Passing through Greater Kankakee Airport? A layover in Kankakee is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 30 minutes from the airport, and with a bit of planning you can stretch your legs, grab a real meal, and see something new before your next flight.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at IKK:
First, verify that you can enter United States — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Taxi/Ride-share takes about 30 minutes into Kankakee, 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.
Things to Do During Your Layover
If you head into Kankakee, here are two things worth checking out:
Kankakee River State Park is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. A calm place to walk around and decompress before your next flight.
Frank Lloyd Wright B. Harley Bradley House is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at IKK, check out General Aviation Plane Spotting or Terminal Waiting Area Relaxation to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Grab a Meal
- In the city: Gus’s Diner and Stefari Cafe are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Kankakee.
- At the airport: Terminal Snack Vending Machines and Terminal Beverage Vending Machines will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Getting to Kankakee from the Airport
From IKK, the Taxi/Ride-share gets you to Kankakee in around 30 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 50 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxi/Ride-share offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Quick budget math for your Kankakee layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$8 |
| Meal | ~$15 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$33 |
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Kankakee.
Luggage Storage Options
Dedicated luggage storage at IKK may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Kankakee’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
You’ll find free WiFi at IKK for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Kankakee 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.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, IKK has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Kankakee 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 Kankakee.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.