You can learn a lot about a place from its airport. Sure, most airports come with the same vending machines, news stands, and bathroom lines, but there are always some parts worth staying around for, if you know where to find them. This guide looks beyond the stores, restaurant chains, and bars you'll see in every major transit center to focus on the locally-owned hidden gems and small businesses serving up city-specific cuisines in each terminal.
Boston has an undeniable mojo—a well-earned holdover from its starring role in the country's creation mixed with the grit and glory of its storied sports franchises. From game day at Fenway Park to its stellar weed dispensaries and the weirdest and all-around-best museums in Boston, the city offers a litany of experiences and adventures. In recent years, Boston Logan International Airport has been dabbling in a much-needed glow-up and—slowly but surely—is starting to embody the city's vibe.
Once upon a time, Logan's food scene was a dismal mishmash of convenience store snacks and uninspired fare, but Logan Airport has seriously upped its dining game. From quick places to grab a bite to outposts of some of the city's best restaurants, the airport finally serves proper local favorites. The city's beloved Dunkin' (aka Dunks) anchors the coffee output with a whooping 14 airport spots, with three 24-hour locations, but Starbucks and Peet's are slinging pre-flight caffeine as well.
Most recently, the big deal Terminal E renovations have garnered worldwide attention. The new and improved international terminal is 320,000 square feet larger and flooded with natural light. The swoopy roof design—iconic in the making—sparkles with a deep red, crushed glass-infused paint developed to create a prismatic effect. Inside, the design creates an inherently subdued vibe—with an eye on sustainability. Highlights include electrochromic glazed windows, which automatically darken to minimize heat and electricity-generating photovoltaic glass. All in all, Logan is starting to make a run at airport greatness, so buckle up and enjoy the ride with its celebration of local food, improved wellness enhancements, and plenty of Boston-based beer and spirits.
If a gracious friend offers to drop you off or pick you up at Logan Airport, it's best to check for Sumner Tunnel Restoration and closure updates. Otherwise, the MBTA Public transportation system—known as the "T"—offers two Logan-bound routes, the Blue Line Subway and the Silver Line Bus Rapid Transit. The budget-friendly Logan Express provides bus service from Braintree, Framingham, Peabody, Woburn and Back Bay. It's easy to snag a rideshare, but those looking for a bit of maritime drama can hop aboard a ferry or water taxi.
Find it in: All terminals
The winter weather might throw a hiccup into Logan's flight patterns, but you can always count on a local pour. Between Sam Adams Brewhouse, Cisco Brewers, Harpoon Tap Room, and Boston Beer Works, there are options in every terminal. Travelers who want to sip the spirit of Boston's grit and grace can linger at Boston Harbor Distillery in Terminal E. The distillery—headed by Rhonda Kallman, who also helped create Boston's Sam Adams beer—captures New England's rich booze history and serves it with a masterful nod to all things Boston.
Find it in: All terminals, pre-security
Maybe that upgrade came through, and today's your lucky day. Keep the momentum going with the ever-satisfying thrill of a scratch-off lottery ticket. Forget Snakes on a Plane . Be on the lookout for the limited-edition Jaws game featuring the legendary MA-based shark movie.
Find it in: Terminal C
It happens to the best of us—the overwhelming craving for travel sweets. Don't worry. Natalie's Candy Jar opens at 6 am, and the shelves are plenty stocked with a rainbow fever dream of gummy bears, sours, chocolate, and every imaginable sugary delight.
Find it in: Terminal B
One of the essential joys of travel is that feeling of easy-breezy adventure, and you can swathe yourself in that vibe with iconic Massachusetts brand Vineyard Vines—of Martha's Vineyard fame. Turn up the yacht rock in your headphones; there's another captain on this flight.
Find it in: Terminal E
The airport's new Terminal E offers a sensory calming room for travelers with sensory considerations like autism, dementia, or specific sensory needs. It's located near gate E15 and also has an Airplane Simulation Room, which helps prepare neurodivergent travelers for what the on-plane experience will feel like.
