If you have ever flown into Sacramento International Airport (SMF), you have no doubt passed by its huge stacks of luggage that tower over the baggage claim area in Terminal A. This iconic feature is the most photographed thing at this California airport, but have you ever wondered what they symbolize?
Samson by Brian Goggin
The towering art installation, known as Samson, is the brainchild of California artist Brian Goggin. Each pillar measures 23 feet tall that reach up to the ceiling as if to support the roof of the terminal itself. Over 700 suitcases were stacked up on top of the white baggage carts that serve as the structure’s base.
Samson invites passengers to picture themselves as the reason why Sacramento International Airport is standing today. At the end of the day, the airline industry doesn’t exist without brave travelers.
Who is Brian Goggin?
Brian Goggin is known for creating countless art installations over the past couple of decades. A graduate of San Francisco State University, Brian’s work is featured in places like San Jose Museum of Art & the headquarters of Yahoo.
All of the Goggin pieces I have personally experienced are larger-than-life sculptures. Often described as “whimsical”, I find pieces like this to be fun & thought-provoking.
You can learn more about Brian’s story and his body of work here: http://www.metaphorm.org/about/
(courtesy of http://www.metaphorm.org)
What are other points of interest at SMF?
While Samson is the highlight of my trips to SMF, there are plenty of interesting things to do in the airport itself.
Escape Lounge (multiple locations)
You won’t find a Centurion Lounge in SMF, but travelers who carry the Amex Platinum card or Delta Skymiles Reserve card can enjoy complimentary access to the Escape Lounge network. If you don’t have either of these cards, you can pre-book a day pass for $40 or walk-in for $45.
Travelers can expect a spread of great food & drinks that are a step above domestic airline lounges.
There are actually two Escape Lounges at SMF: one in Terminal A and another in Terminal B (both are in the secure area of the terminal).
Squeeze Burger (Terminal A)
No trip to Sacramento is complete without a visit to Squeeze Burger. This local establishment is famous for an old-school burger that features a massive “skirt” of cheese that extends well beyond the bun.
There are a bunch of Squeeze Burger locations throughout Northern California and there’s nothing particular special about the SMF location, but it’s a great way to squeeze in a local specialty if you don’t have much time in Sacramento.
(Pun fully intended.)
Chocolate Fish Coffee Roasters (Terminal B)
Coffee lovers going through Terminal B should skip Starbucks and make a beeline to the Chocolate Fish Coffee Roasters.
Chocolate Fish was started in Sacramento over 10 years ago. Founded by New Zealanders, the name comes from a chocolate-covered marshmallow candy from NZ. This Sacramento-based coffee company is passionate about sourcing & roasting great specialty coffee that is approachable for everyone.
