Waiting for a flight can often feel like a tedious part of business travel, but it doesn’t have to be. Tucson International Airport (TUS) offers a ton of amenities and activities that can turn your wait time into an opportunity for relaxation, productivity, and even enjoyment.
Here are ten ways to make the most of your time while waiting for a flight at Tucson International Airport.
1. Relax in an Airport Lounge at Tucson International Airport
If you have access to airport lounges, they can be a haven of peace and comfort amidst the hustle and bustle of the terminal. Tucson International Airport features several lounges:
- Delta Sky Club, located near gate B4, offers amenities like complimentary snacks and drinks, Wi-Fi, showers, a workspace area, and a quiet room. For eligible Delta flyers, this lounge provides a range of seating options and charging stations to keep your devices powered up.
- Admirals Club provides a cozy space with free snacks, beverages, Wi-Fi, and business services like printing and faxing. Comfortable seating, charging stations, and a selection of magazines and newspapers are available to help you unwind.
- The Centurion Lounge, located in the main terminal near gate A4, offers a luxurious experience with local-inspired cuisine, a full bar, Wi-Fi, showers, and comfortable seating options.
Some of these lounges require a specific credit card, but for most, you can buy a day pass for entry.
2. Explore Dining Options
Tucson International Airport has a variety of dining options that cater to different tastes and preferences. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick snack or a sit-down meal, you can find something to satisfy your hunger.
Some popular spots include:
- El Charro Café: This Tucson staple is well-known for its Mexican cuisine.
- Beyond Bread: A great spot known for its sandwiches and pastries.
- Thunder Canyon Brewstillery: This spot provides a relaxed atmosphere with a menu featuring burgers, salads, and, of course, their craft beer selection.
Exploring these options can turn your wait into a mini culinary adventure.
3. Shop at Duty-Free and Retail Stores
Shopping is a great way to pass the time, and Tucson International Airport offers several stores where you can browse and buy. From luxury items to travel essentials, the duty-free and retail shops have something for everyone.
Desert House Gifts and News offers a variety of souvenirs, snacks, and reading materials, while TravelMart provides travel essentials and last-minute items you might need for your trip.
Brookstone is perfect for tech gadgets and travel accessories, and Arizona Sports Store offers sports memorabilia and apparel. Treat yourself to something special or pick up a gift for someone back home.
4. Catch Up On Work
For business travelers, waiting at the airport can be a perfect time to catch up on work. TUS provides several amenities to help you stay productive, including free Wi-Fi and computer workstations with electrical outlets. The best places to get some work done include:
- Business Services Area: Located in the main terminal, this area offers computer workstations and charging stations.
- Delta Sky Club and Admirals Club: Both lounges provide quiet, comfortable spaces with business amenities like Wi-Fi, workstations, and printing services.
- The Centurion Lounge: Offers private work areas equipped with iMacs, Wi-Fi, and other business services.
5. Read a Book or Listen to an Audiobook
Reading a book or listening to an audiobook can be a relaxing way to spend your waiting time. If you didn’t bring a book, visit Tucson International Airport’s bookstore to pick up something new.
Alternatively, download an e-book or audiobook to your smartphone or tablet. This is a great opportunity to dive into that book you’ve been meaning to read or explore new genres and topics.
6. Watch a Movie or TV Show
Who says business travel has to be all business?
With streaming services at your fingertips, watching a movie or TV show is a convenient way to relax and pass the time at Tucson International Airport.
Connect to the airport’s Wi-Fi and catch up on your favorite series or watch a new movie. Remember to bring your earphones and ensure your device is charged; there are plenty of charging stations available throughout the terminal.
7. Visit the Cactus Garden
If you’re looking for a bit of nature and tranquility, the Cactus Garden at Tucson International Airport is a must-visit.
Located outside the lower level of the terminal, this serene outdoor space features a variety of cacti and desert plants. It’s a perfect spot to take a walk, enjoy some fresh air, and get a glimpse of the local flora.
8. Explore Airport Art and Culture
Tucson International Airport showcases an impressive array of artwork by local artists. The art installations and exhibits are displayed throughout the terminal, offering travelers a cultural experience as they wait for their flights. Some specific works and artists to check out include:
- “Desert Kaleidoscope” by Janet Towbin: A vibrant mural located in Concourse B that captures the essence of the Sonoran Desert.
- “Gate Pass” by Don West: A series of photographic panels depicting the natural beauty of the Tucson area, located in the main terminal.
- “Sky Islands” by Barbara Grygutis: Sculptural installations that celebrate the unique ecology of the Tucson region, found throughout the airport.
9. Indulge in a Massage
Traveling can be stressful, and a massage can be just what you need to relax. Tucson International Airport offers massage chairs located throughout the terminal, providing a convenient way to relieve tension and rejuvenate before your flight). Sit back, relax, and let the massage chair do its magic.
10. Plan Your Trip
If you have some downtime, use it to plan or revise your trip itinerary. Research your destination, find interesting tourist spots, check the weather, or explore dining options. This can make your trip smoother and more enjoyable once you reach your destination.
Waiting for a flight at Tucson International Airport doesn’t have to be boring or unproductive.
With these ten hacks, you can make the most of your time, whether you’re looking to relax, stay productive, or simply entertain yourself.
The next time you find yourself with time to spare at Tucson International Airport, try out some of these tips and turn your wait into an enjoyable part of your travel experience.
By exploring these activities, business travelers can enhance their airport experience, making the most of every minute spent waiting for their flight.
If you’re in Tucson on a business trip and you’re looking for a professional place to work for a day or connect with clients, you’ll find it at The Post. Book a day pass or rent a meeting space and enjoy all the tools, amenities, comfort, and community our workspace has to offer.