There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Lewiston into a quick city adventure. From LWS, the Taxi/Rideshare can get you into town in around 20 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Before You Step Outside LWS
A few things to sort out before you leave LWS:
- 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 Lewiston takes about 20 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.
Getting from LWS to Lewiston
The most straightforward way into Lewiston is the Taxi/Rideshare, which takes about 20 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 40 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Taxi/Rideshare is usually the smarter call.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Lewiston might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$10 USD
- A meal: ~$20 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$40 USD
Cards are increasingly accepted in Lewiston, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
If you head into Lewiston, here are two things worth checking out:
Hells Gate 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.
Nez Perce NHP – Lewis & Clark Discovery Center is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside LWS, you can spend time at Lewiston Airport Waiting Area & Wi-Fi or try LWS Airport Gift Shop. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Grab a Meal
- In the city: Rooster’s Waterfront Restaurant and Brock’s Restaurant are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Lewiston.
- At the airport: LWS Airport Cafe and Grab-and-Go Snacks (Airport Cafe) will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Luggage Storage at LWS
Dedicated luggage storage at LWS may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Lewiston’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
WiFi at LWS 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
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, LWS 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 Lewiston with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Lewiston 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.