Burlington International Airport Observation Area
A small, friendly airport with unique games, a rooftop green space, and a surprisingly fun atmosphere for travelers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed vibe
Burlington International Airport Observation Area
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed vibe
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A small, friendly airport with unique games, a rooftop green space, and a surprisingly fun atmosphere for travelers.
"The most fun I’ve had waiting for a flight at the airport!"
🎯 Arrive Early for Early Flights
For 6 AM flights, arrive 2 hrs early (no Precheck) or 1 hr 15 min (with Precheck). :clock1:
🎮 Playtime While You Wait
Enjoy giant chess, ping pong, and foosball for a fun waiting experience. :video_game:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Airport Games Galore
Terminal
Giant chess, ping pong, foosball, and more! Turn your layover into playtime.
Rooftop Green Space
Rooftop
Enjoy fresh air and views from this unique rooftop garden with seating.
Friendly TSA Experience
Security Checkpoint
Travelers often note the surprisingly friendly and efficient TSA staff.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Arrive Early for Peak Times
Embrace the Unexpected Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Airport Advice?
🎯 Arrive Early for Early Flights
For 6 AM flights, arrive 2 hrs early (no Precheck) or 1 hr 15 min (with Precheck). :clock1:
🎮 Playtime While You Wait
Enjoy giant chess, ping pong, and foosball for a fun waiting experience. :video_game:
Burlington airport
Burlington Airport
🚗 Handy Rental Car Access
Rental car desks are conveniently located inside, with easy skywalk access.
☕ Grab a Bite Airside
The Skinny Pancake offers breakfast and drinks airside for a pre-flight treat. :coffee:
Heads up if you're flying out of BTV in the morning . Get. There. Early. The one hour rule is now the 2.5-3 hour rule. TSA is at least an hour now in the morning. More travelers, more flights and less staff.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Early Flights
For 6 AM flights, arrive 2 hrs early (no Precheck) or 1 hr 15 min (with Precheck). :clock1:
🎮 Playtime While You Wait
Enjoy giant chess, ping pong, and foosball for a fun waiting experience. :video_game:
🚗 Handy Rental Car Access
Rental car desks are conveniently located inside, with easy skywalk access.
☕ Grab a Bite Airside
The Skinny Pancake offers breakfast and drinks airside for a pre-flight treat. :coffee:
🤫 Quiet Spaces Available
Find nursing rooms and a dedicated toddler room for families. :baby:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Burlington International Airport (BTV) is praised for its compact, easy-to-navigate layout and surprisingly fun amenities like airport games and a rooftop observation area. While some find concession prices high and baggage carousels slow, the friendly staff and family-friendly features make it a pleasant travel hub. The ongoing expansion promises even better facilities.
"Small but easy to maneuver. The baggage carousel needs replacement lots of noises when running and runs very slow! To rent cars inside airport which was handy then you walk to deck to pick up cars. Tried to upgrade wanted to charge $550 almost as much as paying for vehicle in first place, very pitiful!"
Ellen Hoff
"The Burlington Airport would have scored five stars except for the $4.49 Kind candy bar that I purchased at the gate. The Airport is easy to navigate. Rental cars are readily available in the parking garage. After hours car return in is a snap. The airport is in the midst of a major expansion, so I'm hoping it will only get better. $4.49 for a candy bar is a bit much; it makes one wonder who is on the take in this deal."
Scott Jones
"This airport is great. It’s relatively small, so it’s not packed with people, and the TSA folks are surprisingly friendly—I was literally fist-bumped by the TSA guy after passing through security.
But the best part is that the airport has games and a piano in the terminal. And not lame games: we’re talking shuffleboard, ping pong, giant checkers and chess, and foosball. Probably the most fun I’ve had waiting for a flight at the airport!"
Jon Kelley
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Burlington International Airport (BTV) is easily accessible by car via I-89. Public transportation options are limited, so most travelers opt for personal vehicles, taxis, or ride-sharing services. Parking is available in a convenient garage connected by a skywalk.
