36 minutes in SFO

Inside the SFO BART station. Photo courtesy of Hilda Chen.

Sometimes when we travel, it’s hard to appreciate the beautiful things right in front of us, especially when we are stressed about lost luggage, flight delays and crowded airplanes. So, if you have some extra time during your holiday travels, take 36 minutes to explore SFO and visit the places listed below. For more BARTable tip check out our Holiday Airport Travel Guide.

More than 40 million people pass through SFO every year and because of the San Francisco Arts Commission's initiatives and city funding, there are more than 20 art galleries on display throughout the three terminals. In addition to that, the airport has horticulturalists on staff that tend to the living plant displays that freshen the air and brighten the mood for travelers and visitors.

Hop on BART and explore the airport that passengers rave about.

Let's go.

To see more features in our 36 minutes series, click here.

The Aviation Museum and Library. Photo courtesy of Sophia Markoulakis.

As the only accredited airport museum in the country by the American Alliance Museums, SFO's Aviation Museum and Library can't be missed. The museum resides next to Gate A of the International Terminal. Inside are both temporary and permanent exhibits related to commercial aviation. In 2019, the museum acquired over 600 artifacts from aviation enthusiast and businessman Harold Bixby who helped fund Charles Lindbergh's historic transatlantic flight in 1927. Many of these artifacts are currently on view.

Inside SFO's museum and library. Photo courtesy of Sophia Markoulakis.

Upstairs is the museum's library. Unfortunately, the collection is closed for general browsing, but you can make advanced arrangements with the staff if there are specific titles you're interested in exploring. With lots of nooks and chairs, the upstairs library is a great place to catch up on some quiet time or reading. Follow the museum's Instagram page for museum updates and special events. The museum and library is free and open daily from 10am-4:30pm.

Passengers enjoy the SF Ballet's 90th anniversary exhibit. Photo courtesy of Sophia Markoulakis.

Walking from one side of the International Terminal to the other, guests can enjoy many exhibits including the two large display cases that hold life-size art and textiles. Past exhibits include retro couture uniforms. Many of the temporary exhibits are coordinated with other museums around the country and the San Francisco Arts Commission. Currently on display, in celebration of its 90th year, SF Ballet features an exhibition with ballet costumes created and worn over the past four decades. 

Some of the dishes served at Koi Palace's SFO outpost. Photo courtesy of Koi Palace.

Dining at SFO is unparalleled but the majority of the airport's restaurants are post-security. Still, visitors can enjoy two food courts at each end of the Ed Lee International Main Hall. Along with Koi Palace, there is also Potrero Grill and Tapas and Taps for a bite or a drink.

Enjoy coffee while visiting SFO. Photo courtesy of Sophia Markoulakis.

Coffee and pastries are synonymous with San Francisco so it's no surprise that there are many coffee options pre- and post-security. Both Green Beans Coffee and Roasting Plant Coffee offer specialty coffee drinks and pastries.

Art installations and living greenery between Terminals 2 and 3 provide a pleasant respite for travelers and visitors. Photo courtesy of Sophia Markoulakis.

Throughout SFO's terminals are lots of surprising places to enjoy art. The airport's horticulture staff and interior specialists tend to thousands of plants inside the terminals and the water-wise landscaping that greets those driving within the airport's boundaries.

The pre-security Sky Terrace at Terminal 2. Photo courtesy of Sophia Markoulakis.

If you want to watch the planes take off and land, head to the 4th floor of Terminal 2 and enjoy the airport's Sky Terrace. To save time, board the AirTrain's Red Line once you make your way inside the International Terminal. This free transit system that circles the airport is the fastest way to get from one terminal to another. Don't miss the exhibits that greet you before you step outside to watch the planes. Seating is available and food and drink are allowed. The terrace is open Friday-Monday 10am-6pm.

Dine under an impressive art installation at the Grand Hyatt at SFO. Photo courtesy of SF Arts Commission.

The new Grand Hyatt at SFO is worthy of a quick visit, if only to enjoy some of the large installations that seem to enhance the views outside. The hotel's all-day dining room, Quail & Crane, offers an international menu of bites like dumplings and sushi. Take the AirTrain to the hotel, which has its own stop.

Let's connect. 

What's your favorite BARTable spot? Have a suggestion for our next 36 minutes feature? Let us know via social media, @SFBARTable and SFBARTable! Keep up with us on Facebook and Instagram to see all of the best BARTable events, places to eat and have fun around the Bay.