The 3 best airports in America to experience free art

by Aimee Heckel · October 22, 2013

“Misch13f & Mayhem”

By Aimee Heckel

If you hope to visit a museum or art gallery on your next vacation, you may not have to go any farther than the airport.

Some airports are truly a work of art, with cutting-edge light shows, interactive art exhibits, music, murals and more.

USA Today Travel is currently running a reader contest to name the airport with the best art exhibits. The winner will be announced mid November.

Here are a few of our personal faves:

1. Southwest Florida International Airport

The art here is huge. This airport features an oversized, complex, assemblage-style sculpture called “Dawn’s Forest,” an all-white contemporary “forest” that stretches 25 feet high. The airport also features fine art, wildlife photography and more.

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2. The Denver International Airport

There’s nothing quite like walking through Denver’s colorful “Relax” corridor, which spans multiple, dramatic interactive displays of aviation-related art that spring to life as you walk past them. Hop on the underground train and you’ll find another colorful display: a mile-long light and sculpture installation inside the train tunnel.

3. San Diego International Airport

San Diego’s exhibit of tens of thousands of LED blue lights is otherworldly — but that’s not all you can find here. San Diego airport’s art program also features complimentary performing arts shows. Travelers can see dance, theater and live music during their layovers or while waiting for their plane to board. The second Friday of each month four- to five-piece bands and music groups play jazz and contemporary music. The fourth Friday you will hear smaller bands.

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