Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Mountain View. Moffett Federal Airfield is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 30 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Important Details Before You Go
A few things to sort out before you leave NUQ:
- 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 Mountain View takes about 30 minutes by VTA 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.
Transport from Moffett Federal Airfield to Downtown
You have two main options for getting from Moffett Federal Airfield into town:
- VTA Bus: 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
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Mountain View:
Transport to the city and back runs about $13 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $25 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $48 USD total.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
What’s Worth Seeing in Mountain View
If you head into Mountain View, here are two things worth checking out:
Computer History Museum is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. You can see the highlights in about an hour without rushing.
Castro Street (Downtown Mountain View) is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. No tickets or reservations needed — just explore at your own pace.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside NUQ, you can spend time at NASA Ames Visitor Center or try Google Merchandise Store (Mountain View). Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Eat
- In the city: Rasa and St. Stephen’s Green are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Mountain View.
- At the airport: Starbucks and The Counter Custom Burgers will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Luggage Storage Options
Specific locker facilities at NUQ aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Mountain View itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
WiFi at NUQ should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in United States and you’re good to go.
Resting at the Airport
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, NUQ 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 Mountain View with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Mountain View 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.