Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Houlton gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from HUL to the city takes roughly 30 minutes by Taxi/Car, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
Important Details Before You Go
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at HUL:
First, verify that you can enter United States — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Taxi/Car takes about 30 minutes into Houlton, 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 Houlton from the Airport
You have two main options for getting from Houlton International Airport into town:
- Taxi/Car: 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.
Money & Budget Tips
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Houlton might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$10 USD
- A meal: ~$20 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$40 USD
Cards are increasingly accepted in Houlton, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
If you head into Houlton, here are two things worth checking out:
Aroostook County Historical and Art Museum is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Worth a stop if you have at least an hour to spare.
Houlton Community Park & Meduxnekeag River is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. A calm place to walk around and decompress before your next flight.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at HUL, check out HUL Aircraft Observation Area or HUL Passenger Waiting Area to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Grab a Meal
- In the city: Angelo’s Pizza and Grammy’s Country Inn are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Houlton.
- At the airport: HUL Vending Machines and Circle K / Irving Oil (Near Airport) will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at HUL may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Houlton’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 HUL 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.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
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 HUL.
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 Houlton is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Houlton.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.