There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Alton/St Louis into a quick city adventure. From ALN, the Taxi/Rideshare can get you into town in around 100 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
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 ALN:
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 100 minutes into Alton/St Louis, 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.
The Best Way Into Alton/St Louis from ALN
From ALN, the Taxi/Rideshare gets you to Alton/St Louis in around 100 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 120 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxi/Rideshare offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Bag Storage Near ALN
Dedicated luggage storage at ALN may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Alton/St Louis’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Quick budget math for your Alton/St Louis layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$9 |
| Meal | ~$18 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$37 |
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Alton/St Louis.
Things to Do During Your Layover
Two recommendations for your time in Alton/St Louis:
Start with National Great Rivers Museum & Lock & Dam 26. You can see the highlights in about an hour without rushing. Then, if time allows, make your way to Lewis and Clark State Historic Site. A quick visit here gives you a real sense of the area’s past.
If you’d rather stay inside ALN — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Aircraft Spotting at ALN
- Relax in the ALN Terminal
Where to Grab a Meal
In Alton/St Louis
If you make it into town, The Old Bakery Beer Company is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try My Just Desserts.
Inside ALN
If you’re staying in the terminal, High Flyers Grille is your main option. ALN Terminal Snack Vending works too if you want something quick.
Staying Connected
WiFi at ALN 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.
Resting at the Airport
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, ALN has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Alton/St Louis 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 Alton/St Louis.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.