Las Vegas Airport is officially titled the McCarran International Airport, and is located in Clark County, Nevada. It is situated a short five mile journey from the downtown district of Las Vegas, and is ranked 15th in the world for passenger traffic. In an average year, the airport might see over 44,000,000 passengers departing and arriving through its terminals, thanks in large part to tourists visiting the Las Vegas area. It is unique most notably because of the slot machines that can be found throughout the airport, bringing passengers their first, or perhaps final, chance to win big in Vegas.
McCarran International Airport was founded in 1942 under the name Alamo Airport, but the name changed in 1948 to honour the U.S. Senator Pat McCarren for his work in the field of aviation. Several additions and renovations have occurred in the decades since, and the airport was among the first to implement such features as free wireless internet, a radio-frequency identification baggage tracking system, and speed check kiosks to print out boarding passes.
There are two main passenger terminals, although smaller terminals are used for cargo transport, sightseeing, and government use. Terminal 1 boasts 96 gates, and handles most of the traffic within the airport. Four concourses in Terminal 1 provide services for all domestic passenger flights. Terminal 2 is significantly smaller with only 8 gates, and serves most international flights as well as several charter plane companies. The top 5 most common destinations to arrive and depart at the McCarren International Airport in Las Vegas are Los Angeles, San Francisco, Denver, Phoenix, and Atlanta.
McCarren International Airport is one of the most comfortable airports to land in or depart from. With impressive amenities, shopping opportunities, and limitless dining options, a layover can seem significantly more enjoyable. In addition, there are upscale passenger lounges for first class passengers, and a USO lounge for military personnel who are traveling. Plenty of interesting art including paintings, sculptures, and murals elevate the look and atmosphere of the busy Las Vegas Airport.
If you are in the mood to shop while at the Las Vegas Airport, there is much more to purchase than snacks and magazines. In fact, the airport boasts an impressive selection of stores, including souvenirs from Las Vegas Hotels like the Bellagio and the Wynn, golf attire, clothing, novelty items, books, jewellery, chocolates, electronics, and gifts. Whether you need to pick up a few things for friends and family on your way home, or you just want to get yourself a reminder of the trip, there is guaranteed to be something you like among the many stores. There are also duty free shops for international passengers, selling a variety of products like chocolates and jewellery at reduced prices.
The dining options at McCareen International Airport are also plentiful. Stop for a quick coffee and a sandwich if you are in a rush, or spend some time enjoying the world class cuisine available if you have more time to spend.