Passing through Eastern Sierra Regional Airport? A layover in Bishop is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 30 minutes from the airport, and with a bit of planning you can stretch your legs, grab a real meal, and see something new before your next flight.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at BIH:
First, verify that you can enter United States — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Taxi/Shuttle takes about 30 minutes into Bishop, 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.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
Two recommendations for your time in Bishop:
Start with Erick Schat’s Bakkery. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit. Then, if time allows, make your way to Laws Railroad Museum & Historical Site. You can see the highlights in about an hour without rushing.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside BIH, you can spend time at Enjoy Sierra Nevada Views or try Browse Local Tourism Information. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Transport from Eastern Sierra Regional Airport to Downtown
You have two main options for getting from Eastern Sierra Regional Airport into town:
- 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.
Where to Eat
In Bishop
If you make it into town, The Looney Bean is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Mahogany Smoked Meats.
Inside BIH
If you’re staying in the terminal, BIH Terminal Snack Corner is your main option. Coffee & Grab-N-Go (Self-Serve) works too if you want something quick.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Bishop, 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.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at BIH for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Bishop 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.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at BIH may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Bishop’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.
Taking a Break at BIH
Long overnight layover? Your options at BIH include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in United States also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Bishop 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.