How to Burn 3 Hours - PHX Airport

Question

Arrive tomorrow at 6AM, have about 3.5 hours before the rest of my group arrives. What are some ways to kill the time, either inside TSA or out, or maybe even outside the airport. I'll have my luggage but its manageable. I don't need to get back into the TSA side as we are leaving in a rental car. Starting a vacation so I am not opposed to a bar stool somewhere, anywhere serve that early? Google suggests bars open at 6AM.

Answer

If you have a few hours to kill at Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX) Airport, you have several options for passing the time, both inside and outside the airport. Here are some suggestions to make the most of your 3.5 hours:

Grab a Drink at a Bar: There are a few bars that open early at PHX, especially in the terminals. For example, the "O.H.S.O. Brewery" in Terminal 4 opens early and offers a relaxing spot to enjoy a drink. Check for early-opening spots in Terminal 3 and Terminal 4 as well. You could easily sit back, relax, and enjoy a drink while waiting for your group to arrive.
Walk Around the Airport: Phoenix Sky Harbor has some nice amenities. Take a stroll through Terminal 4, which has shopping, art exhibits, and great people-watching opportunities. The airport itself is clean and modern, so it’s pleasant to walk around and explore.
Enjoy Some Coffee: If you’re more into coffee than alcohol, head over to Starbucks or another café that opens early. There are plenty of spots to grab a coffee and relax. You can also take a seat near the windows to watch planes take off and land.
Relax in the Airport Lounge: If you have access to an airline lounge (either through a membership or a day pass), this could be a perfect way to spend your time. Lounges offer comfortable seating, complimentary drinks, snacks, and a quiet place to relax.

If you’re willing to leave the airport for a while, you can explore a little bit outside PHX:

Visit a Nearby Coffee Shop or Restaurant: There are a few spots near the airport where you can grab breakfast or a coffee. Try a spot like "Café at the Airport" or "Denny’s" for an early bite to eat.
Head to a Nearby Park: If you want to stretch your legs and enjoy some fresh air, you could take a short Uber ride to Papago Park, which is a few miles from the airport. You can walk around the park, see the iconic "Hole-in-the-Rock" formation, or just enjoy the peaceful environment.
Explore Tempe Town Lake: A 10-15 minute drive from the airport, Tempe Town Lake is a great place for a stroll or just to sit and relax by the water. It’s a good option if you want to get away from the airport and enjoy a bit of nature.

Overall, if you prefer staying within the airport, grabbing a seat at a bar or café while people-watching or exploring the amenities is probably your easiest bet. If you’re feeling more adventurous, taking a quick Uber to a nearby park or coffee shop could make for a more refreshing way to spend your time.

How to Burn 3 Hours - PHX Airport

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