Laramie Regional Airport (LAR) serves the historic city of Laramie, Wyoming – a charming college town nestled at 7,165 feet elevation in the Laramie Range. Known for its Western heritage, outdoor recreation, and vibrant downtown, Laramie offers visitors a genuine taste of Wyoming culture. Whether you have a short connection or a longer layover, this guide will help you maximize your time in this unique destination.
Before You Leave the Airport
Essential Information
| Language | English; download offline translation apps before landing |
| Currency | US Dollar (USD). Use ATMs or a Wise/Revolut card for best exchange rates – avoid airport currency counters |
| Time Zone | Mountain Time (MT) |
| Airport to City | LAR is located 15 miles east of downtown Laramie. See transit options below |
Getting from LAR to Downtown Laramie
Laramie Regional Airport is a small, manageable facility located about 15 miles from downtown. Here are your main transit options:
Transit Options
- Rental Car: Most flexible option for exploring the area. Major rental companies operate at LAR.
- Rideshare (Uber/Lyft): Available from the airport; expect 20-30 minute rides to downtown (approximately $20-35)
- Taxi: Ground transportation available at airport; pre-arrange or ask at ground transportation desk
- Airport Shuttle: Check with your airline or hotel for shuttle services
Pro Tip: Download offline maps (Google Maps or Maps.me) before landing – this helps you navigate without relying on airport WiFi or data.
What to Do During Your Layover
Short Layover (2-4 Hours)
If you’re staying at the airport, LAR is a small regional facility. Use this time to:
- Grab a meal or snack at airport dining options
- Use restrooms and freshen up
- Charge your devices at available outlets
- Relax before your next flight
Note: With a 2-4 hour layover, factor in security and time (1+ hour) before returning to the airport. This leaves minimal time to explore the city.
Medium Layover (4-8 Hours)
You have time to venture into Laramie. Consider these activities:
- Downtown Laramie Walk: Stroll through the historic downtown district, featuring local shops, galleries, and Western heritage sites
- University of Wyoming Campus: Explore the beautiful campus and visit the University of Wyoming Art Museum (free admission)
- Laramie Plains Museum: Learn about the region’s history and culture
- Local Dining: Eat in the city, not the airport – restaurant prices are 2-3x cheaper than airport food courts
- Outdoor Exploration: If time permits, visit nearby parks or scenic overlooks
Long Layover (8+ Hours)
With a longer layover, you can experience more of Laramie:
- Full downtown exploration and shopping
- Museum visits and cultural attractions
- Sit-down restaurant meal
- Scenic drives in the surrounding Laramie Range
- Outdoor activities (hiking, photography) depending on season
Luggage Storage & Rest Options
If you need to store luggage or rest during your layover:
Luggage Storage
LAR is a small airport with limited facilities. For luggage storage options:
- Check with LAR ground transportation desk for airport storage availability
- Use Bounce or Stasher to find luggage storage at local businesses near the airport (typically $5-10/bag/day)
- Some hotels may offer luggage storage for guests or non-guests (call ahead)
Rest & Sleep
For overnight layovers, consider:
- Airport Sleeping: Check SleepingInAirports.net for reviews of LAR’s sleeping conditions
- Budget Hotels: Laramie has several affordable hotel options near the airport
- Hourly Rooms: Some hotels offer hourly rates for layover travelers
Quick Layover Tips
- Pack Smart: Keep a ‘layover bag’ inside your carry-on with snacks, entertainment, change of clothes, and toiletries for easy access
- Stay Hydrated: Bring an empty water bottle to fill after security – staying hydrated helps manage jet lag
- Plan Return Time: Budget 2.5-3 hours before international departure and 60 minutes before domestic flights when returning to LAR
- Download Offline Content: Airport WiFi may be unreliable; download maps, entertainment, and translation apps before landing
- Share Your Location: If exploring solo, share your location with a trusted contact
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I leave LAR airport during a layover?
Yes, you can leave LAR during a layover if you have a valid passport and meet US entry requirements. However, Factor in security screening time (if international), security screening on return (1+ hour), and travel time to/from the airport (30+ minutes). For domestic connections, you need at least 2-3 hours total layover time to safely leave and return. For international connections, budget 3+ hours minimum.
What is there to do at LAR during a layover?
At the airport itself, LAR is a small regional facility with basic dining and retail. If you leave the airport, Laramie offers downtown exploration, the University of Wyoming campus and art museum, the Laramie Plains Museum, local restaurants, and outdoor activities. Downtown is about 15 miles away, accessible by rental car, rideshare, or taxi.
How long of a layover do I need at LAR?
For domestic connections, a minimum 2-hour layover is standard, though 3+ hours is safer. For international connections, allow 3+ hours minimum. To explore Laramie city, you need at least 4-6 hours total layover time to account for airport transit, security, and return travel. Longer layovers (8+ hours) allow for a more meaningful city experience.
Are there lounges at LAR?
LAR is a small regional airport with limited lounge facilities. Check with your airline about lounge access. If you have a Priority Pass membership (included with some premium credit cards), it provides access to 1,400+ airport lounges worldwide, though availability at LAR is limited. Alternatively, purchase a one-time day pass from your airline (typically $39-59).
Plan Your Perfect Layover
Whether you have a quick connection or several hours to explore, Laramie offers a genuine Wyoming experience. Use the Yopki layover calculator to determine exactly how much time you have and what’s realistic to accomplish during your stop.
Safe travels!