While direct public transport is limited, local bus routes may connect to areas near the airport. It's best to check with the Chittenden County Transportation Authority (CCTA) for the most up-to-date information on routes and schedules.
BTV offers a parking garage directly connected to the terminal via a skywalk, making it very convenient for arrivals and departures. Rates are typically competitive for airport parking.
Yes, there are designated drop-off zones at the terminal for quick passenger pick-ups and drop-offs. Follow the signs upon arrival at the airport.
Burlington International Airport is located just a few miles southeast of downtown Burlington, making it a quick and easy commute, typically around a 10-15 minute drive depending on traffic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Burlington International Airport is generally open 24/7 for passenger access, though individual shop and restaurant hours may vary. Security checkpoints typically open early for morning flights.
You do not need to book tickets to enter Burlington International Airport itself. Tickets are required for your specific flight bookings with your chosen airline.
Burlington International Airport does offer TSA Precheck, which can significantly speed up your security screening process. It's recommended for frequent travelers.
Yes, BTV participates in the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program, offering a discreet way for individuals with hidden disabilities to signal their need for extra assistance or understanding.
The busiest time for security is typically for the early morning flights around 6 AM. Arriving 2 hours prior if you don't have Precheck, or 1 hour 15 minutes if you do, is advised.
🎫 ✈️ Onsite Experience
BTV offers a surprising array of amenities, including free Wi-Fi, charging stations, a variety of shops and restaurants, and unique entertainment like giant board games and a piano. There are also quiet spaces for nursing and a toddler room.
Yes, there are several dining options both before and after security. The Skinny Pancake is a popular spot airside for breakfast and other meals.
Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout Burlington International Airport, allowing you to stay connected while you wait for your flight.
You'll find a selection of shops offering travel essentials, souvenirs, and gifts. While convenient, some items like candy bars can be pricey.
Absolutely! BTV is known for its family-friendly features, including a dedicated toddler room, nursing spaces, and a variety of engaging games like giant chess and foosball.
📸 📸 Photography
The rooftop observation area offers a unique vantage point for plane spotting and capturing the airport's architecture. The interior, with its games and modern design, also provides interesting photo opportunities.
The rooftop observation area is the prime spot for plane spotting, offering views of the tarmac and runway activity.
Yes, photography is generally permitted in public areas of the airport, including the observation deck, for personal use. Be mindful of any security restrictions.
Capture the unusual airport games, the modern architecture, and the green rooftop space for distinctive travel photos.
There is ongoing construction at BTV, which may be visible in some photos. This is part of a major expansion aimed at improving the airport.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Its compact size also means less walking and easier navigation with strollers and little ones. The friendly TSA staff can make the security process smoother, and the overall atmosphere is less overwhelming than at larger airports. Consider packing snacks, as some concessions can be pricey, but the entertainment value is definitely a win for family travel.
✈️ Budget Travelers
Look for opportunities to enjoy the free entertainment, like the giant board games, which offer a fun way to pass the time without spending extra cash. If you're renting a car, compare prices from different companies beforehand, as upgrade costs can be substantial.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Entertainment Hub of BTV
Beyond the games, the airport provides dedicated spaces for families, such as a toddler room and nursing areas, ensuring comfort for parents and young children. This focus on passenger well-being and fun makes BTV a destination in itself, rather than just a transit point. The presence of these amenities is frequently highlighted by travelers as a major positive aspect of their visit.
This innovative approach to airport design and passenger experience is a key differentiator for BTV. It demonstrates a commitment to making travel less stressful and more enjoyable, a sentiment echoed in many positive reviews. The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program further enhances inclusivity, offering support for those with unseen needs.
Navigating BTV: Practicalities and First Impressions
However, like any airport, BTV has its quirks. Some travelers have noted that baggage carousels can be slow and noisy, and the pricing for concessions, like candy bars, can be quite high ($4.49 for a candy bar is cited as an example).
The airport is currently undergoing a major expansion, which promises to further enhance its facilities and services. While construction may be visible, it's a sign of progress aimed at improving the traveler experience in the future.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit