If you’ve got a layover in Concord, don’t let it go to waste sitting at CCR. The city, in United States, is within easy reach — roughly 30 minutes by County Connection Bus. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Before You Step Outside CCR
Three things to verify before you walk out of CCR:
- 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 County Connection Bus, 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.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
Two recommendations for your time in Concord:
Start with Todos Santos Plaza. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Concord. Then, if time allows, make your way to Mount Diablo State Park (Scenic Drive). Nice green space that’s easy to enjoy without a tight schedule.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at CCR, check out Aircraft Spotting at Buchanan Field or Sterling Aviation FBO Lounge to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Grab a Meal
For food in Concord, local travelers recommend Skipolini’s Pizza. If you have time for a second stop, Canal’s Bistro is another popular pick.
Back at CCR, Crosswinds Restaurant & Bar is the go-to. Sterling Aviation FBO Grab-and-Go rounds out your in-terminal options.
Getting from CCR to Concord
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| County Connection Bus | ~30 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~50 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the County Connection Bus 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.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Quick budget math for your Concord layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$9 |
| Meal | ~$18 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$37 |
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Luggage Storage Options
Luggage storage options at CCR 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 Concord for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at CCR for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Concord 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.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
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 CCR.
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 Concord 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.