Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Houston. William P Hobby Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 80 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
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 HOU:
First, verify that you can enter United States — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the METRO Bus Route 40 takes about 80 minutes into Houston, 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.
How to Get Into Houston
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| METRO Bus Route 40 | ~80 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~100 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the METRO Bus Route 40 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.
Money & Budget Tips
Quick budget math for your Houston 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.
Luggage Storage at HOU
Specific locker facilities at HOU aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Houston itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Things to Do During Your Layover
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Houston, two standouts are:
- Discovery Green — Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
- Space Center Houston — It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Houston.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside HOU, you can spend time at USO Lounge at HOU or try Airport Retail Therapy. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Food & Dining Options
For food in Houston, local travelers recommend The Original Ninfa’s on Navigation. If you have time for a second stop, Nancy’s Hustle is another popular pick.
Back at HOU, Pappasito’s Cantina is the go-to. Pink’s Pizza rounds out your in-terminal options.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Long overnight layover? Your options at HOU 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.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and HOU is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Houston 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.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Houston doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 80 minutes from HOU, 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.