Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Andersen. Anderson Regional Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 45 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Before heading into Andersen, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for United States vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Andersen is roughly 45 minutes from AND via Taxi/Rideshare. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
How to Get Into Andersen
You have two main options for getting from Anderson Regional Airport into town:
- Taxi/Rideshare: About 45 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 65 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.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Andersen, budget roughly $37 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $18 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $9 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
What to See and Do in Andersen
If you head into Andersen, here are two things worth checking out:
Anderson County Museum is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Even a quick visit gives you a sense of the local culture and history.
Historic Downtown Anderson is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. History buffs will appreciate this, and it doesn’t take long to explore the grounds.
If you’d rather stay inside AND — 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:
- Anderson Aviation FBO Waiting Area
- General Aviation Aircraft Spotting
Eating Well on a Andersen Layover
In Andersen
If you make it into town, Doolittle’s is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Mama Giulia’s Ristorante.
Inside AND
If you’re staying in the terminal, Anderson Aviation FBO Coffee & Snacks is your main option. Terminal Vending Machines works too if you want something quick.
What to Do With Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at AND may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Andersen’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.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and AND is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Andersen and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Taking a Break at AND
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, AND 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
Whether you spend your layover in Andersen exploring the streets or relaxing at AND, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.