Passing through Anniston Regional Airport? A layover in Anniston is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 30 minutes from the airport, and with a bit of planning you can stretch your legs, grab a real meal, and see something new before your next flight.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
A few things to sort out before you leave ANB:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for United States. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Anniston takes about 30 minutes by Taxi/Rideshare. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
The most straightforward way into Anniston is the Taxi/Rideshare, which takes about 30 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 50 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Taxi/Rideshare is usually the smarter call.
Storing Your Luggage at Anniston Regional Airport
Specific locker facilities at ANB aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Anniston itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Money & Budget Tips
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Anniston:
Transport to the city and back runs about $9 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $18 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $37 USD total.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Anniston.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Anniston, two standouts are:
- Anniston Museums and Gardens — Even a quick visit gives you a sense of the local culture and history.
- Historic Downtown Anniston Exploration — You can see the main features in a short visit.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside ANB — 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:
- Anniston Aviation FBO Lounge
- General Aviation Aircraft Observation
Where to Eat
For food in Anniston, local travelers recommend Effina’s Downtown. If you have time for a second stop, Peerless Grille is another popular pick.
Back at ANB, Anniston Aviation FBO Refreshments is the go-to. Terminal Vending Machines rounds out your in-terminal options.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and ANB is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Anniston 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 ANB
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 ANB.
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.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Anniston count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave ANB. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.