New Orleans Louis Armstrong International Airport (MSY) is a small but well-equipped airport, offering a range of amenities and seating options for travelers. Known for its friendly staff and clean environment, MSY can be a relatively comfortable place to rest during layovers.
However, it does lack advanced sleep pods like Minute Suites, making it important to know the best spots to rest depending on the length of your layover. Here’s an expert guide to help you find the best place to sleep at MSY, whether you have a short layover or an overnight stay.
Short Layover (30 mins – 1 hr)
For short layovers, it’s all about finding a convenient spot to sit and relax briefly. You don’t need to worry too much about sleep, but a comfortable seat and access to power for your devices are essential.
Best Option: Terminal B Benches
Pros: Benches off the floor with outlets for charging devices.
Cons: Hard benches.
Details: These benches are located between Starbucks and Panda Express, making them convenient for a quick rest and charging your devices. They’re perfect for short waits where you might want to recharge your phone or tablet.
Standard Layover (1 to 3 hrs)
During standard layovers, comfort and accessibility to amenities become more important. You might want to take a short nap or simply relax in a more comfortable setting.
Best Option: Concourse D
Pros: Long, clean couches, safe, relatively quiet.
Cons: Noise from arriving passengers, occasional cleaning.
Details: Concourse D is ideal for a brief nap or rest. The couches are comfortable, and the environment is generally quiet. However, you might encounter some noise from cleaning crews and announcements, so earplugs or noise-canceling headphones are recommended.
Extended Layovers (3 to 6 hrs)
For extended layovers, finding a more secluded and comfortable spot is essential to get some decent rest. You’ll need a quieter environment with fewer disturbances.
Best Option: Lower Level Baggage Claim Area
Pros: Lots of long chairs without armrests, very quiet, no announcements.
Cons: Colder than the upper floors, slow WiFi.
Details: This area is much quieter and more conducive to a longer rest. It’s important to bring a sweater or blanket as it can get cold. The lack of announcements makes it a great spot for an uninterrupted nap.
Long Layovers (6 to 12 hrs)
Long layovers require finding a place where you can get substantial rest and perhaps access some amenities for comfort.
Best Option: Concourse A-D (First Floor)
Pros: Soft, long couches, clean, well-lit, friendly environment.
Cons: Security closes early, no food options after 8 PM.
Details: The first-floor concourse areas offer numerous comfortable sleeping spots and a safe environment. Make sure to bring your own snacks and water since food options are limited after 8 PM. These areas are clean and well-lit, making them suitable for a restful stay.
Overnight Layovers (12 to 24 hrs)
For overnight layovers, comfort, safety, and access to amenities throughout the night are paramount. You need a spot where you can sleep relatively undisturbed.
Best Option: Concourse D
Pros: Long, clean couches, relatively quiet, friendly environment.
Cons: Noise from arriving passengers, cleaning crew at night.
Details: Concourse D is one of the best options for overnight stays, offering a safe and relatively quiet environment. The airport is well-lit and clean, with friendly staff. However, due to noise from cleaning and announcements, earplugs are recommended.
General Tips:
- Noise Levels: Be prepared for noise from cleaning crews and announcements. Earplugs or noise-canceling headphones are essential.
- Lighting: Bright lighting is present throughout the night. An eye mask can help improve sleep quality.
- Temperature: The airport can get cold, especially in the baggage claim area. Bring a sweater or blanket.
- Food Options: Food options are limited after 8 PM. Bring your own snacks and water to stay comfortable overnight.
Alternatives for MSY Airport Sleep: Hotels Near MSY with Free Shuttle:
If you prefer to sleep outside the airport, several nearby hotels offer excellent amenities and shuttle services:
- Hilton New Orleans Airport: 0.7 miles, friendly staff, and comfortable rooms.
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites New Orleans Airport South, an IHG Hotel: 1.5 miles, modern rooms, complimentary breakfast.
- Best Western Plus New Orleans Airport Hotel: 1.5 miles, welcoming staff, clean rooms.
- Home2 Suites by Hilton Kenner New Orleans Airport: 1.1 miles, pet-friendly, spacious suites.
- Holiday Inn New Orleans Airport North, an IHG Hotel: 1.2 miles, newly remodeled, close to airport.
By choosing the right spot within the airport or opting for a nearby hotel, you can ensure a more comfortable and restful experience during your layover at New Orleans Airport.
Overnight Amenities at New Orleans Airport (MSY)
New Orleans Louis Armstrong International Airport offers several amenities for travelers staying overnight. However, it’s essential to be prepared for some limitations as the airport quiets down significantly after evening hours.
Available Amenities:
- Restrooms:
- Restrooms are available throughout the airport and remain open 24 hours. They are generally clean and well-maintained.
- Security:
- Security presence is continuous throughout the night, ensuring a safe environment for travelers sleeping in the airport.
- WiFi:
- Free WiFi is available across the airport. The signal strength is fair during peak times and better during off-peak hours, regulated by Louisiana state law. Connect to #MSY-FI network to enjoy free 5mbs internet speed.
- Seating:
- Comfortable seating is available in various concourses. Long couches and chairs without armrests can be found in Concourse D and the lower-level baggage claim area.
- Quiet Areas:
- The lower-level baggage claim area and certain spots in Concourse C and D provide quieter environments ideal for resting.
- Water Fountains:
- Water fountains are located near restrooms, providing access to drinking water throughout the night.
- Vending Machines:
- Vending machines offering snacks and drinks are available, although choices may be limited.
- Shower:
- You can shower at The Club Lounge accessible with Priority Pass.
Limited or Unavailable Amenities:
- Food and Beverage Options:
- Most restaurants and cafes close by 8 PM. Popeye’s, Dooky Chase’s, and West Beignet are open from 5 AM to 8 PM, and other dining options on the second floor also close by 8 PM. Bringing your own snacks and drinks is advisable.
- Shops:
- Retail shops close by 8 PM, limiting options for purchasing essentials or entertainment. They reopen again at around 3:30 AM.
- Lighting:
- The airport remains well-lit throughout the night, which can be disruptive to sleep. An eye mask can help block out the light.
- Noise Levels:
- Expect intermittent noise from cleaning crews and announcements. Earplugs or noise-canceling headphones are recommended.
By preparing for these conditions and taking advantage of the available amenities, you can have a relatively comfortable overnight stay at New Orleans Airport.
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