Passing through Westover ARB/Metropolitan Airport? A layover in Chicopee Falls is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 60 minutes from the airport, and with a bit of planning you can stretch your legs, grab a real meal, and see something new before your next flight.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at CEF:
First, verify that you can enter United States — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Taxi/Ride-share takes about 60 minutes into Chicopee Falls, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — USD is the currency here. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
Transport from Westover ARB/Metropolitan Airport to Downtown
You have two main options for getting from Westover ARB/Metropolitan Airport into town:
- Taxi/Ride-share: About 60 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 80 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.
What to Do With Your Bags
Luggage storage options at CEF can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Chicopee Falls for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
How Much Money You’ll Need
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Chicopee Falls:
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.
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
What to See and Do in Chicopee Falls
If you head into Chicopee Falls, here are two things worth checking out:
Springfield Museums is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. You can see the highlights in about an hour without rushing.
Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. You can see the main features in a short visit.
If you’d rather stay inside CEF — 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:
- Westover Air Force Base Museum
- Signature Flight Support Lounge (FBO)
Eating Well on a Chicopee Falls Layover
- In the city: Slainte Irish Pub and Theodore’s Booze, Blues, & BBQ are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Chicopee Falls.
- At the airport: Signature Flight Support – Cafe & Snacks and Subway (Westover ARB Base Exchange) will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at CEF for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Chicopee Falls 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.
Sleep & Lounge Options at CEF
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 CEF.
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 Chicopee Falls exploring the streets or relaxing at CEF, 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.