Wildlife Center on a drive-through safari Lunch: Burgers at a local diner with milkshakes that require two hands Bonus: Easy parking, walkable downtown, and zero need for noise-canceling headphones 🍷 Food & Wine Lovers Town : Carlton, Oregon Trip Type : Overnight escape Itinerary Highlights : Day 1: Wine tasting at boutique vineyards (no tour buses here) Dinner: Farm-to-table feast at a cozy bistro Day 2: Stroll through town, grab pastries, and stock up on local cheese Bonus: Everything’s within walking distance—sip, snack, repeat 🚗 Scenic Road Trippers Town : Ely, Minnesota Trip Type : 2-day nature escape Itinerary Highlights : Day 1: Drive the Echo Trail for forest views and lake stops Day 2: Visit the International Wolf Center (howl optional) Lunch: Picnic by Shagawa Lake with sandwiches from a local deli Bonus: No traffic, no tolls, just trees and tranquility 🧘 Solo Travelers Seeking Calm Town : Bisbee, Arizona Trip Type : Long weekend Itinerary Highlights : Day 1: Settle into a quirky inn with vintage vibes Day 2: Browse art galleries and sip coffee at a bookshop café Day 3: Take a self-guided walking tour of the historic hills Bonus: Zero pressure to “do it all”—just do what feels good 🐾 Pet-Friendly Adventures Town : Brevard, North Carolina Trip Type : 3-day retreat Itinerary Highlights : Day 1: Hike dog-friendly trails in Pisgah National Forest Day 2: Visit downtown shops with water bowls and treat jars Day 3: Grab brunch on a patio where your pup is treated like royalty Bonus: Plenty of green space, friendly locals, and tail-wagging approval 🧳 How Bridge2Getaways Travel Planning Services can help you with Townsizing As a travel advisor, townsizing is my jam. I help clients ditch the pressure of “doing it all” and embrace the joy of “doing just enough.” Whether you want a weekend escape with wine and waffles or a low-key road trip with scenic stops and snack breaks, I’ll craft a plan that’s: Tailored to your vibe (not someone else’s Instagram feed) Clear and easy to follow (no decoder ring required) Packed with local flavor (and maybe actual flavors—hello, bakery recs) Flexible and fun (because travel should feel like a treat, not a chore) I also make sure your trip is accessible, stress-free, and full of those “I didn’t expect to love this so much” moments. Townsizing isn’t just a trend—it’s a mindset. And I’m here to make it effortless. Want help townsizing your next trip? I’ve got itineraries, insider tips, and a knack for turning “I just need a break” into “That was the best weekend ever.” Let’s plan something delightfully small together. 🧭