The Best Places to Watch Planes at LAX, California
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is one of the busiest airports in the world, serving as a major hub for domestic and international travel. While many people rush through its terminals on their way to their final destinations, aviation enthusiasts know that LAX offers some of the best plane-watching opportunities in the United States. If you’re looking for the perfect spot to watch planes taking off and landing, here are some of the best locations around LAX.
Imperial Hill: Located on the south side of LAX, Imperial Hill is one of the most popular spots for plane-watching. You can set up your camera and enjoy panoramic views of the airport’s southern runways. There are dedicated parking areas, so you can relax in your car while enjoying the sights and sounds of departing and arriving aircraft.
In-N-Out Burger: Yes, you read that correctly. The In-N-Out Burger restaurant located at 9149 S Sepulveda Blvd is famous not only for its delicious burgers but also for its prime plane-watching location. The outdoor seating area provides excellent views of planes taking off and landing on LAX’s northern runways.
Clutter’s Park: Located on Westchester Parkway, Clutter’s Park is a favorite among aviation enthusiasts. It offers a grassy area with picnic tables and a playground for the little ones, making it a perfect spot for plane-watching with the whole family.
Proud Bird Restaurant: The Proud Bird restaurant is not just a place to enjoy a great meal; it’s also a fantastic spot to watch planes. Located at 11022 Aviation Blvd, this restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating. The outdoor deck provides a close-up view of planes as they approach the airport, making it a favorite for aviation enthusiasts.
Westchester In-N-Out Plane Spotting: If you prefer another In-N-Out Burger location, the one at 9149 S Sepulveda Blvd offers excellent plane-watching opportunities from its parking lot. The advantage of this location is that it offers a different perspective of the airport, capturing planes on approach to the southern runways.
Observation Deck at Theme Building: While the Encounter Restaurant inside the iconic Theme Building is no longer operational, the observation deck is still accessible. It’s an excellent place for both casual tourists and die-hard plane spotters to take in sweeping views of the airport and its surroundings.
Fenceline Trail: Located near the 25L threshold at LAX, the Fenceline Trail offers a unique and up-close perspective of planes landing on the northern runways. You can park nearby and walk up to the perimeter fence to capture impressive photos of planes just before they touch down.
Hacienda Park: Hacienda Park is a peaceful and lesser-known park close to LAX. You can watch planes from a distance while enjoying the park’s tranquility. It’s a perfect spot to have a picnic and enjoy the view.
When plane-watching at LAX, remember to be respectful of the rules and regulations, and be mindful of airport security. Additionally, it’s a good idea to bring a pair of binoculars, a camera, and some refreshments to make the experience even more enjoyable. Whether you’re a dedicated aviation enthusiast or just looking for a unique way to spend your time in Los Angeles, these plane-watching locations around LAX offer an exciting and memorable experience.
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