Layover in Things to Do in Camp Springs (ADW): Guide 2026

Andrews Air Force Base (ADW) is a military airport located in Camp Springs, Maryland, serving the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. While primarily used for government and military operations, civilian layovers do occur. Camp Springs is a suburban community just outside the nation’s capital, offering convenient access to D.C.’s attractions if you have a longer layover.

Before You Leave the Airport

Getting to Camp Springs & Beyond

ADW is a restricted military airport with limited commercial operations. If you have a layover and need ground transportation, contact the airport directly for available options. The airport is located approximately 15 miles southeast of downtown Washington, D.C.

For detailed transit information specific to ADW, visit the Andrews Air Force Base official website.

What to Do During Your Layover

At the Airport

Amenities data for ADW is currently limited. As a military facility, commercial amenities may be restricted. Check with airport staff upon arrival for available dining, retail, and rest facilities.

In Camp Springs & Washington, D.C. Area

If you have a longer layover (6+ hours) and can leave the airport, the D.C. area offers world-class attractions:

• Smithsonian Museums: Free admission to multiple museums including the National Museum of American History, Air & Space Museum, and Natural History Museum
• National Mall: Walk past iconic monuments including the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, and U.S. Capitol
• Georgetown: Historic neighborhood with shops, restaurants, and waterfront views
• Local Dining: Eat in the city rather than at airport prices – D.C. has diverse restaurant options 2-3x cheaper than airport food courts

Quick Layover Tips

• Luggage Storage: Use Bounce, Stasher, or LuggageHero for luggage storage near the airport – typically $5-10 per bag per day, much cheaper than airport lockers
• Download Offline Maps: Use Google Maps or Maps.me offline before landing – airport WiFi can be unreliable
• Stay Hydrated: Bring an empty water bottle to fill after security – staying hydrated helps manage jet lag
• Currency & Payments: Use ATMs or a Wise/Revolut card for the best exchange rates. Never exchange money at airport counters

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I leave ADW airport during a layover?

Yes, you can leave ADW during a layover, but plan carefully. For international connections, you’ll need to clear (1+ hour) and have time to return, clear security (2-3 hours), and reach your gate. A minimum 6-hour layover is recommended if you want to explore outside the airport. Always confirm your connecting flight details and allow extra time for unexpected delays.

What is there to do at ADW during a layover?

ADW is a military airport with limited commercial amenities. For short layovers, check with airport staff for available dining and retail options. For longer layovers (6+ hours), you can leave the airport and visit nearby Camp Springs or Washington, D.C., which offers free Smithsonian museums, the National Mall, Georgetown, and diverse dining options.

How long of a layover do I need at ADW?

For domestic connections, budget 60 minutes minimum. For international connections, allow at least 2.5-3 hours to clear collect luggage (if needed), and recheck. If you want to leave the airport and explore, plan for a 6+ hour layover to account for transit time, exploration, and returning to the airport with a safety buffer.

Are there lounges at ADW?

Lounge availability at ADW is limited due to its military status. Check with your airline upon arrival. If you have a Priority Pass membership (often included free with premium credit cards), it provides access to 1,400+ airport lounges worldwide. Alternatively, most airlines offer one-time day passes ($39-$59) if you want lounge access during your layover.

Is there luggage storage at ADW?

ADW may have limited luggage storage options. For reliable, affordable storage, use Bounce, Stasher, or LuggageHero, which partner with local businesses near airports. Typical rates are $5-10 per bag per day – much cheaper than airport lockers. Book online before arrival for the best availability.

Traveler Tips by Type

Family Travel

• Pack a ‘layover bag’ inside your carry-on with snacks, entertainment, change of clothes, and basic toiletries – accessible without unpacking everything
• Download offline maps and translation apps before landing – airport WiFi can be unreliable
• Bring an empty water bottle to fill after security – staying hydrated helps kids manage jet lag
• Most major airports have baby care rooms with changing tables, bottle warmers, and nursing areas – ask airport staff
• Download offline entertainment before your layover – airport WiFi may be slow or time-limited

Solo Travel

• Download offline maps (Google Maps or Maps.me) before landing – essential for navigating without data
• Share your location with a trusted contact when exploring a new city solo
• Get an eSIM before traveling (Airalo, Holafly) – instant data without hunting for WiFi
• Check SleepingInAirports.net for airport sleeping conditions if you have an overnight layover

Group Travel

• Designate a ‘group leader’ before the layover who manages timing, headcount, and communication
• Use WhatsApp or a group chat for real-time coordination – share departure gate and boarding time as a pinned message
• For groups, budget 2.5-3 hours before international departure and 60 minutes before domestic when returning to the airport
• Use Splitwise to automatically calculate who owes what – essential for groups sharing transport, food, and activities

Ready to Plan Your Layover?

Use the Yopki Layover Calculator above to find the best activities and transit options for your specific layover length. Whether you have 2 hours or 12 hours, we’ll help you make the most of your time in Camp Springs and the D.C. area.

Need more layover guides? Explore our complete collection of airport layover guides for destinations worldwide.