A long layover in Mesa is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Falcon Field for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 70 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
A few things to sort out before you leave MSC:
- 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 Mesa takes about 70 minutes by Valley Metro Bus. 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.
The Best Way Into Mesa from MSC
From MSC, the Valley Metro Bus gets you to Mesa in around 70 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 90 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Valley Metro Bus offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Mesa might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$10 USD
- A meal: ~$20 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$40 USD
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Mesa, two standouts are:
- Mesa Arts Center — Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
- Arizona Museum of Natural History — Even a quick visit gives you a sense of the local culture and history.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at MSC, check out Falcon Field Aviation Museum or General Aviation Aircraft Viewing to keep yourself occupied.
Food Worth Trying
- In the city: Worth Takeaway and T.C. Egginton’s are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Mesa.
- At the airport: Flippin’ Birds Restaurant and Cutter Aviation Pilot Lounge Snacks will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
What to Do With Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at MSC may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Mesa’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 MSC is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Mesa 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.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Long overnight layover? Your options at MSC 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
A layover in Mesa 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 Mesa.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.