A long layover in Mount Pocono is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Pocono Mountains Municipal Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 60 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Important Details Before You Go
A few things to sort out before you leave MPO:
- 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 Mount Pocono takes about 60 minutes by Taxi/Ride-share. 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
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi/Ride-share | ~60 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~80 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.
Money & Budget Tips
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Mount Pocono:
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.
Cards are increasingly accepted in Mount Pocono, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
What to Do With Your Bags
Luggage storage options at MPO 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 Mount Pocono for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Mount Pocono, two standouts are:
- Mount Pocono Community Park — Great for a short stroll — bring a coffee and take it easy.
- The Crossings Premium Outlets — Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
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 MPO, check out Moyer Aviation FBO Terminal or Aircraft Observation Point to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Eat
In Mount Pocono
If you make it into town, Red Rooster Restaurant is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Smuggler’s Cove Restaurant.
Inside MPO
If you’re staying in the terminal, Moyer Aviation Terminal Refreshments is your main option. Airport Vending Machines works too if you want something quick.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at MPO, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at MPO, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Mount Pocono itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for United States that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Mount Pocono count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave MPO. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.