Kansas City International Airport (MCI) has been recently updated to a single terminal layout, which has impacted sleeping options. The airport generally allows overnight stays, but there are specific areas more conducive to sleeping. This MCI Airport Sleeping Guide provides a comprehensive overview for layover passengers, including those with overnight stays, detailing airport hours, policies, amenities, and the best sleeping spots in each terminal.
Can I Sleep at Kansan City Airport Overnight?
Kansas City International Airport (MCI) is generally friendly to layover passengers, including those staying overnight. The airport does not prohibit overnight stays, though some areas may be inaccessible after TSA checkpoint closures. While there are few landside facilities for overnight passengers, those available can offer a modest degree of comfort.
Unfortunately, most shops and restaurants close overnight, so it’s advisable to have any necessary provisions before they shut down. Despite these limitations, regular security patrols ensure the safety of all passengers, making MCI a viable option for those needing to sleep during layovers.
MCI Airport Hours
The airport operates 24 hours a day, and overnight sleeping is generally permitted, although some areas may be inaccessible after TSA security checkpoints close for the night.
TSA Security Checkpoint Hours:
- Closing Hours: TSA checkpoints typically close around 8:30 PM.
- Reopening Hours: TSA checkpoints reopen at approximately 3:30 AM.
Overnight Amenities and Conditions:
- Landside Facilities: The airport has limited landside facilities for overnight stays. While the number of shops and restaurants open overnight is minimal, Mother Earth Coffee in the arrivals area is a 24-hour option.
- Security: Regular security patrols ensure the safety of overnight passengers.
Here is a table summarizing the important hours and amenities for overnight stays at MCI:
| Facility/Service | Hours |
|---|---|
| Airport Operations | 24 hours |
| TSA Checkpoint Closure | 8:30 PM |
| TSA Checkpoint Reopening | 3:30 AM |
| 24-Hour Dining Option | Mother Earth Coffee |
| Security Patrols | Regular intervals |
| CLEAR Enrolment | Monday-Sunday, 6am to 6pm |
Get more details on flykc.com/security page
Layover Sleep Amenities:
- Airside Amenities: Accessible overnight. Includes seating areas and some quiet zones.
- Landside Amenities: Includes seating areas, food courts, and restrooms.
You can find interactive map on flykc.com webpage here.
Best Sleeping Spots:
Mezzanine Food Court (Gate B31):
Offers a few large, comfortable chairs that can be arranged to form a makeshift bed. Upholstered bench seating against windows provides a darker and quieter area.
Review Tip: “Put your head pointing toward the coffee joint, lay down and watch the Olympics on TV, or go to sleep. Hourly security guard patrols the area.”
Leather Benches:
Located upstairs in the food court, providing upright comfy sleeping and a long bench opposite for lying down. This area is dark and relatively quiet after 9 PM.
- Review Tip: “Restaurants close at 8 PM; after cleaning staff finishes, lights are turned off.” See more sleep reviews
Food Court Area:
The food court upstairs is a recommended spot for overnight sleepers, though occasionally blocked off. Comfortable padded benches are available.
Review Tip: “It’s dark and it’s the most quiet-ish spot you’ll find in the airport.”
Individual Cushioned Boxes and Chairs: Opposite the baggage carousel, cushioned boxes and chairs can be pushed together for more comfortable sleeping.
Review Tip: “Super small airport with 95% of things landside. Get there before 9 PM to secure a spot.”
Quiet Room:
Location: Terminal A, airside before upper A gates. This room is open 24/7 and offers a quieter environment for sleep.
Review Tip: “Low toned conversation and kept to a minimum, silenced cell phones.”
Sensory Room: Located near bathrooms, this room is dark, with a padded L-shaped bench and mats suitable for lying down.
Review Tip: “Secluded, with dancing lights on the ceiling, making it a very private and comfortable spot.”
General Sleeping Conditions:
- Noise: Periodic announcements and cleaning crews can be disruptive. Earplugs and eye masks are recommended.
- Temperature: The airport can get chilly at night. Travelers should bring a sweater or travel blanket.
- Security: Regular patrols ensure safety, but passengers should keep an eye on their belongings.
- Amenities: Limited food options after 8 PM. Restrooms are available but can be limited in some areas.
- Chairs have armrests: Sleepinginairports.net notes that most seats have armrests discouraging sleeping.
Recommendations for Sleeping Spots at MCI based on Duration of Layover:
Short Layovers (30 mins – 1 hr)
For very short layovers, comfort and convenience are key. You won’t have time to get settled for a nap, but there are a few spots where you can rest and relax:
- Near Your Gate: Seats near your gate are the most convenient option. Look for padded chairs or benches if available.
- Quick Stops: Grab a coffee or snack from nearby kiosks while you wait. This might be a good time to use restrooms or charge your devices.
Standard Layovers (1 to 3 hrs)
With a bit more time, you can explore some slightly more comfortable spots to rest:
- Mezzanine Food Court (Gate B31): This area offers large, comfortable chairs that can be pushed together to form a makeshift bed. It is one of the quieter spots with a view of airport operations.
