If you’ve got a layover in Cheraw, don’t let it go to waste sitting at HCW. The city, in United States, is within easy reach — roughly 30 minutes by Car/Taxi. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Three things to verify before you walk out of HCW:
- Can you legally enter United States? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 30-minute journey each way by Car/Taxi, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
What to See and Do in Cheraw
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Cheraw, two standouts are:
- Historic Downtown Cheraw — History buffs will appreciate this, and it doesn’t take long to explore the grounds.
- Cheraw State Park — Great for a short stroll — bring a coffee and take it easy.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside HCW, you can spend time at Cheraw Municipal FBO Lounge or try Aircraft Spotting & Field View. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Transport from Cheraw Municipal Airport/Lynch Bellinger Field to Downtown
You have two main options for getting from Cheraw Municipal Airport/Lynch Bellinger Field into town:
- Car/Taxi: 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.
Eating Well on a Cheraw Layover
For food in Cheraw, local travelers recommend Southern Charm Cafe. If you have time for a second stop, El Agave Mexican Restaurant is another popular pick.
Back at HCW, FBO Refreshments & Coffee is the go-to. FBO Packaged Snacks rounds out your in-terminal options.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Cheraw might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$9 USD
- A meal: ~$18 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$37 USD
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at HCW for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Cheraw 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.
Storing Your Luggage at Cheraw Municipal Airport/Lynch Bellinger Field
Dedicated luggage storage at HCW may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Cheraw’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 HCW
Long overnight layover? Your options at HCW 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 Cheraw 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.