Passing through Murray Field? A layover in Eureka is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 60 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.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
A few things to sort out before you leave EKA:
- 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 Eureka takes about 60 minutes by local transport. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
How to Spend Your Time in Eureka
For a layover visit to Eureka, we’d suggest Old Town Eureka and Sequoia Park Zoo & Redwood Sky Walk. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Just walking around here gives you a feel for the local vibe. Great for a short stroll — bring a coffee and take it easy.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside EKA, you can spend time at Terminal Waiting Area & Local Art Displays or try EKA Airport Gift Shop. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Eating Well on a Eureka Layover
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Eureka: Lost Coast Brewery & Cafe and Cafe Nooner. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Airport Cafe & Pub or EKA Express Grab-and-Go. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Transport from Murray Field to Downtown
You have two main options for getting from Murray Field into town:
- local transport: About 60 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 80 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Planning Your Layover Spending
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Eureka:
Transport to the city and back runs about $10 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $20 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $40 USD total.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
What to Do With Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at EKA aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Eureka itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
WiFi at EKA 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.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, EKA 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.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Eureka is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Eureka.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.