- Review Tip: “Good TV in Terminal B, sleep until 4 AM…upholstered bench seating against windows facing airport operations.”
- Sensory Room: This secluded area offers padded, L-shaped benches and mats for lying down. It’s a quiet, dark spot ideal for a short nap.
- Review Tip: “Secluded, nearer the bathrooms, dark with dancing lights on the ceiling.”
Extended Layovers (3 to 6 hrs)
For longer layovers, finding a comfortable spot to stretch out is important:
- Quiet Room (Terminal A): This room is designed for low-toned conversations and silenced cell phones, providing a peaceful environment for rest.
- Review Tip: “Quiet and secluded rooms, chargers available…periodic announcements and lights always on.”
- Leather Benches in Food Court: Located upstairs, these benches are perfect for lying down after 9 PM when the lights are turned off.
- Review Tip: “Leather benches, restaurants close at 8, lights off after 9.”
Long Layovers (6 to 12 hrs)
For very long layovers, you might need to combine multiple spots or seek out more private areas:
- Combination of Quiet and Sensory Rooms: Use these spaces alternately to maximize comfort and minimize disturbances.
- Finding Secluded Corners: Look for lesser-known spots like stairwells or areas behind gates where you can have some privacy and quiet.
- Review Tip: “There is a hallway up there where you can turn the lights off and a knook at the end of the small hallway with a window that faces the runway.”
Overnight Layovers (12 to 24 hrs)
For overnight stays, comfort and security are paramount. Here are the best options:
- Sleep Inn Kansas City Airport: Located about 3.5 miles from the airport, provides free shuttle service. Super affordable. Under $70. Check rates today
- Mezzanine Food Court (Gate B31): This area remains one of the best overnight spots with comfortable seating and relatively low disturbances until early morning preparations start.
Review Tip: “Most unlighted spot I could find. Hourly security guard passing through.”
Sensory Room: Offers a dark and private spot with padded benches, ideal for an overnight stay.
Review Tip: “The Sensory Room was also secluded, but both nearer the bathrooms and dark.”
Nearby Hotels: If you prefer more comfort, consider nearby budget-friendly hotels with shuttle services:
Days Inn Kansas City International Airport: Approximately 3 miles from the airport, offers free shuttle service.
Long Layover Options:
- Sleep Pods/Transit Hotels: MCI does not currently offer sleep pods or transit hotels within the terminal.
- Nearby Hotels with Free Shuttles:
- Budget-Friendly Options:
- Days Inn Kansas City International Airport: Provides free shuttle service, located about 3 miles from the airport. Rates under $70, almost matching those of Sleep Inn. See rates today
- Sleep Inn Kansas City Airport: Offers free shuttle service, located approximately 3.5 miles from the airport.
- Budget-Friendly Options:
Conclusion:
While Kansas City International Airport offers some overnight sleeping options, passengers should be prepared for limited amenities and potential disturbances. The best spots are found in the mezzanine food court in Terminal B and the Quiet and Sensory Rooms. For longer layovers, nearby budget-friendly hotels with shuttle services are recommended.
FAQs on Sleeping at Kansas City International Airport (MCI)
1. Are there any designated quiet areas for sleeping at MCI?
Yes, there are designated quiet areas such as the Quiet Room located airside before the upper A Gates. It is open 24/7 and designed for low-toned conversations and silenced cell phones, providing a peaceful environment for rest.
2. Can I access Wi-Fi while resting at MCI?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport. You can connect to the “KCI_FREE_WiFi” network for internet access.
3. Are there any lounges at MCI where I can rest?
Yes, there are lounges available at MCI, including the Delta Sky Club located in Concourse B. Access is available through lounge membership programs. The USO Lounge is also available for enlisted military personnel and their families, offering amenities such as charging stations and comfortable seating.
4. Is it safe to sleep overnight at MCI?
Yes, it is generally safe to sleep overnight at MCI. The airport has regular security patrols to ensure the safety of all passengers.
5. Are there any 24-hour food options at MCI?
While most food concessions close overnight, Mother Earth Coffee in the arrivals area operates 24 hours, providing food and beverage options for overnight passengers.
6. Can I find mobile charging stations at MCI?
Yes, there are multiple charging stations available throughout the airport, including in seating areas, to ensure your devices stay powered.
7. Are there showers available at MCI?
No, MCI does not currently offer shower facilities for passengers.
8. Is there a hotel inside MCI for overnight stays?
No, there is no hotel inside the airport, but there are several nearby hotels that offer free shuttle services to and from the airport. Notable options include the Kansas City Marriott Airport and Fairfield Inn & Suites Kansas City Airport.
9. Are there family-friendly facilities at MCI?
Yes, MCI offers family-friendly facilities including play areas, family washrooms with space for strollers and charging points, and nursing mothers’ rooms equipped with comfortable seating and changing stations.
10. Are lockers or luggage storage available at MCI?
No, MCI does not provide lockers or luggage storage services. Passengers should keep their belongings with them or make alternative arrangements.
