Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Astoria. Astoria Regional Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 40 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Important Details Before You Go
A few things to sort out before you leave AST:
- 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 Astoria takes about 40 minutes by Local Bus / Taxi. 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.
Getting from AST to Astoria
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local Bus / Taxi | ~40 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~60 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Local Bus / Taxi is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
What to Do With Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at AST may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Astoria’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.
Money & Budget Tips
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Astoria, 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.
Cards are increasingly accepted in Astoria, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
How to Spend Your Time in Astoria
Two recommendations for your time in Astoria:
Start with Astoria Column. Worth checking out if your schedule allows. Then, if time allows, make your way to Columbia River Maritime Museum. You can see the highlights in about an hour without rushing.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside AST, you can spend time at Main Terminal Waiting Area or try Local Information Displays. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Eating Well on a Astoria Layover
In Astoria
If you make it into town, Buoy Beer Company is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Bridgewater Bistro.
Inside AST
If you’re staying in the terminal, Skyway Cafe is your main option. AST Airport Vending Machines works too if you want something quick.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at AST, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Astoria itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for United States that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at AST, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Astoria exploring the streets or relaxing at AST, 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.