If you’ve got a layover in Gustavus, don’t let it go to waste sitting at GST. The city, in United States, is within easy reach — roughly 30 minutes by local transport. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at GST:
First, verify that you can enter United States — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the local transport takes about 30 minutes into Gustavus, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — USD is the currency here. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
Things to Do During Your Layover
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Gustavus, two standouts are:
- Glacier Bay National Park Visitor Center — It’s a great spot to stretch your legs and take in the scenery.
- Scenic Bike Ride on Gustavus Loop Road — Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside GST, you can spend time at Gustavus Airport Waiting Area or try Glacier Bay National Park Information Display. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Eat
- In the city: Bear Track Inn Restaurant and Gustavus Inn Dining Room are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Gustavus.
- At the airport: Gustavus Airport Snack & Coffee Counter and Quick Bites & Local Treats will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
How to Get Into Gustavus
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| local transport | ~30 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~50 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the local transport 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.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Quick budget math for your Gustavus layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$13 |
| Meal | ~$25 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$48 |
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at GST may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Gustavus’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
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and GST is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Gustavus 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.
Sleep & Lounge Options at GST
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 GST.
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
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Gustavus 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.