11. Can I sleep on the floor at MCI?
While it is possible to sleep on the floor at MCI, it might not be the most comfortable option due to the cold, hard floors and frequent cleaning activities. Bringing a sleeping bag or a travel mat could make it more bearable. Additionally, be aware of periodic announcements and the need to keep walkways clear for other passengers.
12. Are there any pet relief areas at MCI?
Yes, MCI provides several pet relief areas throughout the airport. These are located airside near Gates A8, A18, and B54, and there is an additional pet relief area landside in the Arrivals area at the north end of the baggage claim.
13. Does MCI offer any special accommodations for neurodivergent passengers?
Yes, MCI features a Sensory Room designed for neurodivergent passengers and others with sensory processing challenges. This room is equipped with fidget chairs, cushioned and carpeted floors, and tactical-based zoned activity areas, providing a calming environment.
14. Are there business facilities available for passengers needing to work during their layover?
While MCI does not have a dedicated business center, there are plans to introduce such facilities in the future. Currently, passengers can find seating areas with charging points throughout the airport to work on their devices.
15. Are there any gender-neutral restrooms at MCI?
Yes, MCI provides gender-neutral restrooms to accommodate all passengers. These restrooms are designed to be inclusive and accessible, ensuring comfort for everyone.
16. What options do passengers have for keeping their belongings secure while resting?
Since MCI does not offer lockers or luggage storage, passengers should keep their belongings with them at all times. Using carry-on bags with locks and keeping valuables close can help ensure their safety while resting.
17. Are there any cultural or artistic attractions within the airport to pass the time?
Yes, MCI features an Arts & Culture Program that includes several commissioned artworks from local, regional, and international artists. These can be found throughout the terminal, providing an engaging way to pass the time during layovers.
18. Is smoking allowed inside MCI?
Smoking is not permitted inside the terminal. However, there is a designated smoking area in the courtyard on the Arrivals level and other designated areas outside the terminal.
19. What are the dining options available at MCI?
While most dining options close overnight, Mother Earth Coffee in the Arrivals area is open 24 hours. Other dining establishments may have varying hours, so it is advisable to check their schedules if you plan to dine late at night or early in the morning.
20. How early should I arrive for my flight at MCI?
It is recommended to arrive at least two hours before your flight’s departure time. If you are parking in the Economy Lot, allow an extra 20-25 minutes for the shuttle to reach the terminal. For off-site parking, an additional 20-30 minutes for processing and transit time is advised.
21. Are there any hotels within a short distance of MCI that offer free shuttle services?
Yes, there are several hotels near MCI that offer free shuttle services to and from the airport. Some notable options include:
- Kansas City Marriott Airport: Offers free airport shuttle and is located close to the airport.
- Fairfield Inn & Suites Kansas City Airport: Provides complimentary shuttle service and is nearby.
- Four Points by Sheraton Kansas City Airport: Also offers free shuttle services to the airport. These hotels provide convenient accommodation options for passengers looking to rest comfortably during long layovers or overnight stays.
22. Are there play areas for children at MCI?
Yes, MCI has a play area designed for children of all ages and abilities. This family-friendly facility is located airside, before the boarding gates, and includes family washrooms equipped with charging points, space for strollers, and lockable doors. The terminal also features nursing mothers’ rooms with comfortable seating, adjustable lighting, toys for toddlers, and large changing and washing stations.
23. What should I do if I lose an item at MCI?
If you lose an item at MCI, the procedure depends on where you lost it:
- In the terminal areas, parking lots, or on the blue Economy Parking shuttle bus: Call (816) 243-5237.
- At the security checkpoints: Call (816) 849-7048 or file a report online at ChargerBack.com.
- At the ticket counters, on the aircraft, or inside a departure lounge: Contact your airline.
- In the Rental Car Facility or a rental car: Call (816) 243-2034.
- On a Rental Car Shuttle Bus: Contact your rental car company.
24. Are there any currency exchange services available at MCI?
No, Kansas City International Airport does not offer currency exchange services. Passengers needing to exchange currency should make arrangements before arriving at the airport or find a nearby facility outside the airport.
25. Are there any specific amenities for military personnel at MCI?
Yes, MCI provides amenities for military personnel and their families through the USO Lounge, located on the first level near Baggage Claim. The lounge offers a café, charging stations, TV access with Disney+, arcade games, board games, and fast Wi-Fi. The USO Lounge operates from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
26. Are there any art or cultural installations to explore at MCI?
Yes, MCI features an Arts & Culture Program showcasing commissioned artworks from local, regional, and international artists. These installations can be found throughout the terminal, parking garage, and concourses, offering passengers an engaging way to pass the time during layovers.
27. How accessible is MCI for passengers with disabilities?
MCI is equipped with various facilities to assist passengers with disabilities, including accessible parking, restrooms, and service counters. The airport also provides Skycap services for baggage assistance and offers a sensory room designed for neurodivergent passengers and those with sensory processing challenges. For further assistance, passengers can contact the Accessibility and Inclusion services at MCI.
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