Best of the Best U.S. Airports

If you travel for business, you probably have a favorite airport. Whether you enjoy the city that surrounds it or the ease of getting to your destination, a good airport can make all the difference in your trip. But, unless you travel all over the country frequently, it's nearly impossible to determine which airports are among the cream of the crop. Well, look no further. I've dug up the best of the best of U.S. airports and based them on several different criteria including: shopping, on time arrival record, shortest security wait, best city and best architecture. Is your favorite on the list?

Best On Time Arrival - Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC)

For the first six months of this year, SLC was ranked number one by the U.S. Department of Transportation and FlightStats in on time arrivals. The report states that SLC has an astounding record of 83% of their flights arriving within 15 minutes of their scheduled time. Of course, it's not just their impeccable arrival record that makes SLC special. The airport also boats an extensive art collection that they've been maintaining since 1977. Luckily, you'll have plenty of time to check out the gallery since your flight was on time.

Best Shopping - John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)

Arguably the shopping Mecca of the United States, New York City plays host to one of the best airport shopping spots in the world. In one terminal alone they have such renowned retail shops as Bulgari, Hermes and Salvatore Ferragamo as well as others I can't pronounce.  Bring plenty of cash though. Between gorgeous Ferragamo handbags and finely crafted Bulgari jewelry, you're going spend a pretty penny.

Shortest Security Wait - San Francisco International Airport (SFO)

We all know the pain of waiting in endless security lines. It's just a fact of life these days. But, one U.S. airport takes the cake when it comes to providing enough security to streamline the masses passing through their lines every day. Shockingly, the airport's average wait time is a mere 2.4 minutes. Surprisingly, SFO doesn't use the Transportation Safety Administration as their security provider. They employ a private company to handle their needs. They also shift their security workers several times throughout the day to accommodate growing lines as needed. It's no wonder why SFO was also named North America's Best Airport based on a passenger survey provided by Skytrax. 

Best City - McCarran International Airport (LAS)

Nestled in the quaint little town of Las Vegas, Nevada, LAS is probably one of the most fun airports in the country. Inside, it's seemingly business as usual, but it's the city that surrounds it that makes this airport great. Once you hop off your plane, you're only a few footsteps from the famous Vegas strip where you'll enjoy world class dining, shopping and even a little gambling.

Best Architecture - Dulles International Airport (IAD)

Technically situated in Virginia, Dulles is most commonly believed to be in Washington D.C. It even has a D.C. address just to confuse us a little more. However, whether you're in Virginia or D.C., there's no doubt that IAD is one of the most visually compelling airports you'll ever visit.

Architect Eero Saarinen built IAD's stunning terminal in 1958 and described his efforts as "the soul of the airport." He was later awarded First Honor by the American Institute of Architects in 1966. They've even created a tour schedule for students interested in learning more about aviation and their airport. If you haven't seen the airport's terminal before, check out these pictures.

While we may not get personal time during business trips, these airports give us the perfect excuse for a time out. Whether you soak up the shopping or just enjoy a hassle free trip, airports can offer us a mini-vacation amidst a hectic schedule. If you have the chance, explore America's best airports and discover some of their hidden treasures.

Have a favorite airport that makes travel a pleasure? Tell us about it in the discussion.