San Francisco is one of the world's top tourist destinations, but weather-related flight delays often affect San Francisco International Airport (SFO). Fortunately, this busy, expanding airport offers numerous activities, specialty shops and restaurants that can turn your wait into yet another enjoyable Bay Area experience.
Figure out how much free time you'll actually have. Check to see if your flight is late and whether it will arrive/depart in the South Terminal (Boarding Areas A, B and C), the International Terminal (Boarding Area D) or the North Terminal (Boarding Areas E and F).
Visit internationally recognized art exhibitions in the connecting areas between the North and International terminals, in between the International and South terminals, and along Boarding Area D in the International Terminal. Themes change every few months and have recently included photographs, dolls, folk art and historical objects.
Treat yourself to a neck and shoulder message, facial, manicure or hair styling. A full-service salon is located in the connecting area between the North and International terminals.
Sit down and eat a quiet meal at the Bayview restaurant in the South Terminal or at the Crab Pot restaurant in the North Terminal. Have a cocktail at the elegant SFO Bridge Lounge in the upper concourse of the North Terminal or go to the South Terminal's Rock the Bay bar, which features San Francisco rock 'n' roll band memorabilia.
Shop till you drop in specialty stores in all three terminals. Choose from California wines, sourdough bread, San Francisco souvenirs, posters, accessories, electronics, sports apparel, jewelry, arts and crafts, candy and postcards. Consider using a carry-on bag for these purchases (but see Warnings below).
Cater to your kids' interests to keep them from making annoying, whining sounds. You also want to tire them out before they get on the plane.
Choose from kid-friendly exhibits: the Aquarium: Underwater Planet exhibition in Boarding Area C; the interactive Kid's Spot "San Francisco Exploratorium at SFO" in Boarding Area D; the Kid's Spot "Play and Science Exhibition" in Boarding Area F; and the exhibitions honoring local sports celebrities in Boarding Area F.
Pick eateries that include children's meals: the Hanger restaurant or the Burgers, Etc. cafeteria in the South Terminal; the Terrace Room restaurant or the North Beach Deli in the North Terminal; and the DC3 Diner in the International Terminal. Snack bars are also located in all the terminals.
Keep in mind that nurseries for mothers to change babies in are located in all terminals. Check with the Traveler's Aid Booths for exact nursery locations.
