There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Martinsburg into a quick city adventure. From MRB, the Taxi/Rideshare can get you into town in around 30 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Before heading into Martinsburg, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for United States vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Martinsburg is roughly 30 minutes from MRB via Taxi/Rideshare. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
What’s Worth Seeing in Martinsburg
If you head into Martinsburg, here are two things worth checking out:
Adam Stephen House is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Martinsburg Roundhouse is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at MRB, check out MRB Terminal Waiting Area & Free Wi-Fi or General Aviation Observation to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Eat
In Martinsburg
If you make it into town, King Street Coffee is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Blue Ridge Cafe.
Inside MRB
If you’re staying in the terminal, MRB Airport Snack Bar is your main option. MRB Coffee & Quick Bites works too if you want something quick.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
You have two main options for getting from Eastern WV Regional Airport/Shepherd Field into town:
- Taxi/Rideshare: 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.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Quick budget math for your Martinsburg layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$10 |
| Meal | ~$20 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$40 |
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Bag Storage Near MRB
Dedicated luggage storage at MRB may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Martinsburg’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
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and MRB is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Martinsburg 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.
Taking a Break at MRB
Long overnight layover? Your options at MRB 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.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Martinsburg exploring the streets or relaxing at MRB, 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.