Traveling as a family shouldn’t be a hassle, and I want to make the airport part of the trip as easy as possible for families. Airports can be a stressful experience, especially when traveling with small children. You can often expect to arrive hours before your flight departure time. During that time at the airport, we often encounter long lines, walk long distances, and have to keep the kids entertained during the whole onboarding process.
Some airports make the experience much better. We collected information from various reports and from parents and travelers about the best family-friendly airports.
How Did I Compile This List Of Family-Friendly Airports?
To build that list (which I constantly update), I took into consideration the following factors:
- How much space is there in the airport for kids to explore
- A variety of family-friendly restaurants and shops
- Availability of entertainment options (playgrounds and other kid-friendly activities)
- Is there any sort of childcare service available
- How easy it is to get from one end of the airport to another
- Resting areas and a place to take care of your baby
- Availability of clean, private space for nursing
- Charging points, WiFi availability, and quality
- And, most importantly, feedback from parents and travelers.
Some airports go above and beyond with perks like in-terminal movie theatres, gardens, dedicated family parking spots, and much more.
How To Keep Your Kids Entertained In The Airport
Before we go to the list of best airports for families, I recommend that you read our post about The Ultimate Road Trip Games Guide. You’ll find great ideas on keeping your kids busy during your stay at the airport, in case it’s an airport with fewer entertainment options for kids than those on our list below.
These Are The Top Airports For Family Trip
The list of airports is organized alphabetically, not by rating. Use the Airport List dropdown to find a specific location or airport.
Table of Contents
Tip
Airport facilities and services might change from what's listed in this article, so remember to check the airport's official site for up-to-date details or consult on-site personnel or information centers.
Note that for each airport, there’s a list of services and facilities:
- Service/Facility available
- Service/Facility partially available
- Service/Facility Not available
Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS), Netherlands
Thanks to the excellent facilities, easy navigation, cleanliness, variety of shopping and dining options, and staff service, Hamad Airport is top-rated.
Families will find a variety of activities and services, including Activity Nodes with televisions, Mac stations, and games for the little ones. Older kids will enjoy the interactive art pieces and family rooms that provide privacy and relaxation.
The adults will also find lounges, a spa, a gym, and a pool.
Once you leave Schiphol and head into the city, make sure to check out our Amsterdam travel guide for the best family-friendly activities and a full breakdown of local costs.
Available kids friendly services and facilities (some with extra charge):
- Free WiFi
- Mobile Charging
- Many shops
- Variety of Food Options
- Kids Zones / Playgrounds
- Complimentary Baby Strollers
- Babies care room / Family rooms
- Rest areas / Napping Rooms
- Babysitting services
- Showers
- Tours
- Movie Theatre
- Swimming Pool
- Cultural Activities
Baltimore Washington International Airport (BWI), USA
The Perth Airport is great for families and kids. Families can enjoy assistance with security screening (at Terminal 1); there are play areas for younger kids, complete with a slide and a ride-on plane.
Older kids will find an interactive screen that lights up when touched, as well as touchscreens with computer games to keep them amused.
Next to the play area, you will find a baby-friendly toilet with all the facilities you require for a nap and feed time, including a chair and microwave. The airport also offers several restaurants nearby offering children’s menus. You’ll also find strollers on request.
For a nap or showers, there are a few sleeping pods and showers in the VIP lounges, but they are closed at night.
Exploring the East Coast? Our New York City guide is a great resource if you’re planning to extend your trip to the Big Apple, including tips on how to manage your budget.
Available kids friendly services and facilities (some with extra charge):
- Free WiFi
- Mobile Charging
- Many shops
- Variety of Food Options
- Kids Zones / Playgrounds
- Complimentary Baby Strollers
- Babies care room / Family rooms
- Rest areas / Napping Rooms
- Babysitting services
- Showers
- Tours
- Movie Theatre
- Swimming Pool
- Cultural Activities
Calgary International Airport (YYC), Canada
Another great airport for families, Calgary Airport in Canada, offers several Kid Zones, each with a different theme and all designed to encourage interactivity and exploration. One of these Kid Zones, located on the airport’s third floor, is called SpacePort. This gaming attraction is based on all things space. This attraction offers the chance for kids and adults to experience first-hand what it is like to be in outer space with hands-on displays and exhibits of space materials and artifacts. SpacePort also features a real-life model of NASA’s Space Shuttle orbiter, which would definitely spark interest among kids and adults. In addition, the space capsules feature fun simulation games like car racing and fighter jet combat. Other play areas themes include A Dinosaur Theme, A Calgary Stampede Theme, and Alberta Wildlife Theme.
