Passing through Duluth International Airport? A layover in Duluth is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 75 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
A few things to sort out before you leave DLH:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for United States. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Duluth takes about 75 minutes by DTA Bus. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
Getting to Duluth from the Airport
The most straightforward way into Duluth is the DTA Bus, which takes about 75 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 95 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the DTA Bus is usually the smarter call.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Quick budget math for your Duluth layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$10 |
| Meal | ~$20 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$40 |
Cards are increasingly accepted in Duluth, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Bag Storage Near DLH
Specific locker facilities at DLH aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Duluth itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Things to Do During Your Layover
Two recommendations for your time in Duluth:
Start with City Center Walk. No tickets or reservations needed — just explore at your own pace. Then, if time allows, make your way to Local Market. Great for picking up a quick snack or souvenir between flights.
If you’d rather stay inside DLH — 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:
- Airport Lounge
- Duty Free Shopping
Eating Well on a Duluth Layover
For food in Duluth, local travelers recommend Local Restaurant. If you have time for a second stop, Popular Eatery is another popular pick.
Back at DLH, Airport Cafe is the go-to. Terminal Restaurant rounds out your in-terminal options.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, DLH has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at DLH, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Duluth 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.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Duluth count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave DLH. 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.