A layover in Jonesboro is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Jonesboro Municipal Airport sits just 30 minutes from the city center by Taxi/Rideshare, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
Pre-Departure Checklist
A few things to sort out before you leave JBR:
- 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 Jonesboro takes about 30 minutes by Taxi/Rideshare. 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.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
You have two main options for getting from Jonesboro Municipal 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.
Luggage Storage Options
You can store your luggage at Not available. Rates typically depend on bag size and duration.
If the airport lockers are full or inconveniently located, services like Bounce and Stasher list verified storage spots in and around Jonesboro as well.
What to Budget for Your Jonesboro Side Trip
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Jonesboro:
Transport to the city and back runs about $9 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $18 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $37 USD total.
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Exploring Jonesboro on a Layover
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Jonesboro, two standouts are:
- Arkansas State University Museum — Even a quick visit gives you a sense of the local culture and history.
- Crowley’s Ridge Nature Center — Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside JBR, you can spend time at Quiet Waiting Area or try General Aviation Observation. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Eating Well on a Jonesboro Layover
- In the city: Omar’s Latin American Restaurant and Mojo’s Grill & Catering are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Jonesboro.
- At the airport: Vending Machine Snacks & Drinks and Passenger Dining Area will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and JBR is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Jonesboro 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.
Rest Areas & Lounges
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 JBR.
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 Jonesboro with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Jonesboro 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.