A long layover in Albany is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Southwest Georgia Regional Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 40 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at ABY:
First, verify that you can enter United States — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Taxi/Rideshare takes about 40 minutes into Albany, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — USD is the currency here. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
Getting to Albany from the Airport
You have two main options for getting from Southwest Georgia Regional Airport into town:
- Taxi/Rideshare: About 40 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 60 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Albany might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$10 USD
- A meal: ~$20 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$40 USD
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Luggage Storage at ABY
Specific locker facilities at ABY aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Albany itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
What’s Worth Seeing in Albany
Two recommendations for your time in Albany:
Start with Thronateeska Heritage Center. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit. Then, if time allows, make your way to Flint RiverQuarium. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Albany.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at ABY, check out Jetport Cafe Seating Area or Airport Terminal Observation to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Eat
- In the city: Henry Campbell’s Steakhouse and Harvest Moon Cafe are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Albany.
- At the airport: Jetport Cafe and Airport Vending Machine Area will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Need a Nap? Options at ABY
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at ABY.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Staying Connected
WiFi at ABY should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in United States and you’re good to go.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Albany is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Albany.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.