Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Austin. Austin Bergstrom International Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 60 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at AUS:
First, verify that you can enter United States — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Capital Metro Bus (Route 20) takes about 60 minutes into Austin, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — USD is the currency here. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
Getting to Austin from the Airport
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capital Metro Bus (Route 20) | ~60 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~80 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Capital Metro Bus (Route 20) 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.
How to Spend Your Time in Austin
Two recommendations for your time in Austin:
Start with Zilker Park & Barton Springs Pool. A calm place to walk around and decompress before your next flight. Then, if time allows, make your way to South Congress Avenue (SoCo). Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
If you’d rather stay inside AUS — 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:
- Live Music Stage at AUS
- The Club at AUS
Where to Eat
- In the city: Terry Black’s Barbecue and Torchy’s Tacos are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Austin.
- At the airport: The Salt Lick BBQ (Airport) and Amy’s Ice Creams (Airport) will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Money & Budget Tips
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Austin, budget roughly $40 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $20 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $10 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Storing Your Luggage at Austin Bergstrom International Airport
Traveling light makes a layover outing much easier. At AUS, you’ll find bag storage at Not available directly within the terminal due to security restrictions. Check third-party services like Vertoe or Bounce for options in the city..
Tip: store your bags as soon as you clear arrivals to maximize your free time. If the airport options don’t work for you, check online luggage storage platforms for alternatives near the city center.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and AUS is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Austin 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 AUS
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at AUS, 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
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Austin count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave AUS. 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.