Passing through Beauregard Regional Airport? A layover in Deridder is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 30 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.
Important Details Before You Go
Three things to verify before you walk out of DRI:
- 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 local transport, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Things to Do During Your Layover
Two recommendations for your time in Deridder:
Start with Gothic Jail (Old Beauregard Parish Jail). Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit. Then, if time allows, make your way to War Memorial Civic Center. A quick visit here gives you a real sense of the area’s past.
If you’d rather stay inside DRI — 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:
- Aircraft Spotting at DRI
- Beauregard Aviation FBO Waiting Area
How to Get Into Deridder
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| local transport | ~30 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~50 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the local transport 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.
Where to Eat
In Deridder
If you make it into town, The Loft @ City Savings Bank is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Los Tres Amigos.
Inside DRI
If you’re staying in the terminal, Dolly’s Diner is your main option. Cecil’s Cajun Grill works too if you want something quick.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Deridder might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$10 USD
- A meal: ~$20 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$40 USD
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at DRI, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Deridder itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for United States that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Luggage Storage at DRI
Dedicated luggage storage at DRI may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Deridder’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 DRI
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at DRI, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Deridder doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 30 minutes from DRI, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.