A long layover in Raleigh-durham is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Raleigh Durham International Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 80 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Before You Step Outside RDU
Three things to verify before you walk out of RDU:
- Can you legally enter United States? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 80-minute journey each way by GoTriangle Bus, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
What to See and Do in Raleigh-durham
Two recommendations for your time in Raleigh-durham:
Start with North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences. Even a quick visit gives you a sense of the local culture and history. Then, if time allows, make your way to Sarah P. Duke Gardens. Great for a short stroll — bring a coffee and take it easy.
If you’d rather stay inside RDU — 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:
- The Club RDU
- RDU Art and Exhibitions
Transport from Raleigh Durham International Airport to Downtown
You have two main options for getting from Raleigh Durham International Airport into town:
- GoTriangle Bus: About 80 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 100 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.
Food Worth Trying
- In the city: Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar and Dame’s Chicken & Waffles are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Raleigh-durham.
- At the airport: 42nd Street Oyster Bar & Seafood Grill Express and Gordon Biersch Brewery Restaurant will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Raleigh-durham:
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.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Raleigh-durham.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at RDU for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Raleigh-durham or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Luggage Storage Options
Luggage storage options at RDU 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 Raleigh-durham for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Need a Nap? Options at RDU
Long overnight layover? Your options at RDU 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
Whether you spend your layover in Raleigh-durham exploring the streets or relaxing at RDU, 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.