Navigating airports can be daunting, especially one as busy as Houston’s. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, understanding the layout, services, and amenities of Houston Airport can make your travel experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s an in-depth look at navigating Houston Airport, including parking details, terminal information, and insider tips.
Parking Options and Rates
Houston Airport offers multiple parking garages, each conveniently located near the terminals. The parking options are color-coded and linked to specific terminals:
•Terminal A Parking (Blue Garage): Accessible directly from Terminal A.
•Terminal B Parking (Green Garage): Linked directly to Terminal B.
•Terminal C Parking (Yellow Garage): Serves Terminal C and is the closest option for those departing from this terminal.
Rates across these garages are typically standardized, costing approximately $5 per hour with a daily maximum of $24. For budget-conscious travelers, ecopark lots offer a more economical solution at about $7.39 per day, with shuttle service directly to the terminals.
Terminal Access
•Terminal A: Accessed via the blue garage, this terminal can also be reached by the underground Subway which connects all terminals.
•Terminal B: Located directly adjacent to the green garage. The above-ground Skyway also connects Terminal B to other terminals, providing quick transfers.
• Terminal C: The closest parking is the yellow garage. Terminal C is centrally located and accessible by both the Subway and Skyway systems. Pro Tip: Go up to the higher levels with more than 50 spots showing available. The way this parking garage is configured, to come down you must come all the way down to level 1 to go back to the higher levels.
Ride-Sharing Pickup Locations
Uber and Lyft provide convenient options for those preferring not to park. Designated pickup areas for these services are clearly marked outside each terminal:
• Terminal A: Arrival Level, Exit A-115
• Terminal B: Arrival Level, Exit B-103
• Terminal C: South Side, Arrival Level, Exit C-105
Managing Extra Luggage
To manage more bags without incurring extra charges, consider these tips:
• Purchase items inside the airport: Items bought at airport shops are usually not counted against your carry-on allowance.
• Use airport plastic bags: Airlines often do not count bags from airport purchases as carry-on luggage. Utilize these for extra items you might acquire last minute.
Airport Lounges
Houston Airport features several lounges which cater to different passengers:
•Centurion Lounge: Available for American Express Platinum and Centurion cardholders. Located in Terminal D.
•United Club: Multiple locations across Terminals A, B, and C. Accessible to United Club members and eligible United travelers.
•KLM Crown Lounge: Situated in Terminal D, open to Business Class travelers and select elite members.
Direct Flight Options
Houston Airport serves as a major hub for flights across the United States and internationally. It offers numerous direct flights to major cities like New York, Los Angeles, London, and Tokyo. Checking the airport’s website or with specific airlines can provide updated information on direct destinations available.
Insider Tips
•Art Program: Explore the airport’s art installations scattered across various terminals. These pieces add a cultural touch to your transit experience.
•Automated Passport Control: International travelers can benefit from Automated Passport Control kiosks to expedite their entry process.
Navigating Houston Airport is all about knowing your options and preparing in advance. With the right information, from parking to lounges, and using a few insider tips, you can ensure a smooth start or end to your journey at one of America’s busiest hubs.
