LAS - Las Vegas Harry Reid International Airport
This Runway Report takes us to the city of neon dreams, bad decisions, and buffet-induced naps — Las Vegas! But we’re not here to gamble (unless you count the risk of airport Wi-Fi). We’re doing a deep dive into Harry Reid International Airport — formerly McCarran — where slot machines outnumber charging outlets, and confusion reigns supreme.
Layout:
LAS? More like LOL.
The layout of this airport is... a game of chance. Terminals are spread out like a game of roulette, and yes, you will lose. The signage is cryptic at best. Oh, and surprise! You’ll probably have to take a shuttle to your gate because why make it easy.
We got lost. No shame.
Layout Rating: 2 clouds for comedy value.
Efficiency:
Once we actually found where we needed to be, things moved quickly. Security? A breeze. We were through in about five minutes flat — the only slowdown was someone in front of us treating the bag check like a customer service hotline. (Ma’am, this is not the time to discuss your seat preferences.)
Still, shoutout to TSA for keeping it snappy without the sass.
Efficiency Rating: 5 clouds — swift like a desert wind.
Food:
Not bad! Not Michelin-starred either, but hey — you're in an airport, not on the Strip.
LAS offers a solid handful of options, whether you're in a rush or have time to lounge. Craving something hearty? Swing by Shake Shack (Terminal 1, Concourse A/B) for a ShackBurger and crinkle fries that will definitely hit the spot before takeoff. Want something a little more "Vegas chef flex"? Check out Buddy V’s Ristorante from Cake Boss himself in Terminal 3 — pasta and pastries, no blackjack required.
For grab-and-go, there's Starbucks (obviously), and PGA Tour Grill if you're feeling like a sports bar vibe with a side of protein. And for those in a rush, Jamba Juice, Einstein Bros. Bagels, and The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf have your back (and your caffeine).
You won’t leave starving — but you won’t write home about it either.
Food Rating: 3.5 clouds — dependable, not divine.
Shops:
Hudson Express, baby! Where headphones and neck pillows go to retire.
Plus, a few Vegas-themed stores because apparently, someone does need a “What happens in Vegas...” shot glass at 7:00 a.m.
The shopping vibe is very “aiport typical” but it’s better than nothing!
Shops Rating: 3 clouds — functional but not fabulous.
Vibes:
Low lighting, high slots. You’ll know you’re in Vegas the second you hear that slot machine ding! right next to Gate C4. It’s a strange vibe — like a casino had a baby with a DMV. Some travelers were vibing, others were visibly rethinking life.
It’s not glam, it’s not gritty — it’s airport purgatory.
Vibes Rating: 3 clouds — a little bit of luck, a lotta bit of weird.
Final Verdict:
LAS — 4.5 clouds.
Despite the confusing layout and dim lighting, this airport moves fast, serves decent eats, and gives you a final chance to gamble before you fly. It’s chaotic, it’s extra, it’s Vegas. And honestly, that’s kind of the point.