Portland International Airport Earned Award Nominations
The local hub has been recognized in multiple categories for the upcoming 2026 USA Today reader's choice awards.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Air Travel
Live Poll
Do you prioritize local dining and art options when evaluating the quality of your local airport?
Portland International Airport has secured multiple nominations in the 2026 USA Today 10Best awards. The airport is competing for honors in categories such as Best Airport for Dining, Best Airport for Art, and Best Large Airport.
Why it matters
The recognition follows a $2.15 billion airport renovation that introduced unique amenities such as a free movie theater. These nominations highlight the airport's efforts to distinguish itself through high-quality dining and art experiences.
Portland International Airport, which serves the Portland area, recently completed a $2.15 billion renovation project. The facility now features 14 changing art exhibits and maintains a street pricing policy across all dining venues.
The players
Portland International Airport
This facility is the primary international airport serving Portland and the surrounding region.
Loyal Legion
This establishment operates as a bar located within the airport and is a nominee for a national dining award.
The details
In addition to the airport's general nominations, the establishment Loyal Legion has been nominated for Best Airport Bar. Travelers visiting the facility can currently enjoy the free movie theater and a variety of dining options priced at market rates.
Timeline
Voting for the 10Best awards concludes October 5, 2026, at noon Eastern time.
The 10Best award winners will be announced October 14, 2026.
Travel Outlook
These nominations reflect the broader trend of airports transitioning into consumer-focused destinations rather than simple transit hubs. The recognition follows the annual cycle of the 10Best awards program, which tracks shifting passenger preferences across the industry.
Travelers passing through the airport can take advantage of the free movie theater and street-priced dining options. Visitors interested in supporting the local facility can cast their votes daily via the official online portal until the deadline.
The takeaway
Travelers looking to maximize their airport experience should utilize amenities like the free movie theater while navigating the terminal. Engaging with these awards offers passengers a chance to support improvements at their local transit hubs.
What happens next
Public voting for the 10Best awards remains open until October 5, 2026, at noon Eastern time, with the final winners scheduled to be revealed on October 14, 2026.
Further reading
Explore the latest developments in local flight hubs on our Air Travel section.
More information
To cast your ballot, visit the USA Today 10Best voting portal.
Live Poll
Do you prioritize local dining and art options when evaluating the quality of your local airport?
