There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Barrow into a quick city adventure. From BRW, the Local Taxi/Shuttle can get you into town in around 30 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Before You Step Outside BRW
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at BRW:
First, verify that you can enter United States — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Local Taxi/Shuttle takes about 30 minutes into Barrow, 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.
The Best Way Into Barrow from BRW
You have two main options for getting from Wiley Post Will Rogers Memorial Airport into town:
- Local Taxi/Shuttle: About 30 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 50 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
For a layover visit to Barrow, we’d suggest Whale Bone Arch and Arctic Ocean Coastline Walk. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit. You don’t need long to appreciate it — even a brief visit is refreshing.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside BRW, you can spend time at Arctic Ocean Terminal View or try Terminal Souvenir Shop. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Best Bites Near BRW
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Barrow: Arctic Pizza and Sam & Lee’s Chinese Restaurant. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Terminal Snack Counter or Arctic Express Grab-n-Go. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Layover Budget Breakdown
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Barrow:
Transport to the city and back runs about $18 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $35 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $63 USD total.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Barrow.
Bag Storage Near BRW
Specific locker facilities at BRW aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Barrow itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
WiFi at BRW should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in United States and you’re good to go.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, BRW 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 Barrow with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Barrow may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.