Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Central. Central Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 90 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Before You Step Outside CEM
Before heading into Central, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for United States vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Central is roughly 90 minutes from CEM via Light Rail. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
What’s Worth Seeing in Central
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Central, two standouts are:
- Central City Park & Sculpture Garden — A calm place to walk around and decompress before your next flight.
- Historic Old Town District — You can see the main features in a short visit.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at CEM, check out Central Airport Executive Lounge or Skybound Shopping Arcade to keep yourself occupied.
The Best Way Into Central from CEM
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light Rail | ~90 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~110 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Light Rail is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Food Worth Trying
In Central
If you make it into town, The Central Diner is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Riverfront Bistro.
Inside CEM
If you’re staying in the terminal, Jetstream Grill & Bar is your main option. Global Flavors Eatery works too if you want something quick.
What to Budget for Your Central Side Trip
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Central, 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.
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and CEM is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Central 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.
Luggage Storage Options
You can store your luggage at Main Terminal, Level 1, near baggage claim A and B exits.. Rates typically depend on bag size and duration.
If the airport lockers are full or inconveniently located, services like Bounce and Stasher list verified storage spots in and around Central as well.
Need a Nap? Options at CEM
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 CEM.
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
Whether you spend your layover in Central exploring the streets or relaxing at CEM, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.