Families will find all they need for a pleasant time at the airport, including free WiFi, charging ports, 4 lounges (2 of them with showers), nursing rooms, and family rooms. If you want to rest before the flight, stop by “YYC Quiet Space.” It is equipped with recliner chairs, as well as yoga equipment for passengers who wish to stretch and meditate before take-off. There’s also a spa available with some wellness treatments.
Planning a trip to Canada? Managing your travel budget is key. Use our Trip Cost Calculator to estimate your daily expenses for your upcoming adventure.
Available kids friendly services and facilities (some with extra charge):
- Free WiFi
- Mobile Charging
- Many shops
- Variety of Food Options
- Kids Zones / Playgrounds
- Complimentary Baby Strollers
- Babies care room / Family rooms
- Rest areas / Napping Rooms
- Babysitting services
- Showers
- Tours
- Movie Theatre
- Swimming Pool
- Cultural Activities
Changi Airport (SIN), Singapore
This is a significant transit airport, delivering high, consistent quality across the extensive facilities and staff service. In addition, this airport offers a variety of attractions and endless shopping and dining options. You will find endless activities and facilities in this airport, including Free movie theatres
Gardens | Free city transit tours | Playgrounds with climb walls, 12-meter slide, video games, and much more | Nap zones | Cultural activities | Butterfly greenhouse | Jungle terrace | Rain Vortex – the world’s tallest indoor waterfall that also offers a colorful sound and light show in the evening.
Heading to Southeast Asia? If your journey continues to Thailand or Indonesia, don't miss our travel and budget guide for Bali.
Available kids friendly services and facilities (some with extra charge):
- Free WiFi
- Mobile Charging
- Many shops
- Variety of Food Options
- Kids Zones / Playgrounds
- Complimentary Baby Strollers
- Babies care room / Family rooms
- Rest areas / Napping Rooms
- Babysitting services
- Showers
- Tours
- Movie Theatre
- Swimming Pool
- Cultural Activities
Doha Hamad International Airport (DOH), Qatar
Thanks to the excellent facilities, easy navigation, cleanliness, variety of shopping and dining options, and staff service, Hamad Airport is top-rated.
Families will find a variety of activities and services, including Activity Nodes with televisions, Mac stations, and games for the little ones. Older kids will enjoy the interactive art pieces and family rooms that provide privacy and relaxation.
The adults will also find different lounges and a spa, gym, and a pool.
Doha is a major hub for travelers heading to Europe. If you're catching a connecting flight to Athens or Istanbul, check out our latest guides for local prices and tips.
Available kids friendly services and facilities (some with extra charge):
- Free WiFi
- Mobile Charging
- Many shops
- Variety of Food Options
- Kids Zones / Playgrounds
- Complimentary Baby Strollers
- Babies care room / Family rooms
- Rest areas / Napping Rooms
- Babysitting services
- Showers
- Tours
- Movie Theatre
- Swimming Pool
- Cultural Activities
Dubai International Airport, UAE (DXB)
Dubai Airport is the primary airport serving Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and is the world’s busiest airport by international passenger traffic.
Kids will enjoy the playgrounds, offering toys, interactive games, television, a climbing wall, a huge trampoline park, and a basketball court. The kids’ zone inspired by the Arabian desert offers plenty of activities for kids and resting areas for adults, all surrounded by food and retail options.
You can take a stroll through the zen gardens or relax on free recliner seats. To chill out further, there’s a health club with a swimming pool or an on-site hotel if you have a few hours in transit and want to sleep. You will also find resting areas, sleeping cubes for a quick snooze, or check out the live entertainment.
For parents, there are also changing rooms and complimentary strollers near family check-in, which can be used right up to the gate.
