Bob Hope Airport (BUR) in Burbank offers one of Southern California’s most convenient layover experiences – compact terminals mean you’re never more than a 10-minute walk from anything, and downtown Los Angeles attractions are closer than you’d get from LAX. Whether you’re planning a Burbank layover to explore the entertainment capital’s studios and attractions or simply need to know what’s available at the airport, this guide covers everything from verified WiFi access to transit options into the city.
Before You Leave the Airport
- Language: English is the primary language. Spanish is widely spoken in the Los Angeles area.
- Currency: U.S. Dollar (USD). Use ATMs for the best exchange rates – never use airport currency exchange counters.
Airport Amenities at a Glance
Bob Hope Airport is a smaller, passenger-friendly facility with essential amenities concentrated in two terminals. Here’s what’s available during your Burbank layover:
| Amenity | Available? | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Free WiFi | ✅ Yes | Free throughout the terminal via #NBCWiFi (provided by NBC4). AT&T and Verizon customers have secure account access. |
| Luggage Storage | ✅ Yes | Luggage lockers or storage services are available for short-term baggage storage. For off-site options, check Bounce or Stasher ($5-10/bag/day). |
| Nursing Rooms | ✅ Yes | Freestanding, private lactation suites post-security: Terminal A between Gates A4 and A5; Terminal B across from Gate B4. |
| Charging Stations | ✅ Yes | Device charging stations are available throughout both terminals. |
| Water Refill Stations | ✅ Yes | Water bottle refill stations are available for reusable bottles – bring an empty bottle through security. |
| ATMs / Currency Exchange | ✅ Yes | ATMs and currency exchange services are available throughout the terminal. Use ATMs for better rates. |
| Sensory Rooms | ✅ Yes | Quiet sensory rooms are provided for passengers needing a calm environment. |
| Pharmacy / Medical | ✅ Yes | A pharmacy or medical clinic is available for health-related needs. |
| Pay-per-use Lounges | ❌ No | No dedicated airport lounges. Check if your credit card offers Priority Pass for lounge access at other airports. |
| Showers | ❌ No | Shower facilities are not available at BUR. |
| Sleep Pods | ❌ No | No sleep pods or nap pods available. For overnight layovers, consider nearby hotels. |
| Children’s Play Areas | ❌ No | No dedicated play areas, but the compact terminal makes it easy to walk around with kids. |
| Free City Tours | ❌ No | BUR does not offer organized city tour programs for layover passengers. |
Getting from BUR to Burbank and Los Angeles
Bob Hope Airport offers convenient transit options to both downtown Burbank and greater Los Angeles. Bus and train service operates daily from 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., with passengers able to contact 818.565.1308 to request a ride from the South Train Station parking area.
| Method | Time | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bus + Train | Varies by destination | Check LA Metro for current fares | Budget travelers, longer layovers (6+ hours) |
| Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) | 15-30 min to Burbank, 30-60 min to LA (traffic dependent) | $15-40 to Burbank, $30-70 to LA | Convenience, groups splitting cost, time-sensitive layovers |
| Taxi | 15-30 min to Burbank, 30-60 min to LA | $25-50 to Burbank, $50-90 to LA | Those preferring traditional taxis |
| Rental Car | Flexible | $40-80/day + parking | 8+ hour layovers, exploring multiple destinations |
Transit Service Hours: Bus and train service operates from 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily. For rides from the South Train Station parking area, call 818.565.1308. For specific travel times and current costs, check the official BUR Airport website.
Important: Los Angeles traffic is notoriously unpredictable. Always add 30-60 minutes buffer time when returning to the airport, especially during rush hours (7-10 a.m. and 4-7 p.m. weekdays).
