A long layover in Omaha is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Eppley Airfield for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 30 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at OMA:
First, verify that you can enter United States — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Omaha Metro Bus Route 16 takes about 30 minutes into Omaha, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — USD is the currency here. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
From OMA, the Omaha Metro Bus Route 16 gets you to Omaha in around 30 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 50 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Omaha Metro Bus Route 16 offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Omaha, two standouts are:
- Old Market District — It’s a good place to browse local goods and soak up the atmosphere.
- Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge (“Bob”) — It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Omaha.
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 OMA, check out Nebraska Bound / Hudson News or Eppley Airfield Art Program to keep yourself occupied.
Food & Dining Options
- In the city: Block 16 Urban Eatery and Upstream Brewing Company are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Omaha.
- At the airport: RunWay Grille and Chili’s will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Money & Budget Tips
Quick budget math for your Omaha layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$10 |
| Meal | ~$20 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$40 |
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Omaha.
Luggage Storage Options
Luggage storage options at OMA 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 Omaha for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at OMA, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Omaha 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.
Resting at the Airport
Long overnight layover? Your options at OMA 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 Omaha doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 30 minutes from OMA, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.