Available kids friendly services and facilities (some with extra charge):
- Free WiFi
- Mobile Charging
- Many shops
- Variety of Food Options
- Kids Zones / Playgrounds
- Complimentary Baby Strollers
- Babies care room / Family rooms
- Rest areas / Napping Rooms
- Babysitting services
- Showers
- Tours
- Movie Theatre
- Swimming Pool
- Cultural Activities
Hong Kong International Airport (HKG)
HKG Airport is one of the world’s busiest airports. Still, it’s amicable for families, offering enough entertainment to keep you and the kids occupied until your flight.
On your arrival at the airport, if you're traveling with family, especially young kids and babies, look for the priority line (it’s also where the flight crew enters, so follow the uniforms). The security staff makes traveling with family a breeze.
The activities include play areas in different locations, Dreams Come True education park, offering tons of fun for toddlers to teens. Kids will love the realistic airline, nursery, hospital, fashion show, spaceship, fire truck, ambulance, and more. You can also jump to HKIA’s UA IMAX Theater. If you want to learn more, go to the Aviation Discovery Center to learn about aviation development in Hong Kong. It showcases aviation-themed exhibits, graphics, and attractions, including SkyDeck and a Cockpit Simulator.
Families will find many kid-friendly shopping and dining options. In addition, you’ll find well-equipped nursing and changing rooms, complimentary infant strollers, and free showers with everything you need.
Available kids friendly services and facilities (some with extra charge):
- Free WiFi
- Mobile Charging
- Many shops
- Variety of Food Options
- Kids Zones / Playgrounds
- Complimentary Baby Strollers
- Babies care room / Family rooms
- Rest areas / Napping Rooms
- Babysitting services
- Showers
- Tours
- Movie Theatre
- Swimming Pool
- Cultural Activities
Istanbul Airport (IST), Turkey
Istanbul Airport is another family-friendly airport, which provides an excellent range of services and facilities for families, including a broad range of shopping and dining options, in addition to facilities such as showers, rest areas, workspaces, and family-friendly areas. While the terminal is large, there are regular moving walkways and buggy assistance points for the elderly and families.
Families traveling with kids will enjoy priority services right from the start. You’ll find parking spots marked for Family Priority Parking Spots very close to the entrance and elevators. If you have children aged 0-5, save some time and effort by using Family Priority Security Check Points. In addition, families can use the infant care rooms, family rooms, strollers, and family buggy.
For entertainment, there are cultural offerings that include museum exhibits, musical performances, art projects, and many areas of natural landscaping. The kids will find a variety of playgrounds and can take a ride on the children’s train.
Available kids friendly services and facilities (some with extra charge):
- Free WiFi
- Mobile Charging
- Many shops
- Variety of Food Options
- Kids Zones / Playgrounds
- Complimentary Baby Strollers
- Babies care room / Family rooms
- Rest areas / Napping Rooms
- Babysitting services
- Showers
- Tours
- Movie Theatre
- Swimming Pool
- Cultural Activities
London Heathrow Airport (LHR), England
This Airport is a large airport, but you can expect a great visit with your family. Families can find various services and facilities, including family-friendly parking, washrooms, complimentary kids’ meals, nursing rooms, and a great kids’ play area.
The play areas are equipped with slides, soft play areas with separate baby and junior zones, coloring-in, and activity sheets. They even have one play area, on Terminal 3, with staff overlooking so parents can relax and get some rest. Heathrow also has special game zones and kids’ quiet rooms for children who are over the ages of 10.
Adults can find different lounges, a spa, and even a barber.
Available kids friendly services and facilities (some with extra charge):
- Free WiFi
- Mobile Charging
- Many shops
- Variety of Food Options
- Kids Zones / Playgrounds
- Complimentary Baby Strollers
- Babies care room / Family rooms
- Rest areas / Napping Rooms
- Babysitting services
- Showers
- Tours
- Movie Theatre
- Swimming Pool
- Cultural Activities
Munich Airport (MUC), Germany
Munich Airport is Germany’s second-largest airport, after its big brother, Frankfurt Airport. Traveling families would love this airport. The adults can enjoy at the SPA, get a massage, freshen up with a nice shower, and benefit from Check-In zones for families. Kids will find incredible play areas in the Kinderland, where they can draw or play under the watchful eye of experienced educators. In the meantime, the adults relax in the nap cabs.
