There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Flint into a quick city adventure. From FNT, the MTA Flint Bus Route 13 can get you into town in around 40 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
A few things to sort out before you leave FNT:
- 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 Flint takes about 40 minutes by MTA Flint Bus Route 13. 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.
What’s Worth Seeing in Flint
Two recommendations for your time in Flint:
Start with Sloan Museum of Discovery. Even a quick visit gives you a sense of the local culture and history. Then, if time allows, make your way to Flint Institute of Arts. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside FNT, you can spend time at Bishop International Airport Gift Shop or try Art in the Airport Program. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Transport from Bishop International Airport to Downtown
From FNT, the MTA Flint Bus Route 13 gets you to Flint in around 40 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 60 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the MTA Flint Bus Route 13 offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Where to Grab a Meal
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Flint: Starlite Diner & Coney Island and 501 Bar & Grill. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Crews Landing or Airside Cafe & Bar. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Quick budget math for your Flint layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$9 |
| Meal | ~$18 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$37 |
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and FNT is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Flint and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Luggage Storage Options
Dedicated luggage storage at FNT may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Flint’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.
Need a Nap? Options at FNT
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at FNT, 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 Flint with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Flint may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.