A long layover in Augusta is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Daniel Field for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 45 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Before You Step Outside DNL
A few things to sort out before you leave DNL:
- 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 Augusta takes about 45 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.
What to See and Do in Augusta
If you head into Augusta, here are two things worth checking out:
Augusta Riverwalk is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. No tickets or reservations needed — just explore at your own pace.
Morris Museum of Art is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Even a quick visit gives you a sense of the local culture and history.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at DNL, check out Augusta Aviation (FBO) Waiting Area or Daniel Field Aircraft Observation to keep yourself occupied.
Transport from Daniel Field to Downtown
From DNL, the Taxi/Rideshare gets you to Augusta in around 45 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 65 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.
Best Bites Near DNL
- In the city: The Boll Weevil Café and Sweet Shop and Frog & Peach Public House are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Augusta.
- At the airport: Subway and Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
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): ~$9 USD
- A meal: ~$18 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$37 USD
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at DNL, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Augusta 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.
What to Do With Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at DNL may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Augusta’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.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, DNL 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 Augusta doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 45 minutes from DNL, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.