Burbank Airport, officially known as Hollywood Burbank Airport, is a convenient and popular airport serving the greater Los Angeles area. It’s especially favored by travelers looking to avoid the crowds and traffic associated with Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Known for its easy access, shorter security lines, and proximity to key entertainment hubs, Burbank Airport is a smart choice for both business and leisure travelers. Understanding exactly where Burbank Airport is located and how to reach it can make travel planning much smoother, especially for visitors unfamiliar with Southern California.
Where Is Burbank Airport Located?
Burbank Airport is located in the city of Burbank, in Los Angeles County, California. It lies in the San Fernando Valley region, northeast of downtown Los Angeles. Its location makes it ideal for travelers heading to Hollywood, Universal Studios, Glendale, and other parts of the valley.
- Full Name: Hollywood Burbank Airport (formerly Bob Hope Airport)
- Address: 2627 North Hollywood Way, Burbank, CA 91505, United States
- Coordinates: 34.2006° N, 118.3576° W
- IATA Code: BUR
The airport is located just three miles northwest of downtown Burbank and approximately 12 miles from downtown Los Angeles, making it a centrally located option for Southern California travelers.
How to Get to Burbank Airport
Reaching Burbank Airport is easy due to its central position in the Los Angeles area and its connections to various transportation options.
By Car
Drivers can reach Burbank Airport using several major highways:
- From Downtown Los Angeles: Take the 5 Freeway North and exit at Hollywood Way.
- From Pasadena or Glendale: Use the 134 Freeway west to Hollywood Way or exit onto the 5 Freeway North.
- From the San Fernando Valley: Take surface streets or the 101 Freeway to connect to the 170 or 5 Freeway.
Parking is available in short-term and long-term lots, with shuttle service provided between remote lots and the terminals.
By Train
Burbank Airport is one of the few airports in the U.S. with its own train station. The Burbank Airport South station is served by:
- Metrolink Ventura County Line: Connecting downtown Los Angeles (Union Station) and Ventura County
- Amtrak Pacific Surfliner: Offering service from San Diego to San Luis Obispo, with stops in Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, and more
By Bus and Shuttle
Several bus lines stop at or near the airport, including:
- Burbank Bus
- Los Angeles Metro Bus lines
- FlyAway Bus (seasonally available between Union Station and Burbank)
Additionally, many hotels offer free shuttle service, and ride-share services such as Uber and Lyft are widely used for direct airport drop-off and pickup.
By Air
Burbank Airport primarily handles domestic flights and is served by several major airlines including Southwest, Alaska, Delta, and American Airlines. Though smaller than LAX, it offers flights to many popular destinations across the U.S., such as Las Vegas, San Francisco, Seattle, Phoenix, and New York.
Terminals and Layout
Burbank Airport features two passenger terminals: Terminal A and Terminal B. They are housed within one building, making it easy to navigate even for first-time flyers.
- Terminal A: Serves Southwest Airlines and has most of the airport’s gates.
- Terminal B: Houses Alaska, Delta, American Airlines, and a few other carriers.
Because the airport is compact, walking distances are short, and you can typically get from curb to gate in less time than at larger airports.
Services and Amenities
Despite its smaller size, Burbank Airport offers a variety of services to enhance passenger experience:
- Free Wi-Fi: Available throughout the terminals
- Dining Options: Includes cafes, sandwich shops, and quick-service restaurants
- Retail Stores: Newsstands, gift shops, and travel accessory vendors
- Rental Car Center: Located across from the terminal with all major rental agencies
- Pet Relief Areas: Outdoor pet areas available before and after security
Nearby Attractions
One of the benefits of flying into or out of Burbank Airport is its close proximity to major Southern California attractions:
- Universal Studios Hollywood: Just 15 minutes away by car
- Hollywood Walk of Fame: Reachable in under 20 minutes
- Griffith Park and Observatory: Great for hiking and city views
- Warner Bros. Studio Tour: Located within Burbank itself
- Downtown Los Angeles: Easily accessible via train or freeway
Why Choose Burbank Airport?
Many travelers prefer Burbank Airport over LAX for its simplicity and convenience. Here are some of the reasons why it’s a top choice:
- Quick Boarding: Shorter lines and faster security screening
- Proximity: Close to studios, major attractions, and neighborhoods in Los Angeles
- Ground Transport Access: Well-connected via train, bus, and car
- Stress-Free Experience: Smaller crowds and less airport congestion
Best Times to Travel Through Burbank Airport
The airport is generally less busy than LAX, but mornings and late afternoons can still be high-traffic periods. Midday flights often offer a smoother experience with fewer crowds. It’s also wise to check for weather delays during rainy or windy days, as smaller airports can be more affected by adverse conditions.
Hotels Near Burbank Airport
Several hotels are located within a short distance from the airport, many offering complimentary shuttle service:
- Courtyard by Marriott Burbank Airport
- Hampton Inn & Suites Los Angeles Burbank Airport
- Los Angeles Marriott Burbank Airport
- Holiday Inn Burbank-Media Center
Burbank Airport, officially known as Hollywood Burbank Airport, is located in the city of Burbank in Los Angeles County, California. Just 12 miles from downtown Los Angeles, the airport provides a convenient and efficient alternative to LAX for travelers heading to or from Southern California. With excellent public transportation links, a manageable terminal layout, and quick access to major attractions, Burbank Airport is an excellent gateway to the entertainment capital of the world. Whether you’re flying in for a vacation, business trip, or a Hollywood studio tour, knowing where Burbank Airport is and how to reach it can significantly improve your travel experience.