What to Do at BUR During Your Burbank Layover
Bob Hope Airport’s compact design means you can easily explore everything the terminal offers without exhausting yourself. Here’s how to maximize your time at the airport:
Dining Options
Food and beverages at BUR range from $12-25 per item. The airport features a mix of grab-and-go options and sit-down restaurants:
- Quick bites: Coffee shops, sandwich counters, and snack bars throughout both terminals
- Sit-down dining: Several restaurants offer table service if you have time to relax
- Money-saving tip: Airport food is 2-3x city prices – if you’re leaving the airport during your Burbank layover, eat in Burbank or Los Angeles instead
- Stay hydrated: Fill your reusable water bottle at refill stations rather than buying bottled water
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is available throughout the terminal via the #NBCWiFi network (provided by NBC4). AT&T and Verizon customers can access secure account-based WiFi. Download offline maps, entertainment, and any needed apps before your layover – airport WiFi can be slow during peak times.
Relaxation and Comfort
- Quiet spaces: Sensory rooms are available for passengers needing a calm environment
- Charging devices: Charging stations are available throughout both terminals – bring your own cables
- For families: Private lactation suites are located post-security in Terminal A (between Gates A4 and A5) and Terminal B (across from Gate B4)
- No lounges: BUR doesn’t have pay-per-use lounges, but the compact terminal means gate seating is never far away
Shopping
The airport offers basic retail options including newsstands, gift shops, and convenience stores. For serious shopping, you’ll want to venture into Burbank or Los Angeles.
What to Do in Burbank During a Layover
Burbank’s proximity to major Los Angeles attractions makes it ideal for layover exploration. Here’s what you can realistically accomplish based on your available time:
2-3 Hours (Quick Escape)
- Downtown Burbank: 10-15 minutes by rideshare. Walk the San Fernando Boulevard shopping district, grab authentic food (much cheaper than airport prices), and experience local California culture
- Magnolia Park: Vintage shopping district with retro stores, cafes, and a genuine neighborhood vibe – 15 minutes from the airport
- Coffee culture: Burbank has excellent independent coffee shops where you can relax and use better WiFi than the airport
4-5 Hours (Comfortable Exploration)
- Warner Bros. Studio Tour: Go behind the scenes at one of Hollywood’s most famous studios (book in advance, 2-3 hour tour)
- Griffith Observatory: 20-30 minutes away, offering stunning views of Los Angeles and the Hollywood Sign – free admission, parking available
- Universal CityWalk: Free to explore, with dining, shopping, and entertainment options (Universal Studios theme park requires 6+ hours)
- Burbank Town Center: Indoor shopping mall with major retailers and dining options
6-8 Hours (Full Experience)
- Hollywood: Visit the Walk of Fame, TCL Chinese Theatre, and Hollywood & Highland – 30-40 minutes from BUR
- Universal Studios Hollywood: Full theme park experience (requires advance tickets and full day, but doable with 8+ hour layover)
- Griffith Park: Hiking trails, the Observatory, and the Hollywood Sign viewpoints – bring comfortable shoes
- Studio tours: Warner Bros., Paramount, or Sony Pictures tours (2-3 hours each, advance booking required)
- Food scene: Explore Burbank’s diverse restaurant scene – Armenian, Mexican, Japanese, and classic American diners
8+ Hours (Deep Dive)
- Beach time: Santa Monica or Venice Beach (45-90 minutes depending on traffic, but worth it for California beach culture)
- Downtown LA: Grand Central Market, The Broad museum, Walt Disney Concert Hall architecture
- Multiple neighborhoods: Combine Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and West Hollywood for a comprehensive LA experience
- Theme parks: Universal Studios or Six Flags Magic Mountain (full day required)
Luggage tip: Use luggage storage at the airport or book storage through Bounce or Stasher near your destination ($5-10/bag/day) to explore hands-free.
