Airport attraction stories

Airport attractions are designed to ease travel stress. International excursions are often stressful, with long queues, security checks, baggage claims, and layovers. In response, airports are increasingly adding attractions such as museums and theme parks in addition to retail and F&B. 

Jewel Changi Airport in Singapore is a ‘traveltainment’ trailblazer. The 10-storey expansion has shops, restaurants, play experiences, accommodation, and the world’s biggest waterfall. Airport attractions also include a giant trampoline and an art sculpture with slides. Jewel also includes a hedge maze, mirror maze and petal garden. 

Elsewhere, Japan’s Chubu Centrair has an ‘airport theme park’ called Flight of Dreams. It is home to immersive activities including a 787 Dreamliner projection mapping show and an interactive illuminated space. Travellers at Dubai International Airport can enjoy a trampoline park called Bounce or relax in the Zen Garden.

Christie’s laser projectors provide a panoramic cockpit view in a multimedia visitor experience at Vienna Airport Schwechat. At Munich International Airport, there are a range of airport attractions, including the ‘Airbräu’ microbrewery, an adventure playground, and an interactive exhibition. Vancouver International Airport boasts a 114,000-litre aquarium with more than 5,000 creatures.

Cultural attractions can be found in airports worldwide, too. Amsterdam Airport Schiphol boasts two mini museums: the Rijksmuseum and the NEMO Science Museum. San Francisco International Airport has the SFO Museum, Aviation Museum & Library, and art throughout the terminals. The SFO Museum was created in 1980 and was the first cultural institution of its kind in an international airport. 

Airport attractions at Hong Kong International Airport include an aviation museum. Flyers at Incheon International Airport can see giant artworks and sculptures, exhibitions, and several experience centres inspired by Korean culture. A skating rink, golf course, and virtual reality (VR) entertainment hub are also available.