Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Hobbs gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from HOB to the city takes roughly 50 minutes by Taxi/Rideshare, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at HOB:
First, verify that you can enter United States — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Taxi/Rideshare takes about 50 minutes into Hobbs, 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.
Getting to Hobbs from the Airport
The most straightforward way into Hobbs is the Taxi/Rideshare, which takes about 50 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 70 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Taxi/Rideshare is usually the smarter call.
How to Spend Your Time in Hobbs
If you head into Hobbs, here are two things worth checking out:
Lea County Cowboy Hall of Fame and Western Heritage Center is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Zia Park Casino Hotel & Racetrack is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. A calm place to walk around and decompress before your next flight.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside HOB, you can spend time at Terminal Seating Area or try Local Information Display. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Grab a Meal
- In the city: Pacific Rim Restaurant and Casey’s Restaurant are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Hobbs.
- At the airport: Airport Grab-and-Go Snacks and Beverage Vending will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
What to Budget for Your Hobbs Side Trip
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Hobbs, budget roughly $37 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $18 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $9 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
What to Do With Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at HOB may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Hobbs’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
You’ll find free WiFi at HOB for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Hobbs 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 HOB
Long overnight layover? Your options at HOB 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
A layover in Hobbs with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Hobbs 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.