LAX In-N-Out

The favorite of celebrities and locals alike, no trip to the best coast is complete without a visit to In-N-Out. Of all the In-N-Outs, the most famous is the one located next to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), and along with the park across the street, it makes for one of the most famous plane spotting spots on Earth. 

Close enough to LAX’s north runways (24L and 24R) to smell the burning rubber from the tires, this location is an avgeek’s dream. You’ll see as many folks with long-lensed cameras and aviation-themed shirts as you will your standard travelers dragging huge suitcases through the parking lot, grabbing a bite before jetting off. There’s a small grassy park where most plane spotters will hang out and armed with a to-go bag and an airplane tracking app (and maybe a blanket or chair), you’ll be set up for an hour or two of fun. Particularly notable to watch for are unique liveries, rare aircraft, and those completing very long flights (hello, Singapore Air and Qantas!). Of course, Airbus A380s and Boeing 747s always draw a crowd. GA arrivals are few and far between, but the proximity of the airliners and other jets contribute to a thrilling overall sensory experience, even if you’ve never considered yourself a plane spotting enthusiast before. Watching an arriving aircraft come into view from above the low buildings east of the field, roar by, and land makes this a place worth visiting. It is great to visit in any weather—IFR arrivals are equally thrilling as the sunny day experience, although a clear sunset and takeout dinner visit would be particularly memorable. Fun fact: The kindest thing on Earth you can do, as voted by me, is pick someone up from LAX. [email protected]