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Located 7 miles southwest of downtown Indianapolis, Indiana, is a modern, award-winning hub serving over 9 million passengers annually. Operated by the Indianapolis Airport Authority, IND features a single terminal, the Col. H. Weir Cook Terminal, with two concourses—Concourse A and Concourse B—totaling 39 gates. Renowned as one of the first U.S. airports designed post-9/11, it emphasizes security and passenger convenience, earning accolades like “Best Airport in North America” from Airports Council International for 11 consecutive years. With a $1.1 billion midfield terminal opened in 2008 and ongoing enhancements, IND blends efficiency with Hoosier hospitality.
IND’s terminal is a three-level, LEED-certified structure with a light-filled Civic Plaza atrium at its heart. Level 1 handles arrivals, baggage claim (five carousels), and the Ground Transportation Center (GTC), including eight rental car counters. Level 2 hosts departures, ticketing, two security checkpoints (one per concourse), and concourse access, while Level 3 offers airline offices and overflow seating. Concourses A and B extend east and west from the atrium, connected post-security by a hallway with moving walkways (0.5 miles between furthest gates). Gate assignments typically include Delta, American, Air Canada, Alaska, Spirit, and international arrivals on Concourse A (A3-A25), and United, Southwest, Allegiant, and Frontier on Concourse B (B3-B25)—subject to daily shifts.
- Where to Eat: Pre-security, Civic Plaza’s Farmers Market offers local sandwiches and coffee—open to all. Post-security, Concourse A’s Shapiro’s Deli (near A10) serves pastrami on rye, while Concourse B’s Shake Shack (near B14) dishes out burgers and fries. Harry & Izzy’s in the atrium provides upscale steak pre-security.
- Where to Rest: The Delta Sky Club near Gate A7 offers plush seating and showers ($59 day pass, Delta elites free). Post-security, cushioned chairs with outlets near Gates A20 and B20 provide free calm spots. The GTC’s quiet corner (Level 1) is a pre-security retreat.
- What to Do: Interactive touchscreens near Gates A6, B10, and the atrium explore Indy 500 history—test your racing trivia. The Art Gallery above baggage claim (Level 1) showcases local works—free and open 24/7. Plane-watch from Gate B25’s runway-facing windows.
- Unique Features: Free Wi-Fi (“Free Airport WIFI”) is robust—strongest in Civic Plaza. Pet relief areas are outside Door 5 (Level 1) and post-security near A15. The terminal’s suspended “Confluence” artwork in the atrium and 14 EV charging stations in the garage add flair.
- How to Get There: From downtown, take I-70 West to Exit 68, then Col. H. Weir Cook Memorial Drive (15-20 minutes). IndyGo Route 8 ($1.75, 40 minutes) stops at Level 1. Taxis ($35-$45) and rideshares (pickup at GTC, Zone 1) are curbside. Park in the Terminal Garage ($20/day) or Economy Lot ($9/day) with shuttles.
Parking map
Concourse A
with 20 gates (A3-A25), primarily serves Delta, American, Air Canada, Alaska, Spirit, and all international arrivals, extending east from the atrium. It’s the busier concourse, handling a mix of domestic hubs and Canadian routes, with a modern design from the 2022 expansion adding gate flexibility.
Dining and Refreshments
- Main Options: Shapiro’s Deli near A10 offers piled-high pastrami sandwiches and matzo ball soup—a taste of Indy’s Jewish heritage. Ben’s Soft Pretzels by A14 twists fresh pretzels with dipping sauces—quick and satisfying.
- Alternatives: Starbucks near A6 brews lattes and pastries—ideal for a caffeine hit. Hudson News by A12 stocks snacks like trail mix and energy bars for lighter fare.
Rest Areas and Comfort
- Relaxation Spots: The Delta Sky Club near A7 provides plush seating, Wi-Fi, and light bites—open to SkyMiles elites or day-pass holders. Near A20, cushioned seats with outlets offer a quieter nook with tarmac views.
- Additional Comfort: A Mamava Pod near A10 (app-unlocked) offers privacy for nursing or downtime. The concourse’s high ceilings and natural light create an open, calming vibe.
Entertainment and Activities
- Interactive Fun: Touchscreens near A6 dive into Indy’s racing legacy—learn about the Brickyard 400 or Mario Andretti’s wins.
- Shopping and Exploration: The Paradies Shop near A14 sells Indy 500 gear and local chocolates—grab a souvenir. Plane-spot from A25’s window with views of international jets.
Notable Features and Tips
- Unique Aspects: The International Arrivals area (A3-A5) features CBP kiosks—allow 20-30 minutes for customs. A hydration station near A8 encourages eco-friendly refills.
- Travel Tips: Delta’s frequent Atlanta flights mean A10-A15 can crowd—arrive early. The concourse’s moving walkway to A25 saves time for far gates.
Concourse B
with 19 gates (B3-B25), hosts United, Southwest, Allegiant, and Frontier, stretching west from the atrium. It’s a lively hub for budget carriers and Midwest connections, with a slightly more relaxed pace than A, enhanced by its 2008 design and recent gate upgrades.
Dining and Refreshments
- Main Options: Shake Shack near B14 serves juicy burgers and crinkle fries—a fan favorite. Champions Sports Bar by B20 offers wings and local beers—pair with a Two-Hearted Ale.
- Alternatives: Tinker Coffee near B8 roasts artisanal blends—grab a pour-over. CNBC News by B12 has snacks like jerky and granola for quick grabs.
Rest Areas and Comfort
- Relaxation Spots: Near B20, a seating area with outlets and runway views is a serene hideaway—perfect for a break. The atrium’s pre-security stadium seating (via hallway) offers a fallback with Civic Plaza vibes.
- Additional Comfort: Extra legroom near B16 makes it a cozy perch—great for stretching out. Southwest’s open seating means gate areas stay busy but organized.
Entertainment and Activities
- Interactive Fun: Touchscreens near B10 explore Indy’s cultural history—discover the Eiteljorg Museum or Kurt Vonnegut’s roots.
- Shopping and Exploration: The Hoosier Marketplace near B16 sells Colts gear and local honey—ideal gifts. Plane-watch from B25’s glass wall with takeoff action.
Notable Features and Tips
- Unique Aspects: Gate B25’s triple jetway handles Southwest’s bigger planes—watch the bustle. A kids’ play area near B10 keeps little ones entertained.
- Travel Tips: Southwest’s frequent departures mean B14-B20 peak midday—check in 24 hours early online. The concourse’s layout ensures a 5-minute walk back to security.
IND’s terminal map is a traveler’s dream—intuitive, modern, and steeped in Indianapolis charm. Whether you’re dining, resting, or exploring, it’s a seamless start to your Hoosier journey.
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Brian Mitchell