There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Great Falls into a quick city adventure. From GTF, the Taxi/Rideshare can get you into town in around 35 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Before You Step Outside GTF
Three things to verify before you walk out of GTF:
- Can you legally enter United States? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 35-minute journey each way by Taxi/Rideshare, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
Getting from GTF to Great Falls
The most straightforward way into Great Falls is the Taxi/Rideshare, which takes about 35 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 55 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Taxi/Rideshare is usually the smarter call.
What to Budget for Your Great Falls Side Trip
Quick budget math for your Great Falls layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$10 |
| Meal | ~$20 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$40 |
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Things to Do During Your Layover
For a layover visit to Great Falls, we’d suggest Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail Interpretive Center and Giant Springs State Park & Roe River. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
A quick visit here gives you a real sense of the area’s past. Great for a short stroll — bring a coffee and take it easy.
If you’d rather stay inside GTF — 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:
- Lewis & Clark Trading Post
- Terminal Relaxation & Free Wi-Fi
Food & Dining Options
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Great Falls: Flippin’ Burgers and Montana Club Restaurant. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for The Copper Tree Restaurant or Copper Tree Cafe. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at GTF aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Great Falls 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 GTF is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Great Falls 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.
Rest Areas & Lounges
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at GTF.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Great Falls doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 35 minutes from GTF, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.