If you travel with toddlers, you’ll find many changing rooms where you can change and feed uninterrupted.
In case you arrive early or have a long layover, head outside to the Visitors Park to explore the fascinating and multi-faceted world of the airport. For a closer look at the airplanes, you can climb to the top of the Visitors Hill to the observation deck.
Other attractions include an Interactive Exhibition – where you’ll immerse yourself in the airport world and the Historic Aircraft – a journey to the pioneering days of aviation.
Traveling from Munich Airport to the city center is easy with kids. To plan your stay and see what to expect in terms of budget and sightseeing, read our Munich city guide.
Available kids friendly services and facilities (some with extra charge):
- Free WiFi
- Mobile Charging
- Many shops
- Variety of Food Options
- Kids Zones / Playgrounds
- Complimentary Baby Strollers
- Babies care room / Family rooms
- Rest areas / Napping Rooms
- Babysitting services
- Showers
- Tours
- Movie Theatre
- Swimming Pool
- Cultural Activities
Perth Airport (PER), Australia
The Perth Airport is great for families and kids. Families can enjoy assistance in the security screening (at Terminal 1); there are play areas for the younger kids, complete with a slide and a ride-on plane.
Older kids will find an interactive screen that will light up when touched and touch screens with computer games to keep the older kids amused.
Next to the play area, you will find a baby-friendly toilet with all the facilities you require for a nap and feed time, including a chair and microwave. The airport also offers several restaurants nearby offering children’s menus. You’ll also find strollers on request.
For a nap or showers, there are few sleeping pods and showers in the VIP lounges, but they are closed at night.
Available kids friendly services and facilities (some with extra charge):
- Free WiFi
- Mobile Charging
- Many shops
- Variety of Food Options
- Kids Zones / Playgrounds
- Complimentary Baby Strollers
- Babies care room / Family rooms
- Rest areas / Napping Rooms
- Babysitting services
- Showers
- Tours
- Movie Theatre
- Swimming Pool
- Cultural Activities
San Francisco International Airport (SFO), US
San Francisco airport offers ordinary entertainment and facilities. The younger kids have kid-friendly dining options, different play areas, a coloring book, and a Ride In The Air train. The older kids and adults can enjoy the observation deck, museum exhibits, library, Video Arts Room, and yoga rooms. As a traveling family, you can enjoy various services such as Airport Butler, baggage assistance for departing travelers, nurseries, showers, and more.
Available kids friendly services and facilities (some with extra charge):
- Free WiFi
- Mobile Charging
- Many shops
- Variety of Food Options
- Kids Zones / Playgrounds
- Complimentary Baby Strollers
- Babies care room / Family rooms
- Rest areas / Napping Rooms
- Babysitting services
- Showers
- Tours
- Movie Theatre
- Swimming Pool
- Cultural Activities
Seoul Incheon Airport (ICN), South Korea
Seoul Incheon Airport is the largest airport in South Korea and one of the world's busiest airports. It offers pretty much all you can ask for as a traveling family. Adults will enjoy resting areas, showers, a spa, a gym, nap zones, massage, and other treatments.
Kids and families have strollers, baby care rooms, and kids zones with different games and activities, all available 24/7.
Available kids friendly services and facilities (some with extra charge):
- Free WiFi
- Mobile Charging
- Many shops
- Variety of Food Options
- Kids Zones / Playgrounds
- Complimentary Baby Strollers
- Babies care room / Family rooms
- Rest areas / Napping Rooms
- Babysitting services
- Showers
- Tours
- Movie Theatre
- Swimming Pool
- Cultural Activities
Zurich Airport (ZRH), Switzerland
Zurich Airport is the biggest airport in Switzerland. They offer different services and facilities for traveling families. You’ll find two playrooms equipped with PlayStation, toys, table football, and more. The mini-airport playground for the younger kids is a great place to learn more about aviation. Check out the Airside Center, which offers a wide range of activities.
