Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Great Bend. Great Bend Municipal Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 40 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Before heading into Great Bend, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for United States vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Great Bend is roughly 40 minutes from GBD via local transport. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
You have two main options for getting from Great Bend Municipal Airport 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.
Things to Do During Your Layover
For a layover visit to Great Bend, we’d suggest Great Bend Brit Spaugh Zoo and Wetlands & Wildlife National Scenic Byway. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Great Bend. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
If you’d rather stay inside GBD — 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:
- FBO Pilot Lounge & Amenities
- General Aviation Aircraft Observation
Food & Dining Options
In Great Bend
If you make it into town, Perkins Restaurant & Bakery is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Montana Mike’s Steakhouse.
Inside GBD
If you’re staying in the terminal, FBO Snack & Drink Vending is your main option. Coffee & Hot Beverage Station (Self-Serve) works too if you want something quick.
Planning Your Layover Spending
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Great Bend:
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.
Cards are increasingly accepted in Great Bend, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at GBD may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Great Bend’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.
Staying Connected
WiFi at GBD 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.
Resting at the Airport
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, GBD 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 Great Bend with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Great Bend 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.