Guide To Boston's Logan International Airport
Logan International Aiport
1 Harborside Drive, Boston, Mass.
(617) 568-5000
website and reviews
If your travel plans include flying, chances are, you'll consider flying out of Boston's Logan International Airport. Although we are lucky to have several options including Providence and Manchester, depending on your destination, Logan can often be the least expensive option. While it is a large airport and can be difficult to navigate, there are a few things you should know in advance to make your trip as easy as possible.
Getting to Logan
Since the Big Dig was completed, getting to Logan has never been easier. Visitors have lots of options, regardless of whether you want to drive or get a ride there.
Driving is relatively easy, but parking can be expensive. Central parking is extremely convenient to the terminals, but be aware that central parking can sometimes fill up (I've been told this happens quite a bit on Tuesdays especially) and you'll be directed to the long-term parking garage. While this decreases the rate you'll pay, it'll also increase the amount of time it can take to get to your flight, so plan ahead and leave extra time.
Another great option is the Logan Express Shuttle, which leaves from Peabody, Framingham, Braintree, and Woburn. You can park at the bus stations and get a ride directly to your terminal.
Other options for transportation to Logan includes limo service, the MBTA blue line, the MBTA silver line, and taxis.
At Logan
Logan has three main domestic terminals and one international terminal (Terminal E). Southwest Airlines also flies out of terminal E for domestic flights. Don't look for Terminal D, because it doesn't exist, after a reconfiguration moved some of Terminal D's gates to Terminal C and others to Terminal E. At this time, Terminal C is getting a much-needed renovation, which will connect the three sections of the terminal with a pedestrian bridge. If you are leaving out of Terminal C, visit the restrooms before security, because the options are limited beyond security during the construction project.
Security lines are pretty average at Logan. Most of the terminals do have separate lines for expert travelers, travelers with medical liquids, and families, and choosing the correct line can often save you time. Make sure you research current TSA rules before flying – that will prepare you for security so you can get through as quickly as possible.
In general, you'll find the amenities at Logan to be above average. Complimentary WiFi is available after you complete a brief survey or watch a quick video. There are also some great restaurant options throughout the entire airport, including Legal Sea Food and Boston Beer Works. "Powered by Logan" seats are available at many gates, with outlets so you can charge your phones and laptops.
Read: Best Dining Options At Logan Airport (By Terminal)
Leaving Logan
Leaving Logan is relatively straightforward also. Baggage claim service varies, with the worst service in Terminal B in my experience. If you've parked in central parking, you'll need to pay at one of the self-service machines before you reach your car. After paying, take a look at your receipt – your car's location will be printed on it!
If you have a car service waiting for you, make sure you find out where your car will be waiting. Unlike most airports, most of the limo companies servicing Logan do not stand by baggage holding a sign with your name. Buses, taxis, and courtesy shuttles can generally be found right outside of baggage claim, and there's a cell phone lot if you have someone picking you up.
The best advice, however, regardless of the airport you are flying out of, is to make sure you have enough time – you never know what delays you may face.
Jodi Grundig is editor and publisher of Family-Friendly Boston and Mom's Favorite Stuff.
