For travelers with a layover in Augusta, the proximity of AUG to the city center is a real gift. Getting into town takes around 40 minutes via local transport, and we’ve mapped out the logistics so you can spend less time planning and more time exploring.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Before heading into Augusta, 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: Augusta is roughly 40 minutes from AUG via local transport. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
How to Get Into Augusta
From AUG, the local transport gets you to Augusta in around 40 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 60 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the local transport offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
What to Budget for Your Augusta Side Trip
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Augusta might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$10 USD
- A meal: ~$20 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$40 USD
Cards are increasingly accepted in Augusta, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Exploring Augusta on a Layover
If you head into Augusta, here are two things worth checking out:
Maine State Museum is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. You can see the highlights in about an hour without rushing.
Old Fort Western is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. You can see the main features in a short visit.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside AUG, you can spend time at Relax & Connect or try Plane Spotting at AUG. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Food Worth Trying
- In the city: Red Barn Restaurant and The Oak Table & Bar are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Augusta.
- At the airport: The Flight Deck Cafe and Flight Deck Cafe: Coffee & Pastries will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Luggage storage options at AUG can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Augusta for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at AUG for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Augusta or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Resting at the Airport
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 AUG.
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
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Augusta genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.