Passing through Polk Army Air Field? A layover in Fort Polk is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 40 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 POE:
- 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 Fort Polk takes about 40 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.
What to See and Do in Fort Polk
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Fort Polk, two standouts are:
- Fort Polk Museum — You can see the highlights in about an hour without rushing.
- Veterans Memorial Park — A calm place to walk around and decompress before your next flight.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside POE — 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:
- Outdoor Tarmac Viewing
- Device Charging Stations & Wi-Fi
Best Bites Near POE
For food in Fort Polk, local travelers recommend Catfish Cabin. If you have time for a second stop, Huddle House is another popular pick.
Back at POE, Terminal Snack Bar is the go-to. Vending Machine Refreshments rounds out your in-terminal options.
The Best Way Into Fort Polk from POE
You have two main options for getting from Polk Army Air Field into town:
- local transport: About 40 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 60 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.
Money & Budget Tips
Quick budget math for your Fort Polk layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$10 |
| Meal | ~$20 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$40 |
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
What to Do With Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at POE aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Fort Polk itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and POE is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Fort Polk 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.
Resting at the Airport
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, POE 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
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Fort Polk genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.