If you’ve got a layover in Cotulla, don’t let it go to waste sitting at COT. The city, in United States, is within easy reach — roughly 30 minutes by local transport. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Before heading into Cotulla, 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: Cotulla is roughly 30 minutes from COT via local transport. 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.
Getting from COT to Cotulla
From COT, the local transport gets you to Cotulla in around 30 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 50 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the local transport offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Cotulla might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$9 USD
- A meal: ~$18 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$37 USD
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
What to Do With Your Bags
Luggage storage options at COT 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 Cotulla for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
How to Spend Your Time in Cotulla
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Cotulla, two standouts are:
- La Salle County Courthouse — Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
- Cotulla City Park — Nice green space that’s easy to enjoy without a tight schedule.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside COT — 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:
- Cotulla Aviation Services FBO Lounge
- General Aviation Plane Spotting
Best Bites Near COT
For food in Cotulla, local travelers recommend El Charro Restaurant. If you have time for a second stop, Joe Cotulla’s is another popular pick.
Back at COT, Cotulla Aviation Services FBO Snack Bar is the go-to. Vending Machines at COT Terminal rounds out your in-terminal options.
Rest Areas & Lounges
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 COT.
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.
Staying Connected
WiFi at COT should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in United States and you’re good to go.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Cotulla count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave COT. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.