Follow these tips to make the most of your airport visit during the holiday season.

Parking Maps

Terminal Map

Interactive Map

Arrive Two to Three Hours Ahead

Passengers are advised to check in at least two hours prior to departure for domestic flights. For international flights, passengers should check in three hours in advance. Passengers should check with their airlines for updates on any flight delays or cancellations.  

Reserve Parking Online - Highly Recommended

Reserve parking in advance to guarantee a space. Customers with reservations can park even if the garage or lot signs say full. Plans changed? Cancel before your stay for a full refund.

Reserve Parking

Use Express Passenger Drop Off

Passengers departing from Terminal 2 can use Express Passenger Drop Off to expedite their travel experience. Follow the purple signs.
 DCA Express Passenger Drop Off - Purple Sign

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Reagan National Airport
Travel Information
Shopping & Dining
New at the Airport
  • Half Moon Empanadas: Freshly made from scratch by hand using only the freshest ingredients. Two locations now open:
  • TUMI: Shop premium travel, business, and lifestyle accessories. Location: Post-Security / National Hall. Store Hours: 7:00 am-8:00 pm.
     
  • Solid State Books: A hybrid concept that combines the uniqueness of a local bookstore (solidstatebooksdc.com) along with an assortment of souvenirs and travel essentials. Location: Post-Security / National Hall / C24. Store Hours: 6:00 am-8:00 pm.
     
  • Five Guys in Concourse D: DC favorite since 1986. Get a fresh, juicy burger with all the toppings you could stuff between fresh-baked buns. Store Hours: 5:00 am-10:00 pm.
     
  • Eastern Market: Retail marketplace carrying all the necessary travel essentials, incorporating a shop within a shop concept Natalie’s Candy Jar with nostalgic candy, and +Wellness. Store Hours: 4:00 am-10:30 pm.
     
  • Nalley Fresh: Quick serve restaurant featuring customizable and healthy salads. Location: Post-Security / Concourse D. Store Hours: 5:30 am-10:30 pm.
Entertainment Schedule
Holiday Entertainment Schedule | Post Security
  • November 18: Apple Cider Sampling at National Hall-Georgetown Gourmet (10am-12pm)
  • December 4: Cookie Day
  • December 9: Santa at DCA
  • December 12: Hot Cocoa Bar at National Hall near MAC kiosk (10am-12pm)
  • December 18 and 19: Gift Wrapping, Santa, Carolers, Prize wheel at National Hall near MAC Kiosk (2pm-4pm)
     

Note: Check back for updates as the schedule is routinely updated.

Use Metrorail
Use Metro to Avoid Roadway Congestion

The Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport Metrorail station is connected by walkways to Terminals 1 and 2 for passenger convenience.  Serviced by the Blue & Yellow line.

  • Metro Fares - regular fares for rail are $6.75 or less. Fares vary based on the service, ride length, day, and time you ride.
  • Rider Guide - from detailed information about Metro bus stops and rail stations — to helpful tips about how to report a lost item.
  • Schedules & Maps - trip planning tools and service alerts for trips on Metrorail and Metrobus.
     
TSA Checkpoints
Prepare For Security Screening at TSA Checkpoints
  • Terminal 1: Use Terminal 1 security checkpoint.
  • Terminal 2: Choose whichever checkpoint is more convenient. View live security wait times here.
  • Live security wait time information is now available for all screening checkpoints. The wait times are posted on signs near each checkpoint, online and on the DC Airports mobile app.
  • TSA recommends enrolled travelers use its expedited TSA PreCheck screening program to reduce wait times through checkpoints. With PreCheck lanes at each TSA checkpoint.
  • Passengers can verify “what can I bring,” ask TSA via chat or request special services in advance.
     
Order Now - DCA
Order From Your Phone: Skip the Wait!

Order From Your Phone: Skip the Wait!

Skip the wait this holiday season and order now from your phone! Fuel up before your next flight and enjoy contactless pick-up when you order ahead with DCAordernow.com

OrderNow

homeland security
See Something, Say Something

Human trafficking involves the use of force, fraud, or coercion to obtain some type of labor. Every year, millions of men, women, and children are trafficked worldwide – including right here in the United States. It can happen in any community and victims can be any age, race, gender, or nationality.

Airports are key points of access for traffickers and we are bringing awareness to this very important issue.

  • To report suspected human trafficking to Federal law enforcement: Call 1-866-347-2423
  • To get help from the National Human Trafficking Hotline: Call 1-888-373-7888 or text HELP or INFO to BeFree (233733)
  • Airport Police: Call 911 for emergencies or 703-417-2400 to report suspicious activity.
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Holidays at DCA