There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Lansing into a quick city adventure. From LAN, the local transport can get you into town in around 60 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at LAN:
First, verify that you can enter United States — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the local transport takes about 60 minutes into Lansing, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — local currency is the currency here. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
How to Spend Your Time in Lansing
For a layover visit to Lansing, we’d suggest Michigan State Capitol Building and Old Town Lansing. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit. It’s the kind of area you can wander through at your own pace.
If you’d rather stay inside LAN — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Capital City Airport Gift Shop
- Local Art & Exhibit Displays
Eating Well on a Lansing Layover
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Lansing: Soup Spoon Cafe and Art’s Pub. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Great Lakes Bar & Grill or LAN Coffee & Quick Bites. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Transport from Capital City Airport to Downtown
From LAN, the local transport gets you to Lansing in around 60 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 80 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the local transport offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
What to Budget for Your Lansing Side Trip
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Lansing might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$10 USD
- A meal: ~$20 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$40 USD
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Luggage storage options at LAN 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 Lansing for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and LAN is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Lansing 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.
Sleep & Lounge Options at LAN
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, LAN 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 Lansing 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 Lansing.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.