World's Best

The Top 10 Domestic Airports in 2021

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Published on September 8, 2021

Note: If you’re looking for our most recent recommendations, check out the 2023 list of our favorite domestic airports.

This year's World's Best Awards survey was open for voting January 11 through May 10, 2021, as destinations around the world were lifting COVID-19 restrictions. Survey rules have always allowed readers to reflect on their travel experiences over a three-year period. We hope that this year's honorees will inspire your own travels as you get back out into the world.

Like the song says, you don't know what you've got till it's gone. After more than a year of staying closer to home, readers still had fond things to say about the hubs they consider the best domestic airports. In fact, for Travel + Leisure's 2021 rankings, readers dished out higher scores across the board than they did in 2020.

Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Readers rated airports on access, check-in/security, restaurants/bars, shopping, and design.

Portland International Airport at sunrise with mountain peak — Courtesy of Port of Portland

At No. 2, Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport impressed readers despite its relatively humble size. "Love this airport," said one voter, who added that it "has great boutiques and great places to grab a bite or coffee, too." Others said parking was easy and complimented the accommodating staff. "It's a great airport if you are visiting the beautiful city of Savannah, the Lowcountry and beaches of the Georgia coast, or the golf resorts in South Carolina," wrote one fan. "It may be small, but it's very nicely designed — and even has lovely floral displays."

Another smaller airport also got plenty of nods. Rhode Island's T. F. Green International ranked No. 3 this year, as a favorite of voters who prefer it to bustling Boston Logan. "It is the nicest, clean, friendliest airport I have ever been to," said one. "You can get in or out of this airport in a matter of minutes," raved another. "I love it because it's big enough to have everything you need, but small enough to be easy to navigate," added another respondent.

This year also saw the triumphant return of Portland International Airport to No. 1, thanks in part to its hyperlocal food and beverage choices. Read on for the full list of the best domestic airports, as voted by T+L readers, and more details on why PDX took the top spot.

1. Portland International Airport, Oregon

High angle view of Portland International Airport (PDX) at dusk — Getty Images

Oregon's busiest airport retook the top spot this year, with readers praising its overall design, its amenities, its accessibility, and its cleanliness. "This remains one of the best airports in the United States," said one fan, who described Portland International Airport as "not too large, clean and well-designed, and equipped with an excellent mix of restaurants and shopping — even a small movie theater." Others gave high marks to the array of restaurants and other retail. "It has such a wide variety of stores, eateries, and shops, many of which heavily feature local businesses and artists," said one respondent. Voters were so enthusiastic about PDX that it seemed some were even hoping for a delay on their next trip. "I wish I were there right this minute," said one reader. Added another: "Don't forget to take a picture of your shoes on the carpet!"

Score: 81.35
More information: flypdx.com