Welcome to the Queen City’s gateway to the world, Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT)! As one of the busiest airports in the U.S. for aircraft movements and a major hub for American Airlines, CLT is a bustling, modern airport that connects millions of passengers to destinations near and far. Whether you’re a seasoned jet-setter or a first-time flyer through Charlotte Airport, we at OneStopParking have got you covered. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from navigating the terminals to finding the best food, and most importantly, securing that perfect Charlotte Airport parking spot.
Getting To & From Charlotte Douglas International Airport
Reaching or departing from CLT is pretty straightforward, with several options to suit your budget and style.
- Public Transportation – The CATS Sprinter:
For a budget-friendly ride, the Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) offers the Sprinter bus service (Route 5 Airport). It connects the airport directly to Uptown Charlotte (Center City), with stops at key locations. It’s an economical choice, especially if you’re traveling light. Look for the Sprinter bus stop on the Arrivals/Baggage Claim level, Zone D. - Rideshares (Uber/Lyft):
Uber and Lyft are readily available at Charlotte Airport. Pickup is located on the Arrivals/Baggage Claim level (lower level), outside Zone E. Simply use your app to request a ride once you’ve collected your luggage. - Taxis:
Taxis are also available on the Arrivals/Baggage Claim level. Follow the signs for “Taxi” to find the designated pickup areas. Fares to Uptown Charlotte are typically metered. - Rental Cars:
The Rental Car Facility is conveniently located on the lobby level of the Hourly Deck directly in front of the terminal. All rental car companies operating at CLT are housed here, making it easy to pick up or drop off your vehicle.
Navigating Charlotte Airport: Terminals & Airlines
One of the best things about Charlotte Douglas International Airport is its user-friendly layout. It consists of one main terminal building with five concourses (A, B, C, D, and E) radiating from it. This makes transfers relatively easy, as you don’t need to take a train or bus between terminals – it’s all walkable!
- The Main Terminal (Atrium): This is the heart of the airport. Here you’ll find check-in desks, security checkpoints, baggage claim, and a wide array of shops and restaurants.
- Concourses:
- Concourse A: Primarily serves airlines other than American Airlines, including Air Canada, Delta, Frontier, JetBlue, Southwest, Spirit, and United. It also has a new expansion for additional gates.
- Concourse B: Predominantly American Airlines.
- Concourse C: Predominantly American Airlines, often featuring regional jets.
- Concourse D: Serves as an international gateway for American Airlines and also hosts Lufthansa.
- Concourse E: The largest concourse, almost exclusively used by American Eagle regional flights.
Major airlines operating out of CLT include American Airlines (as its second-largest hub), Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, United Airlines, Frontier Airlines, Spirit Airlines, JetBlue, Lufthansa, and Air Canada.
Amenities & Facilities at CLT
Charlotte Airport is well-equipped to make your wait comfortable and enjoyable.
- Food & Drink: Hungry? CLT has you covered! From quick bites at Chick-fil-A, Shake Shack, or Starbucks to sit-down meals at options like 1897 Market, Carolina Beer Co., or Whisky River, there’s something for every palate. You’ll find options in the Atrium and throughout all concourses.
- Shopping: Forgot something? Or just want to indulge in some retail therapy? Find newsstands, bookstores, travel accessory shops, and boutiques like Queen City Gifts, PGA Tour Shop, and The Body Shop.
- Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport. Just connect to the “CLT Free WiFi” network.
- Charging Stations: Keep your devices powered up at the numerous charging stations, often found integrated into seating areas at the gates and in food courts.
- Pet Relief Areas: Traveling with a furry friend? CLT has designated pet relief areas both pre- and post-security.
- Lounges: American Airlines has several Admirals Clubs. There’s also The Centurion Lounge (Amex) and a USO Lounge for military members and their families.
- Art & Ambiance: Take a moment to appreciate the various art installations throughout the airport. The rocking chairs in the Atrium and along some concourses are a beloved CLT signature, offering a moment of calm.
- The Overlook: For aviation enthusiasts, the Charlotte Airport Overlook (located off Old Dowd Road, not within the terminal) offers fantastic views of planes taking off and landing. It’s a great spot to visit if you have some extra time before your flight or after arrival.
Parking at Charlotte Airport
Charlotte Douglas International Airport offers several on-site parking options, each with different rates and proximity to the terminal:
- Hourly Deck: Located directly in front of the terminal, ideal for short stays, pick-ups, and drop-offs.
- Daily Decks: A short walk or shuttle ride to the terminal.
- Long Term Lots 1 & 2: The most economical on-site options, with complimentary shuttle service to the terminal.
- Express Deck (Self-Park & Valet): Offers covered and uncovered parking with shuttle service.
- Cell Phone Lot: A free waiting area for those picking up arriving passengers.
