A layover in Marfa is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Marfa Municipal Airport sits just 30 minutes from the city center by local transport, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Three things to verify before you walk out of MRF:
- 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 30-minute journey each way by local transport, 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.
Exploring Marfa on a Layover
For a layover visit to Marfa, we’d suggest Prada Marfa and Chinati Foundation. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at MRF, check out Marfa Municipal Airport FBO Lounge or General Aviation Observation (FBO Area) to keep yourself occupied.
Getting to Marfa from the Airport
You have two main options for getting from Marfa Municipal Airport into town:
- local transport: About 30 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 50 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Where to Grab a Meal
In Marfa
If you make it into town, The Capri is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Al Campo Restaurant.
Inside MRF
If you’re staying in the terminal, Marfa Municipal Airport FBO Vending Machines is your main option. No On-Site Full-Service Dining works too if you want something quick.
Money & Budget Tips
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Marfa:
Transport to the city and back runs about $10 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $20 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $40 USD total.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Marfa.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and MRF is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Marfa 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.
Storing Your Luggage at Marfa Municipal Airport
Specific locker facilities at MRF aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Marfa itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, MRF 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 Marfa with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Marfa 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.