Find it in: All terminals
Massachusetts boasts 21 Legal Sea Foods locations, including at least one in every terminal. You can count on a 6 am opening for all but two locations, with with traditional breakfast grub like fluffly omelets with all the fixings. All-day dining includes a variety of what's fresh today fish plates, bacon cheddar burgers, and sandwiches like the area's iconic lobster roll and fabulously fried whole belly clam roll.
Find it in: Terminal A
Hockey fans can immerse themselves in the ultimate Bruins ambiance at Logan's Bruins Bar. Almost as exciting as their Ramen Fries, the airport sports hub features an interactive media wall where guests can swipe through videos, images, and team stats. The overall decor leans into the team's history and even showcases memorabilia. The menu is a collection of uncomplicated classics. Stop by for a burger and cocktail and hunker down for some Bruins vibes.
Find it in: Terminal B
With lobster and baked beans hogging the spotlight, Boston's love of roast beef is often overlooked. Kelly's is an institution. If someone explained that a roast beef sandwich is frequently just meat on a bun, you might be skeptical, but this is an ethereal food experience that requires no distracting razzle-dazzle. Add toppings like cheese, aus jus, horseradish, or typical fixings like lettuce and tomato if you want to dabble in said dazzle.
Find it in: Terminal B
Another pleasant airport surprise is that the menu is smaller than at the flagship North End restaurants, but the pastas are still homemade and prepared impeccably. Rigatoni, pappardelle bolognese, and baked orecchiette are the mainstays; there's also a lobster gnocchi appetizer for those truly looking to indulge. Paninis, salads, and snacks like deviled eggs and garlic bread make this an easy choice.
Find it in: Terminal B & E
At the Stephanie's on Newbury or Tremont, people can easily spend an hour or two at the bar, savoring a drink and salad while chatting with fellow patrons. In other words, this is where you go when you have a flight delay or want to socialize. The menu includes everything from calamari to a lobster roll to the aforementioned salads. To sweeten the deal just a little bit: The full cocktail menu includes a build-your-own Bloody Mary for those rough morning flights.
Find it in: Terminal A and Terminal E
Travelers in Terminal A can refresh and relax at either Delta Sky Club, near Gate A6 or A18. Grab a complimentary snack or meal and refreshments, including full bar service. Delta Sky Club Express, available to those in Terminal E, offers similar amenities with lighter fare and a later closing time—10:30 pm.
Find it in: Terminal B
The very first US-based Chase Sapphire Lounge location opened in Boston in the summer of 2023. The highly anticipated and oh-so-chic lounge does not disappoint with its comfy multi-use spaces spanning 11,640 square feet, artisanal cocktails, and elevated menu from Boston chef Douglass Williams.
Find it in: Terminal C
A chill spot for everyone, The Lounge prioritizes simple and much-needed comforts. It might get busy during peak hours, but it's a solid option when you're flying without status and want to buy a day pass. Refuel at the buffet and enjoy the view from the large windows.
Find it in: Terminal E
With a nod to the airline glam of days of yore, the Emirates Lounge has a low-key champagne ambiance. Sip bubbles, take a shower, and enjoy the good life. The decor is soothing, and the bar is self-serve—just don't miss your connection.
A quick jaunt over the skybridge and the pet-friendly Hilton Boston Logan Airport awaits. If you're too tired after a long flight, take advantage of the 24-hour shuttle. Among the three dining options, Connolly's Publik House offers seated dinner service plus on-the-go options. Make the most of your downtime with a workout and pool sesh—or just snooze in the fluffy bed.
A stay at Hyatt Regency Boston Harbor feels less like a travel logistics solution and more like an extension of the trip itself. Think marble floors with inlaid area maps and a swoony domed ceiling with artistic touches. Known for its fabulous views of the harbor and city, it's a genuine treat.
Meaghan Agnew is a contributor to Thrillist.Melanie Carden is a Boston-based freelance writer and former chef focusing on travel, food, and immersive adventure.