If you have a long layover, you could take an exciting 2-hour guided tour to learn about the behind-the-scenes of the airport. Older children (12 years and up) can participate in a flight simulation at the Sim Academy. You will also find several observation decks. Some offer multimedia binoculars, such as the ones on Panoramic Terrace B, where you’ll be able to detect the planes taking off and landing.
The airport offers families an easier check-in process at Check-in 1. If you travel with toddlers, you’ll find free-of-charge rooms for breastfeeding and sleeping, as well as small kitchenettes to warm food.
Before you take the train from Zurich Airport, check out our Zurich city guide. We’ve broken down the costs to help you enjoy Switzerland’s beauty while staying on budget.
Available kids friendly services and facilities (some with extra charge):
- Free WiFi
- Mobile Charging
- Many shops
- Variety of Food Options
- Kids Zones / Playgrounds
- Complimentary Baby Strollers
- Babies care room / Family rooms
- Rest areas / Napping Rooms
- Babysitting services
- Showers
- Tours
- Movie Theatre
- Swimming Pool
- Cultural Activities
What To Pack When Traveling With Children’s
I always recommend packing light, though I know it’s harder when traveling with kids, especially younger ones like toddlers. I recommend using a list to ensure you pack light while still not forgetting anything important. Click here to download our free packing list for the entire family.
I also recommend checking out our packing tips. You might find some that make your trip even better.
Some Final Tips To Make The Best Of Your Family Travel Time At The Airport
In The Family Friendly Airport
Try walking around stores or finding good viewpoints of the planes taking off and landing. You'll find great observation decks in most of the airports on our list.
Boarding Procedures
Make sure you arrive early when traveling with kids. Take advantage of any priority or early boarding opportunities. It can give you and your family a few crucial extra minutes to get situated before everyone else boards.
On Your Flight
Prepare, make them partners, have activities ready, and read our tips for a perfect flight.
Common Q&A When Traveling With Kids
We’ve collected some common questions from our users and from across the web, from parents traveling with infants, toddlers, and Teens. Here are some examples:
What is Mamava?
Mamava lactation pods are freestanding, mobile suites for mamas to pump or breastfeed in public places or while at work. You can find them in a few of the airports on the list.
Is it wrong or normal to use a baby leash with young kids?
I don't have a clear answer to that question. I believe each one should decide what is best for themselves and their kids. Therefore, for that question, I'll refer you to a debate on Quora, and you'll have to decide for yourself.
What equipment should I pack when traveling with kids?
Check out our packing tips and free packing list.
How do you beat Jet Lag?
What amenities should I look for in a family-friendly airport?
Look for kid zones, play areas, nursing rooms, family restrooms, free WiFi, charging points, and family-friendly dining options.
How can I keep my kids entertained at the airport?
Utilize play zones, interactive exhibits, airport tours, and family-friendly restaurants. Bring along activities like books, games, and tablets.
What are some top family-friendly airports?
Some top family-friendly airports include Amsterdam Schiphol, Boston Logan, Changi Singapore, and Munich Airport.
What are the best destinations to fly into with kids?
While choosing a family-friendly airport is important, the destination matters just as much. Cities like Vienna, Munich, and Copenhagen are incredibly easy to navigate with children and offer great facilities for families. Check out our city guides for more details on planning these trips.
Conclusion
Family trips are the best! Yes, there are some difficulties and challenges, but that’s why I’ve built this site. To give you tips and information that will make each trip better. I have created this list of family-friendly airports, hoping it will help traveling families have a better experience on their next trip. If you're looking for a budget-friendly and welcoming destination for your next family vacation, I highly recommend exploring Sofia and Plovdiv in Bulgaria, which are hidden gems for parents traveling with kids.
I do my best to keep this list up to date. However, if you find any incorrect or missing information, please let me know via the contact form or in the comments below.
If you want more specific information about the amenities at specific airports mentioned in this post, visit the airport website or check out the Sleeping in Airports website. Then, read the exact details of each service or activity that interests you. Some are available on specific dates, days, or times, so do your homework.
Remember that the flight is just a tiny part of your trip. Even at the airport, consider scheduling longer layovers. Family trips are fun and a great bonding experience.
Buy a compatible power adapter for your trip