Burbank Layover Budget Breakdown
Here’s what to expect for costs during your Burbank layover:
| Category | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Airport meal | $12-25 per person |
| City meal (Burbank) | $8-18 per person |
| Rideshare to downtown Burbank (round trip) | $30-80 |
| Rideshare to Hollywood/LA (round trip) | $60-140 |
| Public transit (bus + train) | Check LA Metro for current fares |
| Luggage storage (per bag, per day) | $5-10 (off-site), varies at airport |
| Warner Bros. Studio Tour | $69-79 (book online in advance) |
| Universal Studios admission | $109-149 (varies by date, book online) |
| Griffith Observatory | Free (parking $4-10/hour) |
| Coffee/snack in the city | $5-12 |
Money-saving tips:
- Eat in the city, not the airport – save 50-70% on meals
- Use ATMs for cash, not currency exchange counters (or use a Wise or Revolut card for best rates)
- Book studio tours and attractions online in advance for discounts
- Split rideshare costs if traveling in a group
- Public transit is cheapest but adds significant time – only worth it for 8+ hour layovers
Layover Tips by Traveler Type
For Families
- TSA PreCheck advantage: Saves 30+ minutes with kids at U.S. airports – apply online, $78 for 5 years. Children under 12 don’t need to remove shoes at TSA checkpoints.
- Nursing mothers: Use the private lactation suites post-security (Terminal A between Gates A4 and A5, or Terminal B across from Gate B4) – equipped with changing tables and comfortable seating.
- Pack a layover bag: Inside your carry-on, keep snacks, entertainment, change of clothes, and basic toiletries accessible without unpacking everything.
- Hydration: Bring an empty water bottle to fill after security – staying hydrated helps kids manage jet lag and reduces crankiness.
- Sensory rooms: If your child needs a calm environment, ask airport staff about the quiet sensory rooms available at BUR.
- City activities: Griffith Observatory is free and kid-friendly. Universal CityWalk offers entertainment without theme park admission costs.
- Download offline content: Load tablets with movies, games, and shows before your layover – airport WiFi can be unreliable with multiple devices.
For Solo Travelers
- Global Entry benefit: $100 for 5 years, includes TSA PreCheck and significantly speeds up international arrivals – worth it for frequent travelers.
- Voluntary bumping opportunity: Solo travelers can take advantage of voluntary bumping offers – airlines often offer $200-800+ in compensation, and it’s easier to rebook one person.
- Offline maps essential: Download Google Maps or Maps.me before landing – essential for navigating Burbank or LA without data.
- Luggage storage: Bounce and Stasher partner with local businesses near the airport for luggage storage – typically $5-8/bag/day.
- eSIM for data: Get an eSIM before traveling (Airalo, Holafly) – instant data without hunting for WiFi or buying local SIMs.
- Share your location: Share your location with a trusted contact when exploring a new city solo during your Burbank layover.
For Groups
- Group airfare: Groups of 10+ may qualify for group airfare rates – ask the airline directly.
- Designate a leader: Before the layover, choose one person to manage timing, headcount, and communication – prevents confusion.
- WhatsApp coordination: Use WhatsApp or a group chat for real-time coordination – share departure gate and boarding time as a pinned message.
- Luggage storage discounts: Bounce and Stasher offer multi-bag discounts – book all group luggage together for the best rate.
- Food courts over restaurants: Food courts work better than sit-down restaurants for groups – everyone can choose what they want and eat at their own pace.
- Return timing: Budget 2.5-3 hours before international departure and 60 minutes before domestic when returning to the airport as a group.
- Expense tracking: Use Splitwise to automatically calculate who owes what – essential for groups sharing transport, food, and activities.
Insider Tips for BUR
- Terminal A vs. Terminal B: BUR has two small terminals connected by a walkway. Check which terminal your airline uses before arrival – Southwest uses Terminal B, most others use Terminal A.
- Security speed: BUR’s security lines are faster than LAX – one of the airport’s biggest advantages. Even during peak times, you’ll rarely wait more than 20-30 minutes.
- Rideshare pickup: Rideshare pickup is well-organized at BUR. Follow signs to designated pickup areas – much easier than LAX’s complicated system.
- Best WiFi spots: The #NBCWiFi network works throughout the terminal, but connection is strongest near gates and in the central terminal areas. AT&T and Verizon customers should use their secure networks for better speeds.
- Early morning advantage: If your Burbank layover is early morning (before 8 a.m.), you’ll avoid LA traffic and can reach Hollywood or downtown LA in half the usual time.
