Ontario Airport (ONO) is a regional hub serving Southern California’s Inland Empire. Whether you have a short connection or a longer layover, this guide will help you make the most of your time at ONO and decide whether to explore the surrounding area.
Before You Leave the Airport
Quick Facts
- Airport Code: ONO
- Location: Ontario, California (Inland Empire region)
- Language: English
- Currency: US Dollar (USD)
- Visa Requirements: Check IATA Travel Centre for your nationality
Getting Around
ONO is a smaller regional airport. For specific transit options to the city, check the official Ontario Airport website. Plan extra time for immigration and security if you’re considering leaving the airport during your layover.
Can You Leave ONO During Your Layover?
Whether you can leave the airport depends on your layover length and connection type:
| Layover Type | Minimum Time Needed | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Domestic Connection | 60+ minutes | Stay in airport |
| International Connection | 2.5-3 hours | Stay in airport |
| Exploring the City | 6+ hours | Possible with planning |
Rule of thumb: Factor in 1 hour for immigration (if international), 2-3 hours to return to the airport and clear security, plus your exploration time. For groups, add 15-30 minutes extra to all estimates.
What to Do at ONO During Your Layover
At the Airport
ONO is a smaller regional airport with limited amenities. Spend your layover time:
- Grabbing food and drinks at airport dining options
- Browsing retail shops and newsstands
- Charging your devices at available outlets
- Resting in quiet areas of the terminal
- Using airport WiFi to catch up on work or entertainment
If You Have 6+ Hours: Exploring Ontario & the Inland Empire
With a longer layover, you can venture into Ontario and nearby areas. Popular options include:
- Ontario Mills: Shopping mall with dining and entertainment
- Cucamonga-Guachama Trail: Hiking and outdoor activities
- Local restaurants: Diverse dining options in the city
- Nearby attractions: San Bernardino and Riverside are within 30-45 minutes
Pro tip: Eat in the city, not the airport. Restaurant prices outside ONO are 2-3x cheaper than airport dining.
Luggage Storage at ONO
ONO amenities data is limited, but you have options:
- Airport lockers: Check availability at the terminal (typically expensive)
- Third-party services: Bounce, Stasher, and LuggageHero partner with local businesses near ONO for luggage storage at $5-10 per bag per day
For groups, book all luggage together for multi-bag discounts.
Airport Lounges at ONO
Lounge availability at ONO is limited. Your options:
- Airline lounges: Check with your airline for access
- Priority Pass: Gives access to 1,400+ airport lounges worldwide; some credit cards include it free
- Day passes: One-time lounge passes cost $39-$59 depending on the airline
For budget-conscious travelers, the airport food court may be more economical than a lounge day pass.
Quick Layover Tips
- Download offline maps: Use Google Maps or Maps.me before landing – airport WiFi can be unreliable
- Pack a layover bag: Keep snacks, entertainment, a change of clothes, and toiletries in your carry-on for easy access
- Stay hydrated: Bring an empty water bottle to fill after security; staying hydrated helps manage jet lag
- Use Wise or Revolut: Get the best USD exchange rates without airport currency counter markups
- Share your location: If exploring solo, let a trusted contact know where you’re going
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I leave ONO airport during a layover?
Yes, if you have enough time. For domestic connections, you need at least 60 minutes. For international connections, plan for 2.5-3 hours minimum (1 hour for immigration + 2-3 hours to return and clear security). For exploring the city, aim for 6+ hours total layover time. Always factor in extra time for groups.
What is there to do at ONO during a layover?
At the airport, you can dine, shop, charge devices, and rest. If you have 6+ hours, explore Ontario and nearby attractions like Ontario Mills shopping mall, local restaurants, or hiking trails. The Inland Empire region offers diverse dining and entertainment options within 30-45 minutes of the airport.
Are there lounges at ONO?
Lounge availability at ONO is limited. Check with your airline for lounge access. You can also purchase one-time day passes ($39-$59) or use Priority Pass if your credit card includes it. For budget travelers, the airport food court may be a better option.
Is there luggage storage at ONO?
ONO may have airport lockers, though they’re typically expensive. Third-party services like Bounce, Stasher, and LuggageHero partner with local businesses near ONO for luggage storage at $5-10 per bag per day. Groups can book multiple bags together for discounted rates.
Plan Your ONO Layover
Make the most of your time at Ontario Airport. Whether you’re staying in the terminal or exploring the city, use our layover calculator to plan your perfect layover based on your flight times and interests.
Ready to optimize your layover? Visit Yopki for personalized layover recommendations and real-time flight information.