Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Monroe. Monroe Regional Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 50 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
A few things to sort out before you leave MLU:
- 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 Monroe takes about 50 minutes by Taxi/Rideshare. 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.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
From MLU, the Taxi/Rideshare gets you to Monroe in around 50 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 70 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxi/Rideshare offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Monroe, budget roughly $40 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $20 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $10 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
How to Spend Your Time in Monroe
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Monroe, two standouts are:
- Chennault Aviation & Military Museum — Even a quick visit gives you a sense of the local culture and history.
- Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge — It’s a great spot to stretch your legs and take in the scenery.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside MLU — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- MLU Gift Shop
- General Terminal Seating & Wi-Fi Access
Eating Well on a Monroe Layover
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Monroe: Warehouse No. 1 Restaurant and Catfish Charlie’s Restaurant. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for The Landing Zone Bar & Grille or The Landing Zone Express (Coffee & Snacks). Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Luggage Storage Options
Luggage storage options at MLU 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 Monroe for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and MLU is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Monroe 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.
Need a Nap? Options at MLU
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 MLU.
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 Monroe exploring the streets or relaxing at MLU, 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.