While convenient, on-site Charlotte Airport parking can be pricey, especially for longer trips, and popular lots can fill up quickly during peak travel seasons.
The Smart Choice: Off-Site Charlotte Airport Parking with OneStopParking!
This is where we at OneStopParking come in to save the day (and your wallet!). Why circle around crowded airport lots, stressing about finding a spot and paying premium prices, when you can pre-book guaranteed, affordable Charlotte Airport parking with us?
We partner with trusted hotels and parking facilities near CLT to offer you fantastic deals. Here are a couple of our top picks for Charlotte Airport:
Baymont Inn (CLT)
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- Distance: Just 1 mile from Charlotte (CLT) Airport!
- Shuttle: Enjoy a convenient shuttle service running from 5 AM to midnight, on demand.
- Price: An unbeatable $4.95 per day!
- Why choose Baymont? It’s incredibly close, super affordable, and the on-demand shuttle means less waiting around.
- Click here to book your super-saver parking at Baymont Inn (CLT) with OneStopParking!
Microtel Inn (CLT)
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- Distance: Also a mere 1 mile from Charlotte (CLT) Airport.
- Shuttle: Reliable shuttle service available from 5 AM to midnight, on demand.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair Accessible facilities.
- Price: Great value at $10.00 per day.
- Why choose Microtel? It offers excellent proximity, a dependable shuttle, and importantly, wheelchair accessibility for travelers who need it.
- Secure your convenient spot at Microtel Inn (CLT) through OneStopParking today!
By booking your Charlotte Airport parking through OneStopParking, you not only get a great price but also peace of mind knowing your spot is reserved. Plus, our partner shuttles will whisk you directly to your terminal, making the start of your journey smooth and hassle-free.
Hotels Near Charlotte Airport
Got an early morning flight out of Charlotte Douglas International Airport or landing late at night? Staying at one of the many hotels near Charlotte Airport can be a game-changer, taking the rush and stress out of your travel equation. You can wake up refreshed, enjoy a leisurely breakfast, and often hop on a convenient hotel shuttle straight to the terminal.
Here are some popular and well-regarded hotel options close to CLT, offering a range of amenities and price points:
- Hilton Garden Inn Charlotte Airport:Known for its comfortable rooms and reliable service, often with an on-site restaurant and fitness center. A solid choice for business and leisure travelers.
- Hampton Inn & Suites Charlotte-Airport:A popular pick for its complimentary hot breakfast, clean rooms, and friendly atmosphere. Many Hampton Inns also offer airport shuttles.
- Hyatt Place Charlotte Airport/Lake Pointe:Offers spacious rooms with a separate living area, perfect if you need a bit more room to spread out. Often features a 24/7 gallery menu.
- Courtyard by Marriott Charlotte Airport:Modern and stylish, typically with a bistro for meals and Starbucks coffee, plus a well-equipped fitness center.
- SpringHill Suites by Marriott Charlotte Airport Lake Pointe:Another all-suite option, providing more space than a standard hotel room, usually including a complimentary breakfast.
- Embassy Suites by Hilton Charlotte Airport:A great option for families or those wanting extra space, as they usually offer two-room suites and a complimentary cooked-to-order breakfast and evening reception.
- DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Charlotte Airport:Famous for their warm chocolate chip cookie welcome, these hotels offer comfortable accommodations and often full-service amenities.
Many of these hotels near Charlotte Airport provide “Park, Sleep, Fly” packages, which can be a fantastic deal if you need both accommodation and parking. And of course, for those who just need a stellar parking deal without the overnight stay, remember that OneStopParking partners with convenient locations (like the Baymont Inn and Microtel Inn we mentioned earlier!) to offer affordable Charlotte Airport parking solutions. Booking a hotel nearby can simplify your travel logistics immensely, letting you focus on the journey ahead!
Tips for a Smooth CLT Experience
- Arrive Early: CLT is busy. We recommend arriving at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights.
- Check Flight Status: Before heading to the airport, check your flight status with your airline.
- Pack Smart: Be aware of TSA liquid rules and prohibited items to breeze through security.
- Mobile Check-in: Save time by checking in online or via your airline’s app and getting your boarding pass digitally.
- Security Lines: CLT has multiple security checkpoints. Check the airport’s website or app for current wait times to choose the shortest line.
Happy Travels from Charlotte!
Charlotte Douglas International Airport is a dynamic and efficient airport ready to connect you to your next adventure. And with OneStopParking, your journey can start even before you reach the terminal, with easy, affordable, and pre-booked Charlotte Airport parking. We take the hassle out of parking so you can focus on the excitement of your trip!
So, next time you’re flying out of Charlotte Airport, remember to check out OneStopParking for the best deals and a worry-free start to your travels!