Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Dothan. Dothan Regional Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 40 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Three things to verify before you walk out of DHN:
- 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 40-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 USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
How to Spend Your Time in Dothan
If you head into Dothan, here are two things worth checking out:
Landmark Park is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Great for a short stroll — bring a coffee and take it easy.
Dothan Murals / Peanut Statues is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside DHN, you can spend time at Aircraft Observation & Terminal Relaxation or try Airport Gift Shop. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Food & Dining Options
For food in Dothan, local travelers recommend Hunt’s Seafood Restaurant & Oyster Bar. If you have time for a second stop, Fire Stone Wood Fired Pizza and Grill is another popular pick.
Back at DHN, Southern Classic Dining is the go-to. Airport Grab-and-Go Snacks & Coffee rounds out your in-terminal options.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
The most straightforward way into Dothan is the local transport, which takes about 40 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 60 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the local transport is usually the smarter call.
What to Budget for Your Dothan Side Trip
Quick budget math for your Dothan layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$10 |
| Meal | ~$20 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$40 |
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Bag Storage Near DHN
Dedicated luggage storage at DHN may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Dothan’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.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at DHN for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Dothan 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.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Long overnight layover? Your options at DHN 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
A layover in Dothan doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 40 minutes from DHN, 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.