When travel plans go awry, the toughest challenge can be to find the right place to wait far from the maddening crowds. Airline clubs are obvious choices, but more and more airports are offering some interesting alternatives.

ATL Atlanta Jackson Hartsfield

Waiting Place: Houlihan’s
Location: Atrium
Description: Though the fare will match that of the Houlihan’s in your own town, a pianist in the afternoon and evening makes this a pleasant place to wait and catch up on some reading or work.

DCA Reagan National Washington

Waiting Place: Legal Sea Foods
Location: Terminal C
Description: In this terminal, designed by noted architect Cesar Pelli, are great places to dine, including Legal Sea Foods, a Boston-based chain of fine seafood restaurants, open 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. (8:30 p.m. on Saturdays).

LGA New York LaGuargia

Waiting Place: Rocking Chairs with Runway Views

Location: Main Terminal, behind check-in area, between Concources C and D
Description: While it is on the wrong side of security, if you can snag one of the rocking chairs that overlook Laguardia's busy tarmac, this can be a comfortable and relaxing place to ride out this airport's notorious delays.

LAS Las Vegas McCarran

Waiting Place: Slot Machines
Location: Throughout airport
Description: Try your luck at 1,300 slot machines scattered around the airport. And good news (or bad?): Because of close regulation, odds at the airport are the same as at the casinos on the strip.

LAX Los Angeles

Waiting Place: The Encounter
Location: In center of airport
Description: Space age dining for the jet set, this unique restaurant combines an extraordinary Jetsons look with creative “California fresh” cuisine. The bar is a great place to hang out too—the beer taps light up the beer as it pours, and they emit a zap.

MCO Orlando

Waiting Place: Hyatt Regency
Location: East end of Terminal A
Description: Relax in the lobby atrium of the hotel. The comfortable seating and sounds of the fountain will sooth any frayed nerves. Or dine at McCoy’s Bar & Grill, one level above the airport terminal.

ORD Chicago O’Hare

Waiting Place: O’Hare Hilton Health Club
Location: Adjacent to airport, through pedestrian tunnel
Description: Work out, shower and freshen up at the Hilton’s health club, using the club’s $11 day rate. Facilities include Nautilus equipment, swimming pool, sauna, Jacuzzi and a locker for a day.

SLC Salt Lake City

Waiting Place: The Terrace Restaurant
Location: Terminal 1
Description: A quiet hideaway, this full-service restaurant is set away from the crowds and offers excellent seafood.