A long layover in Burlington is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Southeast Iowa Regional Airport 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.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
A few things to sort out before you leave BRL:
- 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 Burlington takes about 45 minutes by local transport. 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.
How to Spend Your Time in Burlington
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Burlington, two standouts are:
- Snake Alley — Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
- Port of Burlington Welcome Center & Riverfront — Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside BRL — 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:
- Relax in the Terminal
- Aircraft Observation
Food Worth Trying
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Burlington: Big Muddy’s Bar & Grill and The Drake. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Wings Restaurant or Airport Grab-and-Go Snacks. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
How to Get Into Burlington
You have two main options for getting from Southeast Iowa Regional Airport into town:
- local transport: About 45 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 65 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.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Burlington:
Transport to the city and back runs about $9 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $18 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $37 USD total.
Cards are increasingly accepted in Burlington, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Luggage Storage Options
Dedicated luggage storage at BRL may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Burlington’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.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and BRL is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Burlington 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 BRL
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at BRL.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Burlington 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.