A long layover in Glendive is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Dawson Community Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 30 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Important Details Before You Go
A few things to sort out before you leave GDV:
- 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 Glendive takes about 30 minutes by Taxi/Rideshare. 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.
Things to Do During Your Layover
Two recommendations for your time in Glendive:
Start with Makoshika State Park. Nice green space that’s easy to enjoy without a tight schedule. Then, if time allows, make your way to Glendive Dinosaur & Fossil Museum. Even a quick visit gives you a sense of the local culture and history.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at GDV, check out GDV Terminal Waiting Area or Aircraft Observation to keep yourself occupied.
Eating Well on a Glendive Layover
For food in Glendive, local travelers recommend Yellowstone River Inn. If you have time for a second stop, CC’s Family Café is another popular pick.
Back at GDV, GDV Vending Machines is the go-to. GDV Grab-and-Go Counter rounds out your in-terminal options.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi/Rideshare | ~30 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~50 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Taxi/Rideshare is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Glendive, budget roughly $33 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $15 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $8 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Cards are increasingly accepted in Glendive, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Luggage Storage Options
Specific locker facilities at GDV aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Glendive itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at GDV for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Glendive 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.
Taking a Break at GDV
Long overnight layover? Your options at GDV 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
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Glendive 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.