Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Manhattan. Manhattan Regional Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 35 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Before You Step Outside MHK
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at MHK:
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 35 minutes into Manhattan, 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.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi/Ride-share | ~35 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~55 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Taxi/Ride-share 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.
What to Budget for Your Manhattan Side Trip
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Manhattan might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$9 USD
- A meal: ~$18 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$37 USD
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Manhattan.
What’s Worth Seeing in Manhattan
If you head into Manhattan, here are two things worth checking out:
Kansas State University Campus 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 Manhattan.
Flint Hills Discovery Center is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Manhattan.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at MHK, check out MHK Airport Gift Shop & Newsstand or Terminal Waiting Area Relaxation to keep yourself occupied.
Eating Well on a Manhattan Layover
For food in Manhattan, local travelers recommend Cox Bros. BBQ. If you have time for a second stop, Bourbon & Baker is another popular pick.
Back at MHK, MHK Grab & Go Cafe is the go-to. MHK Grab & Go Deli rounds out your in-terminal options.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Luggage storage options at MHK 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 Manhattan for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at MHK for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Manhattan 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.
Rest Areas & Lounges
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at MHK.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Manhattan exploring the streets or relaxing at MHK, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.