Experiencing the Airport at a Different Pace
At airports, time often feels like it’s slipping through our fingers. I’ve always been in a rush—hurrying to catch flights, getting impatient in long security lines, and never having enough time for a coffee from Starbucks. This week, I decided to change that by slowing down and experiencing the airport in a new way.
I applied for and received aHopkins Hangout Pass, a unique program that allows non-travelers access to the secure side of Cleveland Hopkins International Airport. While most people who use this pass are there to escort travelers, including unaccompanied minors, my motivation was different. I simply wanted to take my time, shop, enjoy some food and drinks, and explore the airport at a more relaxed pace.
How the Program Works
The program isn’t designed for last-minute visits. Participants must apply online at least 24 hours in advance, but no more than seven days ahead. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) reviews all applications, and approval is only confirmed on the morning of the visit. For me, the approval email arrived right at midnight on the day of my visit.
Before this program, non-travelers could still pass through security without a ticket, but it required airline permission and was typically granted for specific purposes like accompanying a traveler to the gate. I did this myself a few years ago when my mother was flying back to Cleveland. This new system, however, seems more flexible and user-friendly.
To apply, I filled out an online form four days before my visit, providing my name, email, date of visit, and reason for visiting, along with a copy of my driver’s license. After waiting, I was ready for my trip.
Visits are limited to the hours between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. to avoid the early morning rush. The airport has set a daily cap of 100 passes, though demand has not yet reached that limit. During the first week of the program, approximately 20 applicants were approved each day.
A Day at the Airport
When I arrived around 11 a.m., the wait at both the North and South checkpoints was under 10 minutes. I chose the South line and set a timer on my phone—25 minutes until I reached the agent. Unfortunately, Hangout Pass visitors cannot use TSA PreCheck or CLEAR programs to speed things up. At least, I didn’t have to take off my shoes.
After passing through security, the airport felt like my own personal playground. I had several options: turn left toward concourse C, go straight into concourse B, or turn right into concourse A. I ended up exploring all three, exceeding my step goal for the day.
My first stop was the electronic signage detailing the history of Hopkins and its Hall of Fame inductees. I learned about Claude F. King, who invented the first airport control tower in 1930 in Cleveland; Joseph M. Rababy, who operated concession stands starting in the 1980s; and William R. Hopkins, the airport’s namesake.
I also looked at historic photos celebrating Hopkins’ 100th anniversary this year, studied a juvenile T. Rex model in concourse C, and enjoyed the smell of Cinnabon in the food court.
I watched planes take off and land, shopped at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Store, and grabbed lunch at the Shake Shack. As a Hangout Pass visitor, I received a free order of French fries with my sandwich purchase. Other vendors, such as Great Lakes Brewing, Quaker Steak and Lube, and Inca Tea, also offered discounts to promote the program.
Final Thoughts
Would I do it again? If it meant spending extra time with one of my kids, absolutely. But just to hang out? Probably not. The experience wasn’t free—I paid $21 to park for about 2½ hours. Still, I can think of worse ways to spend a few hours and a few bucks.
Tips for Visiting
- When:Passes are available any day from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. You can arrive anytime within those hours.
- How Long:Visits are limited to six hours or less, though enforcement details are unclear.
- When to Apply:You must apply at least 24 hours in advance and no more than seven days ahead.
- What to Bring:Pass holders are allowed a small personal item only. Don’t forget your ID.
- Minors:Visitors under 18 can apply, but they must be accompanied by an approved adult. One adult can accompany up to three minors.
- How Often:Guests may apply for a pass up to three times within a 30-day period.
- More Information:Visitclevelandairport.com/airport/hopkins-hangout-passfor more details.