- Studio tour booking: Warner Bros. Studio Tour (5 minutes from BUR) often sells out – book online at least 24 hours in advance if you want to include it in your layover.
- Parking lot views: BUR is known for plane spotting – the parking structures offer excellent views of takeoffs and landings if you’re an aviation enthusiast with time to kill.
- Weather consideration: Burbank is 5-10°F warmer than coastal LA – dress in layers if you’re planning to visit both areas during your layover.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth leaving Burbank airport during a layover?
Yes, if you have 6+ hours total layover time. BUR’s proximity to downtown Burbank (10-15 minutes), Hollywood (30-40 minutes), and major attractions makes it ideal for layover exploration. The airport’s efficient security and compact design mean you can leave and return quickly. However, factor in 2-3 hours for returning to the airport (security, and buffer time). For layovers under 4 hours, stay at the airport – you won’t have enough time to meaningfully explore.
How do I get from Burbank airport to the city center?
Bus and train service is available daily from 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. You can contact 818.565.1308 to request a ride from the South Train Station parking area. For faster, more convenient travel, rideshare services (Uber/Lyft) cost $15-40 to downtown Burbank and take 15-30 minutes depending on traffic. Taxis are also available at higher rates ($25-50 to Burbank). For specific transit schedules and current fares, check the official BUR Airport website or LA Metro.
What can I do at Burbank airport during a layover?
At BUR, you can enjoy free WiFi throughout the terminal via #NBCWiFi, dine at restaurants and cafes (meals typically $12-25), use charging stations for your devices, and refill water bottles at refill stations. The airport offers private lactation suites for nursing mothers (Terminal A between Gates A4-A5, Terminal B across from Gate B4), sensory rooms for passengers needing quiet space, and luggage storage options. While BUR doesn’t have pay-per-use lounges, sleep pods, or showers, the compact terminal design makes it easy to find comfortable seating near your gate.
How long of a layover do I need to leave Burbank airport?
You need at least 6 hours total layover time to comfortably leave BUR and explore. This accounts for: 1 hour for (if international), 2-3 hours return buffer (security, check-in, boarding), and 2-3 hours for actual exploration. For international connections, remember that you must clear U.S. and re-check bags, which adds significant time. With 4-5 hours, you can make a quick trip to downtown Burbank. With 8+ hours, you can reach Hollywood, Universal Studios, or even the beach. Always account for Los Angeles traffic, which can be unpredictable.
Are there lounges at Burbank airport?
No, Bob Hope Airport (BUR) does not have pay-per-use lounges or airline lounges. The airport’s compact size and focus on efficiency means lounge facilities aren’t available. If you have lounge access through Priority Pass or credit card benefits, you’ll need to use them at other airports. For your Burbank layover, plan to use the comfortable gate seating areas, which are never more than a 10-minute walk away in this small airport.
Is there luggage storage at Burbank airport?
Yes, luggage lockers or storage services are available at BUR for short-term baggage storage. For specific locations, current availability, and pricing, check the official BUR Airport website or ask at the information desk. Alternatively, you can use off-site luggage storage services like Bounce, Stasher, or LuggageHero, which cost $5-10 per bag per day and partner with local businesses near the airport and in Burbank.
What is there to eat at Burbank airport?
BUR offers a variety of dining options with food and beverages typically ranging from $12-25 per item. You’ll find coffee shops, sandwich counters, grab-and-go options, and sit-down restaurants throughout both terminals. The airport features both quick-service and table-service dining. For better value and more diverse options, consider eating in downtown Burbank or Los Angeles during your layover – city restaurants cost 50-70% less than airport dining. Water bottle refill stations are available throughout the terminal, so bring an empty reusable bottle to save money on beverages.
Plan Your Burbank Layover
Use the Yopki Layover Calculator above to see exactly how much time you have and what you can do with it. Whether you’re exploring Burbank’s studios, heading to Hollywood, or staying at the airport, make every minute count.
Remember: Always Factor in security screening time, security, and LA traffic when planning your return to BUR. Safe travels!