If you’ve got a layover in Houston, don’t let it go to waste sitting at IAH. The city, in United States, is within easy reach — roughly 120 minutes by METRO Bus 102. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Pre-Departure Checklist
A few things to sort out before you leave IAH:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for United States. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Houston takes about 120 minutes by METRO Bus 102. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
Getting to Houston from the Airport
You have two main options for getting from George Bush Intercontinental Houston Airport into town:
- METRO Bus 102: About 120 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 140 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.
Storing Your Luggage at George Bush Intercontinental Houston Airport
Luggage storage options at IAH 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 Houston for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Money & Budget Tips
Quick budget math for your Houston layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$9 |
| Meal | ~$18 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$37 |
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
What to See and Do in Houston
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Houston, two standouts are:
- Discovery Green Park — A calm place to walk around and decompress before your next flight.
- Downtown Tunnel System Exploration — It’s the kind of area you can wander through at your own pace.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside IAH, you can spend time at United Club (Terminal C South) or try XpresSpa (Terminal C North). Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Grab a Meal
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Houston: Original Ninfa’s on Navigation and Saint Arnold Brewing Company. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Pappasito’s Cantina (Terminal A) or Pink’s Pizza (Terminal C). Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Staying Connected
WiFi at IAH 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.
Resting at the Airport
Long overnight layover? Your options at IAH 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 Houston 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 Houston.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.