Passing through Acadiana Regional Airport? A layover in Louisiana is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 60 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.
Important Details Before You Go
Three things to verify before you walk out of ARA:
- Can you legally enter United States? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 60-minute journey each way by Taxi/Rideshare, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi/Rideshare | ~60 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~80 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Taxi/Rideshare is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Money & Budget Tips
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Louisiana:
Transport to the city and back runs about $8 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $15 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $33 USD total.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Louisiana.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Luggage storage options at ARA 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 Louisiana for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Exploring Louisiana on a Layover
If you head into Louisiana, here are two things worth checking out:
Shadows-on-the-Teche is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Louisiana.
Jungle Gardens of Avery Island (Tabasco) is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Great for a short stroll — bring a coffee and take it easy.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at ARA, check out Signature Aviation FBO Lounge or Aircraft Observation Area (ARA) to keep yourself occupied.
Food & Dining Options
For food in Louisiana, local travelers recommend Clementine Dining & Spirits. If you have time for a second stop, Victor’s Cafeteria is another popular pick.
Back at ARA, The Landing Restaurant is the go-to. Signature Aviation Grab-and-Go rounds out your in-terminal options.
Resting at the Airport
Long overnight layover? Your options at ARA include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in United States also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and ARA is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Louisiana 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.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Louisiana 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 Louisiana.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.