Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Houghton Lake gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from HTL to the city takes roughly 30 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 HTL:
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 30 minutes into Houghton Lake, 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 Houghton Lake from the Airport
You have two main options for getting from Roscommon County – Blodgett Memorial Airport into town:
- Taxi/Rideshare: About 30 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 50 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.
What to Budget for Your Houghton Lake Side Trip
Quick budget math for your Houghton Lake layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$8 |
| Meal | ~$15 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$33 |
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Luggage Storage Options
Luggage storage options at HTL can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Houghton Lake for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Exploring Houghton Lake on a Layover
Two recommendations for your time in Houghton Lake:
Start with Houghton Lake Visitor’s Bureau & Lake View. A quick stop here is rewarding — great for photos. Then, if time allows, make your way to Houghton Lake Historical Society Museum. You can see the highlights in about an hour without rushing.
If you’d rather stay inside HTL — 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:
- HTL Waiting Area Relaxation
- General Aviation Aircraft Spotting
Food Worth Trying
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Houghton Lake: Arnie’s Arts N’ Crafts & Pizza and Shenanigan’s Pub. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for HTL Vending Machine Snacks or HTL Coffee & Basic Beverages. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Resting at the Airport
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 HTL.
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.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at HTL for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Houghton Lake 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.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Houghton Lake count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave HTL. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.